Spantik Base Camp Trek

Spantik Base Camp Trek Overview

Spantik (Golden Peak) Base Camp Trek


The Spantik Base Camp Trek is one of the most beautiful journeys in Pakistan's Karakoram. Known as the Golden Peak (7,027 m), Spantik glows at sunrise and sunset, making it one of the most photogenic mountains in the world. This trek offers not only magnificent views of Rakaposhi, Diran, Malubiting, and Ultar Sar, but also takes adventurers through the cultural heart of Hunza and Nagar Valley.


Lasting 12-14 days, the Spantik Trek is shorter than other Karakoram expeditions, yet it provides everything trekkers dream of: lush alpine meadows, glacier crossings, traditional villages, and unforgettable mountain panoramas. Whether you are an aspiring climber or a trekker seeking stunning Himalayan scenery, the Spantik Base Camp Trek delivers a perfect balance of adventure and accessibility.



Why Choose Spantik Trek?


  • Golden Glow: Witness the famous golden sunrise and sunset on Spantik.
  • Multiple 7,000 m Giants: See Rakaposhi, Diran, Malubiting, and Ultar Sar in one trek.
  • Short and Accessible: 12-14 days, ideal for trekkers with limited time.
  • Cultural Richness: Stay in Hunza and Nagar villages, known for hospitality and history.
  • Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for trekkers with good fitness; no technical climbing required.


Trek Overview


  • Duration: 12-14 days
  • Region: Nagar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
  • Highest Point: Spantik Base Camp - 4,500 m (14,764 ft)
  • Difficulty: Moderate (steep trails, glacier moraines, high altitude)
  • Best Time to Visit: June to September
  • Accommodation: Hotels in cities/villages, camping on trek
  • Permit Required: Yes, trekking permit from Gilgit-Baltistan authorities
  • Recommended Insurance: High-altitude rescue coverage (Global Rescue, World Nomads)


Best Time to Trek Spantik


  • June - August: Warmest weather, stable conditions.
  • September: Cooler, fewer trekkers, great visibility.


Difficulty Level


  • Rated Moderate, requires stamina for 5-7 hr trekking days.
  • Trails include steep meadows, rocky ridges, and glacier moraines.
  • No technical climbing required - ideal for fit trekkers seeking Himalayan scenery without advanced mountaineering.


Permits and Logistics


  • Permit Required: Trekking permit from the Gilgit-Baltistan tourism office.
  • Guides and Porters: Essential for safety and logistics.
  • Insurance: Mandatory for high-altitude rescue.
  • Accommodation: Hotels in Gilgit/Hunza, camping during trek.
  • Food: Cooked by trekking staff or local guides.


Packing List (Essentials)


  • Trekking boots and gaiters
  • Warm layers and down jacket
  • Sleeping bag (-15°C rating)
  • Trekking poles, sunglasses, gloves
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, water purification tablets
  • First aid kit and altitude sickness medication
  • Camera (for golden sunrise shots of Spantik)


Cultural and Scenic Highlights


  • Hunza and Nagar Valley: Known for apricot orchards, forts, and warm hospitality.
  • Minapin Village: Traditional farming community with historic heritage.
  • Hapakun and Tagaphari Meadows: Alpine meadows with glacier views.
  • Spantik Base Camp: Panoramic mountain views and golden glow.


FAQs about Spantik Trek


1. Why is Spantik called Golden Peak?

Because during sunrise and sunset, the snow-covered slopes glow golden.


2. Do I need prior trekking experience?

It helps, but the trek is moderate and suitable for fit beginners with a guide.


3. How high is Spantik Base Camp?

Around 4,500 m (14,764 ft).


4. Is it safe to trek in Nagar Valley?

Yes, the area is safe and welcoming to tourists, with friendly locals.


Duration

12-14 days

Difficulty

Moderate

Price

$2300.00



 Book your spot today

The trip initial deposit is mandatory to book your place earlier, Cancellation policy can be reviewed and term approval is required.

Trip Dates

Destination Trip Date Extra Information
No trip dates available.

