Full Board
Challenging
June to August
40 Days
Rakaposhi (7,788m), located in the Nagar Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is one of the most striking and beautiful mountains in the Karakoram Range. Ranked as the 27th highest peak in the world and 12th highest in Pakistan, Rakaposhi is admired less for its ranking and more for its dramatic rise and sheer presence.
The mountain rises almost 6,000 meters uninterrupted from base to summit, making it one of the greatest vertical reliefs on Earth. Known locally as “Snow Covered” or “Shining Wall”, Rakaposhi dominates the landscape of the Hunza and Nagar valleys and carries an aura of mystery and grandeur.
First climbed in 1958 by Mike Banks and Tom Patey via the Southwest Spur, Rakaposhi remains a serious mountaineering challenge due to its avalanche-prone slopes and technical terrain. This 40-day Rakaposhi Expedition offers experienced climbers a professionally supported journey through the legendary Karakoram Highway, picturesque Hunza region, and into one of Pakistan’s most iconic base camps, combining high-altitude climbing with rich cultural and scenic experiences.
The Rakaposhi Climbing Expedition is a dream for alpinists who value vertical scale and aesthetic lines. Standing at 7,788 meters, Rakaposhi is the 27th highest peak in the world, but it is famous for its staggering vertical rise. Known as the “Shiny Wall,” the mountain rises over 5,000 meters directly from the Hunza-Nagar valley floor, making it one of the most prominent massifs on Earth.
Choosing a Rakaposhi climbing expedition means tackling a mountain that requires high-level technical skills and immense physical stamina. Most expeditions attempt the South Spur (Southwest Ridge), a route that offers a classic Himalayan climbing experience on mixed snow, ice, and rock. Our 40-day 2026 itinerary is designed to provide a methodical acclimatization schedule, giving you the best chance to stand on the summit of this Karakoram giant.
While it falls just short of the 8,000m mark, Rakaposhi is considered harder and more technical than many 8,000m peaks like Broad Peak or G2.
Climbing Rakaposhi Pakistan involves sustained periods on steep snow and ice slopes (45-55 degrees). The South Spur requires competent crampon skills and the ability to move efficiently on fixed lines. The high-altitude camps are exposed, requiring mental resilience against Karakoram winds.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Domestic flights within Pakistan (20 kg check-in + 7 kg hand carry) | International flights, visas & personal insurance |
| All ground transportation & airport transfers | Personal climbing gear & high-altitude clothing |
| Hotel stays in Islamabad & Skardu (twin-sharing) | Summit / porter bonuses & rescue deposits (if applicable) |
| Government climbing permits & liaison officer fees | Emergency helicopter evacuation & medical rescue |
| Expedition camping (Base Camp & high camps) with full logistics | Excess baggage & additional hotel nights |
| All meals during expedition (including high-altitude rations) | Meals not mentioned in itinerary |
| Licensed mountain guide, cook, support staff & high-altitude porters | Tips & gratuities |
| Fixed ropes on normal routes (where applicable) | Personal expenses & gear rental |
| CKNP waste management fee & secure baggage storage | Early departure or expedition withdrawal costs |
| Satellite phone (emergency use) & basic medical kit | Force majeure expenses (weather, route changes, delays) |
The Rakaposhi expedition cost typically starts at $4,000 – $6,000 USD depending on the group size and level of personal support (Sherpa/HAP ratios). This includes all Rakaposhi mountaineering permits 2026, domestic travel, and full base camp services.
The best time for a Rakaposhi climbing expedition is from mid-June to mid-August. During this window, the snow on the ridges is generally more stable, and the weather windows for summit pushes are more frequent.
Our standard duration is 40 days. This includes the approach trek, three full acclimatization rotations, and a 10-day buffer for a summit window.
Rakaposhi is located in the Nagar Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is easily accessible via a short drive from Gilgit and a two-day trek from the village of Minapin.
We specialize in Nagar Valley mountaineering. Our team has an intimate knowledge of Rakaposhi’s unique micro-climate. We provide high-quality mountain hardware, satellite weather tracking, and a dedicated kitchen team to keep you fueled for the summit.
Nathan Williams –
Rakaposhi is stunning! The trek to Base Camp and the climb were tough, but the views at sunrise are unforgettable.