Snow Lake Hispar La Trek is a remarkable high-altitude glacier basin located at the head of the Biafo and Hispar La Pass in the Karakoram Mountain range of Pakistan. Spanning over 120 kilometers when combined with the Biafo Glacier, Snow Lake, and Hispar Glacier, it is the second-longest glacier system outside the polar regions. This trek takes you through the stunning mountain kingdom of Baltistan, crossing remote valleys, glaciers, and lush landscapes, making it a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Our Snow Lake – Hispar La Trek takes you deep into a pristine and seldom-visited region of the Karakoram, where very few trekking groups venture. With over 12 years of experience as a trusted local guide in the region, we ensure a safe and unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes. The trek offers a true wilderness experience, with spectacular campsites, remote trails, and the opportunity to witness the untouched beauty of Snow Lake and Hispar La Pass.
The trek begins in Islamabad, with a scenic flight to Skardu, followed by a thrilling jeep ride to Askoli — the gateway to the Karakoram. The trail then follows the mighty Biafo Glacier, leading to the mesmerizing Snow Lake. From there, you ascend to Hispar La Pass (5,151m), offering stunning panoramic views of the Ogre, Biafo, and Hispar Glaciers. After crossing the pass, the route descends into the lush meadows of Hunza Valley, concluding in the vibrant village of Karimabad.
Throughout the journey, participants will traverse through loose moraine, walk on glacier ice, and cross high mountain passes. With our local expertise and deep knowledge of the terrain, we’ll ensure that each step is safe and every campsite offers the best views.
This trek not only presents a physical challenge but also provides a rich cultural experience. Explore remote villages, interact with local Balti and Hunza communities, and discover centuries-old forts. Our local guides, born and raised in these mountains, will share their stories, traditions, and insights, enriching your understanding of this beautiful region.
✔️ Professional Mountain Guide: All treks are led by experienced and licensed mountain guides, as required by local regulations.
✔️ Airport Transfers: Transfers for both domestic and international flights.
✔️ Internal Flights: Includes all flights within Pakistan and associated airport transfers.
✔️ All Land Transport: Transportation as per the itinerary.
✔️ Accommodation: Comfortable hotel stays and camping accommodations along the way.
✔️ All Meals: Fully inclusive meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 22.
✔️ Permit Fees: Covers all necessary permits for trekking and access to restricted areas.
✔️ Complete Trekking Support: The services of porters, cooks, and supporting staff to assist throughout your journey.
✔️ Camping Equipment: Sleeping tents, mattresses, mess tents, kitchen and toilet tents, and all necessary camping equipment (e.g., kitchen supplies, tables, and stools).
✔️ Team Insurance: Insurance coverage for field crew and low-altitude porters (excluding helicopter rescue).
✔️ Field Crew Wages and Kits: Payment and basic equipment provision for local guides, Sirdars, porters, and assistants.
✔️ Miscellaneous Services: Includes airport porterage, toll taxes, parking fees, and reconfirmation of domestic air tickets.
❌ Travel insurance
❌ International flights and visa fees
❌ Tips for guides and support staff
❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra food, etc.)
❌ Extra luggage fees at the airport
❌ City tours in Islamabad and Skardu
Meal Plan
We provide all meals during the trek, ensuring you can focus entirely on the adventure. The meal plan is fully inclusive from the first lunch on Day 1 until breakfast on the final day. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with tea, coffee, and snacks during the trek.
Accommodation
During the Snow Lake – Hispar La Trek, accommodation includes nights in hotels of international tourist standard and twin-sharing tents with en-suite facilities. If traveling solo, you’ll be paired with a participant of the same gender. If you prefer a private hotel room or tent, this can be arranged at an additional cost. Should you wish to extend your stay in Islamabad or Skardu, please let us know in advance for additional hotel pricing and availability.
Internal Flights
Skardu Flight: Flights to Skardu are weather-dependent due to its high-altitude location surrounded by towering peaks. While flights are frequent, cancellations can happen. In case of a flight cancellation, we’ll switch to an alternative route via the Karakoram Highway to ensure minimal disruption.
