Chitral to Dir via Thallo Pass Trek

Overview

The Thallo Pass Trek is an exciting and less-traveled route connecting Chitral to Dir in the Hindu Kush mountains of northern Pakistan. It involves crossing the Thallo Pass (4,800m), offering stunning views of Tirich Mir (7,708m) and other towering peaks. The trek winds through lush valleys, alpine meadows, and traditional Khowar and Pashtun villages, making it a fantastic mix of adventure and cultural exploration.


Trek Overview

  • Location: Hindu Kush Range, Northern Pakistan
  • Maximum Elevation: 4,800 meters (Thallo Pass)
  • Best Season: July to mid-September for optimal weather conditions
  • Trek Duration: 6–9 days, depending on pace and acclimatization
  • Start/End Points: Chitral to Kumrat (Dir) or vice versa
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous – recommended for trekkers with prior high-altitude experience

Why Trek Thallo Pass?

  • Scenic Beauty: Spectacular alpine views including Tirich Mir, the highest peak of the Hindu Kush
  • Cultural Encounters: Interact with hospitable Khowar and Pashtun communities along the trail
  • Off-the-Beaten Path: A remote and lesser-known route perfect for adventure seekers
  • Ecological Diversity: Lush valleys, pine forests, wildflowers, and high-altitude meadows

Logistics & Support

  • Access: Fly to Chitral or drive from Islamabad via Lowari Tunnel
  • Guides & Porters: Hiring local support is recommended due to complex terrain and route-finding
  • Accommodation: Combination of camping and local homestays in remote villages
  • Meals: Self-catered or provided by guides (if part of an organized trek)
  • Permits: Not typically required, but registration with local authorities may be necessary

Trek Highlights

  • Thallo Pass (4,800m): Stunning panoramic views of the Hindu Kush Range
  • Tirich Mir Vistas: Spectacular sights of the highest peak in the Hindu Kush (7,708m)
  • Cultural Encounters: Explore rich Khowar and Pashtun traditions in remote villages
  • Kumrat Valley: Lush forests, serene waterfalls, and blooming alpine meadows
  • Remote Adventure: A true off-the-beaten-path trekking experience away from crowds
DAYS ITINERARY SEE LEVEL RESIDENCE
01 Arrival in Chitral by flight or drive via Lowari Tunnel. Visit Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, and local bazaar. 1,500m HOTEL / GUESTHOUSE
02 Drive from Chitral to Shahgrom in Tirich Valley. Begin trek with views of Tirich Mir. 2,800m CAMPING
03 Trek through meadows and forests to Thallo High Camp near glacier base. 3,800m CAMPING
04 Early morning trek over Thallo Pass (4,800m). Descend to Barikot Valley in Upper Dir. 4,800m / ↓3,200m CAMPING
05 Trek through forests and rivers to Kumrat Valley. Visit Jahaz Banda and Katora Lake. 2,900m CAMPING / GUESTHOUSE
06 Trek or drive to Thall at the entrance of Kumrat. Experience local Pashtun and Gujjar culture. 2,000m GUESTHOUSE
07 Drive to Dir town and continue to Islamabad (8–10 hrs) or Peshawar (6–7 hrs). 500m HOTEL / FLY OUT
08 (Optional) Explore Kumrat Valley further, visit Dojanga Waterfall. 2,800m CAMPING
09 (Optional) Visit Jandrai and Sheringal. Drive to Dir for return travel. 1,200m HOTEL

What’s Included

  • Domestic Flights – Includes all internal flights within Pakistan (Checked baggage allowance: 20kg, Hand carry: 7kg)
  • All Road Transfers – Includes airport transfers and all road travel as per itinerary
  • Hotel Accommodation – Twin-sharing rooms in Islamabad, Skardu, and Hunza
  • Trekking Accommodation – Twin-sharing dome tents during the trek
  • Trekking & Camping Fees – Covers all campsite fees, bridge tolls, and access permits
  • Trekking Logistics – Includes all tents, non-personal equipment, and necessary tools
  • All Meals in Pakistan – Except those specifically mentioned under "What's Not Included"
  • Snacks & Refreshments – Dry fruits, tea, coffee, and energy snacks during the trek
  • Drinking Water – Free refills of boiled drinking water throughout the trek
  • Licensed Professional Guide – Government-authorized English-speaking guide
  • Waste Management Fee – Covers the mandatory $150 Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) conservation fee
  • City Tours – Guided Islamabad & Skardu sightseeing tours, including all entry fees
  • Support Staff – Includes cook, assistants, and trekking crew
  • Porterage for Personal Luggage – Up to 14kg per trekker
  • Storage Service in Skardu – Secure baggage storage for extra luggage before the trek
  • First Aid Kit – Includes basic medical supplies for minor injuries and altitude sickness
  • Emergency Communication – Access to a satellite phone for emergencies only
  • Trekking Map & Achievement Certificate – A detailed map and certificate upon completing the trek

