Begin your adventure with a warm welcome from Travan Pakistan’s team in Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan. Take time to relax after your journey, then visit Liberty Market, where local handicrafts, embroidered clothing, and traditional jewelry provide a colorful first glimpse into the country’s heritage. This introduction offers a unique contrast to the remote wilderness you’ll soon encounter. Sample local street treats like kulfi falooda before gathering for a welcome dinner. It’s the perfect start before transitioning to the mountains. The Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar adventure begins with comfort and cultural immersion, building anticipation for the dramatic shift from historic cities to high-altitude expeditions in the days ahead.

Dive into Lahore’s deep history before your trek begins. Explore the UNESCO-listed Lahore Fort and grand Badshahi Mosque, both testaments to Mughal grandeur. Admire the Sheesh Mahal’s reflective interiors and stroll across centuries-old courtyards. Later, visit the vibrant Wazir Khan Mosque, renowned for its colorful frescoes and tilework. End the afternoon at the Wagah Border for the patriotic flag-lowering ceremony—an electrifying spectacle of synchronized military performance. This day grounds you in Pakistan’s cultural richness before the rugged Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar expedition. The sharp contrast between architectural splendor and the alpine wilderness ahead adds depth to your overall journey through the country.

Today marks the beginning of your journey north toward Gilgit-Baltistan, gateway to the Shimshal Valley and Minglik Sar expedition. Depart Lahore and choose a route based on interest—either explore the Mughal-era tomb of Jahangir and Hiran Minar’s wildlife sanctuary, or opt for the Khewra Salt Mines and the ancient Katas Raj Temples. Each site blends history with nature, echoing the diverse landscapes you’ll soon trek through. Continue the drive toward Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. The contrast between the lowlands and towering peaks ahead is striking. Relax and prepare for the flight to Skardu—the essential launch point for all Shimshal Pass trek and Pamir mountain trekking adventures.

Fly to Skardu in the morning, soaring above the Karakoram Range where peaks like Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi rise sharply. From Skardu, begin your overland journey toward Hunza, following the legendary Karakoram Highway. This route, known as the eighth wonder of the world, reveals the wild terrain that defines the Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar expedition. Along the way, stop at Attabad Lake and the Rakaposhi Viewpoint, where the surrounding snow-clad giants dominate the horizon. Arrive in Hunza by evening. Here, the mountains rise closer, and the remote valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan Pakistan beckon you toward the adventure that lies ahead.

Today’s journey leads you deep into the Pamir Mountains. Drive from Hunza to Shimshal, one of the most isolated villages in Pakistan. The rugged Shimshal Valley Road challenges even seasoned travelers as it snakes through the Shimshal River Gorge. Cross narrow suspension bridges, pass towering cliffs, and glimpse distant glaciers as you make your way to the village at 3,100 meters. Shimshal is the gateway to the high-altitude base camp of Minglik Sar and the Central Karakoram National Park. Explore the village, meet locals known for their mountaineering legacy, and begin acclimatizing. The Shimshal Pass trek officially begins here—your stepping stone into the high mountains.

Today is a rest day in Shimshal Village, allowing you to acclimatize before the Shimshal Pass trek. Explore the highland community and engage with locals whose heritage is deeply tied to the Pamir Mountain trekking culture. Visit yak pastures, suspension bridges, and enjoy short hikes for panoramic views. This pause supports your adjustment to altitude while introducing the life and traditions of the Shimshal Valley. Evenings bring traditional music, stories of local mountaineers, and insight into a way of life shaped by peaks and glaciers. This cultural immersion marks a vital point in your Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar journey, setting the tone for the high-altitude adventure ahead.

The trek begins as you leave Shimshal Village, walking along the roaring Shimshal River through rocky terrain and alpine pastures toward Zardgarben Camp. This scenic 5–6 hour hike passes through grazing lands where yaks and goats roam freely, surrounded by jagged cliffs and sweeping meadows. The steady ascent provides the first challenge of the Shimshal Pass trek, with your team of high-altitude porters ensuring smooth travel. At Zardgarben, or "Golden Pasture," the light bathes the meadows in stunning amber tones. Settle into your camp site, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the journey deeper into Gilgit-Baltistan Pakistan’s wild terrain.

Begin the day with a steady climb along lush, flower-filled pastures toward Pamir-e-Tang, one of the most scenic points along the Shimshal Pass Trek. The 5–6 hour walk takes you through rolling highland terrain, where views of Minglik Sar grow ever clearer. Wildflowers line the trail, and encounters with shepherds and their herds offer authentic glimpses into life in the Shimshal Valley. As altitude increases, acclimatization becomes essential, and your team ensures regular breaks and hydration. Arriving at camp, you're greeted with dramatic vistas and a sky untouched by light. Rest, eat, and prepare for your next ascent into the Central Karakoram National Park.

