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OverviewItineraryDetailsMapFAQBook Now

Snow Lake Odyssey: Hisper La & Glacier Trek in Pakistan’s Karakoram

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  • 21 Days / 20 nights
  • Max People : 15-20
  • Arrival : Islamabad
  • Min Age : 12+
  • Departure : Islamabad

Positive Impact of This Trip

Sustainability &
Climate Action

Empowering Women

Women’s Empowerment
& Girls Education

Community Engagement

Community Engagement &
Development

Cultural Heritage

Cultural Heritage
Protection

We believe travel can do more than open your eyes to new landscapes and cultures. It can create meaningful change, support communities, and leave a positive imprint on the world. Every journey we craft carries a deeper purpose — one that connects travelers with the people, places, and causes that truly matter. Learn More

🌍

Selected journeys are guided by women or contribute profits to girls’ education and organizations helping women rebuild their lives.

✈

Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests.

💵

Prices are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy.

🛌

Single Supplement Optional.

Overview

Embark on the Snow Lake Odyssey, a K2 Base Camp trek Pakistan, journeying through the remote Karakoram mountains. Starting in Islamabad, you’ll fly or drive to Skardu before trekking through Askole, Mango, and Baintha toward the legendary Snow Lake and Hisper La Pass (5,151m). Witness towering peaks including K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums while camping beneath star-filled skies. Along the way, experience authentic village life in Askole, Hisper, and Karimabad, supporting women-led initiatives and sustainable tourism. Designed for adventurers seeking physical challenge, cultural immersion, and ethical travel, this trek blends breathtaking scenery with meaningful connections to the people and environment of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Trip Highlights

  • Glacial Wonders: Trek through some of the world’s most dramatic glacial landscapes, including Braldu Valley and Biafo Glacier.
  • High-Altitude Challenge: Cross the formidable Hisper La Pass (5,151 m) for a true mountain adventure.
  • Snow Lake Expedition:Experience one of the largest and most spectacular glacial basins outside the polar regions.
  • Village Connections: Explore remote settlements like Askole, Hisper, and Karimabad while supporting local women-led initiatives.
  • Iconic Peaks:Enjoy breathtaking views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum range.
  • Cultural Encounters: Engage with mountain communities living sustainably in some of the world’s harshest terrains.
  • Starry Nights: Camp beneath pristine, star-filled skies, far from any light pollution.

Why You Will Love This Trip

  • Walk across some of the world’s most stunning glaciers, surrounded by towering eight-thousanders and remote alpine scenery.
  • Experience a rare adventure through untouched high-altitude landscapes few travelers ever reach.
  • Connect with vibrant mountain communities where traditions and hospitality thrive.
  • Meet and support local women artisans and guides, fostering meaningful cultural exchange.
  • Spend your days immersed in pristine wilderness and your nights stargazing beneath clear, light-free skies.
  • Discover Pakistan’s incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage in one transformative journey.
  • Travel responsibly with Venus Trails’ commitment to ethical tourism, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment.

Price Includes

  • Accommodation in handpicked 5-star boutique hotels, heritage palaces, or luxury lodges
  • Domestic flights (where mentioned in the itinerary)
  • Daily gourmet breakfast, lunches and selected fine dining experiences as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for all transfers and excursions
  • Services of expert local guides, historians, and cultural specialists
  • Exclusive or private access at select sites (where available)
  • Entrance fees to all listed monuments, museums, and attractions
  • Airport meet-and-greet and VIP transfers on arrival and departure
  • All government taxes, service charges, and porterage
  • Daily bottled water and refreshing towels during sightseeing
  • 24/7 VENUS on-ground assistance and concierge support

Price Excludes

  • International flights (unless specified)
  • Visa fees, travel insurance, and vaccinations
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and spa treatments
  • Photography or filming permits at certain sites
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Optional activities or experiences not listed in the program
  • Early check-in or late check-out (unless pre-arranged)
  • Additional costs from flight delays, cancellations, or unforeseen events

Itinerary

Day 1 Islamabad: Arrival & City Orientation

Arrive in Islamabad and meet your Venus Trails guide. Explore Faisal Mosque, the Pakistan Monument, and Lok Virsa Museum, gaining an introduction to Pakistan’s cultural heritage. Conclude the day with panoramic views from Daman-e-Koh, soaking in city and Margalla Hills scenery. Evening briefing covers safety, trekking expectations, and local customs.

 Travel Distance: 40 km
 Travel Time: 45 min
 Main Attraction: Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Museum, Daman-e-Koh
 Accommodation: 4-star hotel
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Islamabad to Skardu (or Chilas)

Fly to Skardu (2,228m) or drive via Chilas (1,265m), enjoying dramatic mountain and river valley vistas. Settle in at the hotel, meet local guides, and prepare trekking gear. Afternoon at leisure allows gentle acclimatization before the high-altitude adventure begins.

