Shimshal Nomadic Passage

The Minglik Sar Expedition

Overview

This 22-day nomadic expedition combines remote trekking, high-altitude adventure, and cultural immersion. Beginning in Islamabad, travelers move north through Gilgit and Hunza, acclimatize in the remote Shimshal Valley, and tackle some of the most challenging yet rewarding passes in the Karakoram: Shimshal Pass, Minglik Sar Pass, and Chafchangol Pass.

The journey emphasizes a nomadic travel philosophy: moving slowly, interacting with local communities, camping in alpine meadows, and embracing the raw wilderness of northern Pakistan. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Karakoram peaks, glaciers, and high valleys, while also providing insight into the rich cultural tapestry of Hunza and Shimshal villages.

🧭 Trip Facts

Duration: 22 Days / 21 Nights
Route: Islamabad → Gilgit → Hunza → Shimshal → Shimshal Pass → Minglik Sar Pass → Chafchangol Pass → KKH → Hunza → Islamabad
Travel Style: Nomadic, slow travel, high-altitude trekking, cultural immersion
Trip Type: Adventure, alpine trekking, cultural exploration
Best Travel Months: June – September (summer, optimal weather)
Difficulty Level: Very challenging (high-altitude trekking with glaciers and passes)
Highest Pass: Minglik Sar Pass (~5,100+ m)

Transportation

Private car, coaster, or SUV for Islamabad → Gilgit → Hunza → Shimshal
Trekking on foot for Shimshal → passes → Minglik Sar → Chafchangol → Hunza
Road travel via Karakoram Highway (KKH) on return
Local porters and pack animals may be needed for heavy loads

Accommodation

Guesthouses in Islamabad, Gilgit, Hunza
Homestays in Shimshal village
Camping/tents at base camps, advance camps, and pass camps
Basic facilities in remote camps; bring personal supplies

Terrain & Altitude

Mountain valleys, glaciers, alpine meadows
Trekking terrain includes rocky paths, glacier crossings, and high mountain passes
Altitude range: 1,500 m (Hunza) → 5,100+ m (Minglik Sar)
Weather can change suddenly; cold nights even in summer

Weather

Summer (June–Sept): Mild days, cold nights at high altitude
Occasional rain or snow at higher elevations
Strong UV exposure – sunscreen and sunglasses required

Gear & Packing Essentials

High-altitude trekking boots
Warm layers, down jacket, waterproof jacket
Sleeping bag rated for alpine conditions
Trekking poles, crampons if snow is present
Power bank, flashlight/headlamp
First aid kit, altitude sickness meds
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat

Connectivity

Mobile signals limited or non-existent in Shimshal and on passes
Internet available in Gilgit, Hunza, and some base villages
Emergency satellite communication recommended for high passes

Food & Water

Stock up in Shimshal village before high-altitude trekking
Carry portable water filters or purification tablets
Local food in villages: simple, high-calorie meals
Trail snacks recommended: nuts, dried fruits, energy bars

Nomadic / Cultural Tips

Respect local Shimshal and Hunza customs and privacy
Photography may require permission in villages
Travel light – nomadic style emphasizes minimalism
Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness
Carry cash; ATMs not available in remote villages

Safety Considerations

Weather and glacier conditions can affect trekking schedules
Avoid trekking alone; guides and porters recommended

🗓️ Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Islamabad

Welcome to Pakistan! Settle in and explore the twin cities.

Touch down in Islamabad. After settling into your hotel, enjoy a short rest before a gentle afternoon stroll through Rawalpindi and Islamabad bazaars. Gear check and group briefing in the evening. (≈500 m, hotel)

Day 2 – Drive to Chilas via Babusar Pass 🚐⛰️🛣️

A thrilling drive through majestic Himalayan landscapes.

A long scenic drive (10–12 hours) over Babusar Pass at ~4,100 m. Marvel at sweeping Himalayan views en route, before descending to Chilas for overnight rest. (≈1,265 m, hotel)

Day 3 – Journey to Passu (Hunza Valley) 🏔️🕌📸

Pass through dramatic gorges into the heart of Hunza.

Journey through the dramatic Karakoram Highway (~7 hours), passing along the Indus and Hunza rivers, arriving in beautiful Passu. Overnight in Hunza. (≈2,500 m, hotel)

Day 4 – Jeep Ride to Shimshal Village 🚙🏞️🏡

Ride deep into the wild and warm hospitality of Shimshal.

