The Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary adventure that takes you through the heart of Nagar Valley, offering unparalleled views and a thrilling trekking experience. Starting with your stay in Minapin, a small village nestled in the valley, the journey provides a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan. This trek leads you to Osho Tang, a serene spot where the lush greenery meets the rugged mountain terrain, making it one of the most scenic parts of the hike to Rakaposhi Base.
The trek is ideal for adventurers looking for a challenge as it takes several hours to reach the viewpoint ridge, a vantage point that offers incredible views of the towering Rakaposhi peak. The trekking to Rakaposhi Base Camp is a journey that takes you across rocky paths and alpine meadows, ascending to high altitudes that will test your endurance.
As you hike to Rakaposhi Base, you’ll pass through Nagar Valley, enjoying views of snow-capped peaks and the impressive Osho Tang area. After hours of trekking, you will arrive at the top of the ridge, where you can rest and admire the stunning scenery. The Rakaposhi Basecamp Trek is challenging yet rewarding, offering adventurers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trail continues upward for several hours to reach the final destination, with the viewpoint ridge providing an unmatched perspective of the surrounding landscapes.
During your stay in Minapin, you can soak in the local culture and hospitality before embarking on the trekking to Rakaposhi Base Camp. The hike to Rakaposhi Base is filled with incredible natural beauty, including the famous Osho Tang and Nagar Valley, which both enhance the trek with their serene and untouched charm.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or looking for a challenging journey at high altitudes, this trek to the top of the ridge is an unforgettable experience. With the Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek, every step brings you closer to the mighty Rakaposhi peak, making it a must-do for anyone seeking adventure in Pakistan.
Islamabad International Airport (Google Map)
Upon your arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our dedicated team from Explore Pakistan will warmly welcome you. You will then be smoothly transferred, along with your luggage, to a conveniently located hotel in Islamabad. Relax and unwind as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive towards Chilas via the iconic Karakoram Highway. Along the way, we make a stop at the historic Shatial rock carving, capturing the essence of the ancient artistry. Continuing our journey, we reach Chilas and check-in at a comfortable hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Following breakfast, we head towards Gilgit, where we pause for lunch before continuing our drive to Minapin, a journey of approximately 2 hours. En route, marvel at the awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Rakaposhi and the picturesque terraced fields. We also stop at the Main Karakoram Thrust, a geological marvel where continents collide. Arriving at Minapin Village, situated at an elevation of 2000 meters, we settle in for an overnight stay amidst the serene surroundings.
Today’s adventure begins with a trek from Minapin to Hapakun, an ascent of 800 meters taking around 3 hours to complete. Traverse through charming landscapes, crossing the Minapin River and winding through juniper trees until reaching the grassy-tiered meadow of Hapakun. Enjoy the panoramic views of Hachindar and Maiun peaks before settling in for an overnight camping experience.
Take advantage of a leisurely day at Hapakun, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. Whether you choose to relax in camp or embark on a short hike, this day offers an opportunity to recharge and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
Embark on a trek from Hapakun to Tagaphari, a journey of 2-3 hours covering a distance of 3 kilometers with an ascent of 450 meters. Traverse through diverse terrain, from rocky slopes to verdant meadows, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Diran and Rakaposhi. Settle in at the base camp, nestled amidst the rugged landscape, and spend the night under the starlit sky.
Continue your trek from Tagaphari to Diran Base Camp, a trek of 6-7 hours covering 12 kilometers with a descent of 400 meters. Navigate through the Minapin Glacier and relish the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Set up camp at Diran Peak Base Camp, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain wilderness.
Today is yours to explore the surroundings at your own pace. Opt for a hike to Katchelli Lake or simply relax and soak in the majestic beauty of the mountains. Spend another night at Diran Peak Base Camp, cherishing the solitude of this remote alpine setting.
Begin your trek back to Tagaphari, retracing your steps through the rugged terrain. Arrive at Rakaposhi Base Camp and settle in for a peaceful evening surrounded by nature’s grandeur.
Embark on the journey back to Mainpin and then proceed to Karimabad Hunza. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival and unwind before embarking on a sunset safari to the top of Hunza Valley. Spend the night in Karimabad, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of the valley.
Explore the cultural heritage of Baltit and Altit Forts, immersing yourself in the rich history of the region. Wander through the bustling bazaars and soak in the vibrant ambiance of Karimabad. Spend the night in Karimabad, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Embark on a journey to Attabad Lake, stopping en route to admire the ancient rock carvings at Hunza Scared Rocks. Continue to Passu Upper Hunza Valley, where you’ll check in at a hotel and have the remainder of the day free for personal exploration.
Embark on an adventure to Hussaini Village to explore the iconic suspension bridges. Hike to Upper Borith and witness the majesty of Passu Glacier before returning to Gulmit. Spend the evening exploring the cultural treasures of Passu and indulging in local delicacies.
After breakfast, we depart for Gilgit, stopping at the Rakaposhi viewpoint for a photo opportunity. Explore the vibrant bazaars of Gilgit before continuing to Besham. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival and relax for the night.
On our final day, we bid farewell to Besham and embark on the journey back to Islamabad. En route, visit Taxila Museum and explore the ancient sites of Taxila before arriving in Islamabad. Conclude the adventure with a farewell dinner before transferring to Islamabad International Airport for your departure.
Bookings can be made by emailing or through the Booking form together with a 40% deposit advance payment. The balance of the tour price is due and payable on arrival in Pakistan. Tour programs should be booked at least one week before your departure.
All cancellations must be confirmed in writing by email directly to Explore Pakistan. Cancellations made after final payment but prior to 30 days before the departure date will be subject to a refund equal to 50% of the total tour program cost. Cancellations made less than 30 days before departure will be subject to a 100% deduction of prior deposits/payments.