 Travel Distance: 365 km (by road) /  (by air)
 Travel Time: 45 min flight or 12–14 hrs drive
 Main Attraction: Mountain and river valley vistas en route
 Accommodation: 4-star hotel
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Skardu: Local Immersion

Half-day exploration of Kharpocho Fort, Manthal Buddha Rock, and Sadpara Lake offers historical and cultural insights. Optional visits to Upper Kachura Lake or Broq Valley for scenic walks. Afternoon reserved for gear preparation, interacting with porters, and acclimatization.

 Travel Distance: Minimal
 Travel Time: 1–2 hrs local sightseeing
 Main Attraction: Kharpocho Fort, Manthal Buddha Rock, Sadpara Lake
 Accommodation: 4-star hotel
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Skardu to Askole

Drive through the scenic Shigar and Braldu Valleys to Askole, the last permanent village before glaciers. Meet local villagers, observe traditional mountain life, and prepare for trekking. Evening stargazing beneath pristine skies marks the start of your high-altitude journey.

 Travel Distance: 130 km
 Travel Time: 6 hrs
 Main Attraction: Shigar Valley, Braldu Valley, Askole village life
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Askole to Namla

Begin trekking along the Braldu River to Namla Camp (3,566m). Cross rocky paths and streams while enjoying views of Bakhor Dass Peak and the distant Biafo Glacier. Evening camp offers quiet reflection and stunning sunset vistas.

 Travel Distance: 12–15 km trekking
 Travel Time: 5–6 hrs
 Main Attraction: Braldu River, Bakhor Dass Peak, first views of Biafo Glacier
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Namla to Mango

Trek to Mango Camp (3,720m), crossing lateral moraines and glacial streams. Observe crevassed glaciers and towering peaks as you acclimatize. Evening spent relaxing by the stream with optional star-gazing.

 Travel Distance: 10 km trekking
 Travel Time: 4–5 hrs
 Main Attraction: Glacial streams, crevassed glaciers, mountain views
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Mango to Baintha

Ascend toward Baintha Camp (4,035m) over rocky moraines and small streams. Experience technical trekking with increasing altitude, dramatic glacial landscapes, and surrounding peaks. Evening offers reflection time amidst pristine high-altitude scenery.

 Travel Distance: 8–10 km trekking
 Travel Time: 5–6 hrs
 Main Attraction: Baintha meadows, glacial landscapes, alpine peaks
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Baintha: Acclimatization

Today is your rest day to adjust to high altitude. Gentle hikes explore nearby glaciers and alpine flora. Evening stargazing under a clear Milky Way sky provides a magical mountain experience.

 Travel Distance: Minimal
 Travel Time: Optional 2–3 hrs gentle hiking
 Main Attraction: Alpine flora, nearby glaciers
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 Baintha to Morfogoro

Trek along lateral moraines and glacier-fed streams to Morfogoro Camp (4,300m). High-altitude exposure increases, with panoramic views of peaks above 6,500 meters. Spend the evening relaxing and observing glacial features.

Trekking Distance: 10 km
 Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
 Main Attraction: Panoramic views of 6,500m peaks and glacial landscapes
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 Morfogoro to Karpogoro

Traverse moraine ridges and small glaciers, approaching the Snow Lake basin. Camp beside a glacial stream while enjoying expansive ice landscapes. Evening stargazing completes the day.

Trekking Distance: 9 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Main Attraction: Expansive ice landscapes and stargazing at Snow Lake basin
Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 Karpogoro to Hispar La Base Camp

Ascend gradually to Hispar La Base Camp (4,590m) over rocky moraines and snow patches. High peaks, including Hispar Peak, dominate the skyline. Evening preparation for the high pass crossing ahead.

Trekking Distance: 8 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Views of Hispar Peak and approach to Hispar La Base Camp
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 Cross Snow Lake & Hispar La (5,151m)

Cross the legendary Snow Lake and ascend Hispar La Pass. Challenging trekking rewards you with panoramic glaciers, seracs, and towering peaks. Evening camp at the pass marks a memorable achievement.

Trekking Distance: 7–8 km
 Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
 Main Attraction: Crossing Snow Lake and Hispar La with 360° mountain panoramas
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 Hispar La to Kani Basa

Descend along snow and glacial streams to Kani Basa Camp (4,511m). Observe alpine vegetation and high mountain scenery while adjusting to lower altitude. Evening relaxation at camp.

Trekking Distance: 7–8 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Main Attraction: Alpine vegetation and high-altitude scenery
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 Kani Basa to Yutmaru

Continue descending along lateral moraines and rocky slopes to Yutmaru Camp (4,130m). Spot wildlife and alpine meadows amid high peaks. Evening star-filled skies reward trekkers’ efforts.

Trekking Distance: 8–9 km
 Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
 Main Attraction: Alpine meadows, wildlife spotting, and night skies
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15 Yutmaru to Shigam Baris

Trek through alpine meadows and small streams to Shigam Baris Camp (4,170m). Less icy terrain allows a gentler trek with impressive peak vistas. Evening spent capturing photographs of the Milky Way.

