Ice climbing in the Karakoram, Pakistan. Frozen waterfalls up to 300 m high, granite gullies, quiet winter villages and Masherbrum (7,821 m) above the valley. Discover Karakoram organised the first ice climbing expedition in the Pakistani Karakoram in winter 2024, and we have hosted ice climbers in the Hushe valley every winter since. Hushe is the home of our guides, so nobody knows this ice better.
Ice climbing in Hushe at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Hushe valley, Ghanche, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan |
| Base | Hushe village, about 3,050 m to 3,200 m |
| Ice lines | About 75 m to 300 m, WI 3+ to WI 4+ |
| Season | 15 December to 15 February |
| Next fixed departure | 20 January 2027, 14 days from Islamabad |
| Stay | Heated local guesthouse in Hushe |
| Price | On request |
The icefalls
| Icefall | Length | Grade | First climbed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoma Chan | 175 m | WI 4+ | 2024 |
| Wasoq Left | 250 m | WI 3+ | 2024 |
| Wasoq Right | 120 m steep ice above a frozen stream of about 300 m | WI 4+ / WI 2 | 2024 |
| Lower Tisar | 75 m | WI 4+ | 2024 |
| Aling valley and upper Hushe | New lines | Open | Still to be explored |
Our story on the ice
In winter 2024 a Spanish and French team led by the ice explorer Rafa Vadillo came to Pakistan with Discover Karakoram. Landslides on the road changed the plan, but from our base in Hushe the team opened four new icefalls: Shoma Chan, Wasoq Left, Wasoq Right and Lower Tisar. During the trip they ran an ice climbing course for our local guides Ali Hassan (an 8,000 m climber), Ahmed Fata, Khadim Ali and Karim Hushevi, with equipment supported by CAMP of Italy. The expedition was reported in the climbing press as the first ice climbing in the Pakistani Karakoram. Since then we have welcomed ice climbers to Hushe every winter.
Press about our ice climbing
- Desnivel: the first icefalls in the Pakistani Karakoram
- Barrabes: Rafa Vadillo leads a Spanish French team on Karakoram ice
- Cumbres magazine: Spanish and French climbers explore Karakoram ice
- Sportvicious: ice climbing in the Pakistani Karakoram
Why climb ice with Discover Karakoram
- We organised the first ice climbing expedition in the Pakistani Karakoram
- Our guides live in Hushe and know every gully and approach
- Guides trained on steep ice in 2024 and climbing every winter since
- Warm guesthouse, local food and real village life between climbing days
- Over 40 years of mountain experience led by our founder Rozi Ali
- Government licensed operator, DTS No. 2369
Frequently asked questions
Where can I go ice climbing in Pakistan?
In the Hushe valley in Gilgit Baltistan, below Masherbrum (7,821 m). It is the first ice climbing destination in the Pakistani Karakoram.
When is the ice climbing season?
From about 15 December to 15 February. January is usually the best month.
How high are the ice walls?
The established lines are about 75 m to 300 m, with grades mostly from WI 3+ to WI 4+.
When is the next group?
Our fixed group departure starts in Islamabad on 20 January 2027 for 14 days.
Do I need experience?
Some ice or winter climbing experience is best. Beginners can join a slower program with training on easier ice.
How do I book?
Message us on WhatsApp +92 355 5733499 or email discoverkarakoram@gmail.com. Prices are on request.
