Charakusa Valley is a picturesque and remote valley located in the Karakoram range of the Himalayas, in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, towering granite peaks, and challenging climbing opportunities, making it a popular destination for mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts.
The valley is nestled between the mighty Trango Towers and the Masherbrum Range, offering stunning views of these majestic peaks. It is characterized by its rugged and pristine landscapes, with glacier-fed rivers, alpine meadows, and rocky moraines. The valley is relatively isolated and less explored compared to other areas in the Karakoram, which adds to its allure and sense of adventure.
Charakusa Valley is particularly famous among climbers for its challenging and technical climbing routes. The Trango Towers, including the iconic Great Trango Tower, dominate the skyline and provide world-class big wall and alpine climbing opportunities. These towering granite spires attract some of the world's most skilled climbers seeking to conquer their steep faces and vertical walls.
In addition to the Trango Towers, the valley offers numerous other peaks and walls for climbers to explore, such as Nameless Tower, Uli Biaho Tower, and the Masherbrum Range. These peaks provide a variety of climbing challenges, ranging from difficult rock faces to mixed ice and snow routes.
The remote nature of Charakusa Valley adds to the sense of adventure and exploration. Access to the valley typically involves a long approach trek through rugged terrain and river crossings. The valley's pristine and untouched environment provides a unique experience for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
Beyond mountaineering, the Charakusa Valley also offers opportunities for trekking, hiking, and photography. The scenic beauty, towering peaks, and untouched landscapes make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
While Charakusa Valley may be less frequented than some other areas in the Karakoram, its awe-inspiring beauty, challenging climbing routes, and untouched wilderness make it a hidden gem for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
Lodging at base camp (single supplement) |
Full base camp with dinning tent, bathroom, showers & solar charge |
All internal/domestic transport |
All domestic flights |
50kgs (110 lbs) personal baggage |
All meals during trek and at base camp (B,L,D) |
Group emergency equipment/satellite phone service with fixed calling charge |
Two nights stay in Islamabad hotel on arrival and two on return (bed & breakfast only) |
Staff insurance (guide, cook, kitchen staff, assistant(s) & porters etc) |
Experienced cook from Pakistan |
Kitchen staff |
Porters for all expedition supplies |
Solar power at base camp |
Electricity generator (backup for high voltage devices) |
International airfare |
Permit/royalty fee according to number of persons |
Personal climbing equipment, clothing & sleeping equipment |
Group climbing gear (rope, ice crew, snow bar, EPI gas, cooking pots and others) |
Mountain climbing rescue and evacuation insurance policy - mandatory |
Lodging and meals above base camp |
Any service above base camp |
Communication radio (walkie talkie) |
Weather reports |
Personal equipment cargo to/from Islamabad |
Pakistan visa fee |
Tips/gratuities to staff, cook, assistant(s) of US$ 250 per person in total |
Meals in Islamabad |
Extra hotel nights after the climb |
Trip cancellation insurance |
All expenses incurred in the event of early wind-up/summit (extra hotel nights, meals at hotels, evacuation) |
Charges incurred due to delays beyond the control of Apricot Tours (Force majeure) |
Personal communication (phone, fax, e-mail) between Pakistan and home country. |