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Government License/DTS: 2488

Trip Details

Rakaposhi Base Camp trek 2024-25

12 Days
  • 5 star hotel
  • Islamabad
  • Yes
  • Available

Overview

The Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is a premier adventure curated by Skardu Trekkers, offering an exceptional experience in Pakistan’s Karakoram range. Rakaposhi, towering at 7,788 meters stands as one of the world’s highest peaks. This trek, renowned for its stunning landscapes, takes you through picturesque valleys, verdant meadows, and striking glaciers, leading you to the base camp of Rakaposhi.

The adventure begins in the charming town of Minapin, nestled in the Nagar Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan. From here, you’ll embark on a hike to the Hapakun base camp for your first overnight stay. The path meanders through delightful walnut and apricot orchards, providing captivating views of the surrounding mountain peaks.

On the following day, the trek continues towards Tagaphari village, where you’ll spend the night. This segment of the trek traverses the lush meadows of Nagyr Valley, with spectacular views of Rakaposhi and Diran peaks.

From Tagaphari, the trail ascends to the Rakaposhi base camp. The route crosses the rugged Minapin Glacier, offering stunning vistas of Rakaposhi’s imposing presence. At an altitude of 4,150 meters (13,615 feet), the base camp offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

A full day is set aside to explore the base camp and fully appreciate the surrounding natural beauty before you retrace your steps back to Minapin, concluding your trek.

Skardu Trekkers ensures a safe and comfortable journey with experienced guides and porters. We provide comprehensive services, including camping equipment, meals, and transportation. The ideal time to embark on this trek is from June to September, when the weather conditions are most favorable.

Don’t miss this chance to explore the extraordinary beauty of Pakistan’s Karakoram range with Skardu Trekkers. Book your Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek today and experience an adventure of a lifetime in this awe-inspiring region.

Cost

For Solo & Groups Trekking

Our top priority is private treks, allowing you to customize your itinerary. We provide exclusive discounts for private treks and international trekking companies.

If you are looking for a private Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek with family and friends, our cost schedule for groups are given below in the table:

 

 Solo 2 to 4 person Above 6 person Above 8 person
$1250 $900 $600 $300

 

For Foreign Trekkers

In addition to the iconic Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek, we present various expeditions vacation choices for individuals and group travelers globally.

In addition, we present various expeditions and vacation choices for individuals and group travelers globally.

Peaks Cost USD
Nanga Parbat Base Camp & Hunza Valley – 15 Days  (All-Inclusive) $1,300
Laila Peak Base Camp Trek – 14 Days  (All-Inclusive) $1,050
K2 Base Camp Trek20 days  (All-Inclusive) $2,050
K2 Base Camp Trek(Trek only) $1,650
K2 BC Trek for Beginners / Seniors -24 days $2,600
Wakhan Corridor and Chilinji Pass Trek $2,700
Patundas Meadows Trek 2024-25 $1,300

 

For Pakistani Trekkers

The cost of the Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek for Pakistani nationals is detailed in the table below, starting at 3,000,000 PKR. We also provide customized private and group packages for Pakistani Nationals. If you are looking for a private Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek with family and friends, our costs for Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek for groups are given below in the table:

Solo Cost 2 to 4 person Cost 4 to 8 person Cost 8 to 20 person Cost
300,000 PKR 200,000 PKR 120,000 PKR 80,000 PKR

Trek Highlights

  • Stunning Views of Rakaposhi: From the outset, you’ll be captivated by the towering presence of Rakaposhi, one of the world’s highest peaks. As you approach the base camp, the peak’s majestic form dominates the skyline, providing a dramatic backdrop for your trek. The views from the base camp itself are nothing short of breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of Rakaposhi’s snow-capped grandeur.
  • Diverse Landscapes: This trek takes you through an array of landscapes that showcase the region’s natural diversity. You’ll traverse lush green meadows dotted with wildflowers, meander through picturesque valleys framed by towering peaks, and navigate the rugged, icy terrain of the Minapin Glacier. Each day presents a new and strikingly different scene, adding layers of beauty to your adventure.
  • Charming Villages: The trek offers a glimpse into the lives of local communities in the Nagar Valley. Villages like Tagaphari are characterized by their traditional architecture and warm hospitality. Here, you can engage with local residents, learn about their customs, and experience the vibrant culture of this remote region.
  • Minapin Glacier: One of the trek’s highlights is the crossing of the Minapin Glacier. This challenging section offers dramatic ice formations and rugged terrain, creating a thrilling contrast to the lush meadows and verdant valleys. The glacier’s stark beauty and the sense of adventure it provides are memorable aspects of the trek.
  • Verdant Orchards: As you trek, you'll pass through idyllic walnut and apricot orchards, which add a splash of vibrant color and life to the rugged landscape. These orchards are not only visually appealing but also provide a taste of the local produce, enhancing your overall trekking experience.
  • Cultural Immersion: The trek offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Nagar Valley. Interactions with local communities and an exploration of their traditional lifestyles provide a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural tapestry.
  • Base Camp Exploration: Spending a day at the Rakaposhi Base Camp allows for a full exploration of the surrounding environment. The camp itself, situated at an altitude of 4,150 meters, provides a serene and awe-inspiring setting to take in the grandeur of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection after days of trekking.
  • Expert Guidance: Skardu Trekkers ensures that your adventure is both safe and enjoyable. Their experienced guides and porters bring extensive knowledge of the region, offering invaluable insights and support throughout the trek. Their expertise helps navigate the terrain and enrich your overall experience.
  • Optimal Trekking Season: The trek is best undertaken between June and September, when weather conditions are most favorable. During this period, the weather is typically stable, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures that enhance the trekking experience.

