The K6 Charakusa Valley Trek is one of the shortest, easiest, and most rewarding treks in the Karakoram range. It offers an ideal introduction to high-altitude trekking without technical difficulty. The K6 and K7 peaks, both well-known and visually striking, rise prominently from the Charakusa Valley Glacier in Hushe Valley. Moreover, the trek passes through dramatic granite walls, pristine glaciers, and quiet alpine campsites, offering photographers and nature lovers countless unforgettable moments. As a result, trekkers experience a perfect balance of accessibility, scenery, and wilderness in a truly remote mountain environment. K6, also known as Baltistan Peak, is in the Masherbrum area of the Karakorum mountains, while Laila Peak is the most beautiful peak of the Karakoram situated in the Gandogoro valley.
Both trekking routes are easy to moderate in difficulty. They are slightly more demanding than the Masherbrum Peak Base Camp Trek. However, they remain suitable for trekkers with good fitness and basic experience. This trek follows the most direct and scenic route to K6 Base Camp through Hushe Valley. The base camp sits on the north-west edge of the Nangmah Glacier. As a result, the trail offers outstanding mountain views throughout.
In contrast, the K-6–K-7 route sees far fewer trekkers. It feels quieter and more remote than the Laila Peak Base Camp Trek. Meanwhile, Khiuspang marks the base camp of Gondogoro Pass on the Hushe side. The route also reveals stunning views of Link Sar, Drifica, Kapora, and the surrounding peaks here. Compared to Baltoro, the K6 Charakusa Valley Trek is more economical. Yet it remains deeply rewarding. Steep granite walls rise on both sides of the valley. They create a dramatic landscape that feels wild, powerful, unforgettable, and memorable.
Trip Name: K-6 Charakusa Valley Trek
Altitude 4100-M
Range Karakoram
Location Hushe Baltistan
Ideal Time June-September
Duration 15 days
Day 1. Arrive in Islamabad
Our guide transfers you to the hotel, where you get fresh, and you will be briefed by our experienced guide in the hotel. If you arrive early, then we will provide you with a small tour of the city. Otherwise, it can be done on return from the trek.
Day 2. Islamabad-Skardu
The flight to Skardu(weather dependent). Otherwise, you will be transferred via 4WD to Chilas. You will rest in Chilas halfway, then travel to Skardu the next day.
Day 3. One day Rest in Skardu.
We will take you to the 600-year-old Kharphocho fort, from where you will enjoy the whole of the city. Later on will enjoy the Shangri-La Resort, Sarfaranga Cold Desert, and Sadpara Lake.
Day 4. Briefing and gearing up
There will be a briefing by the tourism ministry to the foreigners and local guides, as well as a formality to enter the restricted zones of Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP). And final preparations will be made to leave for the trek.
Day 05: Skardu-Hushe
We drive along the Indus and Shyok valley up the Hushe valley to reach the road head at the little village of Hushe.
Day 06 Hushe-Saicho
Day 12. Saicho-Machulu Valley
Trek down to Hushey village for 3-4 hours and have lunch in the hotel. Late on, a drive of 1-2 hours brings us to Machulo Valley. Machulo village is home for 3 days trek for the K2 viewpoint. This trek is the most economical, easiest, and shortest trek ever to see all five 8000m peaks of Pakistan. This village has an Old Mosque in between the houses. The view in the background is spectacular with Haldi cones and lush green fields. The channel walk in Machulo village is a plus point to explore and meet the local people.
Day 13. Machulo -Skardu
Today we drive for a few hours to enter Skardu city. Here, you will explore the whole of Skardu city
Day 14. Skardu-Islamabad
You will be in Islamabad within one hour of the flight if the weather allows. If not, then we will follow the River Indus to meet KKH near Gilgit, and our night stay will be at Chilas. The next morning, we leave for Islamabad via Babusar Pass. In the evening, we will be in Islamabad.