 Trekking Distance: 9 km
 Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
 Main Attraction: Alpine meadows and night photography under the Milky Way
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16 Shigam Baris to Bitanmal

Descend to Bitanmal Camp (3,760m) through green valleys, streams, and alpine meadows. Evening camp offers flat, relaxing surroundings after days of high-altitude trekking.

 Trekking Distance: 10 km
 Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
 Main Attraction: Alpine valleys and streams leading to Bitanmal
 Accommodation: Camping
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17 Bitanmal to Hispar Village

Reach inhabited areas at Hispar Village (2,302m). Follow trails used by shepherds, observe village life, and interact with local communities. Evening in guesthouse accommodation.

Trekking Distance: 12 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Main Attraction: Village life and interaction with local communities
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18 Hispar Village to Karimabad

Drive through scenic Hunza Valley with terraced fields, apricot orchards, and views of Baltit Fort. Settle into your hotel and enjoy panoramic Karakoram scenery.

Travel Distance: 150 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Hunza Valley and Baltit Fort views
Accommodation: Hotel in Karimabad
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19 Karimabad Sightseeing & Gilgit

Explore Baltit and Altit Forts, walk local streets, then drive to Gilgit. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy Karakoram Highway vistas.

Travel Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Baltit & Altit Forts, Hunza cultural immersion
Accommodation: Hotel in Gilgit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20 Gilgit to Islamabad

Fly or drive via Chilas to Islamabad, experiencing scenic Indus River valleys and snow-capped peaks along the Karakoram Highway. Evening at hotel for rest.

Travel Distance: 620 km (if by road)
Travel Time: 14–16 hours drive or 1-hour flight
Main Attraction: Karakoram Highway and Indus River landscapes
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21 Departure from Islamabad

Spend your final day shopping for keepsakes or exploring the ancient ruins of Taxila. As you transfer to the airport, carry with you the memories and spirit of the Snow Lake Odysseya journey that will stay in your heart long after you leave.

Have a safe journey!

Packing List

Prepare for one of the most remote and beautiful treks in Karakoram. The Snow Lake & Hisper La journey involves glacier travel, camping in high-altitude wilderness, and exposure to rapidly changing mountain weather. Packing efficiently with the right gear ensures comfort, warmth, and safety throughout the trek.
Clothing
  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
  • Fleece jacket and warm insulated down or synthetic jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
  • Quick-dry trekking pants and shirts
  • Woolen hat, neck gaiter or buff, and warm gloves (plus a lighter pair for trekking)
  • Waterproof trekking boots (well broken in before the trip)
  • Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
  • Multiple pairs of trekking socks and one warm pair for nights
  • Sun hat or cap for daytime; balaclava or buff for cold winds
Camping & Trekking Gear
  • Backpack (50–70L) with rain cover
  • Daypack (25–35L) for daily essentials
  • Sleeping bag rated to -10°C or lower and sleeping pad
  • Trekking poles for stability on steep or icy sections
  • Gaiters for snow and scree
  • Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks for organizing gear
  • Lightweight duffel bag (for porters to carry your main luggage)
Personal Essentials
  • Passport and copies of travel documents
  • Reusable water bottle and water purification tablets or filter
  • Personal first-aid kit and altitude sickness medication (if prescribed)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with SPF, and UV-protection sunglasses
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Personal hygiene items (biodegradable soap, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, etc.)
  • Toilet paper and small trowel or eco-friendly disposal bags
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Energy snacks or protein bars
Optional but Useful
  • Camera or GoPro with spare batteries
  • Notebook or journal
  • Lightweight pack cover or plastic liner
  • Spare laces and small repair kit (duct tape, safety pins, needle & thread)
  • Cash in small bills for tips and local purchases
For Cultural Respect
  • Modest casual clothing for Islamabad, Skardu, and Hunza (long trousers and sleeves)
  • Lightweight scarf or shawl for women during village visits
Packing Tips
  • Weight limit: Keep your duffel under 15 kg for porter comfort and safety.
  • Layer smart: Expect both warm days and sub-zero nights — pack versatile clothing.
  • Glacier readiness: Microspikes, gaiters, and trekking poles are essential for traction and stability.
  • Eco-conscious travel: Bring reusable bottles, avoid plastic packaging, and choose biodegradable toiletries to help protect Karakoram's pristine landscapes.
Got a Question?
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  • +92 3420767096
  • info@venustrails.com

Map

FAQ

What is the best season to do this trek?

July to September, when snow is manageable and temperatures are milder.

How difficult is the trek?

Challenging to very strenuous; trekking experience and good fitness are required.

Do I need a guide?

Yes, all groups travel with certified local guides and porters for safety and navigation.

Are meals included?

 Yes, all meals are included during the trek, focusing on nutritious, high-energy options.

What about altitude sickness?

 We include acclimatization days and gradual ascents; personal medications and precautions are recommended.

Is Wi-Fi available?

 Limited or no connectivity in remote camps; use this as a chance to disconnect and enjoy the mountains.

Can families or solo travelers join?

Yes, but participants must be physically prepared for high-altitude trekking.

Booking Process

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From$110$90
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