Nanga Parbat Around Trek Overview
The Nanga Parbat Around Trek is one of the most demanding and rewarding long treks in Pakistan, encircling the mighty “Killer Mountain” from multiple dramatic perspectives. This epic journey takes you deep into the western Himalayas, crossing remote valleys, high-altitude passes, glaciers, alpine forests, and some of the most isolated mountain landscapes on Earth.
Unlike the standard base camp trek, the around-Nanga-Parbat route offers a complete circuit of the massif—revealing the colossal Rupal Face, the deep Raikot Gorge, the vast Mazeno Glacier, and the iconic Fairy Meadows. Rising directly from the Indus Valley, Nanga Parbat dominates the skyline throughout the trek, offering constant, awe-inspiring views of its towering walls and ridgelines.
Spanning 22 days, this trek is designed for seasoned trekkers seeking raw wilderness, physical challenge, and cultural immersion. From adrenaline-filled jeep safaris on the Karakoram Highway to nights under star-filled skies at high camps, this expedition delivers an authentic Himalayan experience. The trek also provides rare opportunities to meet international mountaineers at base camps and walk in the footsteps of legendary climbers like Hermann Buhl and Reinhold Messner.
Starting with a dramatic drive along the Karakoram Highway, this around Nanga Parbat trek traverses remote high-altitude passes and massive glaciers. You will witness the three colossal faces of the mountain: the Rupal Face (the highest mountain wall on Earth), the Diamir Face, and the Raikot Face. From the lush, postcard-perfect Fairy Meadows to the technical crossing of the Mazeno Pass, this itinerary is the definitive way to experience the “Killer Mountain.” Like our Thalay La Trek, the Nanga Parbat Trek is scenic, easy to navigate, yet highly adventurous.
Nanga Parbat Around Trek Highlights
- Full Circuit of Nanga Parbat: Complete a 22-day loop around the Nanga Parbat mountain, seeing all three of its massive faces.
- The Mighty Rupal Face: Camp beneath the highest rock wall in the world, rising over 4,500 meters directly from the valley floor.
- Fairy Meadows to Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek: Spend nights in the iconic Fairy Meadows, followed by a day trek to the Raikot Face base camp.
- Cross the Mazeno Pass (5,399m): Conquer the trek’s highest point, a challenging crossing that offers panoramic views of the Western Himalayas.
- Historical Climbing Routes: Walk in the footsteps of legends like Reinhold Messner and Hermann Buhl while visiting multiple mountaineering base camps.
Nanga Parbat Around Trek Difficulty and Altitude
How hard is the Nanga Parbat base camp trek? When choosing the “Around” route, the difficulty is classified as Demanding. This is significantly tougher than a standard out-and-back trek.
Technical and Physical Requirements
Trekkers must navigate the Mazeno Pass (5,399m), which often requires fixed ropes and the use of ice axes/crampons depending on the season. The Nanga Parbat trek distance covers long daily stages of 6–9 hours across steep scree, glacial moraines, and alpine meadows.
Altitude Profile
Altitude is the primary challenge on this Himalayan journey.
- Mazeno High Camp: 4,800m
- Mazeno Pass: 5,399m
- Khutsu Pass: 4,840m
Nanga Parbat Around Trek Inclusions/Exclusions
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| Domestic flights & all ground transport | International airfare, visas & insurance |
| Hotels in Islamabad & Skardu (twin-sharing) | Personal trekking gear & sleeping bags |
| Trekking permits & camping fees | Meals outside itinerary & extra hotel nights |
| Trek accommodation (twin-sharing tents) | Excess baggage charges |
| All meals during trekking days + snacks | Emergency evacuation & rescue costs |
| Licensed trekking guide & full support staff | Tips & gratuities |
| Porterage for personal luggage (fixed allowance) | Personal expenses outside of those specified |
| CKNP waste management fee | Early departure or trek withdrawal costs |
| Secure baggage storage in Skardu | Gear rental unless specified |
| Satellite phone (emergency use) & first-aid kit | Force majeure expenses |
Related
Tour Plan
Day 1
Arrival in Islamabad
- Arrive at Islamabad International Airport where our guide will receive you.
- Transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest after your journey.
- Afternoon briefing about the trek and remaining payments at our office.
- Dinner at the hotel and overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 2
Drive from Islamabad to Chilas
- Drive via the motorway passing Wah, Haripur, and Abbottabad to reach Mansehra.
- Continue through Balakot, Naran, and Jalkhad, crossing the scenic Babusar Pass.
- Enter Gilgit-Baltistan and descend to Chilas along the Karakoram Highway.
- Check-in at hotel in Chilas and rest overnight.
Day 3
Drive to Astore
- Continue driving on Karakoram Highway passing Raikot Bridge with stunning views of Nanga Parbat.
- Witness the convergence of three mountain ranges: Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush.
- Turn from Jaglot toward the Astore region and enjoy the scenic route.
- Overnight stay in Astore.
