Around Nanga Parbat Trek is a semi-circular adventure located in the Western Himalayas of Pakistan. In recent years, it has gained significant popularity among mountaineers and trekkers from across the globe. This route offers a unique, rounded perspective of the majestic mountain landscape for nature and adventure lovers. Though known as the Around Nanga Parbat Trek, the trail does not completely encircle the mountain. It begins on the southern flank, starting from Tarashing in the Rupal Valley, and proceeds westward through the valley before heading north across Mazeno La. From there, the journey leads toward the iconic Fairy Meadows on the northern side. Standing at 8,126 meters, Nanga Parbat is the westernmost of the Himalayan giants and ranks as the ninth tallest mountain on Earth. It's one of five peaks over 8000 meters located in Pakistan. This vast massif spans around 20 kilometers, made up of towering ridges and rugged peaks. The name “Nanga Parbat” translates to “Naked Mountain,” and it has also earned the title “Killer Mountain” due to its historically challenging climbs. The first successful ascent was completed in 1953 by German climber Hermann Buhl—solo and without supplemental oxygen. The mountain’s dramatic Rupal Face, rising over 5000 meters from base to summit, offers jaw-dropping views and is considered one of the highest mountain faces in the world. On the other side, the Raikot Face descends over 7000 meters into the Indus River, forming one of the deepest gorges globally. The Rupal Valley, located on the southern side, is accessed via the Astore Valley, which branches off from the Karakoram Highway near Jaglot, about 60 km south of Gilgit. The valley is known for its relatively short and accessible treks that deliver unforgettable panoramic views.
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by the GATP guide and transferred to your hotel. After lunch, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the twin cities—modern Islamabad and historic Rawalpindi. Overnight stay at hotel.
Begin the journey towards Tarashing with an overnight stop in Chilas. Travel along the Karakoram Highway and the Indus River in an air-conditioned coach. Lunch en route at Besham, followed by a scenic drive through the Indus gorge. Reach Chilas in 12–13 hours. Overnight at hotel.
Early departure for Tarashing—the road’s end village—via minibuses and jeeps through the Astore Valley. Tarashing, at the entrance to Rupal Valley, offers a stunning Himalayan setting. Overnight in tents with meals.
Start trekking on easy trails, crossing the Tarashing Glacier within an hour. Continue into the lower Rupal Valley, passing seasonal settlements before camping at Bazin beneath the towering east face of Nanga Parbat. Overnight in camp.
Trek across the Bazin Glacier (approx. 2 hours), followed by a scenic walk through juniper and willow forests. Follow the Rupal River past Herligkoffer Base Camp to reach Shaigiri, where we camp with incredible views of Nanga Parbat’s southern face. Campfire and goat dinner hosted by porters.
Walk along the lateral moraine of the Rupal Glacier. Spectacular views of Nanga Parbat, Rupal Peak, and Laila Peak highlight the day. Overnight at a grassy campsite with juniper surroundings.
A free day to relax, explore the surroundings, and enjoy close-up views of the majestic Rupal Face. Ideal for acclimatization and light excursions.
A challenging day with a steep ascent and glacier trekking to reach Mazino High Camp. The landscape becomes more barren as we approach high altitude. Overnight at camp near the base of Mazino Pass.
Today’s highlight is crossing Mazino Pass. Start the gradual ascent early in the morning. The descent is steep and may require basic climbing equipment. Camp at Upper Loiba after entering the Loiba Glacier zone.
Descend from Upper Loiba to Lower Loiba (Loiba Meadows) on a gentle path through green pastures and scattered trees. Overnight camp near shepherd huts.
An easy trek through birch and pine trees, with river crossings leading to Kachal. Magnificent views of Nanga Parbat accompany us throughout. Camp overnight in the scenic Kachal settlement.
Trek down to Zangot with a detour to Diamer Base Camp—the route used by Reinhold Messner during his legendary 1979 ascent. Overnight at Zangot.
Descend steeply to the Diamer River and reach Dimroi village, where jeeps await. Drive back to Chilas for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Drive back to Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway, concluding the mountain adventure. Overnight at hotel in the capital.
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight. End of services.
