Nangma Valley is one of those rare places where mountains feel alive and silence feels powerful. Hidden deep in Gilgit Baltistan, this high-altitude valley is famous for its massive granite towers, open green meadows, clear glacial streams, and untouched beauty. Many trekkers and climbers call it the Yosemite of Pakistan, not because it looks the same, but because of its huge vertical rock walls rising straight from the valley floor.
Unlike busy tourist spots, Nangma Valley is still quiet and pure. There are no crowds, no resorts, and no noise. Just mountains, sky, and nature at its best. Whether you are a trekker, a climber, or someone looking for a peaceful escape, the Nangma Valley trek offers a deep and unforgettable experience.
This complete travel guide covers everything you need to know about Nangma Valley, including location, altitude, weather, trekking route, side trips, climbing, permits, accommodation, food, culture, and travel tips.
Where Is Nangma Valley Located?
Nangma Valley is located in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, in the Ghanche District, near the historic town of Khaplu. The trek starts from Kanday village, which is the main trailhead for Nangma Valley.
From Skardu, travelers drive towards Khaplu, following the Indus and Shyok rivers. After Khaplu, a jeep track leads to Kanday village. The journey itself is very scenic, passing through narrow valleys, rivers, and traditional Balti villages.
Nangma Valley lies within the Karakoram Range, surrounded by dramatic granite peaks that make the area famous among climbers worldwide.
Height and Altitude of Nangma Valley
Nangma Valley sits at an altitude of around 3,900 to 4,000 meters above sea level. During the trek, altitude gradually increases depending on camps and side trips.
- Kanday Village: ~3,200 meters
- Mingulu Broq: ~3,600 meters
- Nangma Valley / Amin Brakk Base Camp: ~4,200 to 4,500 meters
Because of the altitude, it is recommended to spend at least one or two days in Skardu or Khaplu for acclimatization before starting the trek.
Nangma Valley Weather and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nangma Valley is June to September.
During summer:
- Days are cool and pleasant
- Nights are cold
- Skies are mostly clear
- Meadows are green and full of wildflowers
Winter brings heavy snowfall, and the valley becomes inaccessible. Spring still has snow on higher trails, making trekking difficult. Autumn is short but beautiful, with fewer trekkers and golden landscapes.
Distance From Skardu and Islamabad
- Distance from Skardu: Around 65–70 km
- Travel time: 3–4 hours by jeep
- Distance from Islamabad: Around 620 km
Most travelers fly from Islamabad to Skardu (about 1 hour). If flights are canceled due to weather, road travel via the Karakoram Highway is used.
Nangma Valley Trek Overview
The Nangma Valley trek is short, scenic, and very rewarding. It is perfect for trekkers who want big mountain views without long or technical routes. The trail passes through fields, wooden bridges, grazing areas, and wide meadows before opening into a dramatic valley surrounded by towering granite walls.
This trek is classified as easy to moderate, suitable for beginners with good fitness and very enjoyable for experienced trekkers.
Kanday to Nangma Valley Trek Route
The trek begins from Kanday village, where basic guesthouses, porters, and local guides are available.
From Kanday:
- The trail gently climbs through farmland and open pastures
- Small streams are crossed along the way
- Granite peaks slowly rise into view
Mingulu Broq
The first main camping area is Mingulu Broq, a wide green meadow surrounded by mountains. It is a peaceful place to camp, offering beautiful sunset and night sky views.
Nangma Valley Base Area
From Mingulu Broq, the trail continues deeper into the valley. This is the most dramatic part of the trek. Massive granite towers rise straight up from the valley floor, including:
- Amin Brakk (Great Tower)
- Grey Tower
- Changi Tower
Walking between these rock giants is what gives Nangma Valley its strong Yosemite of Pakistan feel.
Iconic Granite Towers – The Yosemite of Pakistan
Nangma Valley is world-famous for its granite walls and towers.
Amin Brakk (Great Tower)
- Height: ~5,850 meters
- One of the most impressive granite towers in the Karakoram
- Popular among international rock climbers
- Often compared to Yosemite’s El Capitan due to its vertical rise
Even for non-climbers, standing at the base of Amin Brakk is a powerful experience. The scale of the mountain makes you feel small and connected to nature.
Side Trips and Short Hikes
One of the best parts of the Nangma Valley trek is the chance to explore nearby areas.
Popular side trips include:
- Short hikes to high viewpoints overlooking the valley
- Walks towards Amin Brakk Base Camp
- Exploration of nearby meadows and streams
These side trips do not require technical skills and are perfect for photography, rest days, and acclimatization.
Nangma Valley Trek Distance and Difficulty
- Total trekking distance: Around 8–12 km (depending on side trips)
- Duration: 2–3 days
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
The trail is mostly gradual, with no steep or dangerous sections. Basic fitness and regular walking experience are enough.
Nangma Valley Climbing
Nangma Valley is one of the top rock climbing destinations in Pakistan. Its clean granite, vertical walls, and quiet environment attract climbers from around the world.
Popular climbing peaks include:
- Amin Brakk
- Great Tower
- Other nearby granite spires
The main climbing season is summer, and climbers usually camp near Amin Brakk Base Camp.
Accommodation Options
There are no luxury hotels inside Nangma Valley, which helps keep the area natural and peaceful.
- Kanday village offers simple guesthouses and camping options
- Khaplu has small hotels and heritage-style stays
- Skardu has the widest range of accommodation, from budget hotels to luxury resorts
Booking in advance is recommended during peak trekking season.
Food and Local Culture
Food in Nangma Valley is simple, fresh, and filling.