Day 4
Trek to Tarashing
- Off-road jeep journey from Astore to Tarashing (approx. 3–4 hours).
- Trek through lush pine forests and green meadows of Rupal Valley.
- Set up camp at Tarashing and enjoy the alpine surroundings.
- Evening rest and overnight camping.
Day 5
Trek to Herligkoffer Base Camp
- Trek from Tarashing to Herligkoffer Base Camp (3–5 hours).
- Walk through enchanting meadows and cross the snout of Tarashing Glacier.
- Camp next to Bazhin Glacier with views of Raikot Peak and Nanga Parbat’s Chongra Peaks.
- Evening at base camp with breathtaking mountain scenery.
Day 6
Trek to Latobah
- Cross Bazhin Glacier on your way to Latobah campsite.
- Camp directly under the massive Rupal Face of Nanga Parbat.
- Experience one of the world’s tallest mountain walls rising 5,000 meters above base camp.
- Evening rest while soaking in the majestic views.
Day 7
Trek to Shaigiri
- Trek across the snout of Shaigiri Glacier.
- Enjoy extended panoramic views of the Rupal Face.
- Walk through alpine meadows and rocky terrain.
- Camp at Shaigiri with evening relaxation.
Day 8
Trek to Mazeno Base Camp
- Trek through varying terrains including streams, forests, and pastures.
- Enter high-altitude meadows of Mazeno with spectacular peak views.
- Observe the Mazeno Peaks up close.
- Set up camp at Mazeno Base Camp.
Day 9
Trek to Mazeno High Camp
- Ascend steep hills towards Mazeno Glacier (approx. 5–8 hours).
- Trek on challenging terrain for a rewarding experience.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding peaks.
- Camp overnight at Mazeno High Camp.
Day 10
Trek to Laibh Meadows
- Ascend Mazeno Pass (5,399 m) and descend to Laibh Meadows.
- Use ropes and assistance from staff for safe passage on steep slopes.
- Cross glaciers and rocky terrain along the way.
- Overnight stay at Laibh Meadows.
Day 11
Trek to Zangot
- Descend from high meadows towards inhabited areas.
- Walk through pastures and gentle slopes.
- Enter the first local civilization after days of wilderness.
- Overnight camping in Zangot.
Day 12
Rest at Zangot
- Take a full day off to rest and recover from previous treks.
- Explore the surrounding pastures and local scenery.
- Interact with locals and learn about their lifestyle.
- Overnight stay in Zangot.
Day 13
Trek to Kutagali
- Trek towards Kutagali, a summer settlement of shepherds.
- Follow traditional trails used by locals.
- Walk through scenic valleys and pastures.
- Camp overnight in Kutagali.
Day 14
Trek to Shaichi
- Cross Karu Sagar Pass (4,900 m), a non-technical pass.
- Enjoy magnificent views of Diamir Face of Nanga Parbat.
- Continue trekking through alpine terrain and meadows.
- Overnight stay in Shaichi.
Day 15
Trek to Gutum Sagar
- Walk through pine forests and highland pastures.
- Cross streams along the route.
- Enjoy views of surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Camp overnight at Gutum Sagar.
Day 16
Trek to Jilipur High Camp
- Trek towards Jilipur High Camp with panoramic mountain views.
- Witness the majestic Jilipur Peaks and Himalayan landscapes.
- Trek through varied terrain including rocky and alpine areas.
- Overnight camping at Jilipur High Camp.
Day 17
Trek to Beyal Camp
- Cross Khutsu Pass (4,840 m) with staff assistance on steep slopes.
- Descend to Beyal Camp along the Raikot Glacier.
- Enjoy views of surrounding glaciers and peaks.
- Camp overnight at Beyal.
Day 18
Fairy Meadows
- Trek to Fairy Meadows from Beyal Camp (approx. 2–3 hours).
- Witness the majestic Nanga Parbat from iconic viewpoints.
- Spend time relaxing in alpine meadows and enjoying nature.
- Overnight stay in cabins with optional bonfire.
Day 19
Back to Chilas
- Trek down to Tatu Village and continue by jeep to Raikot Bridge.
- Drive along scenic gorges and valleys to Chilas.
- Check-in at hotel and relax after the trek.
- Overnight stay in Chilas.
Day 20
Drive to Islamabad
- Early morning departure from Chilas to Islamabad.
- Drive via Babusar Pass or alternate route through Besham depending on weather.
- Enjoy panoramic views of mountains and valleys on the drive.
- Check-in at hotel in Islamabad for overnight stay.
Day 21
Sightseeing in Islamabad
- Explore Islamabad and Rawalpindi, including landmarks and local culture.
- Relax and recover from trekking journey.
- Optional shopping and sightseeing in the city.
- Overnight stay at Islamabad hotel.
Day 22
Departure Back Home
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to Islamabad International Airport.
- Board your flight home.
Luca P. –
Professional, reliable, and very experienced. The guides explained local culture and geography along the way, which added a lot to the trek. An authentic and well-managed adventure.