Baltistan

Shangri-la Atop the Roof of the World

Nestled in this region is the greatest concentration of lofty peaks on Earth. Within this area of 26,000 square kilometres, lie 60 mountain peaks above 7000 meters, four of which tower above 8000 meters: K-2 (8611m), Gasherbrum I (8068m), Broad Peak (8047m) and Gasherbrum II (8035m). Bordered to the north by the Sinkiang province of China, to the east by Ladakh, to the south by Kashmir and to the west by Gilgit-Hunza, Baltistan has been largely ignored by most invaders, conquerors and explorers. Very little is known of the origins of the inhabitants, but the architecture, the features of the indigenous population and the similarity of the modern-day Balti language to archaic Tibetan has earned their abode the nickname of "Little Tibet". Mentioned first by the Chinese in the 8th century, this region remained predominantly Buddhist until the 15th century, when most of the locals converted to Islam. In the mid-19th century the Maharajas of Kashmir conquered and annexed Baltistan, and it remained part of Kashmir until 1947, when the local Baltis fought to join Pakistan. The capital of Baltistan is Skardu, strategically placed near the confluence of the Indus and Shigar Rivers. At an altitude of 2300 meters, Skardu is surrounded by sharp peaks in breathtaking hues of ochre, grey, violet and black. Apart from the wheat and corn fields alongside the river banks, the regions a desert. The consequent juxtaposition of sand dunes with green and yellow fields bifurcated by the swirling, roaring Indus, all amidst a backdrop of ragged, snow-capped peaks, is a sight defying imagination. This truly is, in Fosco Mariani's words, "The world's greatest museum of shape and form."

Concordia

K-2 Base Camp

Level D

Perhaps the most spectacular trek in the world, the K-2 Base Camp trek follows the mountaineers' route up the Baltoro Glacier, and passes through the greatest concentration of high peaks in the world. The apex of this trek is the junction of the Goodwin- Austen and Baltoro Glaciers, a spectacular setting called Concordia (4400 m). Here, within a radius of a few miles, tower 10 of the world's 30 highest peaks. From Skardu, one drives as far as the road permits, and then commences the walk to Askole, the last settlement. After this village human habitation ends, and one enters an incredible wilderness of ice, rock and sky. Ascend the Baltoro Glacier -- the world's second longest outside the polar regions -- to Concordia. At this junction, one is surrounded by such famous peaks as the Gasherbrums (8068 m and 8035m), Broad Peak (8047m), Golden Throne (7312), Chogolisa (7654m), Mitre Peak (6006m), Crystal Peak (6238m) and of course, K-2 (8611m). Explore this mountain grandeur for two days before making the return trek back to Skardu. For this trek it is mandatory to have emergency evacuation insurance.

Itinerary

The Day of Judgment

Masherbrum Base Camp

Level C

Masherbrum Peak (7821m) is a uniquely shaped mountain whose snow capped tip evokes trepidation and awe. The route to the base camp leads through the idyllic Khaplu and Hushe villages, whose inhabitants embody the hospitable Balti lifestyle. Surrounding these villages are the jagged peaks of the Karakorams, and one can empathise with geologists fascination with this geologically 'young' mountain mass. Straight ahead of Hushe village lies the overshadowing presence of Masherbrum, and the trek leading to the intermediate camp -- though strenuous -- follows in part the trail leading to the summer pastures of the Hushe villagers. Masherbrum Glacier is easily bridged and Masherbrum Base Camp gives one a clear understanding of why Masherbrum is better known as 'The Day of Judgment'. After spending a day exploring the area near base camp, retrace one's steps to Khaplu and thence to Skardu.

Itinerary

Of Lakes and Wildflowers

Deosai Jeep Adventure

Level A

The Deosai Plains lie between the Indus River and the southern extension of the Himalayan Range, whose most famous peak is Nanga Parbat (8125m). At an average height of 3800m, the undulating, green, flower-filled meadows are surrounded by snow capped peaks and the drive through these plains is a soul stirring experience.

Furthermore, freshwater lakes abound, and as a result, make this seldom disturbed area a haven for wildlife, including Brown Bear and Markhor. Our jeep ride from Skardu will take us through Satpara Valley over Ali Malik Pass (4082m) to Kala Pani Stream. From here one can hike over level ground to the next camp spot of Deosai Lake (3865m). One will then drive over Chachor Pass (4267m), to Tarashing, which is the jump-off spot for treks and expeditions to the Rupal face of Nanga Parbat. Explore the area, including a possible hike to Chungpar Glacier. Continue on to Rama Lake and after spending a day hiking in the area, jeep from Rama to Gilgit.

Itinerary


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Revised: 22 March, 1996