The Darkot to Darkot Pass trek takes you along the lateral moraine of a glacier, then across the wide, flat expanse of the Darkot Glacier. You’ll navigate crevasses and streams for about 3–4 hours until you reach Chikar Yarkhun Valley. The trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of granite peaks mixed with glaciers in every direction. A glaciated ridge at 200 meters elevation separates you from the Zindikharam Glacier. From there, you can walk up the Zindikharam Glacier to Lalay Rabat, the summit of the Boroghil region. The descent on the Darkot side is notably steeper, and the glacier can be wet and slippery in the morning sun. Crampons are recommended for safety. As you approach the glacier, stay on the right side to reach the first bowl beneath the glacier’s snout, then cross to the left bank and follow a well‑marked, zigzagging path down to the base of the Yarkhun Valley. The route provides an incredible adventure through mountainous terrain with unforgettable experiences and stunning vistas.
| Day | Destination | Residence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Islamabad and Rawalpindi | Hotel |
| 2 | Drive from Islamabad to Chilas | Hotel |
| 3 | Drive from Chilas to Gilgit | Hotel |
| 4 | Drive from Gilgit to Yasin Valley | Hotel |
| 5 | Trek from Darkot to Rawat | Camp |
| 6 | Trek from Rawat to Darkot | Camp |
| 7 | Trek from High Camp to Khani Basa | Camp |
| 8 | Trek from Khani Basa to Iskarwarz | Camp |
| 9 | Trek from Iskarwarz to Khishma | Camp |
| 10 | Trek from Khishma to Lasht | Camp |
| 11 | Trek from Lasht to Mastuj | Hotel |
| 12 | Drive from Mastuj to Chitral | Hotel |
| 13 | Drive from Chitral to Swat | Hotel |
| 14 | Drive from Swat to Islamabad | Home |
| 15 | Fly back Home | Hotel |
| Transportation |
Airport transfers (Islamabad and Skardu). Air-conditioned minibuses for Ministry of Tourism briefings and sightseeing. Domestic flights (Islamabad to Skardu, PK 451). 4×4 jeeps for members and Toyota Loader for equipment (Skardu to Jhola and Hushe to Skardu).
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| Accommodation. |
2 nights at Grand Hotel Islamabad (or similar) on bed and breakfast basis. 2 nights at Shangri-La Midway or Panorama Inn, Skardu (full board). 3 nights at Blue Sky Hotel, Masherbrum Inn, Dewan-e-Khans, or K-2 Motel, Skardu (full board). Note: Alternative accommodations will be provided if mentioned hotels are unavailable.
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| Additional Services. |
Low-altitude porters for luggage and equipment transport. Porter Sirdar for way up and down. Experienced English-speaking guide, cook, and assistant cook. Fuel generator, dining tent, sleeping tents, and kitchen equipment. Trekking and base camp foods (Chinese, Pakistani, Continental, and Italian cuisine). Fresh fruits, soft drinks, and beverages. |
| Equipment Provided. | Sleeping tents with foam underlay and mattresses
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| Taxes and Fees. | Trekking permit fee |
| Baggage Allowance. |
25kg per member (extra luggage will incur a $140 porter charge). Karakoram Travels & Tours reserves the right to adjust services due to unforeseen circumstances. Extra days’ accommodation will incur a $150 charge per night. Note Flight cancellations due to weather conditions may affect confirmed reservations. |
| Exclusions. |
International air ticket and airport taxes
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| Travel Insurance. | Cancellation. |
| Cancellation Policy. |
50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
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| Additional Costs. |
Road blocks or unforeseen events may incur extra costs.
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| Reservations and Payment. |
50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
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| Refund Policy. |
Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure. |
Environmental Responsibility. | |
Visa Requirements. | |
Booking Advice. | |
| Important Safety Advice. | For your safety and well-being, Karakoram Travels & Tours recommends. Having this membership will ensure prompt assistance in case of emergencies Note: Karakoram Travels & Tours will not be responsible for evacuation costs or medical expenses. Stay safe and prepared! |