Paju Peak Expedition

3 photos

Paiju Peak, Karakoram, Pakistan

Duration

4 days

Max People

Min Age

12+

Pickup

Car/Bus/Jeep

Overview

Paju Peak is located in the Karakoram Mountain range, located in the Gilgit Baltistan Region of Pakistan at a height of 6,660 meters from the sea level.

Paju Peak, standing tall at 6,660 meters in the Karakoram Mountain range, is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. The name “Paju” translates to “salt” in the Balti language, a nod to the rock salt deposits found at the mountain’s base. This peak was first ascended in 1990 by a group of American climbers.

While Paju Peak is known to be somewhat less challenging than other summits in the Karakoram, it remains a demanding climb that necessitates thorough planning, preparation, and experience. Climbers must acclimatize to the high altitude before making their summit attempt. The journey to Paju Peak follows the Braldu River, leading to the base camp at the Paju campsite. This campsite can become quite crowded during the peak summer season as it serves as a resting point for various expeditions in the region.

The Paju campsite offers amenities such as showers, washrooms, camping areas, and a local store. Additionally, climbers and trekkers can occasionally enjoy musical nights held at the campsite, adding a touch of local culture and camaraderie to their adventure.

Checklist

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash.
Hair brush or comb, hair ties, barrettes/bobby pins.
Deodorant.
Shampoo and conditioner.
Sunscreen and face lotion with SPF.
Night time Moisturizer/Lotion.
If under any medication, enough stock

Tour Plan

Included Services

The base camp services for the Paju Peak expedition include a flight from Islamabad to Skardu and back. There is a Jeep drive from Skardu to Askoli and return, with porters or mules to carry luggage where the jeep cannot reach. Pick-up and drop-off services from the airport to the hotel and vice versa are provided. Participants will enjoy a 3-night stay at hotel in Islamabad with bed and breakfast included. The expedition includes the royalty and permit from the Pakistan Government, maps for trekking and climbing, and porters carrying up to 20 kg of personal baggage. Climbers are provided with three meals a day and comfortable accommodation in a hotel, lodge, or tents. At the base camp, each individual gets a mattress and pillow, along with facilities like a dining tent, kitchen tent, communication tent, toilet, staff tent, tent for Pakistani base camp staff, store tents, tables, chairs, and all necessary cooking gear. Twin-sharing tents for members, experienced and well-trained cook and kitchen helpers, a heating system in the dining tent and other necessary tents, a solar panel/electricity generator, medical and first aid kit, and a professional and experienced tour guide are also included. Additionally, all taxes and fees required for necessary tools, as well as a farewell dinner, are covered.

Not Included Services

The services do not cover airfare for international flights or the Pakistan visa fee. Personal climbing equipment like sleeping bags and oxygen masks are not provided, nor are minibars during hotel stays or travels. Distinct items for individuals, such as single occupancy rooms, may incur extra charges. Group climbing gear, including ropes, ice screws, snow bars, EPI gas, cooking pots, and others, is also excluded. An insurance policy for mountain climbing rescue and evacuation, which is mandatory, is not included. Lodging and meals after the base camp, as well as meals in Islamabad other than breakfast, are not covered. Any costs arising from the necessity of an early conclusion or summit attempt, such as additional hotel nights, hotel meals, and evacuation expenses, must be borne by the participants. Costs resulting from unforeseeable delays beyond the company’s control (Force majeure) are not included. Finally, personal communication expenses like phone, fax, or email from Pakistan to the home country are not covered.