Baltistan Winter Tour

Overview

This Baltistani winter expedition is demanding yet breathtakingly beautiful. Traveling through Baltistan in winter means snow-covered roads, frozen valleys, and high mountain passes, with long drives across remote and silent landscapes over nearly two weeks.Accommodations are simple and authentic, including local guesthouses, basic hotels, and winter camps. Meals are traditional and nourishing, suited for cold conditions. Expect freezing temperatures, crisp mountain air, and dramatic winter weather.In winter, visitors are not just tourists but honored guests, welcomed with deep hospitality and warmth by the people of Baltistan. The journey reveals the region’s resilience, culture, and untouched beauty.Northern Pakistan turns magical in winter, with snow-laden villages, frozen rivers, and towering white peaks. You will witness the majestic winter face of Nanga Parbat (8,125 m) and the surreal beauty of Baltistan’s frozen and flowing lakes.This Baltistani winter tour is an immersive journey into silence, snow, culture, and raw natural beauty.

Plan Your Journey

DayDestinationResidence
1Arrival in Islamabad Hotel
2Drive to Chilas via the Karakoram Highway Hotel
3Drive to Skardu, enjoy views of Nanga Parbat and Indus River en route Hotel
4Explore Skardu: Shangrila Resort, Satpara Lake, and Skardu BazaarHotel
5Drive to Shigar Valley, visit Shigar Fort, and enjoy autumn sceneryHotel
6Visit Khaplu Valley: Khaplu Palace, Chaqchan Mosque, and apricot orchardsHotel
7Drive to Deosai National Park, enjoy autumn landscapes and Sheosar Lake Camp
8Explore Deosai Plains, then return to SkarduHotel
9Drive back to Chilas Hotel
10Return to Islamabad, visit Taxila Museum en route (optional) Hotel
11Debriefing and onward journey Fly Out
Transportation
  • Airport transfers (Islamabad and Skardu).

  • Air-conditioned minibuses for military briefing and sightseeing.

  • Domestic flights (Islamabad to Skardu, PK-475).

  • 4×4 jeeps for members and Toyota Loader for equipment (Skardu to Khola and Hush to Skardu).

Accommodation
  • 2 nights at Grand Hotel Islamabad (or similar) on bed & breakfast basis.

  • 2 nights at Shangrila Resort or Panorama Inn, Skardu (full board).

  • 3 nights at Blue Sky Hotel, Mashabrum Inn, Dewan-e-Khas, or K2 Motel, Skardu (full board).

  • Note: Alternative accommodation will be provided if mentioned hotels are unavailable.

Additional Services
  • Low-altitude porters for luggage and equipment transport.

  • Porter staff for setup 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 liner and underlay.

  • Kitchen tent, mess tent, shower tent, and toilet tent.

  • Kitchen crockery, lamps, and cooking stove.

  • Bamboo sticks for high camp.

  • Wooden boxes and plastic containers for food packing.

Taxes and Fees
  • Trekking permit fee.

  • CAMP management fee.

  • Camping fees during trek.

  • Guide daily wages, kit, and equipment.

  • Bridge crossing fees.

  • USD 1000 pollution fee guarantee.

  • Documentation with Gilgit-Baltistan Council.

  • International air ticket reconfirmation.

  • Visa support letters.

Exclusions
  • International air ticket and airport taxes.

  • Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance.

  • Costs due to unavoidable delays or law enforcement.

  • Extra nights for personal itinerary and route changes.

  • Emergency lodging, personal clothing, and dining.

  • Tips for drivers, local staff, and high-altitude porters.

  • Personal trekking equipment.

  • Anything not mentioned under “Services Included.”

  • Early exits.

  • Laundry.

Travel Insurance
  • Cancellation

  • Accidents

  • Medical

  • Emergency evacuation

  • Comprehensive Global Rescue Travel Insurance after suitable policies

Cancellation Policy
  • 50% advance required, refundable 150 days prior to arrival.

  • Full refund if canceled 90 days prior to departure.

  • 20% cancellation charge if canceled less than 150 days prior to arrival.

  • No refund if canceled after arrival or during the trip.

Additional Costs
  • Road blocks or unforeseen events may incur extra costs.

  • Clients opting to leave the group will be charged extra.

  • Extra hotel nights will be charged at group rates.

  • Government taxes or new regulations may incur additional costs.

Reservations and Payments
  • 50% advance payment required 150 days prior to arrival.

  • Balance payment due upon arrival in Pakistan.

Refund Policy
  • Full refund if canceled 150 days prior to arrival.

  • 50% cancellation charge if canceled less than 150 days prior to arrival.

  • No refund if canceled after arrival or during the trip.

Environmental Responsibility
  • Operate with respect for nature.

  • Leave no trace policy.

Visa Requirements
  • Valid passport required.

  • Pakistan visa obtainable with invitation letter from Karakoram Travels & Tours.

Booking Advice
  • Book your trip at least 3–4 weeks prior to arrival to ensure smooth organization.

  • For group bookings and queries, contact Karakoram Travels & Tours management.

  • Purchasing personal travel and medical insurance is recommended.

  • Climbing, trekking, and high-altitude expeditions require organization.

  • Respect local culture, laws, and regulations.

  • Misbehavior or misconduct will result in expulsion.

Important Safety Advice
  • Medical clearance.

  • Travel insurance.

  • Medical evacuation.

  • Trusted support.

  • Hiring experienced and well-trained staff in case of emergencies.

  • The company is not liable for accidents due to natural disasters.

  • Stay safe and prepared.

Enjoy the Freedom!