Services Included:

  • Services included for both International & local trekkers
  • • Implementation of government SOPs/Guidelines in case of new pandemic variants.
  • • All domestic flights (Checked Baggage Allowance: 20kg, Hand Carry: 7kg)
  • • All road transfers including airport transfers
  • • All hotel accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing room)
  • • All trekking accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing dome tent)
  • • All camping site fees and bridge fees
  • • All expedition supplies (all tents, non-personal equipment and tools etc)
  • • All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and beverages/water during meals
  • • Snacks including dry fruits and tea/coffee during the trek
  • • Free refills of boiled drinking water on the trek
  • • Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
  • • Government trekking permit fees and paperwork
  • • Waste management fees (government requirement)
  • • Skardu city tour including all entry fees
  • • Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
  • • Porters - personal luggage (14kgs)
  • • Storage service for baggage in Skardu (for leaving a bag behind in Skardu before going on the trek)
  • • First aid medicine kit (basic)
  • • Satellite phone for emergencies
  • • Expedition map and trip achievement certificate

Services Not Included:

  • Services not included for both International & local trekkers
  • • Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: (Global Rescue)
  • • Visa to Pakistan (five supporting documents will be offered)
  • • International airfare
  • • Personal equipment (e.g. trekking shoes, down jacket, walking sticks etc)
  • • Personal mountain equipment (crampon, mountaineering boot, ice axe, harness, two carabineers, helmet etc)
  • • Extra nights in Islamabad (hotel check in/out is 12pm)
  • • Additional trek weight/baggage
  • • Storage service for baggage in Islamabad
  • • Tips/gratuities for guides, porters, staff etc
  • • Miscellaneous (minibar, bottled water, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
  • • Early Windup/Return Costs (e.g. early return from trek due to any reason)
  • • Costs due to Force Majuro (e.g. earthquake, landslide, floods, etc)

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Islamabad airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Skardu Trekkers. After a brief introduction to the team, you will be escorted to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on an enriching city tour of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Faisal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, known for its striking architecture. Continue to Shakar Parian, a picturesque hill offering panoramic views of the city. From there, visit the Pakistan Monument, symbolizing the four provinces of Pakistan, and take in its intricate design and historical significance. The tour also includes a visit to Daman-e-Koh, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of Islamabad, and the Lok Virsa Museum, where you can explore the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rawalpindi's old bazaars, including the bustling Raja Bazaar, where you can experience the local way of life

The journey to Rakaposhi Base Camp begins with a scenic drive from Islamabad to Naran, passing through the lush landscapes of Mansehra. The route offers stunning views of terraced fields and distant mountain ranges. As you approach Naran, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with the Kunhar River winding through the valley. After a lunch stop in Naran, continue your drive towards Chilas, crossing the majestic Babusar Pass. This pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, a perfect prelude to the adventures that await on the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek

Your journey to Rakaposhi Base Camp continues as you drive from Chilas to the village of Minapin. En route, you'll witness the spectacular junction of three of the world's greatest mountain ranges: the Karakoram, the Himalayas, and the Hindukush. The drive includes a stop at Thalichi, where you'll have the opportunity to photograph Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world. Another highlight is the stop at the Rakaposhi viewpoint, where you can admire the beauty of Rakaposhi, a sight that will only enhance your anticipation for the trek ahead.

The Rakaposhi Base Camp trek begins in earnest as you set out from Minapin towards Hapakun. The trail starts behind the village, crossing a bridge over the Minapin River. As you ascend, wide vistas of the Minapin Glacier and the Rakaposhi-Diran crest line unfold before you. The trek takes you through varied landscapes, from terraced fields to alpine meadows, offering a taste of the natural beauty that makes the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek so unforgettable. After several hours of steady climbing, you will reach Hapakun, where the serene surroundings set the stage for the adventures to come.

Today's trek takes you deeper into the heart of the Karakoram as you make your way to the Rakaposhi Base Camp. The trail leads through dense forests before opening up to meadows with breathtaking views of Diran Peak and the Minapin Glacier below. The ascent continues to Tagaphari, a lush green meadow offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. As you reach Rakaposhi Base Camp, the full majesty of Rakaposhi’s north face comes into view, a sight that truly defines the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek. This spot, with its panoramic views, is the perfect place to pause and soak in the grandeur of the Karakoram range.