- Traditional bread, rice, lentils, vegetables, and soup
- Butter tea is commonly served, especially in cold weather
The Balti people are known for their kindness, honesty, and hospitality. Visitors are always welcomed with respect and warmth. Dressing modestly and respecting local customs is important.
Khaplu Fort – A Cultural Highlight
A visit to Khaplu Fort is a perfect addition to the Nangma Valley trek. Located near Khaplu town, this 19th-century fort reflects Balti architecture and history.
Why include Khaplu Fort in your trip:
- Beautiful views of the surrounding valley
- Insight into Balti culture and royal history
- Comfortable heritage-style accommodation inside the fort
Many travelers explore Khaplu Fort before or after the Nangma Valley trek, adding cultural depth to their journey.
Nangma Valley Trek Best Itinerary 2026–2027
| Day | Location | Journey & Key Activities | Altitude (meters) | Duration |
| D1 | Islamabad → Skardu → Khaplu | Fly from Islamabad to Skardu (scenic flight over mountains). Drive along Indus & Shyok rivers to historic Khaplu town. Acclimatize, optional visit to Khaplu Fort. | Skardu: 2,228 m Khaplu: ~2,600 m | Flight: 1 hr Drive: 3–4 hrs |
| D2 | Khaplu → Kanday → Mingulu Broq | Jeep drive on scenic track to trailhead at Kanday village. Start trek through farmland, pastures, and streams to wide green meadow of Mingulu Broq. Camp under stars. | Kanday: ~3,200 m Mingulu Broq: ~3,600 m | Drive: 1.5–2 hrs Trek: 3–4 hrs (gentle uphill) |
| D3 | Mingulu Broq → Nangma Valley / Amin Brakk Base Camp | Trek deeper into the valley along moraines and glacial streams. Reach stunning Nangma Valley base surrounded by massive granite towers. Camp near Amin Brakk (Great Tower) viewpoint. | Amin Brakk Base Camp: ~4,200–4,300 m | Trek: 4–5 hrs |
| D4 | Amin Brakk Base Camp (Rest & Exploration Day) | Full acclimatization day at base camp. Optional short hikes to viewpoints, meadows, or closer to granite spires (Amin Brakk, Grey Tower). Enjoy silence, photography, and mountain immersion. | ~4,200–4,300 m | Exploration: 2–4 hrs (optional, easy) |
| D5 | Amin Brakk Base Camp → Mingulu Broq → Kanday → Skardu | Descend through meadows and paths back to Mingulu Broq, then Kanday. Jeep return to Skardu. Reflect on the Yosemite-like granite walls and peaceful valley. | Skardu: 2,228 m | Trek (descent): 4–5 hrs Drive: ~2 hrs |
Customized Nangma Valley Tour with Saiyah Travels
Saiyah Travels can customize the best Nangma Valley tour in a reasonable price with an adventurous trekking experience led by expert local guides, tailored itineraries, premium camping gear, personalized acclimatization support, and insider access to the hidden Yosemite of Pakistan. Contact us to customize your perfect 2026–2027 adventure!
Travel Tips for Nangma Valley Trek
- Spend time in Skardu or Khaplu for acclimatization
- Carry warm clothes, even in summer
- Bring cash, as there are no ATMs in remote areas
- Hiring a local guide is highly recommended
- Respect nature and follow leave-no-trace principles
Final Thoughts
Nangma Valley is more than just a trekking destination. It is a place where massive granite towers touch the sky, silence feels deep, and nature shows its true power. From the peaceful meadows of Mingulu Broq to the towering walls of Amin Brakk, every step in Nangma Valley feels special.
For anyone planning a trekking adventure in Gilgit Baltistan in 2026 or 2027, the Nangma Valley trek offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and raw mountain beauty. It is truly one of Pakistan’s hidden gems and a journey worth taking.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Nangma Valley for trekking in 2026–2027?
The best time to trek Nangma Valley is from June to September when the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and meadows are in full bloom.
How to plan a complete Nangma Valley trek itinerary in Gilgit Baltistan?
You can follow a 4–5 day itinerary covering Skardu, Khaplu, Kanday village, Mingulu Broq, and Amin Brakk Base Camp for the full experience.
What are the top trekking routes in Nangma Valley, Pakistan?
The main trek starts from Kanday village, passing through pastures, streams, and meadows to Mingulu Broq and Amin Brakk Base Camp.
How difficult is the Nangma Valley trek for beginners and experienced trekkers?
The trek is classified as easy to moderate. Beginners with good fitness can manage, while experienced trekkers will enjoy the scenic and climbing opportunities.
Where to stay during Nangma Valley trek and camping options?
Kanday village offers guesthouses and camping. Khaplu has small hotels, and Skardu provides a range from budget to luxury accommodations.
What are the must-see granite towers in Nangma Valley, Pakistan?
Key granite towers include Amin Brakk (Great Tower), Grey Tower, and Changi Tower, which give Nangma Valley its Yosemite-like feel.
How to reach Nangma Valley from Skardu or Islamabad?
Fly from Islamabad to Skardu, then drive 3–4 hours via Khaplu to Kanday village. Alternatively, the Karakoram Highway is an option if flights are canceled.
What permits or guides are needed for Nangma Valley trekking?
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended. No special permits are required, but respect local customs and leave-no-trace principles.
What side trips and short hikes are recommended in Nangma Valley?
Short hikes to viewpoints, Amin Brakk Base Camp, and nearby meadows or streams are perfect for photography, acclimatization, and rest days.
Why is Nangma Valley called the Yosemite of Pakistan?
It is known as the Yosemite of Pakistan due to its massive granite walls rising straight from the valley floor, similar to Yosemite’s iconic cliffs.