What’s Not Included

  • International Airfare & Pakistan Visa – Supporting documents for visa application will be provided
  • Personal Travel Insurance – Recommended: Global Rescue or equivalent for emergency evacuation
  • Hotel & Restaurant Meals – 5 lunches & 6 dinners not included (Estimated cost per meal: USD 4–9)
  • Government Permit Fee – USD 300 Gilgit-Baltistan Adventure Permit (increased in 2024)
  • Bottled Water & Beverages – 1.5L bottled water costs approx. USD 0.30 (boiled water refills provided)
  • Personal Equipment – Trekking gear such as shoes, down jacket, walking sticks, backpacks, etc.
  • Extra Hotel Nights in Islamabad – Check-in/out at 12 PM; additional stay costs USD 67 per night
  • Excess Baggage Charges – USD 11 per kg for additional baggage on the trek
  • Storage Service in Islamabad – USD 18 per bag/piece
  • Tips & Gratuities – Recommended for guides, porters, and support staff
  • Personal Expenses – Includes minibar, phone calls, laundry, souvenirs, etc.
  • Early Return Costs – Any expenses due to early trek termination for personal or medical reasons
  • Force Majeure Costs – Unforeseen expenses due to earthquakes, landslides, floods, or other natural events

🔹 Climbing Essentials

  • Climbing Shoes – High-performance shoes designed for rock climbing, providing grip and precision.
  • Crash Pad – Thick foam pad used in bouldering to cushion falls.
  • Chalk Bag & Chalk – Moisture-absorbing chalk to improve grip during climbs.
  • Harness – Adjustable harness for even weight distribution and safety.
  • Locking Carabiner – Auto-lock or screw-gate carabiner for securing gear.
  • Climbing Rope (10.5mm) – Dynamic rope suitable for lead climbing and rappelling.
  • Rope Bag – Keeps climbing ropes clean, protected, and tangle-free.
  • Helmet – Lightweight, impact-resistant for protection against falling debris.
  • Belay Device – Used for controlling rope during belaying or rappelling.

🔹 Clothing & Accessories

  • Mid-Weight Fleece Jacket – Insulating and breathable layer for cold conditions.
  • Rain Jacket – Waterproof and windproof with breathable fabric.
  • Windproof Pants – Designed to block wind and provide trekking comfort.
  • Fleece Hat – Retains heat and insulates against the cold.
  • Running Shoes / Light Hiking Boots – Ideal for approach hikes and general trekking.
  • Water Bottle – Leak-proof and durable (1–2 liters).
  • Sunglasses – UV-protected to shield from intense sunlight and glare.
  • Sunblock & Lip Balm – SPF protection and hydration for lips and skin.

🔹 Nutrition & Energy

  • Snacks – High-energy items like protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and energy gels.
  • Energy Snacks – Quick-access options like chocolate, granola bars, and electrolyte gels.

🔹 Expedition Suitability

This list ensures climbers are well-equipped for the challenges of high-altitude climbing and trekking in the Karakoram. It balances performance, safety, and comfort in harsh alpine environments.

Terms & Conditions

How to Book

We recommend booking well in advance by sending a non-refundable deposit of 25% Euro or USD and the tour price with a minimum deposit of 50% Euro or USD per person in advance. Some of the tours and ground arrangements may require a higher deposit of up to 80% with booking conditions. These details will be provided on confirmation of your booking. The deposit is required within 5 days of confirmation to hold your booking. The booking confirmation will include the exact deposit amount required and the due date of final payment. Please read these terms and conditions carefully and raise any questions you may have prior to making your booking. Receipt of deposit will be taken as an understanding by KARAKORUM GUIDES PAKISTAN that the customer has checked their confirmed travel arrangements and has read and agrees to abide by the terms and conditions. Any verbal quote given is an estimate only of the price which will be subject to advice on confirmation of the reservation, after which you will have 5 days to pay your nonrefundable deposit with 50% in advance tour price.