Day 15. Trip Completes in Islamabad
Drive to Islamabad from Chilas / Today, our trip will be complete in Islamabad. You can have a small city tour of Islamabad and the surroundings today.
Day 16. Fly back to Homeland.
We will transfer you to the Islamabad international airport, from where we will see you off from Pakistan
Note: Day 17 will be used as a ‘cushion’ day in case of delays in travel due to weather, route change, health, acclimatization issues during the trek, etc.
What is the K-6 Charakusa Valley Trek?
The K-6 Charakusa Valley Trek is a scenic trekking itinerary in the Hushe Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, leading trekkers toward the base camps of K6 and K7 peaks through the Charakusa Glacier, with breathtaking views of Karakoram mountains and remote alpine landscapes.
Where is the trek located?
This trek takes place in Hushe Valley, in the Karakoram range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Trekkers typically start from Hushe village after traveling from Skardu.
How long is the trek?
The complete tour is about 15 days, which includes travel from Islamabad to Skardu, trekking days, base camp exploration, and return.
What is the altitude of the trek?
Trekking reaches approximately 4,100–4,600 meters above sea level at the K-6 and K-7 base camps.
What is the difficulty level?
The trek is generally easy to moderate but involves long hiking days, glacier walking, and altitude gain, so good physical fitness and prior multi-day trekking experience are recommended.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No. This is a trekking route that does not require technical mountaineering skills or equipment. Standard trekking gear, hiking boots, and good physical preparedness are sufficient.
What is the best time to do this trek?
The ideal season is June to September when weather conditions are more stable, trail access is best, and high-altitude areas are accessible.
What kind of scenery and highlights can I expect?
Highlights include:
• Towering granite spires and glaciers
• Views of K6, K7, Link Sar, Namika, and other peaks
• Cultural scenery in Hushe and valley villages
What kind of accommodation is provided?
During trekking, accommodation is in camp sites with tents. Before and after the trek, you will stay in comfortable hotels or guesthouses in Skardu and Hushe as per your itinerary.
Are meals included?
Meals during the trek are normally provided and include breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by support staff. Hotels will include breakfast and other meals as specified in the tour inclusions. (This depends on your agency’s service plan.)
Do I need permits?
Yes. Trekking in this restricted region requires permits, which are usually handled by your trekking operator with valid documentation submitted in advance.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes. All trekkers must have travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation coverage.
Is altitude sickness a risk?
At elevations above 4,000 m, altitude sickness is possible. The itinerary includes gradual acclimatization and guides are trained to monitor symptoms and respond appropriately.
Can I take this trek solo?
Solo travel is possible, but due to permit regulations and safety logistics, it is strongly recommended to trek with a trained guide and support team.
What fitness level do I need?
You should be able to walk 4–6 hours per day on rugged terrain and be comfortable with elevation gain. Regular cardio and hiking preparation before departure are advised.
What happens if the Skardu flight is canceled?
If flights are canceled due to weather, alternatives include traveling by road via Chilas to reach Skardu. Itineraries generally include buffer days for such contingencies.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes. Itineraries can be adjusted to include additional acclimatization days, combine with other treks (e.g., Laila Peak or Machulo La), or tailored to specific group needs.
What should I bring?
Essential items include:
• Trekking boots
• Warm layered clothing and a waterproof jacket
• Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
• Hat, gloves, and sun protection
• Personal medication and first aid
A detailed packing list is provided upon booking.
Is this trek safe for international travelers?
Yes. Hushe Valley and Karakoram trekking routes are popular with trekkers from around the world, and operations are conducted with experienced guides and support staff.
How do I book?
Booking can be completed through your travel agency with the required details provided, including passport copies for permits, trip confirmation, and pre-departure logistics.
Services Included
- Liaison with the Ministry of Tourism in Islamabad for the climbing permit process, providing the appointed Liaison officer’s measurements for his prescribed kit.
- Process during import/export permit from the Ministry of Tourism.
- Clearance of cargo before the arrival of the team and its storage.