If you wish to book a different tour program or departure date, subject to space availability, we will accommodate you. No refunds will be given for any unused portion of the trip regarding air and ground transportation, meals, accommodation, and tour services.
Our inclusive quotes and conditions are strictly based on the enclosed itinerary and the total number of hotel and camp nights mentioned therein. The rates are quoted per person based on sharing a double room and a two-person tent. A single room and tent can be provided on payment of a single supplement.
If you desire to take an extension of the tour, please feel free to contact us for a customized itinerary.
If you wish to travel with a group of friends, perhaps with a special interest in common, we can make all the arrangements. For larger groups, we may be able to offer a free place to the organizer. Please email us to discuss your plans.
For your protection, we recommend that you purchase adequate trip cancellation, medical, baggage, accident, and other personal effects insurance.
We have made all attempts to make these programs as accurate as possible. However, in circumstances beyond our control, changes may occur. We, therefore, reserve the right to change itineraries, carriers, and substitute hotels where necessary. We guarantee that, where possible, establishments of similar categories and standards will be used.
If the trip is delayed due to canceled or delayed flights, sickness, accidents, bad weather, road washouts, government restrictions, or any other contingency for which Explore Pakistan cannot make provisions, the resulting extra cost for such delays will be charged separately.
All Northern Area flights in Pakistan are subject to weather and backload conditions and thus operate on an ad hoc basis. Should the reserved flight not operate on the day scheduled as per the itinerary, alternative surface transportation will be arranged. If any additional costs are involved due to this change, these will have to be paid for locally.
If the tour is canceled by the tour operator, only the deposit received from the passenger(s) will be refunded as full and final settlement.
All prices are stated in United States Dollars or GBP and are based on conversion rates prevailing at booking time. Significant changes in the value of the Dollar or Pound in relation to various currencies or a drastic increase in the cost of land/air services may necessitate an increase in the tour cost.
However, once the tour is paid in full, you are guaranteed against future price increases, provided no change is made by the passenger(s) to the original booking.
For all trips, we provide (where required) Toyota Coaster/Hi-ace Van fully air-conditioned and equipped with all necessary modern facilities. To ensure the safety of travelers, we choose only those drivers who have 15-20 years’ experience driving for tourists in their respective areas.
Willy Jeep: Please note that the jeeps used in Pakistan are open jeeps (with a soft canvas roof that can be removed and roll-up/down sides) and do not have seat belts, roll bars, or restraining sides. They are old American Willy jeeps, which have been re-conditioned.
They are the most reliable for the road conditions in Pakistan and are easily repaired along the route you will be taking. They are themost commonly used vehicles for tourism in Pakistan.
Other vehicles like Toyota Hilux and Pajero can also be arranged on request but are about three times the cost. Please do not expect European standards. Transport constitutes a large portion of any program cost for travel in Pakistan.
We select our cooks through a rigorous screening process to ensure premium service quality for each trip. Most of the cooks working with us have at least 5-10 years of experience working as cooks for trekking and mountaineering expeditions.
They are also trained in Western cuisine and hygiene and come from the valleys where the treks take place. We offer a large variety of diets, generally mixing local and Western food.
For both treks and expeditions, we provide breakfast cereals, tins of meat, cans of orange juice, coffee, chocolate, snacks, and local food like Chapati, green tea, lentils, and fresh vegetables.
There is a wide range of accommodation throughout Pakistan and the Northern Areas, from simple camps to five-star hotels. We use all types, and you might stay in anything from tented camps to first-class hotels. However, most of our itineraries’ costs are based on double occupancy rooms in hotels.
Single rooms are available on most trips, although a supplement is payable. For your convenience, the single supplement price will be quoted against each program.
All our treks, expeditions, and tours cover most costs from Islamabad until you finish your holiday back in Islamabad. There will be little opportunity for you to spend your money except to buy soft drinks and snacks. Additionally, we advise you to keep cash money for airport taxes, porters, guide, cook and staff tips, souvenirs, and other personal expenses.
The tour operator and its agents act only as agents for the owners and/or contractors providing the services and means of transportation specified in the itineraries. All tickets and vouchers are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which such services and means of transportation are offered and provided.
The operator and/or its agents assume no responsibility in any way in connection with any injury, damage, death, loss, accident, or delay through the acts of default of any company or person engaged in carrying out the arrangements of the tours.
No responsibility is accepted for any additional expenses due to delay, omissions, rerouting, changes in schedule, or other events resulting from improper health certificates or travel documents, or as an act of government or authority, or any local conditions such as weather, seasonal variation, labor strikes, civil disturbances, political unrest, and acts of God.
If you have a complaint about your holiday, you are required to confirm details of any such complaint or problem in writing, supported by appropriate evidence, within 15 days of returning from the holiday in question. For the avoidance of doubt, we will not accept any liability or address any complaints received by us later than 15 days after your return from the holiday.
You will receive a comprehensive clothing and equipment list tailored to your trip in a dossier. We regularly review and update these lists based on feedback to ensure they are current and comprehensive. Each item on the list is described, but don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions or need assistance finding any items. Strict adherence to the equipment list is crucial for your trip.
To confirm your trip, you must pay 40% in advance, with the remaining 60% due upon arrival in Pakistan. Submitting an application alone won’t reserve a space.
This must be obtained before arrival and we recommend that you contact your local Pakistani embassy or consulate when planning your trip.
The Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness. The trek includes long hikes with some steep ascents, especially near the base camp. However, it’s manageable for most trekkers with some prior experience.
The best time to embark on the Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is between May and September, when the weather is more favorable, and the trails are clear of snow. This period offers optimal conditions for both trekking and enjoying the stunning landscapes.