Price

Price we will give you after few discussion by e-mail or phone call. Should these costs change it may be necessary to make a surcharge on the price of your holiday which will be advised to you at the time you book. However no surcharge in respect to cost or currency fluctuations will be made to the arrangements of your holiday once full payment has been received by Karakorum Guides, unless any changes are made to your booking in accordance with these terms and conditions. This price guarantee does not apply to:

  • (i) fares, charges or levies imposed by airlines up until ticketing
  • (ii) any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any Government or their agencies and the banking transfer charges.

Amendments

One change per booking is permitted free of charge. Each subsequent change will incur a fee of 50 $ per amendment to cover extra administrative and communication costs. In addition, cancellation and/or amendment fees may also be imposed minimum of 500 $ or depending on the nature of the change. To the extent we are able to do so, we will advise you of all applicable cancellation and/or amendment charges at the time of confirmation of your booking. Separate conditions apply to air arrangements and are set out in Section 9 of these terms and conditions.

Late Bookings

A fee of 30 $ per booking will be levied for bookings made within 10 working days of departure from your home land. Any booking request made within 10 working days or within any relevant supplier’s cancellation period cannot be processed until full payment has been received by Karakorum Guides.

Land Only Service Charge

A $200 fee applies to land-only bookings for fewer than 2 nights of accommodation or 2 days of car rental.

Payments

We accept only bank transfers or cash. Card payments are not accepted.

Cancellations and Refunds

For Expeditions

If you decide to cancel your program or you are unable to travel, Karakorum Guides will refund the amount you have paid less (i) our reasonable costs and (ii) any cancellation fees imposed by other suppliers. It is likely that other suppliers’ cancellation fees (which we will pass on to you) will be greater when cancellation takes place closer to the departure date. If you notify us of cancellation more than 30 days before departure, then the cancellation charges are only 25% non-refundable deposit. If you notify us of cancellation less than 30 days before departure, the cancellation charges may be up to 50% of the total booking cost. Regrettably cancellation charges cannot be waived. No refunds are available for unused services after departure from your home land.

For Trekking/Tours

If you decide to cancel your program or you are unable to travel, Karakorum Guides will refund the amount you have paid less (i) our reasonable costs and (ii) any cancellation fees imposed by other suppliers. It is likely that other suppliers’ cancellation fees (which we will pass on to you) will be greater when cancellation takes place closer to the departure date. If you notify us of cancellation more than 15 days before departure, then the cancellation charges are only 25% of your deposit. If you notify us of cancellation less than 15 days before departure, the cancellation charges may be up to 50% of the total booking cost. Regrettably cancellation charges cannot be waived. No refunds are available for unused services after departure from your home land.

For Air Arrangements

Cancellation fees will apply as required by airlines regulations and will vary dependent upon the type of airfare utilized. Airfare prices and conditions are subject to change or withdrawal without notification until ticketed. Full payment is required before tickets can be issued. Karakorum Guides cannot be held liable for any increases in prices or changes in any airline regulations. Foreign currency airfares and airport taxes may fluctuate and are subject to the rate of exchange on date of ticket issue. Increases in airport taxes are not the responsibility of Karakorum Guides and can be imposed up to departure. To the extent we are able to do so we will advise you of any increases of which we are aware at the time of confirmation of your booking.

Consumer Claims

Should you encounter any problems on your holiday it is always better to try and solve it directly with the Tour Staff. If it is not possible to do so and you wish to lodge a complaint, please do so in writing within 30 days of completing your Karakorum Guides arrangements. These Terms and Conditions do not purport to exclude any statutory rights available to you and must in all cases be read subject to those statutory provisions.

Not Included in the Tour Cost

  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Climbing Royalty Fees and permits
  • Liaison officers and helicopter rescue
  • High camp food, oxygen, EPI gas
  • Climbing gear, excess baggage, customs clearance
  • Phone calls, laundry, extra meals or drinks, tips (Bakshish)

Any airfare taxes or surcharges will be listed separately in your booking confirmation if not included in your base price.

