HISPER SNOW LAKE TREK

• Day 1: Arrive in Islamabad (altitude 540 m), transfer to the hotel, city tour optional.
• Day 2: Fly/drive to Skardu (altitude 2,200 m).
  Flight ~1 hr;                          road 2–3 days with stops.
• Day 3: Rest in Skardu;
  sightseeing: Kharfocho Fort, Sadpara Lake, Shangri-La Resort.
• Day 4: Briefing & gear check for trek;
  formalities for the Central Karakoram National Park.
• Day 5: Drive to Askoli (3,000 m, 6–8 hrs);
  Last village before wilderness.
• Day 6: Trek Askoli → Namla (3,566 m, 6–8 hrs);
  First day on Biafo Glacier.
• Day 7: Trek Namla → Mango (3,715 m, 7–8 hrs);
  rocky terrain, challenging walk.
• Day 8: Trek Mango → Biantha (4,041 m, 6 hrs);
  cross Biafo Glacier; first Latok Group views.
• Day 9: Rest/acclimatization at Biantha (4,041 m);
  optional short climb.
• Day 10: Trek Biantha → Marphogoro (4,410 m, 6–8 hrs);
  glacier walk; view The Ogre (7,813 m).
• Day 11: Trek to Snow Lake (4,800 m, 6–7 hrs);
  camp amid high-altitude ice.
• Day 12: Trek Snow Lake → Hispar La (5,151 m, 6–7 hrs);
  panoramic views of Biafo & Hispar Glaciers.
• Day 13: Trek Hispar La → Kani Basa (4,500 m, 8+ hrs);
  View Kanjut Sar (7,760 m).
• Day 14: Trek Kani Basa → Jutmal (4,200 m, 7 hrs);
  Cross Jutmal Glacier; climb the cliff face.
• Day 15: Trek Jutmal → Bitanmal (3,600 m, 8 hrs);
  Cross Pumory Glacier; ablation valley climb.
• Day 16: Trek Bitanmal → Falling Chhish (3,600 m, 4 hrs);
  Cross Kunyang Glacier; camp in shepherd meadow; views of Makrong Chhish (6,607 m).
• Day 17: Trek Falling Chhish → Hispar Village (3,400 m, 4 hrs);
  Cross streams and bridge.
• Day 18: Trek Hispar Village → Huru (3,000 m, 5 hrs);
  jeep road walk; final camp.
• Day 19: Jeep drive to Karimabad, Hunza (2,440 m);
  scenic valley and peaks.
• Day 20: Drive to Gilgit (1,500 m, 3 hrs);
  explore bazaars & sightseeing.
• Day 21: Fly/drive to Islamabad/Rawalpindi;
  Trek debrief; last views of Nanga Parbat.

What is the Hisper Snow Lake Trek?
The Hisper Snow Lake Trek (also called the Biafo-Hispar Snow Lake Trek) is a high-altitude glacier traverse in the Karakoram Range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, linking the Biafo Glacier with the Hispar Glacier via Snow Lake and Hispar La Pass. It takes you deep into one of the remotest, most pristine glacial systems on Earth — a 100 + kilometer ice highway outside the Polar Regions — and is known for its raw wilderness, spectacular peaks, and challenging terrain.

Where is Hisper Snow Lake located?
Hisper Snow Lake lies near the head of the Biafo Glacier (about 60 km long) and Hispar Glacier (about 61 km long) in Central Karakoram National Park, forming the longest continuous glacier system outside Antarctica at the Hispar La Pass (~5,151 m).

Why is this trek famous?
The area was described by early explorers like Martin Conway as “beyond all comparison the finest view of mountains…,” and explorer Eric Shipton called this traverse “the last blank on the map.” It remains extremely remote with abundant wildlife and epic panoramas of peaks such as the Latok Group, Ogre (Baintha Brakk), Kanjut Sar, and more.

How long is the itinerary?
Typical Visit in Pakistan itineraries run about 21–22 days from Islamabad return, including arrival, transport, trekking days, rest and acclimatisation, and the final exit into Hunza.

