Marsur Rock Trek Hussainabad

Early Morning – Departure from Skardu
Depart early from Skardu (hotel or meeting point) toward Hussainabad, which lies en route to Khaplu. The drive is scenic and short, roughly 10‑20 minutes by jeep from Skardu city.

Morning – Jeep Ride to Trailhead
From Hussainabad, take a jeep/4×4 up the winding road toward the higher hillside. The road covers around 40% of the ascent and brings you close to the stream crossing that marks the start of the trek.

Late Morning – Start Trekking
Cross the bridge near the main spring and begin hiking beside the stream. The first section is gentle and grassy, passing through lush areas. After about an hour, at a fork, choose the second steeper trail (not the gentler first one) — this leads uphill toward Marsur Rock.

Midday – Steeper Ascent Through Rocky Terrain
The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you gain elevation. Continue steadily, taking care underfoot. Altitude may affect pace, so walk slowly and stay hydrated.

Early Afternoon – Final Approach
After the steeper climb, you reach a section where the path opens up and becomes clearer. Continue straight until you reach Marsur Rock, a dramatic sloping rock ledge offering panoramic views of the Indus River, Skardu Valley, Safaranga Cold Desert, and Karakoram peaks.

Lunch & Photography at Marsur Rock
Spend time at the rock for photos, lunch/snacks, and soaking in views. Be aware that the ledge can be narrow and high — exercise caution, especially when taking photos.

Afternoon – Return Hike
Retrace your steps back down the trail to the jeep pickup point. The descent is faster but still requires careful footing.

Evening – Drive Back to Skardu
Take the jeep/4×4 back to Hussainabad, then onward to Skardu. Arrive back in the evening, typically by nightfall if you started early.

Estimated Time Breakdown
• Jeep to trail start: ~20–30 minutes from Skardu.
• Trek to Marsur Rock: ~2–3 hours uphill (depending on fitness).
• Stop at summit: ~30–60 minutes.
• Return trek: ~1–1.5 hours.
• Jeep back to Skardu: ~20–30 minutes.

What is Marsur Rock?
Marsur Rock is a natural rock formation near Hussainabad in the Skardu Valley, often compared to Norway’s Trolltunga for its ledge‑like appearance and dramatic views over the valley and Indus River.

How long is the trek?
The trek from the trailhead to Marsur Rock typically takes 2–3 hours uphill and about 1–1.5 hours downhill. Including jeep transfers, the full day trip is around 6–8 hours.

How far is Marsur Rock from Skardu?
The trek start point is accessible within a short jeep ride (~10–20 minutes) from Skardu to Hussainabad, and then the hike leads from the village up the mountain.

Is this a difficult hike?
It is moderate — the trail includes uphill, rocky sections and altitude gain. Fit hikers with basic trekking experience can complete it. Carry water and move at a comfortable pace.

Do I need a guide?
A local guide is recommended because the trail forks and isn’t formally signposted, especially for first‑time visitors. Guides help ensure you take the correct steep path toward Marsur Rock.

What fitness level is required?
Moderate fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable hiking uphill for several hours with breaks. Carry water and snacks.

Is it dangerous to stand on Marsur Rock?
The ledge is narrow and high above the valley. Exercise caution, especially when taking photos or during wet/snowy conditions.

Is there mobile phone signal?
There is no mobile signal for much of the trail, so inform others before you start and carry offline maps or a guide.

When is the best time to go?
May–October is ideal, when snow has melted and the trail is accessible. Outside this window snow and cold can make hiking difficult.

Do I need permits?
No formal trekking permits are usually required for this day hike, but local operator or guide support is advised.

Are facilities available on the trail?
There are no food or water refill points on the trail. Bring sufficient water, snacks, and emergency supplies.

Is the trek suitable for children or seniors?
Children and older adults may find the steep sections physically challenging. Fitness and caution are important.

What views can I expect from Marsur Rock?
From the rock, you can see Skardu City, the Indus River, the Safaranga Cold Desert, and surrounding mountain ranges in panoramic views.

Can I do this trek independently?
Experienced hikers can try independently, but local guides are strongly recommended, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain.

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.