Today, the trail winds further into the remote wilderness toward Shujerab, a traditional grazing pasture used by Shimshali herders. This segment of the Shimshal Pass trek features expansive alpine meadows, icy streams, and open skies. The 5–6 hour hike includes stone shepherd huts and grazing yak herds, with breathtaking views of Minglik Sar and Chandyr Peak framing the background. You’ll rest at a well-established camp site, surrounded by wildflowers and snow-covered cliffs. This high-altitude haven is critical for Pamir tour acclimatization, and the peaceful setting offers an unmatched escape into the heart of the Shimshal Valley.

Today’s trek takes you to Shimshal Pass, the high-altitude plateau known as the “Roof of Shimshal.” After a hearty breakfast, set off on a steady climb across open pastures with panoramic views of glaciers and the towering peak of Minglik Sar (6,050m). As you cross ancient grazing lands and follow the winding riverbeds, the extent of Gandhara fades, replaced by the raw majesty of the Karakoram Highway's end. Shimshal Pamir offers vast space, crisp air, and shimmering streams. Set up camp beside grazing yaks and prepare for Minglik Sar base camp ahead. This is a key milestone in your Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar journey.

Spend the day acclimatizing at Shimshal Pass (4,735m), a critical point on your Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar expedition. Take light walks to nearby ridges for panoramic views of the Pamir mountain trekking route, while guides prepare gear for the summit. Meet Shimshali shepherds at traditional stone huts and observe grazing yaks and wild ibex in the alpine meadows. Relax at the camp site, hydrate well, and attend a safety briefing for the Minglik Sar expedition. This break in high altitude helps your body adapt and strengthens your readiness for the upcoming climb. As night falls, the Milky Way stretches over the meadows, a perfect reminder of nature’s majesty in Central Karakoram National Park.

Today you trek from Shimshal Pass to Minglik Sar Base Camp (4,900m), the launching point for the Minglik Sar expedition. This 5–6 hour trek covers glacial moraine and rocky terrain, with views growing more dramatic as you approach the icy slopes. Your English-speaking guides assist in navigation across rugged paths, helping you cross icy streams and glacier-fed ridges. Surrounded by peaks, the base camp offers stunning vistas of Minglik Sar, shimmering in the alpine light. Settle in for dinner, organize your personal equipment, and receive final instructions. Camp under towering cliffs, where excitement builds for the summit push—an essential step in this legendary Shimshal Pass Trek and Minglik Sar adventure.

Summit day begins before dawn. Equipped with crampons, ice axes, and ropes, start the Minglik Sar climb under starlight. The 5–7 hour ascent takes you up snowfields and steep ridgelines, with views expanding to include Kanjut Sar, Dastagil Sar, and distant Karakoram peaks. Reaching 6,050 meters, the summit reveals awe-inspiring landscapes and the Shimshal Pass far below. After a short celebration and photos, descend carefully back to base camp, completing a 10–12 hour round trip. Dinner and hot drinks await, served at the camp site nestled beneath icy slopes. This day defines the heart of the Shimshal Pass Trek and Mingling Sar expedition—exhausting, exhilarating, and unforgettable.

After a rewarding summit, descend from Minglik Sar Base Camp to the open meadows of Shimshal Pass. The 4–5 hour trek retraces your path over glacial moraine, allowing for reflection amid snow-capped peaks. With views of Minglik Sar behind you, the descent offers a renewed appreciation of the landscapes conquered. Return to your camp site, nestled in grassy fields where yaks graze and glaciers glint in the sun. Enjoy a hearty meal with your high-altitude porters, sharing stories and laughter from the climb. As twilight settles over the Shimshal Valley, stargaze one last time before beginning the descent toward civilization.

Begin your descent from Shimshal Pass to Shujerab (4,350m), retracing your journey through alpine pastures. The trail leads through wildflower-filled meadows and past shepherd huts, offering glimpses of traditional life in Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan. Watch for golden eagles overhead and catch your last views of Minglik Sar. This 4–5 hour trek feels gentler as your body adjusts, and the changing altitude brings back warmth and greenery. Arrive at Shujerab camp site, nestled in a lush valley surrounded by glacier-fed streams. Rest, enjoy fresh tea, and reflect on the journey so far. The descent continues tomorrow, deeper into the heart of the Shimshal Valley.