VARIATIONS

Considerable care has been taken to compile the information in this site but circumstances not within Karakorum Guides pakistan control may necessitate changes in itineraries, accommodation and costs in which case you will be informed as soon as possible. When it is necessary to change a hotel Karakorum Guides reserves the right to substitute accommodation of at least a similar standard. KGP cannot be held responsible for any changes which may occur and reserves the right to increase the price of any travel arrangement up to the date of payment in full (or the date of ticketing in the case of airfares). This includes adjustment for fuel surcharges, airfare increases as well as international exchange rate fluctuations. To the extent we are able to do so; we will notify you of any applicable change in price prior to you making payment in full. KGP may update these terms and conditions at anytime. Any changes to these terms and conditions made after booking will be advised to you. The current version of terms and conditions will always be found on the website www.karakorumguides.com If as a result of any of these variations either: (i) there is a material increase in the cost of your tour during the period between confirmation of your booking and the date on which you pay for your tour in full; or, (ii) you will suffer a material detriment, then you may cancel your tour, in which case KGP will refund the amount you have paid less any cancellation fees imposed by other suppliers.

HOTEL DESCRIPTIONS AND PHOTOGRAPHS

Karakorum Guides will tell you the name and address of the hotel and their standard but Pictures may not show to the clients.

INSURANCE

Karakorum Guides will provide the insurance only for our staff and local porters and KGP not responsible for the clients insurance. In respect of illness, injury, death, loss of baggage and personal item cancellation and curtailment. You may purchase a suitable external policy with specialist travel insurance provider and give us their contact with your policy numbers in case of emergency.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

You are responsible for all immigration, passport, visa, health, quarantine and customs laws, regulations, orders, demands or other requirements of countries visited or transited. Official travel advice issued by the Pakistan Department of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior. We recommend that you review this information both prior to making your booking and prior to departure.

UNLICENSED ENTITY DISCLAIMER

If you request Karakorum Guides to arrange for the provision of products or services by a person or company which is not licensed in accordance with any applicable law, Karakorum Guides accepts no liability (whether in contract for negligence or otherwise) for any loss or damage suffered by you as a result.

RESPONSIBILITY

Karakorum Guides Pakistan accepts bookings subject to the following conditions:

  • A booking is accepted only after KGP receives the required deposit and issues the client or their travel agent confirmation invoices. The balance must be paid no later than 30 days before departure; otherwise, KGP will treat the booking as cancelled, regardless of whether a deposit is being held.
  • KGP acts solely as a coordinator of tours and an agent for the owners, contractors, and suppliers of transportation, accommodation, and/or related travel services. KGP assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness, death, or any damages or claims arising directly or indirectly from accidents, delays, transport failures, strikes, wars, uprisings, or acts of God—events beyond our control. All coupon receipts and tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by third-party suppliers, and all services are governed by the laws of the country where they are provided.
  • All matters directly relating to the services provided by Karakorum Guides Pakistan will be handled in accordance with these stated responsibilities.

CANCELLATION BY US

Karakorum Guides reserves the right to cancel any Small Group Journey if minimum passenger numbers are not attained. Operation of these tours is dependent on a minimum number of persons booking on your tour. We will advise you of such cancellations no later than 30 days before departure date. However, KGP reserves the right to cancel a Small Group Journey at any time before departure due to Force Majeure (as defined below) or KGP reasonable consideration of adverse Government travel advice. With any form of cancellation, KGP will offer you alternative arrangements, and if the price of your alternative booking is a lower value than the original booking we will refund the difference to you. If you do not accept alternative arrangements we will refund all payments you have made to KGP, in the case of Force Majeure or government travel advice refunds will be less any of KGP unrecoverable costs. KGP will not be liable for any additional costs incurred by you. KGP will not be liable for any delay in, change to or cancellation of trips due to a circumstance beyond the reasonable control of KG and includes, but is not limited to, acts of God, fire, accident, interruptions to energy supplied, war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, industrial or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions and strikes.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

Karakorum Guides will not accept responsibility or liability for any clients who contravenes any law or regulation of any country visited. At all times the decision of the Local Guide / Tour Leader or representative will be final on all matters likely to affect the safety and well-being of the trip. You must, at all times, strictly comply with the laws, customs, and foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited. Should you fail to comply with the above, or should you interfere in our reasonable opinion with the well-being of the group then the leader or company representative may order you to leave the trip immediately with no right of refund.

PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND AGE LIMITS

Before making a booking you must advise us of any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of you requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. You may be required to provide an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner if requested. If you fail to adequately notify us of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, we reserve the right, at our reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.

Important: By paying your deposit, you agree to all the terms listed here. Please contact us with any questions before confirming your booking.