Skori La Pass Trek – Remote Karakoram Route

  • Northern Area, Pakistan
  • Duration: 9 D - 8 Nights
  • Language: English

Overview

Skori La is a stunning and relatively less-traveled peak in the Karakoram Range of northern Pakistan. Situated near Askole famously known as the gateway to K2, Broad Peak and the Baltoro Glacier this peak offers a short yet unforgettable adventure.

Trekking or climbing Skori La is considered one of the more budget friendly experiences in the region. Unlike major Karakoram expeditions that demand extensive time and complex logistics Skori La can be completed within a shorter duration, making it an ideal choice for trekkers and climbers seeking an authentic Karakoram expedition without the high costs or lengthy commitments.

 


 

Trekking Route Overview

 

  1. Skardu to Askole
  • Start from Skardu, a scenic town surrounded by mountains.
  • Jeep ride through Shigar Valley.
  • Reach Askole, the last permanent settlement before the high Karakoram.

 

  1. Askole to Skori La Base
  • Begin the trek with gradual ascents.
  • Walk along rocky paths and glacial streams.
  • Experience a remote, peaceful and naturally beautiful area.

 

  1. Ascent to Skori La Peak / Pass
  • Trek to Skori La Pass (approx. 4,900–5,000 m).
  • Optional climb to the summit at 6,130 m.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of K2, Broad Peak and surrounding peaks.

 

  1. Descent to Shigar Valley
  • Descend toward Shigar instead of returning to Askole.
  • Complete a circular trekking route.
  • Pass through alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and Balti villages.
  • Experience a more scenic and adventurous journey.

 

Why Choose Skori La?

  • Short and affordable compared to major Karakoram peaks
  • Requires minimal logistics
  • Ideal for acclimatization or a warm up trek
  • Offers classic Karakoram scenery: glaciers, rugged peaks, and wild landscapes
  • Circular route connecting Askole and Shigar makes the trek diverse and adventurous

 


 

Highlights

  • Height: Skori La rises to an impressive 6,130 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks.
  • Location: Nestled near Askole in Tistey, within the Shigar Valley of Baltistan, Pakistan, it sits in close proximity to some of the world’s most famous mountains, including K2 and Broad Peak.
  • Mountain Range: Part of the iconic Karakoram Range, renowned for its rugged terrain, massive glaciers and dramatic landscapes.
  • Difficulty: Classified as moderate, Skori La is suitable for experienced trekkers as well as beginner mountaineers seeking an accessible high altitude adventure.
  • Best Season: The ideal time to attempt this expedition is from June to September, when the weather is most stable and conditions are safest for trekking and climbing.

 


Services Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off on arrival and departure
  • AC transportation for briefing and debriefing at Alpine Club of Pakistan / Ministry of Tourism
  • 4×4 Jeep / Toyota transfers between Skardu and Askole
  • Comfortable transportation between Churkah and Skardu
  • Transportation for sightseeing
  • Two night hotel stay in Skardu (best standard, full board)
  • Insurance premium for local staff and porters
  • Most experienced guide for the trek
  • Documentation support
  • Carrying service up to 15 kg per member on passes above 5,000 m
  • Necessary base camp staff: manager, chief, cook, assistants, and waiters
  • Three meals a day, plus tea, coffee, and snacks during trek and base camp stay
  • Solar panels / generator for lighting and battery charging at base camp
  • Comfortable foam / mattress for trekking and base camp
  • Individual member tent in good condition at base camp
  • Hot shower and toilet tents
  • Comfortable chairs and tables for trekking and base camp
  • Complete camping setup including dining and kitchen tents
  • Important local and essential foods during trek and base camp stay
  • Heating in the dining tent at base camp
  • Medical first aid kit for group and staff
  • Walkie-talkies for base camp communication
  • All camping and bridge-crossing fees
  • CKNP waste management fee

 

Services Not Included

  • Member international flight tickets
  • Member personal climbing or trekking gear
  • Sleeping bag and personal expenses (telephone, fax, email, liquor, soft drinks, etc.)
  • Room service, gratuities, and items of a purely personal nature
  • Staff tips (small bonus for local staff recommended)
  • Mini-bar charges while staying in hotels or travelling
  • Member personal insurance
  • Custom clearance charges for import/export of equipment

What To Expect

1

Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad

  • Arrive in Islamabad
  • Transfer to hotel
  • Welcome briefing and gear check
  • Overnight stay in Islamabad
2

Day 2: Fly to Skardu

  • Early morning flight to Skardu
  • Acclimatization day in Skardu
  • Explore local markets and surroundings
  • Overnight stay in Skardu

Note:

  • In case of flight cancellation:
  • Option 1: Drive by coach to Chilas (480 km, 13–14 hrs.) via Karakoram Highway
  • Option 2: Drive via Babusar Pass (4,173 m / 13,691 ft.)  connects Kaghan Valley to Chilas
  • From Chilas, drive to Skardu (275 km, 10–11 hrs.)
  • Scenic views of Nanga Parbat (8,125 m) along the Indus River
3

Day 3: Drive from Skardu to Tistey Valley (3,000 m)

  • Free day in Skardu in the morning
  • Travel by jeep to Tistey Valley, the last village of Shigar District
  • Rough, narrow track, may be blocked or damaged by landslides
  • Journey duration: approximately 7 hours
4

Day 4: Trek from Tistey Valley to Tistey Meadows

  • Explore Tistey Valley and surroundings
  • Trek to Tistey Meadows (approx. 3 hours)
  • Explore Tistey Broq & Tastey Meadows
  • Overnight stay in Tistey Meadows
5

Day 5: Trek from Tistey Meadows to Base Camp

  • Trek to Base Camp (approx. 4 hours)
  • Overnight stay at Base Camp
6

Day 6: Trek from Base Camp, Cross Skori La to Churkah Broq

  • Trek from Base Camp and cross Skori La
  • Explore Churkah Broq & surroundings
  • Overnight stay at Churkah Broq
7

Day 7: Trek from Churkah Broq to Churkah Valley & Drive to Skardu

  • Trek to Churkah Valley
  • Lunch in Churkah Valley
  • Drive back to Skardu
  • Overnight stay in Skardu (hotel)
8

Day 8: Fly to Islamabad

  • Breakfast in Skardu
  • Transfer to airport
  • Fly to Islamabad
  • Overnight stay in Islamabad
9

Day 9: Fly to Home Country

  • Transfer to Islamabad International Airport
  • Fly to home country

 

 

Map

  • The Skori La Trek is located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, connecting Shigar Valley with Hushe Valley through the Skori La high mountain pass.

  • The standard Skori La Trek takes 8 to 9 days, depending on road access, weather conditions, and acclimatization needs.

  • The best time for the Skori La Trek is from June to September, when snow conditions are manageable and mountain passes are accessible.

  • This trek is considered moderate to challenging. It is suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some prior high-altitude trekking experience.

  • Skori La Pass lies at an altitude of approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.

  • Foreign trekkers require a trekking permit and No Objection Certificate (NOC). These are usually arranged by the trekking company.

  • Yes, the trek is safe when organized through a licensed local tour operator with experienced guides and support staff.

  • Accommodation includes hotels in Skardu, guesthouses in villages, and camping in tents during trekking days.

  • Participants should be physically fit and comfortable with long walking days at high altitude. Cardio training before the trek is recommended.

  • Yes, the itinerary can be customized based on group size, fitness level, and available time, including extra rest or acclimatization days.

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