- Assistance upon arrival/departure.
- Official Briefing/Debriefing.
- Hotel accommodation in Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Chilas.
- All meals during the trek and at B.C. as per the itinerary.
- Porterage of 75 kg per person of expedition equipment and high altitude food, etc., to the B.C., and 50 kg per person on return from B.C.
- Road transfers between the airport/hotel and within the city as per the itinerary.
- Sleeping tents, mattresses, mess, kitchen, and toilet tent with tables/field stools and camping ground fees.
- Kitchen equipment, crockery, cutlery, fuel, and related community gear.
- Wages and basic kit of guide, sirdar, cook, and assistant(s).
- Insurance for our field staff and low-altitude porters (except for helicopter rescue).
- Porterage at airports, hotels, toll taxes, and parking fees, etc.
- Mail handling/forwarding to B.C./overseas except for postage charges.
- Reconfirmation of air tickets.
- Hiring of HAPs, mail runner(s), and any other crew as per requirement. (Wages and kit to be arranged by the team).
Services not Included
- International & domestic airfare, airport tax, and excess baggage charges.
- High altitude porters/any crew above B.C.
- Helicopter emergency rescue fees (refundable if not used)
- High altitude tents, sleeping bags, personal and climbing equipment of any kind beyond base camp, including high altitude food and oxygen.
- Medications, ground evacuations, and helicopter rescue charges of any kind.
- Room services, laundry, beverages, phone/communication bills, and items of a personal nature.
- Insurance liability of member (s) and other under force majeure conditions.
- Climbing Permit, Pollution and Environmental fee, or any other payment required to be paid to Pakistan’s Government.
- Clearing agent charges.
- Members climb gears
- Member’s personal insurance
- High altitude food
- High altitude porter
- Any other service not mentioned in the above list
Budget-Friendly Tours and Trekking
First and foremost, all our tours and treks are designed to be budget-friendly without compromising comfort or service quality. At Visit in Pakistan, we focus on reliability and consistency. As a result, many of our clients choose to travel with us repeatedly.
Moreover, our premium services are highly valued by corporate groups, business travelers, and high-profile clients. At the same time, we offer affordable adventure options for individual trekkers and groups. For example, our Five 8,000-meter Base Camp Trek reflects the balance we maintain between quality, value, and professionalism.
Experienced Local Team
Equally important, our certified mountain guides and porters are born and raised in Baltistan. Therefore, they understand every rock, glacier, and trail in the region. With decades of hands-on experience, they ensure your journey remains safe, well-managed, and truly memorable.
Tailor-Made Itineraries
Furthermore, we customize each itinerary to match your schedule, budget, and travel goals. From flight bookings to base camp logistics, our team handles every detail efficiently. Consequently, you can focus entirely on enjoying a smooth and rewarding tour and trekking experience.
Safety and 24/7 Backup Support
Above all, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. In addition, we provide complete backup support, including rescue coordination, dependable transportation, and continuous on-ground communication. Therefore, you can travel with confidence and peace of mind throughout your adventure.
Tour Reviews
I had the pleasure of doing the K-6 Charajusa Valley Trek with Visit in Pakistan Tours in July 2022, and it was an incredible experience. The guides were knowledgeable and experienced, and the support staff made sure we were comfortable and well-fed throughout the trek. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and crystal-clear streams at every turn. The trek was challenging but rewarding, and we made some unforgettable memories along the way. I would highly recommend this trek and Visit in Pakistan Tours to anyone looking for an adventure in the Karakoram range.
We had an opportunity to explore the northern mountains of Gilgit Baltistan. The confluence of Hushe Valley allowed this journey to stayed two nights at K6 and K7 Base Camp. This magnificent backdrop of beautiful mountains view from centered camped Base is worth to spend two nights. The crew of tour company Visit in Pakistan gave us the right package and fulfilled what they agreed with us. Appreciated their team work, professionalism and knowledge.
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