Before you set out
for the mountains.
Everything you need to know to plan your journey through the Karakoram and Himalaya — seasons, visas, transport, altitude safety, and the small cultural details that make a big difference.
Urdu, Balti & English
Languages
Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
Currency
PKT · UTC+5
Time Zone
15–25°C (59–77°F)
Summer Temp
The best time to visit.
June — August
The prime window for high-altitude trekking.
High mountain passes are generally open, making this the recommended season for serious trekking and mountaineering — including K2 Base Camp and the Gondogoro La crossing.
Visas & permits.
Most nationalities require a visa to visit Pakistan, and many travellers are eligible for the convenient online tourist e-Visa system — typically processed well ahead of departure.
Restricted trekking areas, including the Baltoro Glacier and K2 Base Camp, require a specific trekking visa alongside special permits. We strongly recommend securing all documentation before you travel.
Standard e-Visa
For general tourism and cultural travel across most of Pakistan, applied for entirely online.
- Apply via official e-Visa portal
- Most nationalities eligible
- Apply ahead of your travel dates
Restricted Zone Trekking Visa
Required for Baltoro Glacier, K2 Base Camp, and other restricted high-altitude zones.
- Special trekking permit required
- Processed through our logistics team
- Carry physical copies on trek
Your route into the mountains.
Arrive in Islamabad
Land at Islamabad International Airport (ISB). We recommend arriving one to two days before your expedition to rest and absorb any logistical delays.
Fly to Skardu
A scenic ~1-hour flight to Skardu offers views of Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram range. Flights are weather-dependent and occasionally delayed.
Karakoram Highway Alternative
If flights are cancelled, the legendary KKH follows the Indus River through spectacular mountain landscapes as a reliable overland route.
Acclimatize wisely.
Climb safely.
Skardu sits at 2,228 metres (7,310 feet). From there, gradual acclimatization is essential to reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) — our itineraries build in appropriate ascent rates and rest days accordingly.
Participants should arrive with sufficient fitness, cardiovascular endurance, and stamina for their chosen route. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation — including helicopter rescue up to 6,000m or your trek's maximum altitude — is mandatory.
2,228m
Skardu Elevation
AMS Aware
Guide-Monitored Ascent
6,000m+
Insurance Coverage Required
Gradual
Recommended Ascent Rate
Money & connectivity.
Currency & Cash
The local currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). ATMs may be unreliable in remote mountain regions, so carry sufficient cash for personal expenses, souvenirs, and tips before heading into the valleys.
Connectivity
International mobile roaming may not work reliably in mountain regions. SCOM, a local mobile provider, offers prepaid SIM cards with 4G connectivity available in major towns.
Cultural etiquette.
Small gestures of respect go a long way in the valleys and villages that welcome you throughout your journey.
Dress Modestly
Clothing covering the shoulders and knees is appreciated for both men and women across towns and villages.
Ask Before Photographing
Always seek permission before photographing local people, particularly women, out of courtesy and respect.
Respect Local Customs
Honor the traditions, communities, and natural environment that make the Karakoram and its people so distinct.
Leave No Trace
Carry out all waste and keep trekking routes clean, helping preserve these mountains for generations to come.
Packing essentials.
Camping equipment is provided by our team — this list covers your personal gear only.
Frequently asked.
Can't find what you're looking for? Our team is always a message away — see the contact options below.
Most nationalities require a visa, and many travellers are eligible to apply through Pakistan's online tourist e-Visa system. Restricted trekking areas — including the Baltoro Glacier and K2 Base Camp — require a specific trekking visa and special permits, which should be arranged well before departure.
Let's plan your mountain adventure.
Have a question about visas, fitness, or what to pack? Our team knows these mountains personally — reach out any time.