Darkot Pass Trek

Overview

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.

Plan Your Journey

DayDestinationResidence
1Islamabad and Rawalpindi Hotel
2Drive from Islamabad to Chilas Hotel
3Drive from Chilas to Gilgit Hotel
4Drive from Gilgit to Yasin Valley Hotel
5Trek from Darkot to Rawat Camp
6Trek from Rawat to Darkot Camp
7Trek from High Camp to Khani Basa Camp
8Trek from Khani Basa to Iskarwarz Camp
9Trek from Iskarwarz to Khishma Camp
10Trek from Khishma to Lasht Camp
11Trek from Lasht to Mastuj Hotel
12Drive from Mastuj to Chitral Hotel
13Drive from Chitral to Swat Hotel
14Drive from Swat to Islamabad Home
15Fly back HomeHotel
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).

 

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.

 

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
Dining tent with inner and underlay
Kitchen tent, mess tent, shower tent, and toilet tent
Kitchen crockery, lamps, and cooking stoves
Bamboo sticks for high camps
Wooden boxes and plastic containers for food packing

 

Taxes and Fees.

Trekking permit fee
CKNP management fee
Camping fees during trek
Guide daily wages, kit, and equipment
Bridge crossing fees
$1000 pollution fee guarantee
Documentation with Gilgit‑Baltistan Council
International air ticket reconfirmation
Visa support letters

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
Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance.
Cargo fee and custom charges for import/export.
Extra wages for personnel beyond our service packages.
Sleeping bags, personal clothing, and climbing gear.
Tips for drivers, local staff, and high‑altitude porters.
Phone Thuraya satellite calls
Walky‑talky for above base camp service.
Soft drinks.
Laundry.

 

Travel Insurance.

Cancellation.
Accidents.
Health.
Emergency evacuation.
Companies like Global Rescue Travel Insurance offer suitable policies.

Cancellation Policy.

 

50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure.
25% cancellation charge if cancelled less than 15 days prior to arrival.
No refund if cancelled after arrival or during the trip.

 

Additional Costs.

 

Road blocks or unforeseen events may incur extra costs.
Clients splitting from the group will incur additional charges.
Extra hotel nights will be charged to group members.
Government fees or new conditions may incur additional costs.

 

Reservations and Payment.

 

50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
Balance payment due upon arrival in Pakistan.

 

Refund Policy.

 

Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure.
25% cancellation charge if cancelled less than 15 days prior to arrival.
No refund if cancelled after arrival or during the trip.

Environmental Responsibility.
Organic waste: dispose on-site.
Non-organic waste: take off-site.

Visa Requirements.
Valid passport required.
Pakistani visa obtainable with invitation letter from Karakoram Travels and tours.

Booking Advice.
Book your trip at least 3-4 months prior to arrival in Pakistan to ensure smooth preparation.

Important Safety Advice.

For your safety and well-being, Karakoram Travels & Tours recommends.
Purchasing personal travel and health insurance.
Obtaining membership with a reputable emergency response organization.
We suggest Global Rescue Service, which provides.
Helicopter evacuation.
Medical assistance.
Travel support.

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!

Enjoy the Freedom!