Hidden Gateway Between Hushe and Shigar -Thake La (Trekking Guide 2025)
There’s something raw and primal about standing at the top of a little-known mountain pass, far from any tourist crowd, with nothing but windswept ridges and glacial peaks whispering your name. That’s what I felt when I crossed Thale La, a 4,600-meter-high pass that quietly connects the spectacular Hushe Valley to the scenic Shigar Valley in Baltistan. It’s not as Instagram-famous as the Fairy Meadows or as legendary as the K2 Base Camp, but if you ask any seasoned trekker in Gilgit-Baltistan about hidden gems, Thale La will certainly come up.
This guide is for those who are ready to break free from the usual routes and want to explore something lesser-known, quieter, yet equally rewarding. I trekked the Thale La route in the summer of 2023 with two local porters from Hushe and what unfolded was a surreal three-day journey that bridged culture, wilderness, and solitude in ways that left a permanent mark on my soul.
In this detailed 2025 guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to prepare for the Thale La Trek — from logistics and gear to trail tips and local insights — so that you, too, can experience one of Baltistan’s most underrated high-altitude crossings.
Table of Contents
What is the Thale La Trek?
Thale La, also known as Thalley La or Thaley La, is a high mountain pass situated at approximately 4,600 meters (15,100 ft) above sea level. It connects the picturesque Hushe Valley (Khaplu side) with the stunning Shigar Valley (Skardu side), two of the most beautiful valleys in the Baltistan region of Pakistan.
Unlike the more challenging Gondogoro La or Hispar La, Thale La is considered a moderate trek, making it ideal for those who want the high-altitude experience without committing to a month-long expedition. The entire trek typically takes 2 to 4 days, depending on your pace and route.
Why Choose Thale La Trek Over Other Treks?
Most people visiting Skardu get attracted to the big names like Concordia, K2 Base Camp, or Deosai. But Thale La offers a completely different kind of charm:
Seclusion: You won’t find big trekking groups here. It’s mostly locals or serious adventurers.
Cultural Experience: You pass through authentic Balti villages like Hushe, Shaicho, and Daghoni, where you can still witness untouched ways of life.
Less Permit Hassle: Unlike restricted border zones, Thale La falls in a relatively accessible region, making it easier for both foreigners and Pakistanis to do this trek.
Stunning Diversity: From pine forests and alpine meadows to snow-capped passes and icy rivers — all within a few days.
Route Options for Thale La Trek
You can start this trek from either Hushe or Shigar, but most people prefer starting from the Hushe side because the trail gradually gains altitude and provides better acclimatization. Here’s a typical itinerary:
Option 1: Hushe to Shigar (Recommended Route)
Day 1:
Hushe (3,000m) → Shaicho Camp (3,400m)
A gentle 4–5 hour walk along the river.
Pine forests, summer shepherd settlements, and meadows.
Day 2:
Shaicho → Thale La Base Camp (4,200m)
Steep ascent begins. The views start to open up.
Overnight at the base of the pass.
Day 3:
Cross Thale La (4,600m) → Daghoni / Surmo (3,200m)
Early morning start.
Cross the pass and descend into the Shigar Valley.
You can continue to Shigar town or even onward to Skardu.
Option 2: Shigar to Hushe (Reverse)
More demanding since the ascent from the Shigar side is steeper.
Good for experienced trekkers.
How Difficult is Thale La Trek?
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Altitude: Highest point is 4,600m. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is possible.
Technicality: No climbing gear needed, but early in the season, snow or ice patches may make crampons useful.
Fitness: Requires basic trekking stamina. Not recommended for complete beginners unless accompanied by an experienced guide.
When is the Best Time to Trek Thale La?
| Month | Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| May | Early season, snow likely | Only for experienced trekkers |
| June–July | Ideal | Green meadows and clear skies |
| August | Peak season | Occasional rain, lush scenery |
| September | Perfect for solitude | Fewer trekkers, golden hues |
| October | Risky due to snow | Only if weather holds |
What to Pack for Thale La Trek?
You’re entering the mountains, so pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist:
Clothing
Down jacket (night temperatures drop below 0°C)
Windproof outer shell
Thermal base layers
Trekking pants and fleece
Gloves, beanie, sunglasses
Gear
40–50L backpack
Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Sleeping bag (-10°C comfort)
Crampons (for early season treks)
Tent (if camping independently)
Headlamp, first-aid kit, sunscreen
Food
High-calorie snacks
Dehydrated meals or local food supplies from Hushe/Shigar
Guided vs. Independent Trekking: What’s Better?
Independent (Experienced Trekkers Only)
Possible, but you must be self-sufficient.
GPS maps (like Maps.me or Gaia GPS) are essential.