Health & Vaccination
We recommend consulting your doctor or travel clinic before visiting to check for recommended vaccinations. Ensure that routine courses and boosters such as hepatitis A, typhoid, diphtheria, tetanus, and polio are up to date. There is no malaria risk in Skardu, Askole, or Hunza; however, precautions are recommended for Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Dengue fever, spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. We recommend taking preventive measures against mosquito bites while in these areas.
Insurance
We highly recommend travel insurance for the Snow Lake – Hispar La Trek to cover unexpected medical expenses or emergency evacuations. Although insurance is not mandatory for this trek, we suggest ensuring that your insurer covers high-altitude trekking and other related activities in the region.
If you need help finding a suitable insurance plan, feel free to reach out for guidance.
Our Snow Lake – Hispar La trek is designed for solo travelers who want to join a group for a shared adventure. With our fixed departure dates, you can travel solo but never feel alone, as you’ll be trekking alongside other like-minded adventurers. If you are traveling alone, you will be paired with a same-sex participant. We also offer single supplement options for hotel rooms and tents if you prefer private accommodations. Please reach out to us early to arrange this for your trek.
All our trekking packages are on a full-board basis and start and end in Islamabad. For private groups, you can choose dates that fit your travel plans. You can either follow our standard 22-day itinerary or work with our team to create a customized plan that suits your needs. We also offer special discounts for groups, couples, and families, so be sure to contact us for more details before booking.
Travel Information
Nearest Airport:
The nearest international airport for the Snow Lake – Hispar La trek is Islamabad International Airport. Many airlines offer direct or connecting flights to Islamabad from major cities worldwide. On the last day of your itinerary, return flights will also depart from this airport.
Early Booking Recommendation
Since availability is limited, especially during peak trekking seasons, we strongly recommend booking early to secure your spot at the advertised price. If we are unable to accommodate you at the listed rate, we will provide an alternative quote. This ensures transparency and flexibility in planning your adventure.
No Surcharge Guarantee
With K2 Expedition & Trekking, you can book your trek with confidence. Unlike other tour operators, we guarantee that the cost of your holiday will not change after you’ve made a booking. The price you see at the time of booking is the final price you pay, whether you’re planning for this year or next.
Booking early not only helps you secure the best rates for the Snow Lake – Hispar La trek but also locks in our No Surcharge Guarantee for peace of mind. As a licensed and bonded local tour operator, we adhere to the strict rules and regulations set by the Tourism Department of Pakistan.
Arrival and Pickup
Our guide will meet you at Islamabad International Airport, holding an orange sign with our company logo and your name. Please provide your flight details at least five days before arrival.
Transfer to Hotel
You’ll be transferred to a hotel to rest after your journey. If arriving between 9 am and 12 pm, after lunch and some rest, we will meet at 6 pm for a briefing and any remaining payments, followed by dinner. For late arrivals, payments and briefings will be handled in Skardu.
Accommodation
Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
GPS Data: Altitude: 2,498m
In the morning, participants will take a scenic flight from Islamabad to Skardu, with views of Nanga Parbat if the weather is clear. After arriving in Skardu, the rest of the day is free.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
Altitude: 2,498m
After breakfast, participants will hike up to Kharpocho Fort, which offers stunning views of the Indus River and Skardu town. They can also choose to visit Sadpara Lake and enjoy free time shopping in Skardu Bazaar.
