The Karakoram is a mountain range with very different seasons. The right month depends on what you want to do, from summer treks on the glaciers to winter ice climbing. Use this guide to choose the best time for your trip.
Spring: March to May
Spring brings blossom to the valleys of Hunza, Nagar and Skardu, with snowy peaks behind. It is the season for our cherry blossom tours and for gentle walks and cultural visits. High treks are still under snow.
Summer: June to August
This is the main season for high treks and expeditions. The glaciers are open, high passes like Gondogoro La can be crossed, and climbing teams head for K2, Broad Peak, the Gasherbrums and Nanga Parbat. Days in the valleys are warm, while nights on the glacier are cold.
- K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La
- 8,000 m and 7,000 m expeditions
- Snow Lake and the Hispar La
Late summer and autumn: September to November
September is still good for many treks and for 6,000 m peaks like Laila Peak, with fewer people on the trails. In October the poplar and apricot trees turn gold and red, which makes it a beautiful time for our autumn tours in Hunza and Skardu.
Winter: December to February
Winter is quiet and cold, but it has its own adventures. In January and February the waterfalls of the Hushe valley freeze into ice climbing walls of 200 to 300 metres. In February and March we run snow leopard and Himalayan ibex trips in Hushe, when the animals come lower down the valleys.
Quick summary
- Treks: May to September
- High passes and 8,000 m expeditions: June to August
- Cherry blossom: spring
- Autumn colours: October
- Ice climbing: January and February
- Snow leopard and ibex: February and March
Not sure which season suits you?Tell us your plans and we will suggest the best trip.
