Pakistan - Treks in the Karokorum
Trips in Pakistan
Pakistan is best known for it's Karakoram range that also spans the borders of China, India and Pakistan, with the northwest extremity of the range extending into Afghanistan and Tajikistan however its highest 15 mountains are all based in Pakistan. The Karakorum is the 2nd highest range in the world and has eighteen summits over 7,500 m (24,600 ft), with four of them exceeding 8,000 m (26,000 ft) and of course K2 - the second highest peak in the world at 8,611 m (28,251 ft).
The mighty Karakorum range is 500 km long and is the most heavily glaciated area of the world outside of the polar regions.
KEY FACTS ABOUT PAKISTAN
Capital Islamabad
Government Federal Government
Population ~ 212.2 million
Area 881,903 sq km
Borders Afghanistan, China, India, Iraq and the Arabian Sea
Highest peak K2 8611m
Currency Pakistani Rupee
Language Officially Urdu and English but over 300 dialects and languages are used
Religion Islam (predominantly Sunni Muslim)
Coronavirus Latest statistics
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PAKISTAN?
May to October is generally considered the best time to travel to Pakistan, as there is little snow, and the summer holidays make the country rather lively. This is also the best time to travel to the northern reaches of the country, where the beautiful valleys and stunning peaks lie. The elevation of northern Pakistan means that travel is heavily influenced by snow. During May-Oct cities can hit over 40°C in midsummer, as can the Chitral Valley; while the Hunza Valley will dip below 20°C at that same time.
K2, also known as the Savage Mountain, is the second highest point on Earth
HOW DO I GET TO THE K2 REGION OF PAKISTAN?
There are several airports in Pakistan but for our treks and adventures in the Karakorum then most people will fly to Islamabad and then take an enjoyable and stunning flight to Skardu.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR PAKISTAN?
The High Commission for Pakistan in London issues Single Entry, Double Entry and Multiple Entry visas to applicants residing in the UK. Other nationals should check with their nearest embassy. Passports should be valid for six months beyond the date of entry.
WHAT VACCINATIONS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR PAKISTAN?
Recommended vaccinations: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever and protection against Malaria
Vaccinations to be considered: Hepatitis B, Rabies, Cholera, Japanese Encephalitis (JE), Tuberculosis (TB)
There is a good network of hospitals, and we recommend comprehensive medical insurance for travellers.
All water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled or treated. Dairy products are safe for consumption, and only eat well cooked fish and meat.
WHAT CURRANCY IS USED IN PAKISTAN?
It is hard to get Pakistani rupees in the UK or Ireland however you can easily change money at the airport or get better rates at the local FX shops. Generally it is best to travel with US dollars or British pounds and exchange when necessary.
Major credit cards are accepted in the cities in larger hotels and shops and you can withdraw cash from ATMs. Outside the main cities it is best to carry local cash.
WHAT POWER SUPPLY AND PLUG IS USED IN PAKISTAN?
In Pakistan there are two associated plug types, C and D. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern. Pakistan operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
