Khosar Gang Peak Trek

Khosar Gang Peak Trek Overview

Introduction

Hidden deep inside the Shigar Valley of Baltistan, the Khosar Gang Peak Trek (6,040 m) is one of Pakistan’s most rewarding short expeditions. Unlike the more famous giants of the Karakoram, such as K2 and Broad Peak, Khosar Gang offers climbers and trekkers the opportunity to summit a Himalayan peak within just 10–12 days. This makes it an ideal adventure for those looking to test their skills at altitude without committing to long expeditions. The trek combines stunning alpine meadows, glacier travel, and cultural immersion in Baltistan’s historic valleys. From the summit, the panorama stretches from Masherbrum to Saltoro Kangri, with the faint outline of K2 visible on clear days. If you’ve ever dreamed of summiting a Himalayan peak but want a shorter, more accessible climb, the Khosar Gang Trek is the perfect choice.

Why Choose the Khosar Gang Peak Trek?

  • Achievable Himalayan Peak: At 6,040 m, it’s a great introduction to high-altitude mountaineering.
  • Short Expedition: 10–12 days round trip from Islamabad.
  • Cultural Immersion: Explore the historic Shigar Valley and stay in traditional Balti villages.
  • Breathtaking Views: Summit panorama includes Masherbrum, Saltoro Kangri, Mango Gusor, and K2 in the far distance.
  • Adventure & Accessibility: Less technical than major Karakoram climbs, but still requires crampons and basic glacier skills.

Trek Overview

  • Duration: 10–12 days (Islamabad → Islamabad)
  • Region: Shigar Valley, Baltistan (Karakoram Range)
  • Highest Point: Khosar Gang Summit – 6,040 m / 19,816 ft
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous (snow and glacier travel, requires fitness)
  • Best Time to Visit: June to September
  • Permit Required: Yes, trekking/climbing permit from the Gilgit-Baltistan tourism authority
  • Recommended Insurance: High-altitude rescue coverage (e.g., Global Rescue, World Nomads)

Difficulty Level

The Khosar Gang Trek is moderate to strenuous. While not as technical as 7,000–8,000 m peaks, it requires:

  • Good fitness and stamina.
  • Comfort with crampons, ice axe, and glacier walking.
  • Ability to handle altitude and long trekking days.
It’s a perfect introduction to 6000 m Himalayan climbing.

Best Time to Trek Khosar Gang

  • June – August: Warmest and most stable weather. Best for summit success.
  • September: Cooler, fewer trekkers, stunning autumn colors in Shigar Valley.

Packing List (Essentials)

  • Mountaineering boots + crampons
  • Ice axe, helmet, harness (for summit day)
  • Down jacket, thermal layers, gloves, hat
  • Sleeping bag (–15°C rating)
  • Trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Water purification tablets
  • First aid kit + personal medication

Cultural & Scenic Highlights

  • Shigar Valley: Apricot orchards, traditional Balti mosques, and the historic Shigar Fort.
  • Skardu: Gateway to the Karakoram, with serene alpine lakes.
  • Deosai National Park: A high plateau known as the “Land of Giants,” accessible from Skardu.

FAQs about Khosar Gang Peak Trek

1. Do I need prior climbing experience?

Basic mountaineering experience helps, but with guides, fit trekkers can achieve the summit.

2. How technical is the climb?

Snow and ice slopes up to 40°. Requires crampons and glacier safety knowledge.

3. Can beginners join?

Yes, but only if physically fit and prepared for altitude. It’s ideal as a first Himalayan summit.

4. Is it crowded?

No. Compared to K2 Base Camp, very few groups attempt Khosar Gang, making it a quiet trek.

Duration

10�12 Days

Difficulty

Moderate to Strenuous

Price

$1050.00



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Trip Dates

Destination Trip Date Extra Information
No trip dates available.

Trip Details

Duration: 10�12 Days

$ Price (per person) :
$1050.00

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Includes: Guides, Porters, Permits, Camping



Itinerary

Location
Activity
Altitude
Islamabad
Arrive in Pakistan’s capital city. After immigration and briefing, explore the Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, or relax before the adventure begins.
540 m
Islamabad to Skardu
By Air: 1-hour flight with breathtaking aerial views of Nanga Parbat and the Indus River gorge. By Road: A 20–22 hr journey on the legendary Karakoram Highway, passing through Abbottabad, Chilas, and Gilgit. In Skardu, visit Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara Lake, and Upper Kachura Lake.
540 m to 2,230 m
Skardu to Shigar Village
Drive through the fertile Shigar Valley, known for its apricot orchards and historic Balti mosques. Explore the restored Shigar Fort (Serena Hotel) and enjoy views of the Cathedral Peaks.
2,230 m to 2,500 m
Shigar Village to Khosar Gang Base Camp
A 6–7 hr gradual climb through meadows, streams, and alpine pastures. First views of Khosar Gang (6,040 m) dominating the skyline. Overnight at Base Camp, surrounded by lush meadows and snow peaks.
4,000 m
Khosar Gang Base Camp
Acclimatization at Base Camp. Gentle hikes to ridges for altitude adjustment. Wide views of Shigar Valley and surrounding peaks.
4,000 m
Base Camp to High Camp
A steep ascent across glacier terrain. Crampons are often required. Views of Masherbrum (7,821 m) and Baltoro peaks in the distance.
4,800 m
High Camp to Summit and Back to Base Camp
Early alpine start (~2 am). Climb 8–10 hrs on snow & ice slopes (30–40°). Summit rewards: 360° panorama of Masherbrum, Saltoro Kangri, K2 (on clear days), Mango Gusor, and sweeping valleys below. Descend to Base Camp for the night.
6,040 m to 4,000 m
Base Camp to Shigar Village
Return trek to Shigar with time to explore the valley.
2,500 m
Shigar to Skardu
Jeep ride back to Skardu. Optional excursions: Buddha Rock Carvings or Deosai National Park (if you extend).
2,230 m
Skardu to Islamabad
Flight (1 hr, weather dependent) OR Karakoram Highway (~20 hrs).
540 m

Photo Gallery

Trip Highlights

Major Mountains You’ll See

Khosar Gang (6,040 m) – the summit itself. Mango Gusor (6,270 m) – neighboring peak. Masherbrum (7,821 m) – “Queen of the Karakoram.” Saltoro Kangri (7,742 m) – distant summit on the Pakistan-India border. K2 (8,611 m), Broad Peak & Gasherbrums – visible from ridges in clear weather.

Cultural & Scenic Highlights

Shigar Valley: Apricot orchards, traditional Balti mosques, and the historic Shigar Fort. Skardu: Gateway to the Karakoram, with serene alpine lakes. Deosai National Park: A high plateau known as the “Land of Giants,” accessible from Skardu.

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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