A 3‑hour jeep ride into remote Shimshal Village. Immerse in the high‑altitude Wakhi culture and prepare your gear for trekking ahead. (≈3,100 m, hotel)

Day 5 – Trek to Past Furzin 🎒🗻🌄

Your trekking adventure begins—into remote valleys.

Begin trekking following the Shimshal River, navigating a dramatic gorge to camp at Past Furzin. Soothing alpine views and the first night under the stars. (≈3,360 m, camp; 6–7 h)

Day 6 – Trek to Wolo-e-Dasht 🥾🌿🐏

Walk through meadows and high-altitude grazing fields.

A long, scenic traverse via Purien-e-Sar brings you into high alpine terrain. Camp at Wolo-e-Dasht, surrounded by meadows and rising peaks. (≈4,180 m, camp; 7–8 h)

Day 7 – Trek to Shimshal Pass ⛺🏕️🧭

Reach a legendary high pass with spectacular alpine views.

A challenging ascent to Shimshal Pass. Experience steep ridgelines and rarefied air at 4,730 m. Camp beside high alpine lakes or meadows. (≈4,730 m, camp; 6–7 h)

Day 8 – Trek to Minglik Base Camp ❄️🎯🏔️

Approach the base of the mighty Minglik Sar.

Descend from the pass, then trek to Minglik Base Camp. Catch glimpses of towering Kanjut Sar, Yazghail and Lupghar Sar in the evening light. (≈4,850 m, camp)

Day 9 – Rest/Explore Base Camp 😌📷🌞

A well-earned break to acclimatize or wander nearby.

Rest and acclimatize at Base Camp. Opportunity for exploring nearby terrain, short hikes, or simply relaxing amidst panoramic views. (camp)

Day 10 – Summit Minglik Sar (Optional) 🏔️⚡⛏️

Challenge yourself on a 6,000 m peak—breathtaking summit views!

Early 2:30 AM start for the summit. Expect a 9–10 hour round‑trip climb to Minglik Sar (≈6,050 m). On a clear day, views extend across K2, Mustagh and Pamir ranges. Return to Base Camp. (≈5,931–6,050 m, camp)

Day 11 – Second Acclimatization Day 💤☕📚

Relax, re-energize, and prepare for the next stage.

A second rest day at Base Camp offering either recovery or optional summit attempt, plus photo‑ops of the surrounding glaciers. (camp)

Day 12 – Trek to Arbab Purien 🌄🏞️🐾

Descend into scenic solitude—wide valleys and silence.

Trek down to Arbab Purien via scenic terrain. A long descent across meadows and moraines leads to camp near shepherd huts. (≈3,950 m, camp)

Day 13 – Trek to Maidur 🐐⛺🌬️

Cross grassy pastures dotted with yaks and sheep.

A steady trek through grazing lands and rising terrain to Maidur campsite, surrounded by dramatic peaks and pastures. (≈4,130 m, camp)

Day 14 – Trek to Shapodin 🏕️🗺️🌌

A peaceful alpine setting awaits beyond rocky ridges.

Ascend gently into a wide glacial valley and set camp near Shapodin. A quiet evening beneath sweeping skies. (≈4,250 m, camp)

Day 15 – Trek to Mandik Shalaq 🐾🌄🌾

Highland terrain filled with wild beauty and remote camps.

Trek across plateau-like terrain into Mandik Shalaq. Views of distant ridgelines and frequent yak pastures. (≈4,100 m, camp)

Day 16 – Trek to Werben ⛺🍃⛰️

Cross serene alpine meadows to camp by glacier streams.

Gradual descent into Werben, through alpine meadows and along glacier-fed streams. Camp by a lush valley slope. (≈3,600 m, camp)

Day 17 – Trek to Chafchingol Pass Base 🧗‍♂️🎒🏞️

Final approach to one of the region’s wildest passes.

Approach the Chafchingol region. Camp at its base, preparing for the high‑pass crossing and challenging terrain ahead. (≈4,100 m, camp)

Day 18 – Cross Chafchingol Pass to Koksil ❄️🏔️🚶‍♂️

A challenging and exhilarating high pass crossing.

Early ascent to Chafchingol Pass (~5,100–5,150 m), crossing glaciated terrain and fording rivers. Descend into Ghujerab valley to camp at Koksil near the KKH. (≈5,150 m → ≈3,400 m, camp)

Day 19 – Drive back to Hunza 🚐🛤️🏨

Return to civilization and a comfy bed in Hunza.

Descend from Koksil to the Karakoram Highway and drive back to Passu or Hunza for a comfortable hotel stay. Scenic views all the way. (≈2,500 m, hotel)