Naltar is accessible by a two-hour jeep ride from Gilgit (about 42 km) via Nomal. Alternatively, you can take a public bus to Nomal and then hike approximately six hours, though this route is generally not recommended. The trekking itinerary includes: Stage 1 – Naltar to Naltar Lakes: A distance of roughly 12 km, which can take about 4 hours on foot or just 1 hour by jeep. The preferred route is a walk through dense pine forests. After around 9 km and crossing a bridge, you reach Bangla, a summer settlement. Continuing through more forest, you arrive at the first of four Naltar Lakes. Fishing is possible here, according to Isobel Shaw. Stage 2 – Naltar Lake to Lower Shani: This trek takes 4 to 5 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through Gupa, a summer settlement of Gujars (shepherds). Since the trail may be unclear in places, it’s advisable to hire a local guide. The camp is set at Lower Shani, a shepherd’s summer camp, surrounded by several peaks reaching about 5800m. Stage 3 – Lower Shani to Naltar Base Camp: Another 4 to 5 hours of trekking along the edge of the Shani glacier leading to Upper Shani pasture. Passing through fields of knee-high wildflowers, you reach a plateau at 4100m, ideal for camping. Stage 4 – Crossing Naltar Pass to Kruibokht: A 6-hour stage starting with a 2-hour climb over rocks and snow to the flat summit of the pass, with distant views of Shispar Peak. The descent involves crossing crevassed snowfields and then a challenging 2-hour hike along the ridge of the Pakhora glacier’s lateral moraine. Camp at a green pasture beside a stream. Stage 5 – Kruibokht to Phakora: This 6-hour trek starts above the river, moving through pastures and thick forests. After passing several settlements, you arrive at Utz village, followed by a 3 to 4-hour hike to Phakora. Phakora is a small village with shops and jeep services back to Gilgit.