Meanwhile, our staff will handle the necessary government paperwork in Skardu, which may take up to two days. We have extra days planned at the end of the trek in case of any delays.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,015 m
Participants will start a jeep safari toward Daso, passing through the Shigar Valley alongside the Braldu River, heading to Askole—the last village on the route. From Askole, the trek begins, though sometimes walking starts earlier, depending on road conditions. The journey takes 6 to 8 hours.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Activity: Start of Trekking
Details: The trekking begins by following the trail to Biafo Glacier. Cross the lateral moraine and trek to the grassy campsite at Namla, offering magnificent mountain views. Overnight in a tented camp.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Glacier Trekking
Details: Traverse the rugged terrain of the Biafo Glacier. Watch for crevasses and keep an eye on the stunning scenery as you make your way to Mango Camp, a small grassy area beside the glacier.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Glacier Hike
Details: Follow the lateral moraine of the Biafo Glacier, with slightly easier trekking compared to previous days. Baintha Camp is set in a beautiful grassy area, providing an ideal spot for acclimatization.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Rest Day
Details: Take a rest day to acclimatize to the high altitude. Optionally, hike up to a ridge for stunning views of the Latok group and Ogre peaks.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Trekking on Biafo Glacier
Details: Continue trekking on the Biafo Glacier, navigating around crevasses as you ascend towards Marfogoro. The stunning view of Snow Lake and the surrounding peaks becomes increasingly visible.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Trek to Snow Lake
Details: Trek across the famous Snow Lake, a 16km-wide glacial basin. Marvel at the awe-inspiring views of the Karakoram range as you head to Karphogoro Camp.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Glacier Traverse
Trek :6 Hours, 8 KM
Details: Cross the vast Snow Lake to reach Hispar La Base Camp. Set up camp at the base of Hispar La and enjoy the spectacular surroundings.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity: Summit Hispar La Pass
Details: Ascend to the top of Hispar La Pass (5,150m), the highest point of the trek. Enjoy panoramic views of Snow Lake, Hispar Glacier, and the surrounding peaks.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 4,510m, Time: 5 hours, Distance: 8km)
Descend from Hispar La, navigating a series of crevasses and crossing the Kani Basa Glacier. The grassy campsite offers a stunning view of Kanjut Sar.
Overnight: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Time: 6 hours, Distance: 10km
Continue descending on the glacier, crossing glacial streams and moraine ridges. Your camp for the night is on the right side of the glacier.
Overnight: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Time: 7 hours, Distance: 12km
The day involves crossing a side glacier and navigating loose scree before arriving at the scenic campsite of Shigham Baris.
Overnight: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Time: 6 hours, Distance: 11km
Trek through smoother terrain as you descend, crossing the glacier back into the valley. You’ll arrive at Bitenmal, a large meadow used by local herders.
Overnight: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek Time: 4 hours, Distance: 9km
You’ll make your way to Hispar Village, crossing a bridge and a small glacier. Enjoy the vibrant greenery after days of glacier trekking.
Overnight: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 4 hours)
Leave Hispar and drive along the Nagar River to Karimabad, the capital of Hunza. The rest of the day is free to explore the town.
Overnight: 3-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the UNESCO-listed Baltit and Altit forts, perched high above the Hunza Valley. After sightseeing, drive to Gilgit.
Overnight: 3-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 540m
On this day the participants will take a flight from the airport in Skardu to Islamabad aiport. You will have a good time to relax at the hotel in Islamabad.
The domestic flights sometime get cancelled due to weather conditions. Incase of flight cancellation, you will drive to Chilas for overnight. It takes eight to ten hours by a vehicle.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
This day is reserved for any potential delays if the domestic flight didn’t operate the previous day. Guests will depart early in the morning from Chilas to Islamabad, which can take up to ten hours. If participants arrive in Islamabad on the domestic flight, they’ll have a free day to explore the city.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
Meals: Breakfast
Our staff will transfer all our guests to the airport on their respective departure timings. The checkout time of all our partner hotels is 12pm.
Third Time’s a Charm: Snow Lake Hispar La Trek with K2 Expeditions & Trekking
This was my third trek with K2 Expeditions & Trekking, and it continues to exceed my expectations. The Snow Lake Hispar La Trek is a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey through the heart of the Karakoram. The scenery is simply breathtaking – towering peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and vibrant wildflowers.
K2 Expeditions & Trekking, as always, provided top-notch support. The guides were experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring our safety and well-being throughout the trek. The porters were incredibly hardworking and always cheerful. The food was delicious and plentiful, providing the energy we needed for each day’s challenges.
The highlight of the trek was undoubtedly reaching Snow Lake, a mesmerizing glacial lake nestled amidst towering peaks. The views were simply awe-inspiring. Crossing the Hispar La, one of the highest passes in the Karakoram, was another unforgettable experience.
I highly recommend this trek to anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding adventure in the mountains. K2 Expeditions & Trekking is the best choice for this journey, providing a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience.
