Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek

Overview

The Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating journey through one of the most picturesque regions of the Karakoram Range in northern Pakistan. This trek, which leads to the base camp of Rakaposhi, the 27th highest mountain in the world at 7,788 meters (25,551 feet), offers a mix of challenging terrain, cultural encounters, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world Duration: The trek usually takes 7 to 10 days, depending on the pace and itinerary chosen by the trekkers. Distance: The round trip from the starting point in Minapin village to Rakaposhi Base Camp and back is approximately 30 to 35 kilometers. Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging. This trek is suitable for trekkers with some experience, though it doesn't require technical climbing skills. Starting Point: The trek begins in Minapin, a small village in the Nagar Valley, which is about a 2-hour drive from Gilgit. The village is known for its lush green fields, fruit orchards, and views of the surrounding mountains.

Highlights

  • Majestic Mountain Views: Experience breathtaking panoramas of Rakaposhi (7,788 meters) and its neighboring peaks. The trek offers a close-up view of Rakaposhi's snow-capped summit and surrounding glaciers.
  • Diverse Terrain: Traverse a variety of landscapes, from lush green valleys and alpine meadows to rocky moraines and glacier fields, providing a diverse and dynamic trekking experience.
  • Cultural Encounters: Engage with the local Burusho people in the Hunza and Nagar valleys. Gain insights into their unique culture, traditions, and way of life.
  • Panoramic Base Camp Experience: Reach the Rakaposhi Base Camp at around 3,600 meters for a direct view of the towering Rakaposhi Glacier and its massive icefall.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Observe local wildlife, including ibex, markhor, and various bird species, in their natural habitat.

Itinerary

Arrive in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. Spend the day exploring the city, visiting landmarks like Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, and Lok Virsa Museum.

Travel: Early morning departure for Chilas via the Karakoram Highway (KKH). The drive takes about 10-12 hours.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, enjoy views of the Indus River and Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world.
Overnight: Hotel in Chilas.

Travel: Continue the journey from Chilas to Minapin in the Nagar Valley, a 6-7 hour drive.
Activities: Upon arrival, explore Minapin village, known for its lush greenery and fruit orchards. Prepare for the trek.
Overnight: Guesthouse or camp in Minapin.

Trek Duration: 4-5 hours.
Elevation Gain: Minapin (2,000 meters) to Hapakun (2,800 meters).
Activities: Begin the trek with a gradual ascent through terraced fields and pine forests. Reach Hapakun, a summer pasture, and set up camp.
Overnight: Camp in Hapakun.

Trek Duration: 4-5 hours.
Elevation Gain: Hapakun (2,800 meters) to Tagaphari (3,300 meters).
Activities: Continue trekking through alpine meadows with stunning views of Rakaposhi and Diran peaks. Arrive at Tagaphari, a panoramic campsite.
Overnight: Camp in Tagaphari.

Trek Duration: 4-6 hours.
Elevation Gain: Tagaphari (3,300 meters) to Rakaposhi Base Camp (3,600 meters).
Activities: The most challenging day involves trekking through rocky terrain and crossing the Minapin Glacier. Reach Rakaposhi Base Camp and take in the awe-inspiring views of the glacier and the towering Rakaposhi peak.
Overnight: Camp at Rakaposhi Base Camp.

Activities: Spend the day exploring the base camp area. You can take short hikes to nearby viewpoints or simply relax and enjoy the spectacular surroundings.
Overnight: Camp at Rakaposhi Base Camp.

Trek Duration: 3-4 hours.
Descent: Rakaposhi Base Camp (3,600 meters) to Tagaphari (3,300 meters).
Activities: Retrace your steps back to Tagaphari. The descent is easier and faster, but the views remain stunning.
Overnight: Camp in Tagaphari.

Trek Duration: 4-5 hours.
Descent: Tagaphari (3,300 meters) to Minapin (2,000 meters).
Activities: Continue descending back to Minapin village. The trek ends with a sense of accomplishment as you return to the village.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Minapin.

Travel: Short drive (1-2 hours) from Minapin to Karimabad, the main town in the Hunza Valley.
Activities: Explore Karimabad, visit the historic Baltit and Altit Forts, and enjoy the stunning views of the Hunza Valley.
Overnight: Hotel in Karimabad.

Travel: Long drive (8-9 hours) from Karimabad to Besham on the Karakoram Highway.
Activities: Enjoy scenic views of the Karakoram Range and the Indus River along the way.
Overnight: Hotel in Besham

Travel: Continue the journey from Besham to Islamabad (5-6 hours).
Activities: Upon arrival in Islamabad, rest or spend time shopping for souvenirs.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad or departure.

  • Islamabad
  • Include
  • Unbeatable Value Assurance - ( Discover extraordinary adventures )
  • Effortless Reservation Process - ( No booking hassles )
  • Transparent Pricing, Zero Surprises - ( No hidden costs )
  • Expertise Beyond Measure - ( Team of seasoned experts )
  • Your Joy, Our Priority - ( Happiness Commitment )

Include and Exlude Services

  • All domestic flights and transportations
  • Guide (Government requirement)
  • All hotel accommodations (twin sharing rooms)
  • All camping and visiting fee
  • Waste management fee (Government requirement)
  • Climbing permit and paperwork
  • Electric generator
  • Porters and porter leader
  • Kitchen tent, Mess tent, Toilet tent and Shower tent
  • Basecamp staff (cook and assistant cook etc)
  • Basecamp food
  • All kitchen equipment
  • International flights
  • Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance of clients
  • Tip in hotels,drivers,porters and staff
  • Personal shopping
  • Any extra treks from the scheduled Toure
  • Any other services which are not mentions in list above
Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek