Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trekking

It is no secret that the northern regions of Pakistan are among the most sought-after travel destinations around the world. Pakistan is endowed with breathtaking valleys, the highest mountains in the world, extensive forests, lakes of crystal-clear water, and many more scenic highlights.

Nanga Parbat is the ninth tallest mountain in the world. Known locally as Diamir, it translates to “King of the Mountains.” The mountain is infamously referred to as The Killer Mountain for the difficulty it presents to climbers, where many climbers have lost their lives. However, those who started their journey in the right season have been successful in reaching the top.

So, if you are adventuresome and want to experience this stunning valley, this interview is the perfect guide for you.

Meet Ukhano—The Narrator For The Nanga Parbat Trail

In order to discover more about Nanga Parbat Trail, we met with Ukhano to ask about everything that we felt might be helpful to all mountain enthusiasts. Ukhano is a famous Pakistani Youtuber, Vlogger, and photographer. His real name is Umar Khan. The man is beloved across Pakistan. Ukhano enjoys traveling and discovering new places. The videos he uploads usually feature footage from the northern parts of the country. Check out his YouTube channel to learn more about Pakistan’s hidden places.

So, let us turn our attention to the primary destination, “the Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek.”

Everything You Should Know About Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek

In case you plan on exploring Nanga Parbat trails in the near future, this will give you plenty of information you may find useful. Let’s proceed and find Ukhano’s perspective about this base camp trek now.

As we begin our conversation, we will talk about the basics.

Ukhano, what inspired you to explore Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek?

The Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular treks you can undertake. Located in the Diamir district of Gilgit Baltistan, it is at the western end of the Himalayan range. It was always fascinating to me to witness the breathtaking scenery of the majestic Fairy Meadow. Taking the famous Karakoram Highway on the Nanga Parbat base camp trek made it one of the most amazing treks in the world, which is what made this trek most appealing to me. Trekking in this area allowed me to see the greenery, steep mountains, and waterfalls in the western Himalayas.

Wow, that’s interesting! What is the best way for us to travel to those places via road?

The distance between the Capital and Nanga Parbat is 220 kilometers. When I was traveling, I drove from Islamabad to Raikot Bridge with my car and then boarded a local jeep. Within two hours of getting into the jeep, I reached Tatto Village for the start of the trek.

Jeep rides are a lot of fun! How was the view towards Tatto Village?

It was covered with rocky mountains all the way. If you are fun-loving and enjoy taking risks, I recommend you visit and explore. Since there are dangerous curves and turns along this path, you may be fearful while traveling. But, all the mountain enthusiasts are well aware that, for the jeep drivers, it isn’t an issue. Considering that they are professionals and experts, it is easy for them to take you to Tatto Village

AHANN! We are excited to know more about your journey, Ukhano!

To reach Nanga Parbat Base Camp, you must trek for eight hours roundtrip. There is an option to ride a pony (horse), so if you feel tired, you can do so.

What about the beautiful views on the way? Does the landscape have any rocky mountains?

No, not at all. The whole route is surrounded by lush forests, running along a gorge—not much to see, only steep hillsides and waterfalls. Once you have trekked for quite a while, you will come across a vista that will take your breath away. There is a sense of astonishment when one sees that vast face of ice-hung cliffs and peaks. There you see the mighty Nanga Parbat, perhaps the most magnificent mountain on the planet.

Ukhano, we have often heard that night views at Nanga Parbat Base Camp are worth seeing. What do you say?

You heard it right. A few kilometers away from Fairy Meadows, there is a famous campsite called Behal, at which I highly recommend you stay. Considering that the place is quiet and offers stunning views of the stars at night, camping here will make you feel close to nature.

That’s great to know! How about the best time of year to hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp?

The best time to hike in Fairy Meadows is during the months of April to May or September to October, ideally on weekdays. As the shoulder seasons, these periods are not considered harsh. Despite the fact that the weather might be a bit cooler than it would be in midsummer, there is little rush of people. The area is a popular tourist attraction, so avoid visiting during peak tourist seasons such as the midsummer or public holidays.

Ok, Ukhano! According to your experience, please share with us some tips that one should consider before trekking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp.

Honestly, I can tell you for certain that if you go on your camp trek, it won’t seem like a magical forest anymore. Instead, you’ll be surrounded by ice blocks and rocks. So, when it comes to hiking, proper preparation is essential.

Alright, can you please guide our travel enthusiasts about it?

Sure, I love to help others through my experiences. Do bring some good sturdy shoes. In spite of a couple of steep stretches, the trails are generally easy and well paved, so regular running shoes with good grip should suffice. Depending on the time of year you visit Fairy Meadows, the trail may be covered in snow, so wear appropriate footwear. During early October, sneakers work just fine, but not after that.

Alright, and what about weather conditions? How should one deal with extreme weather conditions?

Well, in that case, weather-proof jackets work the best. Due to the location of the mountains, we can expect heavy rain, snow, or extreme winds at any time, making it prudent to be prepared at all times. I suggest you buy two jackets for the trip: a Columbia outer shell and a fleece jacket.

This suggestion is really helpful. Any other thing you one suggest before one starts trekking?

Do install a map on your phone before you start trekking. It reduces the chances of getting lost. Secondly, make sure you have a small backpack with water and snacks. This trekking period is around 8 hours, so you will have to stop at a variety of places for rest. So, having these basics will serve you as an energy booster.

That sounds great! I may have missed the point. Is the Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek available all year?

Aside from the winter season, Fairy Meadows is open year-round. No matter when you visit, avoid visiting during public holidays!

Thanks for sharing your experience with us, and for being such a good guide.

That’s my pleasure. You can also visit my travel vlogs to know more about the travel destinations.

That was the wholesome conversation that we can conclude with this fact:

There is a reputation for climbing Nanga Parbat as a dangerous endeavor. Many mountaineers have lost their lives on it over the years, earning it the name Killer Mountain. However, that was a time of fewer shelters. A close look at this huge, majestic work of nature can be awe-inspiring. If you prefer hiking to mountaineering, the base camp is relatively easy to reach from the north side of Nanga Parbat. It offers breathtaking views of both Raikot Glacier and the northern face of Nanga Parbat.