Two remote valleys at the head of Hushe: one below Masherbrum (K1), and the Charakusa, with its granite walls of K6 and K7. After a night in Skardu, you drive to Hushe and walk through summer pastures to Masherbrum Advance Base Camp, then cross to Saitcho for a day in the Charakusa Valley.
You're met at Islamabad International Airport and taken to your hotel. Later, visit the Faisal Mosque and Daman-e-Koh at sunset, or have dinner in Saidpur Village.
Weather permitting, fly over the Himalaya and Karakoram to Skardu (2,230 m). An easy walk up to Kharpocho Fort helps you adjust to the altitude, followed by a full kit check with your guide.
Drive along the Shyok River to Hushe, about five hours, stopping at Khaplu Palace, the Chaqchan Mosque and the Haldi Cones viewpoint. The last stretch brings Masherbrum into view; tonight is in a village guesthouse.
The trek begins through meadows and shepherd settlements, about 3 to 4 hours. Depending on pace, camp at Dumsum (3,300 m) below Double Peak, or at Farbixang (3,400 m) facing Masherbrum.
Climb gradually through wildflower slopes to Brumbruma near the Masherbrum Glacier, with views of Masherbrum and a glacial lake at the foot of the ice. The moraine viewpoint above camp is worth the short climb.
Rise early for sunrise over the Karakoram, then cross the moraine to Masherbrum Advance Base Camp (4,200 m) before returning to Brumbruma, about 7 to 8 hours in all. Look out for marmots and eagles.
Leave the Masherbrum side and trek over to Saitcho, the gateway to the Charakusa Valley. Camp near the meeting of the rivers.
A day hike up the Charakusa Valley towards the granite walls of K6 and K7, returning to Saitcho. Go as far as time allows, or rest at camp.
Walk out to Hushe and drive back to Skardu, stopping in Khaplu for Balti tea in the palace courtyard. Browse the Skardu markets for gemstones and crafts in the evening.
Weather permitting, take the morning flight back to Islamabad. In the afternoon, visit the Pakistan Monument and the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum.
This day is held in reserve in case weather delays the Skardu flight. If everything has run to plan, visit Taxila or walk in the Margalla Hills before your transfer to the airport.
Every journey is tailored to you through consultation, and your final price is confirmed once we've planned it together.
EnquireReturn Islamabad–Skardu
A boutique hotel in Skardu (two nights), a village guesthouse in Hushe (one night) and two nights in Islamabad; Five nights' camping with sleeping tents and mattresses
All meals
Private 4x4 with driver
Professional English-speaking guide
Entry tickets, permits and park fees
2 to 12 guests
Moderate to challenging. Up to 8 hours' walking on the longest days.
Not included: international flights, visa, travel insurance and tips.
Blossom season
Blossom season
Summer walking and trekking
Summer trekking season
Summer trekking season
Autumn colour
Autumn colour
Apricot blossom usually peaks in April; timing varies each year.
Summer trekking season
Summer trekking season
Summer trekking season
Masherbrum trek season: June to August.
April and May are for our blossom and valley journeys. Treks run from June.
Typical daytime temperatures. Nights are cooler, and mountain weather can change quickly.
Skardu's crystal-clear lakes and tranquil valleys meet Hunza's lush terraces and emerald orchards. Rich traditions and unforgettable encounters in the heart of the Karakoram.
Lush terraces, emerald orchards and the towering silhouettes of Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar. Skardu's crystal-clear lakes and dramatic mountain landscapes complete the journey.
Wildflower-covered plains, traditional mountain villages and the Thalay La Pass. Walk among towering peaks, explore remote valleys and spend nights under starlit skies.