How difficult is the Hisper Snow Lake Trek?
This trek is strenuous to extremely strenuous. It crosses large glaciers, loose moraines, unstable terrain, and high passes above 5,000 m. Daily walking can span 6–9+ hours over ice, mixed terrain, and crevasse zones. Prior high-altitude experience is strongly recommended.

Do I need technical climbing skills?
Strictly speaking, you do not need high-end mountaineering skills, but you do need the ability to travel safely on glaciers with crevasses, handle rope team travel with guides, and navigate high mountain passes. Guides provide on-the-ground support and safety procedures.

What is the maximum altitude reached?
The highest point of the trek is the Hispar La Pass (~5,151 m), where trekkers make the transition from the Biafo side to the Hispar side. The trek otherwise ranges between ~3,500 m and 5,150 m.

How long are the daily trek sections?
Trekking days typically involve 6 to 8 hours per day, with some long days (e.g., crossing the pass, glacier marches). Distances vary and some sections require navigating glacier ice and moraine.

Is this trek more challenging than other Karakoram treks?
Yes — it is more remote and physically demanding than many popular Pakistan treks, including K2 Base Camp, due to extended glacier travel, variable terrain, long duration, and high passes.

Do I need trekking/park permits?
Yes — official permits and guide registration are required to enter Central Karakoram National Park and undertake the trek. Licensed operators like Visit in Pakistan handle all permit logistics.

Is altitude sickness a concern?
Absolutely. You are trekking at altitudes above 4,000 m and crossing passes above 5,000 m. Acclimatisation days and careful pacing are essential; symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) can occur without proper preparation.

What weather can I expect?
The best trekking window is June to August when snow conditions are more stable and passes are more accessible. Weather can still change rapidly with cold nights, sudden storms, and snow at higher elevations.

What gear is recommended?
You’ll need sturdy glacier boots, crampons, layered cold-weather clothing, sun protection, trekking poles, headlamp, hydration system, high-altitude sleeping bag, and ice-axe/crampon skills under guide instruction. Personal first-aid and glacier safety gear are vital.

Is camping included or are there lodges?
The vast majority of the trek is wilderness camping on glacier margins and high passes. There are no lodges along the glacier route; hotels are usually available before and after the trek in Skardu, Askole, and Hunza.

Can beginners attempt this trek?
No — this trek is not suitable for beginners. A solid background in high-altitude trekking, glacier travel, physical fitness, and previous multi-day treks is recommended.

What wildlife might I see?
The remote high valleys are habitat for species like ibex, markhor, Himalayan brown bear, and in very rare cases even snow leopard, though sightings are uncommon.

Is mobile phone signal available?
Mobile coverage is limited or nonexistent on glacier sections and the high pass. Guides typically carry satellite or radio for emergency communication.

What cultural experiences are included?
The trek begins in Baltistan, follows ancient glacier routes once used to connect regions, and exits into the Hunza Valley, offering glimpses of local villages, historic forts, and cultural contrasts between mountain societies.

What makes this trek unique?
Hisper Snow Lake is not just a destination — it’s part of the longest continuous non-polar glacier system, a rare unspoiled wilderness, and one of the most dramatic and least crowded long-distance treks in the world.

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 Tour and Trekking

All our tours and treks are budget-friendly, without compromising comfort or service quality. At Visit in Pakistan, we take pride in delivering reliable service, which is why many clients choose to travel with us again. Moreover, our premium services are equally appreciated by corporate groups, business travelers, and high-profile clients. From affordable adventures to luxury experiences, our Five 8,000 m Base Camp Trek is a perfect example of the quality we offer.

Experienced Local Team for Your Journey

Our certified mountain guides and porters are born and raised in Baltistan. Therefore, they know every rock, glacier, and trail. With decades of experience, they make your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable.

Tailor-Made Itineraries

We customize each itinerary to match your schedule, budget, and interests. From flight bookings to basecamp logistics, our team manages everything. As a result, you can focus entirely on enjoying the TREK and tour experience.

Safety and 24/7 Backup Support

Your safety and comfort come first. In addition, we provide full backup support, including rescue coordination, reliable transportation, and on-ground communication. This ensures peace of mind throughout your adventure.