Guided Trek (Recommended for Most)
Local guides from Hushe or Shigar are available.
Cost: Around PKR 8,000–12,000/day, including food, guide, and porter services.
You support the local economy and reduce risks.
I hired a young local named Wazir from Hushe, who not only navigated the trail confidently but also shared stories of his grandfather, a porter who once carried loads for the early European expeditions. It made the trek far more immersive than just walking with GPS.
What Makes the Scenery Special?
The scenery shifts dramatically over the course of this trek:
Forested valleys with glacial rivers
Yaks grazing in alpine pastures
Dramatic views of Masherbrum and Laila Peak (on clear days)
Sunrise over the pass, painting the landscape gold
Silent mountain stillness — no honking jeeps, no tourists, no rush
It’s not just a walk through nature; it’s a walk through different climates, textures, and moods.
Accommodation Options During the Trek
| Location | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hushe | Guesthouses | Clean, basic, local-run |
| Shaicho | Camping | Bring your own tent or rent locally |
| Thale La BC | Wild Camping | No facilities; 100% nature |
| Surmo/Daghoni | Homestays | Simple, warm hospitality |
| Shigar Town | Hotels/Resorts | Serena Shigar Fort, budget lodges |
How to Get to the Starting Point?
Option 1: Skardu → Khaplu → Hushe
Skardu to Khaplu: 3 hours by car (jeep recommended)
Khaplu to Hushe: 1.5–2 hours via rough mountain road
Option 2: Skardu → Shigar/Daghoni
If starting from Shigar side, a simple 1–2 hour drive from Skardu.
Jeep rentals can cost around PKR 10,000–15,000/day. Shared transport is occasionally available but less reliable.
Environmental Responsibility – Please Trek Responsibly
Thale La is pristine because it is remote. Help keep it that way:
Pack out all trash
Avoid plastic bottles — carry a refillable water bottle and purification tabs
Camp at designated sites if available
Don’t light campfires unless permitted
Respect local customs and always ask before taking photos
A Journey Worth the Solitude
Crossing Thale La is not about ticking off a bucket list item; it’s about experiencing Baltistan in its most intimate, unfiltered form. It’s quiet, challenging, wild — the kind of trek that lets you feel small in the best possible way.
I came back with blistered feet, a sore back, and a mind full of calm I hadn’t felt in months. That’s the real reward of Thale La — not the summit picture, but the silence in your heart long after the trek is done.
So, if you’re craving something off the radar, yet completely transformational, lace up your boots and take on the Thale La Trek.
The Takeaway
Traveling in Pakistan is both exciting and accessible because to its varied transportation system. Every type of traveler has an alternative, from the convenience of ride-hailing services to the affordability of buses and trains.
Metro busses, Careem, and Uber are the most convenient means of transportation for brief city excursions. Pakistan’s picturesque train routes and opulent bus services offer comfortable and reasonably priced long-distance travel. The quickest option to travel long distances is still by domestic flight, particularly when traveling to far-flung northern locations.
Are you prepared to travel to Pakistan? Plan your vacation now to take advantage of the amazing nation’s transportation infrastructure!
Explore carefully planned tours to see the best of this fascinating nation. Please get in touch if you would need more travel advice; we are happy to assist you in organizing your upcoming journey! Additionally, by completing this form, you can personalize your journey.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
Where is Thale La Trek located?
Thale La is in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, connecting Hushe Valley (Khaplu side) with Shigar Valley (Skardu side).How long does the Thale La trek take?
Typically 3–4 days depending on your pace and starting point.What is the altitude of Thale La Pass?
Approximately 4,600 meters (15,100 feet).Is Thale La trek suitable for beginners?
It’s a moderate trek; not ideal for complete beginners but doable for fit trekkers.Do I need a guide for the Thale La trek?
Strongly recommended unless you’re an experienced high-altitude trekker with navigation skills.What is the best time to do the Thale La trek?
Late June to early September offers the best weather and trail conditions.Are permits required for Thale La?
No special permits are usually needed, but always check local guidelines.What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
Mix of village homestays, wild camping, and simple guesthouses.What should I pack for Thale La trek?
Warm clothes, sleeping bag, trekking gear, food supplies, and a first-aid kit.Can foreigners do the Thale La trek?
Yes, it’s accessible for both foreign and domestic tourists.Is there mobile signal on the trek?
Patchy at best — assume no signal for most of the trek.
Daniel loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations and making new friends. Writing blog posts since 2015, Daniel says it helps him to document his travels and cherish them. He loves the fact that what he writes might actually help someone have a better experience in Pakistan and Afghanistan. In his spare time, he loves listening to Tchaikovsky and spend time with his dog Coconut.
