Glaciated Slopes
Streneuous
May to August
Shimshal Pass
The Shimshal Boissum Ski Expedition is an elite high-altitude ski touring adventure set deep within the Shimshal Valley of Hunza, one of the most remote and pristine regions of the Karakoram. Known as the Valley of Mountaineers, Shimshal offers vast glaciated terrain, long powder descents, and dramatic alpine landscapes rarely accessed by skiers. This 12-day expedition is designed for experienced ski tourers seeking untouched snow, technical terrain, and authentic mountain culture. Traveling by road from Islamabad to Gilgit and onward into upper Hunza, the journey culminates in the Boissum Pass region, where participants ski high-altitude slopes framed by towering Karakoram peaks. With professional guides, flexible ski days, and contingency planning, this expedition balances challenge, safety, and exploration.
The Shimshal Boissum ski expedition is an elite high-altitude adventure set deep within the Shimshal Valley of Hunza, the legendary “Valley of Mountaineers.” This 12-day journey is designed for experienced backcountry skiers seeking some of the most remote and pristine glaciated terrain in the Karakoram Range.
Accessing the Shimshal Boissum ski slopes requires a spectacular jeep journey along the rugged mountain tracks of upper Hunza, followed by a transition into the high-altitude Boissum Pass region. Here, you will find vast powder fields and long alpine descents framed by towering 7,000m and 8,000m peaks. This is a true frontier for ski touring, offering untouched snow and a rare cultural immersion into the mountain communities of Shimshal.
How difficult is the Shimshal Boissum ski expedition? This expedition is graded as Moderate/Advanced. It is not a beginner-level tour; participants must be comfortable with backcountry touring and variable snow conditions.
The Shimshal Boissum ski route involves navigating glaciated terrain with gradients ranging from 25° to 45°. You must be proficient in kick-turns, skinning on firm snow, and skiing in deep powder. While the technicality of the skiing is moderate, the high altitude and remote environment add a layer of challenge.
Our 12-day itinerary includes dedicated acclimatization days in Shimshal to ensure your body is ready for high-altitude skinning.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Domestic flights & all road transfers | International airfare, visas & ski insurance |
| Hotel stays in Islamabad & Gilgit/Skardu | Personal ski equipment & avalanche gear |
| Ski expedition permits & local permissions | Emergency rescue & helicopter evacuation |
| Camping or mountain hut accommodation | Excess baggage charges |
| All meals during expedition | Additional hotel nights |
| Certified ski / mountain guide | Tips & gratuities to staff |
| Support staff, cook & porters | Personal expenses outside of those specified |
| Government permits, including CKNP fee | Route changes or early exit costs |
| Secure baggage storage | Gear rental unless stated |
| Satellite phone & cold-weather medical kit | Force majeure expenses |
The Shimshall Boissum ski expedition cost starts at $3,500 USD for an all-inclusive 12-day package. This includes all domestic travel, government permits, professional ski guides, HAPs for gear transport, and full-board camping/guesthouse logistics.
You will need a full ski touring setup (skis/splitboard, skins, boots) and mandatory avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel). Given the glaciated terrain, a lightweight harness and glacier rescue kit are also recommended.
The optimal window is April to August. During these months, the high-altitude snowpack is typically stable, and the temperatures are cold enough to preserve the powder at the Boissum Pass.
Shimshal is located in an open zone for tourism, but since this is a specialized expedition, we handle the necessary trekking/ski permits required by the Gilgit-Baltistan government as part of your booking.
We are local experts with over 15 years of experience in the Shimshal region. Our Shimshall Boissum ski packages prioritize safety with satellite communication and guides who understand the specific snow-science and weather patterns of the Karakoram.
Lukas Müller –
Amazing ski experience! Perfect slopes, breathtaking scenery, and excellent guides.