Darkot & Broghil Pass Trek 

Darkot & Broghil Pass Trek

The Darkot & Broghil Pass Trek is an exhilarating high-altitude adventure that takes trekkers through the remote valleys of Upper Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. This trek traverses the stunning Darkot Pass (4,703m) and Broghil Pass (3,798m), offering breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges. The trail passes through lush meadows, glacial rivers, and traditional Wakhi villages, providing an opportunity to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the region. This trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Pakistan’s northern frontiers.

Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Islamabad and Sightseeing

Day 02 Drive to Chilas 3-4 hrs via Babusar Pass 4173m

Day 03 Drive to Gilgit 3-4hrs 134km, arrive and transfer to hotel

Day 04 Drive to Yasin Darkot village 147 km. Altitude 2760m

Day 05 Trek to Rawat, Altitude 3600m. Overnight in tents

Day 06 Trek to Darkot high camp 3-4hrs. Overnight in tents

Day 07 Trek to Khani Basa across the Darkot Pass. It takes 4hrs

Day 08 Trek to Iskarwarz. Overnight in tents

Day 09 Trek to Khishma, it is 5-6 hours. Overnight in tents

Day 10 Trek to Lasht, these 4-6 hours. Overnight in tents

Day 11 Drive to Mastuj and Chitral 7-8hrs. Overnight at hotel

Day 12 Drive to Kalash valleys visit Bumburate, Birir, and Rumbur

Day 13 Drive to Swat 254 km. Overnight at hotel

Day 14 Drive to Islamabad 245 km. Overnight at hotel

Day 15 Drive to Islamabad airport for international flight

Why Choose the Darkot & Broghil Pass Trek?

✅ Remote & Untouched Landscapes – Experience the hidden beauty of Broghil Valley & Darkot Pass.
✅ Wakhi Culture & Hospitality – Interact with local Wakhi communities and learn about their traditions.
✅ Breathtaking Mountain Views – Witness the Hindu Kush & Karakoram peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes.
✅ A True Adventure – Ideal for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

This trek is a perfect combination of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-do for serious trekkers looking to explore Pakistan’s northernmost regions.

Key Features and Highlights

1. Location and Accessibility:

• The trek begins in the Yasin Valley (Darkot village) in the Ghizer District and ends in the Broghil Valley in the Chitral District.

• Access to the starting point, Darkot Village, is usually via a road journey from Gilgit, which takes around 7–8 hours, passing through scenic locations like Phander and Gupis.

• The trek ends in Laspur, from where travelers can continue to Chitral or make their way back to Gilgit-Baltistan.

2. Trek Difficulty:

• The Darkot & Broghil Pass Trek is a difficult trek suited for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness.

• The trek includes multiple steep ascents and descents, river crossings, and glacier traverses. The trail crosses two high-altitude passes, demanding endurance and careful acclimatization.

• The Darkot Pass is the most challenging part of the trek due to its high elevation and steep, glacier-covered path.

3. Duration:

• The trek typically takes 8 to 12 days depending on the pace, weather conditions, and specific route chosen. This duration includes time for acclimatization and exploration in both the Yasin and Broghil Valleys.

4. Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to attempt the trek is between July and September, when the weather is relatively stable, and the snow has melted, making the passes accessible. Outside this period, heavy snowfall makes the trek impassable.

5. Trek Highlights:

• Darkot Pass (4,703 meters): The highest point of the trek, Darkot Pass offers mesmerizing views of the Hindu Kush Range. The pass involves crossing a glacier, and from the top, trekkers can see the famous Koyo Zum Peak (6,872 meters), along with distant views of Karakoram and Pamir ranges.

• Broghil Pass (3,798 meters): This pass, while not as high as Darkot, provides a dramatic transition from the Yasin Valley to the isolated Broghil Valley. The pass is historically significant, once being a part of the ancient Silk Route and a strategic crossing point for traders.

• Broghil Valley: One of the most remote and beautiful regions of northern Pakistan, Broghil Valley is known for its stunning alpine meadows, lakes, and nomadic Wakhi communities. It offers a glimpse into a unique culture and way of life.

• Wildlife and Scenic Beauty: Along the trek, trekkers may spot wildlife such as the Marco Polo sheep, ibex, and the elusive snow leopard. The trail is lined with alpine meadows, wildflowers, rivers, and glaciers, offering some of the most scenic views in Pakistan.

• Yasin Valley: Known for its verdant fields and the Wakhi people's hospitality, the Yasin Valley is where the trek begins. Trekkers can explore the valley's ancient history, including its connections to the Great Game in the 19th century.

6. Trekking Route:

• Day 1-2: Arrival in Gilgit and travel to Yasin Valley. Acclimatization and exploration in the valley.

• Day 3-5: Trek through Yasin Valley, crossing alpine meadows, forests, and small Wakhi settlements. As you ascend toward Darkot Pass, the terrain becomes rugged with glacier crossings.

• Day 6: Cross Darkot Pass. This day involves challenging glacier navigation and a steep climb to the pass. The views from the top of Darkot Pass are incredible, showcasing the towering peaks of the Hindu Kush.

• Day 7-8: Descend into Broghil Valley. The trail follows a stunning path with alpine lakes and meadows, arriving at Broghil Pass.

• Day 9-10: Explore the Broghil Valley, its surrounding areas, and cross Broghil Pass to reach the Laspur Valley. The trek ends here, and transport can be arranged for onward travel to Chitral.

7. Accommodation and Logistics:

• The trek is a camping-based expedition, as there are very few facilities along the route. Trekkers must carry their own tents, food, and supplies, or arrange for local porters and guides.

• Local guides are essential, as the trek crosses remote and challenging terrain with minimal signage. They can also provide valuable cultural insights into the Wakhi people of the Yasin and Broghil Valleys.

8. Permits:

• Permits are required to trek in this region due to its proximity to the Afghanistan and Tajikistan borders. These can be obtained in Gilgit or through local tour operators.

Scenic Beauty and Photography:

• Darkot & Broghil Pass Trek offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the majestic glaciers and peaks of the Hindu Kush to the serene alpine meadows of Broghil Valley.

• The vibrant culture and traditional lifestyle of the Wakhi people provide unique chances for cultural photography, capturing the nomadic life, grazing yaks, and colorful festivals.

• Stunning views of Koyo Zum Peak and other Hindu Kush giants, as well as the dramatic landscapes of both passes, make this trek a paradise for landscape photographers.