Trip Details

Duration: 12-14 days

$ Price (per person) :
$2300.00

Difficulty: Moderate

Includes: Guides, Porters, Permits, Camping



Itinerary

Location
Activity
Altitude
Islamabad
Arrival and briefing. Visit Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa, Pakistan Monument.
540 m
Islamabad to Gilgit
Flight (1 hr) with views of Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi, or drive (12-14 hrs) on Karakoram Highway. Visit Gilgit Bridge, Bazaar, Gilgit River.
540 m to 1,500 m
Gilgit to Minapin Village
Drive 3-4 hrs along Hunza River to Minapin Village in Nagar Valley, surrounded by apricot orchards. Views of Rakaposhi (7,788 m) and Diran Peak (7,266 m).
2,000 m
Minapin to Hapakun
Trek 4-5 hrs through pine forests and meadows to Hapakun meadow. Views of Rakaposhi and Diran Peak.
2,800 m
Hapakun to Tagaphari
Trek 4-5 hrs to Tagaphari, a green alpine meadow. Viewpoint of Rakaposhi Glacier and Rakaposhi.
3,300 m
Tagaphari to Kacheli
Trek 5-6 hrs, ascending rocky ridges and pastures to Kacheli campsite. Views of Diran Peak and upper glacier.
3,900 m
Kacheli to Spantik Base Camp
Trek 6-7 hrs on glacier moraines to Spantik Base Camp. Views of Spantik (7,027 m), Diran Peak (7,266 m), Rakaposhi (7,788 m), Malubiting (7,458 m), Ultar Sar (7,388 m).
4,500 m
Spantik Base Camp
Rest and exploration day at Base Camp. Explore glacier ridges, photography of Spantik's golden glow at sunrise/sunset.
4,500 m
Spantik Base Camp to Kacheli
Trek back to Kacheli.
3,900 m
Kacheli to Tagaphari
Trek back to Tagaphari.
3,300 m
Tagaphari to Minapin
Trek back to Minapin Village.
2,000 m
Minapin to Gilgit
Drive back to Gilgit.
1,500 m
Gilgit to Islamabad
Flight (1 hr) or drive (12-14 hrs) on Karakoram Highway to Islamabad.
540 m
Islamabad
Optional buffer day for travel or rest in Islamabad.
540 m

Photo Gallery

Trip Highlights

Golden Glow of Spantik

Witness the famous golden sunrise and sunset on Spantik (7,027 m).

Multiple 7,000 m Peaks

Views of Rakaposhi (7,788 m), Diran (7,266 m), Malubiting (7,458 m), and Ultar Sar (7,388 m).

Cultural Richness

Experience Hunza and Nagar Valley's apricot orchards, forts, and hospitality.

Famous Spots

Minapin Village, Hapakun and Tagaphari Meadows, and Spantik Base Camp with glacier views.

Hedda Asmussen

What a lovely day out! We did two hours of paddling and Phil was an amazing guide. I hadn't done much paddle boarding before but it was easy to pick up with his instructions and we had a nice relaxing journey down the river. Would definitely recommend even for those that haven't tried it before! The location is also amazing, super quiet and beautiful scenery!

Hedda Asmussen

Ansa

Great adventure on River Arun with my paddle bestie and Phil. Phil's trips are very well planned and organised! He asks your interests. With us it was wildlife and paddling techniques. Phil was very knowledgeable about the local area and wildlife and I can't wait to continue practicing paddle strokes he showed us. Thoroughly enjoyed this experience and felt safe and confident on the water with Phil around. Especially as this was my longest paddle. The area is beautiful and it feels like you are on holiday and not just outside London. Looking forward to joining in on another Cave Active Adventure trip soon!

Ansa

JAMES Howe

I have been on two trips with Phil now. One to Scotland and one to the river Thames. Both were spectacularly special for me. Phil is a caring and considerate guide and will really look after you, he takes his job seriously and goes that extra mile to make the experience memorable.

JAMES Howe

Andy

My wife and I booked a 3 day Thames Tour with Cave Active. We arrived at The Barefoot Campsite, which would be the base for the 2 nights camping. Phil arrived, and we set up camp in a great little area with a fire pit. The first paddle was upstream a 4 mile round trip to The Maybush for dinner, I think this was a chance for Phil to assess the standard of paddling and for the guests to get to know each other. After a great dinner, we paddled back down and settled in for our first night under canvas, whilst Phil got the Kelly Kettle fired up for a brew. Day 2 started with bacon and egg baps and hot tea. We then made our way to the Trout at Buckland Marsh for our launch site. A pleasant 8.5 mile paddle through beautiful tranquil countryside. A great lunch stop at Shifford lock with sandwiches from The Trout. We then continued on back to the campsite via the Rose Revived. That night dinner was cooked by Phil with burgers provided by Linthwaite Farms, which were well worth the wait. The last day started with porridge, and we broke camp. The last paddle was a 9.6 mile paddle finishing in Woolvercote, taking in 4 locks and a great alfresco lunch once at Pinkhill Lock, again prepared by Phil. The whole trip was relaxed and enjoyable but also very informative. I think my paddle stroke definitely improved. Phil also has a lot of knowledge about the areas you paddle through. You can tell Phil doesn't do this for a job. He does it for the passion he has for paddling. He has taken on some big paddles, both solo and in groups, and all the knowledge he has, he is happy to pass on. Everything is planned meticulously, and from the start, client safety is the top priority. I would definitely recommend Cave Active and am seriously considering booking on with Phil for his longer 5 day Loch Shiel Trip. He is definitely a man who knows what he is talking about and someone who gets a genuine pleasure from passing on what he has learned.

Andy

Josie Cohen

Phil gave me and my partner an amazing lesson in wind supping at Pagham beach. He was a great teacher - super lovely and patient and clear with his instructions. He brought all the kit (including helmets and walkie talkies) which was all top notch. Plus he happily went over our allocated time without an issue. Overall, we had a great lesson and it has left us very excited to buy a wing and get wind supping ourselves. Would highly recommend Cave Active Adventures to anyone and everyone!

Josie Cohen

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