📍 Ishkoman, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
💚 94% of travelers recommend this experience
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Karambar Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world, situated at an altitude of over 14,100 feet (4,300 meters) in the high-altitude Broghil Valley near Ishkoman and Chitral borders. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the dramatic surrounding Hindu Kush and Karakoram peaks, this expedition offers nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and photographers a rare glimpse into raw, untouched wilderness.
Karambar Lake in the Broghil Valley. Source: Dawn
Day 1: Departure from Gilgit to Ishkoman Valley
Day 1
Depart from Gilgit in private 4×4 jeeps toward the picturesque Ishkoman Valley. Enjoy scenic views along the Ghizer River, reaching the village of Chatorkhand/Immit for an overnight stay at a local guest house to acclimatize.
Day 2: Immit to Darkut / Chillinji Base
Day 2
Continue the jeep journey upstream through dramatic gorges and high alpine terrain toward the base of the trek. Set up camp, meet the porter team, and prepare gear for the upcoming mountain trek.
Day 3: Trek to Karambar Pass / Sokhtarabad
Day 3
Begin trekking along alpine trails, walking alongside glacial melt rivers and high pastures. Arrive at Sokhtarabad campsite for a night under the stars in mountain tents.
Day 4: Sokhtarabad to Karambar Lake
Day 4
Ascend gradually through pristine alpine valleys toward the high plateau of Karambar Lake. Reach the stunning turquoise lake by afternoon, establishing base camp along its shores.
Day 5: Exploration Day at Karambar Lake
Day 5
Full day dedicated to exploring the surroundings of Karambar Lake, day hikes around the lake basin, landscape photography, and taking in breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush range.
Day 6: Karambar Lake to Lashkargaz (Broghil Valley)
Day 6
Begin descending toward Lashkargaz in the heart of Broghil National Park, observing high-altitude wildlife, yak herds, and traditional Wakhi settlement life.
Day 7: Lashkargaz to Kishmanja
Day 7
Trek through broad valley floors and vibrant wetlands, arriving at Kishmanja to conclude the trekking segment of the tour.
Day 8: Kishmanja to Mastuj / Phander Valley
Day 8
Board 4×4 jeeps for the drive back toward Phander Valley or Mastuj, enjoying scenic mountain drives and relaxing after the high-altitude trek.
Day 9: Return Drive to Gilgit
Day 9
Drive back to Gilgit via the Ghizer highway, reflecting on an epic high-altitude trek. Check in to a local hotel in Gilgit for rest and warm showers.
Day 10: Farewell & Departure
Day 10
Breakfast at the hotel followed by departure transfers to Gilgit Airport or onward road travel.
Included Services
Professional high-altitude mountain guide and support staff.
4×4 Jeep transfers throughout the itinerary.
Porter services for shared luggage and camping gear.
All campsite accommodations, tents, mess tents, and sleeping mattresses.
Full board meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Camping, trekking, and environmental entry permits.
Excluded Services
Personal clothing, sleeping bags, and personal trekking gear.
Travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance.
Tipping for guides, drivers, and porters.
Personal snacks, soft drinks, and laundry services.
Price: PKR 85,000
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Group Size: 8-12
Difficulty: Moderate
Tour Overview
- Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
- Tour Type: Guided Trekking, Off-Road Jeep Safari, Camping
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
- Starting / Ending Point: Gilgit / Islamabad
- Best Season: Mid-June to Late September
Expedition Highlights
- Explore the pristine Karambar Lake, the 31st highest lake in the world.
- Traverse through scenic high-mountain valleys, including Ishkoman, Yasin, and Broghil Valley.
- Cross lush alpine meadows, high-altitude wetlands, and glacial streams.
- Experience unique local hospitality and cultures of high-mountain pastoral communities.
- Stargazing under crystal-clear night skies far removed from city light pollution.
Essential Requirements & Tips
- Fitness: High level of physical fitness required for multi-day trekking above 3,500 meters.
- Acclimatization: Stay hydrated and follow guided pace recommendations to avoid altitude sickness.
- Gear: Thermal layer clothing, waterproof outer jackets, sturdy high-ankle trekking boots, and a zero-degree rated sleeping bag are mandatory.