The Rakaposhi Base Camp trek offers even more adventure today with an excursion to the Diran Peak Base Camp. This side trek follows a trail along the Minapin Glacier, bringing you closer to the rugged beauty of the Karakoram. Diran Peak, with its striking pyramidal shape, dominates the landscape as you approach the base camp. After spending time at this stunning location, you’ll trek back to Hapakun, retracing your steps and taking in the views from a new perspective.

After a memorable night at Hapakun, you will descend to Minapin village, marking the end of the trekking portion of your Rakaposhi Base Camp adventure. The descent offers a chance to enjoy the mountain views at a leisurely pace. Upon reaching Minapin, you will drive to Karimabad, a historic town in the heart of the Hunza Valley. The journey to Karimabad is short but filled with scenic beauty, and the town itself offers a rich cultural experience, setting the stage for the next phase of your journey.

The Rakaposhi Base Camp trek experience extends beyond the mountains as you explore the cultural treasures of Karimabad and Altit. Begin with a visit to Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old fortress that overlooks Karimabad and offers insights into the region's history. Stroll through the old village of Baltit before visiting Altit Fort, an even older fortress that has been carefully restored. The day also includes a visit to Altit village, known for its women carpenters, and ends with a peaceful walk along a water channel, where you can reflect on the journey so far.

The Rakaposhi Base Camp trek may have ended, but the adventure continues with a day exploring the stunning landscapes of the Hunza Valley. Begin with a visit to Attabad Lake, a beautiful turquoise lake formed by a landslide. Continue to Borith Lake and the village of Gulmit, where you can experience traditional Wakhi culture. The day also includes visits to the Passu White Glacier, the village of Passu, and the thrilling Hussani suspension bridge, each offering unique insights into the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

The return journey from Karimabad to Naran is another chance to savor the breathtaking landscapes that define the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek. The drive takes you through the Hunza Valley and across the Babusar Pass, offering stunning views at every turn. As you descend into the Kaghan Valley, the scenery shifts from rugged mountains to lush forests, providing a fitting end to your journey through northern Pakistan.

As you make your way back to Islamabad, the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek adventure comes full circle. The drive from Naran offers a final glimpse of the natural beauty that has defined your journey. A stop at Taxila, an ancient city with a rich history, adds a cultural dimension to your return trip. Explore the Taxila Museum and nearby archaeological sites before continuing to Islamabad for your final night in Pakistan.

Day 12 :
Departure

Your unforgettable Rakaposhi Base Camp trek with Skardu Trekkers concludes today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Islamabad airport for your return flight home. As you leave Pakistan, take with you memories of the majestic peaks, serene valleys, and the warm hospitality you encountered along the way. The Rakaposhi Base Camp trek is more than just a trek; it's an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

FAQs

Why choose Skardu Trekkers?

Our trip costs more for a few reasons, but here are a few of the main points:

  1. We offer our staff and porters wages that are higher than average.
  2. Our cooks are dedicated to preparing high-quality meals that go beyond the typical Baltoro fare, adding our unique twist to hearty trekking food.
  3. Comfortable camp setup: After a long day of hiking, we aim to make our campsites as comfortable as possible, focusing on the little details. Our camps include tables, comfy chairs, a spacious mess/dining tent, a proper toilet tent for privacy, a generator for charging electronics, and endless pots of French press coffee, tea, and plates of cookies upon your arrival at camp. These details create an unparalleled camp-life experience.
  4. Each trek has a minimum of two trip leaders – one Western leader and one local leader.
  5. Group size: You will NEVER see a Skardu Trekkers Expeditions team with more than 12 people.

6.         Safety plans and protocols: A major difference between Skardu Trekkers and our competitors is our professional and comprehensive safety plan, along with the necessary tools to handle any emergency situation

Is the best time of year to trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp?

The ideal time for the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek is from late May to early October. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, the trails are accessible, and the views of Rakaposhi and surrounding peaks are at their best.

How difficult is the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek?

The Rakaposhi Base Camp trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves daily treks of 4-6 hours with some steep ascents, especially as you approach the base camp. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.

How do I prepare physically for the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek?

To prepare for the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek, engage in regular cardiovascular exercise such as hiking, running, or cycling at least 3-4 times a week. Strength training, particularly for the legs and core, is also beneficial. Start preparing at least 2-3 months in advance to build endurance and stamina.

What kind of gear and clothing should I bring?

Essential gear includes a sturdy pair of trekking boots, a waterproof and windproof jacket, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a good quality backpack, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a headlamp. It’s also important to bring sun protection, including sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Do I need a guide for the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek?

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with the region. A guide can provide valuable local knowledge, ensure your safety, and enhance your overall trekking experience.

What are the altitude concerns for the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek?

The highest point on the trek is the Rakaposhi Base Camp at approximately 3,700 meters (12,140 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it’s important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, it’s advisable to descend immediately.

Is it safe to trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp?

Yes, the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek is generally safe. However, as with any trek in a remote mountain region, it’s important to be prepared, follow safety guidelines, and be aware of weather conditions. Traveling with a reputable tour operator or guide can further enhance safety.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Rakaposhi Base Camp trek 2024-25
From $6500
/ Adult
  • 5 star hotel
  • Islamabad
  • Yes
  • Available

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