The descent from Shujerab begins today as you trek back through the vast meadows and river-carved trails of Shimshal Valley. After breakfast, depart camp and follow the narrow path along the roaring Shimshal River. The scenery changes with every step — from high, glaciated terrain to lush alpine pastures. Marvel at the wildflowers carpeting the hillsides and the gentle sway of yaks grazing below. Stop for a packed lunch beside the river, soaking in the peaceful isolation. After a 4–5 hour walk, arrive at Zardgarben, a familiar golden pasture ringed by rolling hills. Unwind, reflect on the journey so far, and share stories with your team under the stars. Dinner is freshly prepared at camp, where you'll rest amidst the silence of the mountains.

Your final trekking day begins with a steady descent toward Shimshal Village, retracing the spectacular trail through the Shimshal River Gorge. The narrow path clings to cliffs above a roaring current, making for a dramatic and unforgettable farewell. Along the way, you’ll pass familiar grazing fields, wave to shepherds tending their livestock, and admire the return of green terraces and cultivated lands. After 5–6 hours of trekking, arrive back in Shimshal Village — where the sight of stone homes and waving locals welcomes you like family. Spend the afternoon visiting the Shimshal Mountaineering School, learning about local climbers who’ve summited 8,000-meter peaks. Celebrate the end of your trek with a traditional dinner, music, and dance performed by the welcoming Shimshalis.

After breakfast in Shimshal, begin the thrilling 4x4 jeep journey back to the iconic Hunza Valley. The route follows the rugged Shimshal River Gorge — a wild, narrow passage through towering cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and sheer drops that will keep your camera clicking. After hours of rocky road, the view opens into Hunza’s lush beauty. Terraced fields, fruit orchards, and snow-dusted peaks create a surreal contrast. Upon reaching Karimabad, check into a cozy guesthouse with panoramic views of Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar. Relax with a cup of apricot tea and enjoy the comforts of the valley. In the evening, stroll through the bazaar to shop for local crafts, Hunza caps, and dried fruits, or take an optional walk to the historic Altit Fort before dinner.

After breakfast, begin your scenic journey to Skardu — a full-day drive that showcases northern Pakistan’s most majestic landscapes. Following the legendary Karakoram Highway, pass turquoise Attabad Lake, where you can stretch your legs or take photos. Further along, enjoy a final look at Rakaposhi Peak from the roadside viewpoint. The road eventually forks off toward the Indus Valley, with the terrain growing drier, more rugged, and stunningly dramatic. Witness the confluence of the Gilgit and Indus Rivers, and watch as the green valleys turn into high-altitude deserts framed by snow-capped giants. After 7–8 hours of driving, arrive in Skardu, check into a serene retreat, and relax. If time permits, visit the lively Skardu Bazaar to shop for Balti crafts and gemstones before dinner and a well-earned rest.

Weather permitting, enjoy one of the world’s most scenic mountain flights as you depart Skardu for Islamabad. Take in sweeping aerial views of the Karakoram, including towering Nanga Parbat, before landing in the capital. Upon arrival, begin your city tour with a visit to Faisal Mosque, an architectural gem nestled at the base of the Margalla Hills. Continue to Lok Virsa Museum, showcasing Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage through art and exhibits. Drive to Daman-e-Koh for sunset views over the lush cityscape. In the evening, head to a top-tier restaurant for a farewell dinner featuring both continental and Pakistani cuisine. Reflect on your unforgettable Shimshal Pass Trek and Minglik Sar adventure before returning to your hotel for the final night of rest.

Begin your final full day with a visit to the ancient city of Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of the Gandhara civilization. Explore the Taxila Museum, packed with Buddhist relics and stunning Gandhara sculptures. Stroll through the Dharmarajika Stupa and the Jaulian Monastery, imagining monks once meditating in the now-ruined courtyards. After a traditional lunch, head to Rawalpindi for a colorful immersion in Truck Art, one of Pakistan’s most vibrant artistic traditions. Participate in a hands-on workshop where you’ll paint your own souvenir under the guidance of local artisans. Return to Islamabad in the evening and enjoy a special farewell dinner. Reflect on your journey—from wild peaks to cultural gems—before settling in for your last night.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Islamabad. After breakfast, take time to repack and reflect on the incredible expedition—from your Shimshal Pass Trek and Minglik Sar summit to your cultural adventures in Hunza, Skardu, and Taxila. If time allows, make a quick visit to a local market or enjoy a coffee with views of the Margalla Hills. Travan Pakistan’s team will arrange your transfer to Islamabad International Airport, ensuring a smooth departure. As you leave, carry with you unforgettable memories of glaciers, peaks, villages, and ancient ruins, along with the warmth of Pakistan’s people and its majestic landscapes. The journey may be over, but the spirit of adventure will stay with you forever.