Arrival in Islamabad Reference

Islamabad International Airport - Attraction Name: Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan
Description: Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, a North Nomads representative will greet you for a private transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and acclimate after your travels.

Faisal Mosque - Check into your accommodation in Islamabad. In the evening, join the group for a traditional Pakistani welcome dinner. Meet your fellow adventurers and expedition leader for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing, which will cover winter conditions at Fairy Meadows, gear checks, and safety protocols.

Fly to Gilgit, Drive to Raikot Bridge

Islamabad International Airport - Early morning transfer to Islamabad Airport for the 55-minute PIA mountain flight to Gilgit. The flight traverses the western Himalayas, offering aerial views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m), Rakaposhi (7,788m), and the Karakoram Range. A window seat is highly recommended. Note: flights are weather-dependent and may be delayed or rerouted by road if canceled.

Jeep to Tato Village, Snow Trek to Fairy Meadows

Fairy Meadows - Trek through snow-covered pine and birch forests from Tato Village to Fairy Meadows (3,300m). In winter, the team may need to forge a path through deep snow. The trek ascends approximately 700 meters over 5 kilometers and takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on snow conditions. Porters will carry the main luggage. Arrive at Fairy Meadows to find the entire alpine plateau deserted and blanketed in snow, with the massive south face of Nanga Parbat towering directly above. Settle into your wooden cabin, warm up by the wood-burning stove, and enjoy a hot dinner.

Fairy Meadows Exploration and Evening Celebration

Fairy Meadows - Wake to views of the 4,600m Rupal Face of Nanga Parbat illuminated by the winter sun. Spend the day exploring the frozen meadow at your own pace. If weather and snow conditions allow, trek to Beyal Camp (approximately 2 to 3 hours round trip) for dramatically closer views of Nanga Parbat’s massive south face. Other options include snowshoeing across the meadow or relaxing by the stove. In the evening, the team lights a bonfire in the snow and prepares a special feast of traditional Pakistani mountain cuisine with hot chai and kahwa (Kashmiri green tea with saffron and almonds). Stargaze under skies with zero light pollution at 3,300 meters.

Fairy Meadows Sunrise and Free Day

Fairy Meadows - Wake to views of the 4,600m Rupal Face of Nanga Parbat illuminated by the winter sun. Spend the day exploring the frozen meadow at your own pace. If weather and snow conditions allow, trek to Beyal Camp (approximately 2 to 3 hours round trip) for dramatically closer views of Nanga Parbat’s massive south face. Other options include snowshoeing across the meadow or relaxing by the stove. In the evening, the team lights a bonfire in the snow and prepares a special feast of traditional Pakistani mountain cuisine with hot chai and kahwa (Kashmiri green tea with saffron and almonds). Stargaze under skies with zero light pollution at 3,300 meters.

Trek Down, Drive to Gilgit

Fairy Meadows - Attraction Name: Fairy Meadows, Diamer, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Description: Enjoy final morning views of Nanga Parbat before trekking back down through the snow to Tato Village. The descent takes 3 to 4 hours and requires caution on icy sections. Trekking poles are essential. Porters will carry the main luggage.

Drive to Hunza Valley, Explore Karimabad

Karakoram Highway - Drive north from Gilgit along the Karakoram Highway towards the Hunza Valley. The road follows the Hunza River through dramatic gorge scenery with snow-dusted peaks on both sides.

Baltit Fort - Visit the 700-year-old Baltit Fort, a beautifully restored monument perched on the clifftop above Karimabad. The fort offers panoramic views of Rakaposhi (7,788m), Ultar Sar (7,388m), and Lady Finger Peak. Explore the museum rooms and learn about the history of the Hunza Mirs.

Altit Fort - Visit Altit Fort, one of the oldest structures in the Hunza region, with its traditional watchtower and terraced gardens overlooking the valley.

Attabad Lake, Passu, and Upper Hunza

Attabad Lake - Drive north along the KKH to Attabad Lake, a stunning turquoise lake formed by a massive landslide in 2010. In winter, the lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and often partially frozen at the edges, creating a dramatic winter landscape.

Drive to Gilgit, Fly to Islamabad, Departure

Islamabad International Airport - Arrive in Islamabad and transfer to the airport for your onward journey or to your hotel if extending your stay. An optional extra night in Islamabad is available with a complimentary half-day city tour covering Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, and the Pakistan Monument.

• Porters for luggage and supplies on the Fairy Meadows trek
• Lunch
• First aid kit and basic emergency supplies
• Dinner
• Bonfire celebration and special dinner
• Breakfast
• All entrance fees (Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, listed sites)
• Experienced expedition leader and local mountain guide
• Pre-trek briefing and gear check
• Return domestic flights Islamabad to Gilgit
• Airport transfers in Islamabad
• All ground transport by private minibus and 4x4 jeep

• International flights to and from Islamabad
• Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover trekking to 3,500m and emergency evacuation)
• Pakistan visa fees - Letter of invitation provided
• Personal trekking gear and winter clothing
• Snacks and drinks beyond included meals
• Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and drivers
• Additional accommodation/meals due to flight delays or weather changes, Personal expenses,souvenirs

Fairy Meadows in winter offers a unique experience. While summer attracts many visitors, December and January turn this alpine plateau into a secluded, snow-covered paradise with the majestic Nanga Parbat looming above. Your group will likely have the place to yourselves. No other tourists, no noise, just tranquility and one of the most breathtaking mountain vistas on Earth.
This is not a typical sightseeing tour. The journey is managed directly by local guides, porters, and cooks from northern Pakistan. There is no subcontracting involved. The team is familiar with these mountains in every season as they reside here.
The trip combines the untouched winter beauty of Fairy Meadows with the Hunza Valley, featuring Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake, and the Karakoram Highway. Fly into Gilgit to make the most of your time in the mountains.
A word of caution: there is no electricity, no running water, and no private bathrooms. Cabins are warmed by wood stoves, and temperatures can plummet well below freezing. This adventure is for those who embrace these challenges as part of the experience.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.