Overview

In the North of Chitral lies an enchanting land of vast upland steppes, dotted with vivid turquoise lakes and set against a breathtaking backdrop of rugged snow-capped peaks. The Broghil Valley is linked by a series of passes to the Oxus Valley and Afghanistan to the north. We will be following the route used since ancient times by the camel caravans of merchants from the bazaars of Central Asia, transporting their wares from Tashkent, Samarkand, and Khokand. The easy-angled Shah Jinali Pass (4215 m) joins the legendary Turikho Valley to the dramatic Yarkhun Valley.

From Broghil, we will cross the Karamber La (4300 m), a spectacular pass crowned by a string of lakes, to reach the northern reaches of Ishkuman and complete the traverse of the Hindukush and Hindu Raj ranges. Starting on gentle paths, gradually gaining altitude and increasing in difficulty, the journey culminates in crossing the remote Chilinji Pass (5160 m) into northern Hunza. One of the finest trek-only itineraries offered anywhere in the Hindu Kush, this really is a trip for connoisseurs of the outlandish!

This classic traverse from Chitral to Chapursan Valley and Hunza along the Wakhan Corridor is a delightful trek crossing three passes: Shah Janali Pass (4215m), Karambar Pass (4300m), and Chilinji Pass (5200m). The scenery changes dramatically, from deep valleys, thundering rivers, and soaring glaciated peaks of the Shah Janali to the southern tip of the Pamirs at Broghil and Karambar. In Broghil, the boundless plains, lakes, and mountains of the Pamirs of Central Asia are just a stone’s throw away, and a detour to the crest of Broghil Pass reveals a valley that falls away into the fabled Oxus. Here, you will get the opportunity to see the Wakhi tribe, rosy-cheeked Tajiks, and Kirghiz leading yaks and camels on trade routes. Then, continue east into the northern extremities of the Karakoram in Hunza Valley, with peaks rising on both sides of you, glacier crossings, and the high Chilinji Pass offering a variety of mountain scenery en route.

The trek will take you to the Yarkhun River north of Mastuj, following a wide valley with villages and cultivation by every side stream. A daunting sign at Bang reads “Boroghil 120 kilometers,” then an easy day’s trip up and back along wide, smooth pastures grazed by yaks, horses, goats, and sheep. Their summer settlement just before the pass includes the deserted Robat settlement, comprising two roofless stone shelters. Wilfred Thesiger, who was here in 1952, writes of the same sense of space and clearness. The top of the pass is at 4100m and is flat between the Chitral and Ishkoman Valleys. The trek down the Karamber River and over the Chilinji Pass (5160m) leads to Chapursan in the Upper Hunza Valley. The long, broad Chupurson Valley joins the Hunza River from the west, just above Sost.

The Broghil Valley along the Wakhan Corridor is an area yet to be fully explored, with secluded virgin valleys and grazing lands touching Afghanistan and the Central Asian states through this famous strip.

During the trek, we will cross three passes, starting with an easy stroll through the valleys and pastures. The scenery here is captivating and otherworldly. The Chilinji Pass connects the region with the Hunza Valley. We will cross the famous shrine known as Baba Ghundi to arrive on the Karakoram Highway and drive to Gulmit. In Hunza Valley, we will enjoy sightseeing, the beauty of the surrounding mountains, and the traditional hospitality of the local people. Later, we will drive along the Karakoram Highway as we return to Islamabad.

• For Foreign Trekkers

In addition to the Wakhan Corridor and Chilinji Pass Trek, we present various expeditions and vacation choices for individuals and group travelers globally.