General
Darwaza Pass Trek (2024-25)
The Darwaza Pass Trek is an exhilarating high-altitude experience in Pakistan’s Upper Swat Valley that combines breathtaking alpine landscapes, crystal-clear glacier lakes, and panoramic mountain views. This hard walk takes you through lush meadows, steep slopes, and unspoiled wilderness to the spectacular Darwaza Pass at 13,900 feet, providing an amazing experience for nature lovers and trekkers.
Itinerary – Darwaza Pass Trek
The itinerary for the Darwaza Pass Trek is given below.
Day 02: Islamabad to Mingora
On this Day
Depart Islamabad early in the morning for a picturesque trip to Mingora, Swat Valley's main city. The tour will take you past beautiful landscapes, farmland, rivers, and tiny villages, providing glimpses of the region's natural beauty. After arriving at Mingora, you can tour the local bazaar, see the adjacent Saidu Sharif, or simply rest at your hotel. This day allows you to acclimate to the altitude while also enjoying the valley's cultural ambiance.
Day 03: Mingora to Utror, then trek to Dhero 3 Lake
On this Day
Depart Mingora at 6:00 am for the drive to Utror, located in Upper Swat Valley. The 4-hour ride passes through spectacular alpine scenery, with views of pine trees, waterfalls, and the Swat River. When you arrive at Utror at about 10:00 am, eat a delicious meal to refuel for the journey ahead. Begin trekking from Kandol Lake around 11:00 am, going towards the Dhero Lakes. The hike is moderate and takes about 5-6 hours, taking you through alpine meadows and forested trails. Set up camp and have dinner at Dhero 3 Lake, where you'll stay the night.
Day 04: Trek to Dhero Lakes and Darwaza Pass
On this Day
After an early breakfast at 5:00 am, set off on a tough hike to Dhero 4-10 Lakes and Darwaza Pass, which rises to 13,900 feet. The track, which takes 9-10 hours to finish, is difficult, with rocky and boulder-strewn areas. However, the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and crystal-clear lakes make the effort worthwhile. Stop for lunch at the final lake in the Dhero series before heading to Darwaza Meadow, a magnificent high-altitude campground famed for its lush foliage and seasonal wildflowers.
Day 05: Trek to Bara Jabba Banda
On this Day
Start the day with breakfast at 6:00 a.m., followed by a 5- to 6-hour journey to Bara Jabba Banda. The path is relatively straightforward, passing through rolling meadows, deep woodlands, and a mountain stream. The scenery is distinguished by verdant grasses and wildflowers, creating a tranquil atmosphere as you descend into the campsite. Enjoy supper and camp in Bara Jabba Banda, where you can unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Day 06: Trek Back to Bahrain Town
On this Day
After breakfast, begin the 4-5 hour descent towards Bahrain Town. The trail will lead you down through the valley, with vistas of terraced farms and traditional communities hidden amid the hills. When you get to Bahrain, you can visit the local bazaar, rest by the river, or sample local food. In the afternoon, leave for Mingora, where you will spend the night.
Day 07: Mingora to Islamabad
On this Day
Begin the final leg of the tour with breakfast in Mingora before driving back to Islamabad. The return trip will take you along the same gorgeous path, allowing you to revisit the Swat Valley's breathtaking vistas. Arrive at Islamabad by late afternoon to complete the adventure.
Day 08: Fly to home country
On this Day
Meals included: Breakfast
Our staff will transfer all our guests to the airport on their respective departure timings. The checkout time of all our partner hotels is 12pm.
Dates & Cost – Darwaza Pass Trek
All seasons are considered good for the Darwaza Pass Trek. Considering the inflow of tourists all year round, our dates are open throughout the year and your bookings will be 100% guaranteed even if you are a single traveler. Our prices and dates for this tour (all seasons) are given below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2025 | Daily | 1050 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2025 | Daily | 1050 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2025 | Daily | 1050 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2025 | Daily | 1050 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
Holiday Information
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide's working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
As Featured In:
Overview – Darwaza Pass Trek
The trek is a thrilling tour across the Upper Swat Valley’s stunning surroundings, combining adventure with natural beauty. Beginning with the lush forests and alpine meadows around Kandol Lake, the trip progressively ascends to the enchanting Dhero Lakes, a chain of pristine high-altitude glacial lakes. Each lake reflects the craggy peaks that surround it, resulting in a stunning combination of hues and textures. The hike grows more difficult as you cross boulder-strewn routes and steep ascents, but the spectacular views and undisturbed wilderness make it all worthwhile. The approach to the lakes is dotted with wildflowers, which lend a pop of color to the gorgeous surroundings and create a serene atmosphere for hikers.
The journey culminates in Darwaza Pass, positioned at 13,900 feet, where panoramic views of towering peaks and deep valleys emerge. The pass is bordered by rocky terrain, with grassy patches and wildflowers dotting the high-altitude meadows, providing a peaceful respite from the world underneath. The descent towards Darwaza Meadow reveals a lovely green expanse with streams running through it, making it an ideal camping place. This journey is great for adventurers wishing to push themselves while exploring the various landscape and stunning beauty of northern Pakistan, away from the main tourist routes.
