Darkot Pass Trek

Journey Through The Majestic Darkot

Overview

The Darkot Pass Trek, located in the spectacular Yasin Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a thrilling high-altitude adventure that takes trekkers across the remote and rugged Hindu Raj mountain range. This trek is ideal for seasoned adventurers seeking a challenge, with its diverse landscapes ranging from lush green meadows and glacial streams to steep rocky slopes and expansive ice fields.

At an altitude of 4,703 meters (15,430 feet), the Darkot Pass itself is a formidable yet rewarding climb, offering unparalleled panoramic views of towering snow-capped peaks, including Koyo Zom (6,872 meters), one of the highest mountains in the Hindu Raj. Along the route, trekkers will encounter pristine glaciers such as the Darkot Glacier, high-altitude lakes, and picturesque valleys dotted with traditional villages that reflect the rich Wakhi and Burusho cultures.

Trek Facts

Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1. Islamabad–Gilgit

Fly: 1 hour (if weather allows) or
Drive: 16–18 hours via the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
Overnight in Gilgit.

Day 2. Gilgit–Yasin Valley–Darkot Village (2900m)

Drive: 5–6 hours via Gupis and Yasin Valley.
Explore Darkot village, an ancient settlement along the Silk Route.
Meet porters and finalize trek preparations.

Day 3. Acclimatization & Exploration in Darkot Village

Hike around the village, interact with Wakhi & Burusho communities.
Optional short trek to nearby glaciers & meadows.

Day 4. Darkot Village–Darkot Base Camp (3600m)

Trek: 5–6 hours through alpine meadows and rocky terrain.
Camp near Darkot Glacier, with views of Koyo Zom (6,872m).

Day 5: Rest & Acclimatization at Base Camp

Short hikes to higher ridges for acclimatization.
Prepare for the challenging pass crossing.

Day 6: Darkot Base Camp–Darkot Pass (4703m)–Broghil Side Camp

Trek: 7–9 hours.
Cross Darkot Pass (4,703m), with views of snow-capped peaks.
Descend to the Broghil side, camping near meadows.

Day 7. Broghil Side Camp–Lashkargaz (3400m)

Trek: 5–6 hours into Broghil Valley, a remote high-altitude region.
Overnight in Lashkargaz, the last settlement before the Afghanistan border.

Day 8. Acclimatization & Exploration in Lashkargaz

Explore Broghil’s Wakhi culture, spot wildlife (ibex, wolves, snow leopards).
Visit Chikar & Karambar Lake (optional).

Day 9. Lashkargaz–Ishkarwaz (3200m)

Trek: 4–5 hours through Wakhi settlements and green pastures.
Camp near Ishkarwaz, close to the Afghan border.

Day 10. Ishkarwaz–Karambar Lake (4270m) (Optional Extension)

Trek: 6–7 hours to Karambar Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world.
Camp beside the lake with breathtaking reflections of mountains.

Day 11. Karambar Lake–Lashkargaz

Trek: 5–6 hours back to Lashkargaz.

Day 12. Lashkargaz–Chitral (Jeep Ride)

Trek: 2–3 hours to Ishkarwaz.
Jeep drive: 8–10 hours via Yarkhun Valley to Chitral.
Overnight stay in Chitral town.

Day 13. Explore Chitral

Visit Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, and Kalash Valleys (optional).
Cultural interactions with Kho & Kalash communities.

Day 14. Chitral–Islamabad

Fly: 1 hour (if flights operate) or
Drive: 10–12 hours via Departure from Islamabad  Pass to Islamabad.

Day 15. Reserve Day in Islamabad

Rest, sightseeing

Day 16. Hotel-Airport

Departure from Islamabad

Note: The flight between Islamabad and Gilgit is subject to weather conditions.