Full Board
Easy
May to September
11 Days
The Thalay La Trek is a rewarding walking holiday in the heart of Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountains, offering an ideal introduction to high-altitude trekking without technical difficulty. This easy-to-moderate trek crosses the scenic Thalay La Pass (4,572m), linking the beautiful valleys of Khaplu and Shigar in Baltistan. Perfect for trekkers seeking spectacular mountain scenery, cultural immersion, and comfort, the journey blends short trekking days with memorable hotel stays and authentic local experiences.
Designed to fit comfortably within a two-week timeframe (11–13 days), the Thalay La Trek delivers remarkable variety—from bustling Islamabad and dramatic mountain flights to peaceful villages, alpine camps, and centuries-old monasteries. You will trek through remote landscapes framed by soaring Karakoram peaks, camp beneath star-filled skies, and experience the warm hospitality of Baltistan’s mountain communities.
The adventure begins in Islamabad, Pakistan’s modern capital, followed by a breathtaking flight to Skardu, the gateway to the Karakoram. Along the way, weather permitting, you may glimpse legendary peaks such as K2, Broad Peak, and Nanga Parbat. The journey continues through Khaplu Valley, home to the historic 14th-century Chaqchan Monastery, before setting out on the Thalay La trek itself. The experience is beautifully rounded off with stays at the iconic Khaplu Palace and Shigar Fort, former royal residences transformed into heritage hotels.
With decades of experience operating treks in this region, we ensure a journey that is safe, well-paced, and culturally enriching. The Thalay La Trek is an excellent choice for trekkers who want the grandeur of the Karakoram without the demands of technical mountaineering, leaving you with lifelong memories of landscapes, history, and people.
The Thalay La Trek is one of the most scenic and culturally immersive “soft adventures” in the Karakoram Range. Often referred to as a “Grand Traverse of Baltistan,” this 14-day journey connects the lush Shigar Valley with the historic Khaplu Valley via a non-glaciated high mountain pass.
Unlike the stark, rocky terrain of the Shimshal Pass Trek or the K2 Base Camp Trek, the Thalay La trek meanders through vibrant alpine pastures, wildflower meadows, and cedar forests. It offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Balti shepherds in their summer settlements (Broqs). Historically used as a trade route between two mountain kingdoms, the pass provides a spectacular 360-degree panorama of the Masherbrum Range and the distant peaks of the Central Karakoram. This is the ideal expedition for those who want high-altitude grandeur without the technical demands of a glacier trek.
How hard is the Thalay La Trek? This trek is graded as easy. It is a fantastic choice for fit beginners or seasoned trekkers looking for a shorter, less technical Himalayan experience.
The Thalay La trek is a non-glaciated route, meaning there is no need for roped travel, crampons, or ice axes. The paths are well-trodden and steady, though some sections near the pass can be steep and rocky. You will typically walk 5–7 hours per day.
While “moderate” in difficulty, the altitude still requires respect.
Thalay La trek itinerary includes multiple nights in Skardu and Khaplu to ensure you are well-acclimatized before reaching the high camp.
| 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 |
The trek is located in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It connects the Thalay Valley (near Khaplu) to the Shigar Valley, roughly 100km east of Skardu.
The best time to visit Thalay La is from mid-June to September. During this window, the pass is free of heavy winter snow, the meadows are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasantly warm for camping.
The Thalay La Pass height is 4,572 meters (15,000 feet). Some GPS measurements and local guides suggest the highest point of the ridge can reach up to 4,800m depending on the specific crossing point used.
No technical climbing gear is required. You simply need high-quality trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag (rated for -5°C), and standard moisture-wicking layers. Karakoram Treks provides all group camping gear, including tents and kitchen supplies.
The Thalay La trek price for a 14-day all-inclusive package starts at $2,500 USD. This includes domestic flights between Islamabad and Skardu, private jeep transfers, professional guides, porters, and all meals.
Adam Smith –
Well-organized trekking operation with a friendly team. The views, glaciers, and camps were unforgettable. I felt well looked after throughout the entire trip.