Kanday & Pari Valleys – Quiet Trailheads to the Giants of the Karakoram!
Located just before the famous Hushe Village, the valleys of Kanday and Pari lie tucked deep in the Ghanche District of Baltistan. These high-altitude Balti villages are not only peaceful and scenic — they are gateways to legendary treks like Laila Peak Basecamp, Charakusa Glacier, and K6/K7 Basecamp.
If you’re looking to go beyond Khaplu and Machulo, into the heart of mountaineering history and authentic Balti life, Kanday and Pari offer everything from mountain majesty to cultural immersion.
Why Visit Kanday & Pari Valleys?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🏔️ Proximity to Peaks | Near K6 (7,282m), K7 (6,934m), Laila Peak (6,096m), and Masherbrum (K1) |
| 🥾 Trekking Base | Entry points for Charakusa Glacier, Spangser Glacier, and Laila Peak |
| 🧕 Cultural Richness | Villages with traditional Balti architecture, farms, and hospitality |
| 📷 Photography | Snow-capped backdrops, stone houses, and alpine meadows |
| 🐐 Pastoral Life | Goats, yaks, and shepherds in mountain pastures |
| 🌸 Apricot Orchards & Meadows | Especially stunning in spring and summer |
Routes to Kanday & Pari Valleys
Location & Accessibility
📍 District: Ghanche, Gilgit-Baltistan
🏞️ Elevation:
Kanday: ~2,900m
Pari: ~3,100m
🚗 Distance from Skardu: ~140 km (5–6 hours via 4×4)
🛣️ Route: Skardu → Khaplu → Machulo → Kanday → Pari → Hushe
🥾 Access: Well-connected via jeep tracks (rough in sections)
💡 Ideal for trekkers, photographers, and travelers en route to Hushe or planning high-altitude treks.
Top Treks & Outdoor Activities
| Trek | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🥾 Charakusa Glacier Trek | 4–7 days | Begins near Kanday; offers views of K6/K7, Laila Peak |
| 🏞️ Laila Peak Basecamp | 2–4 days | A classic trek for experienced hikers — starts near Pari |
| 🧊 Spangser Glacier Trek | 3–5 days | Remote and quiet — ideal for photographers and nature lovers |
| 🚶♂️ Day Hikes | 1–3 hours | Walks along the river, fields, and to higher ridges |
| 📷 Village Exploration | Half or full day | Interact with locals and capture traditional Balti life |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| June – August | Best for trekking and meadows in full bloom |
| April – May | Apricot blossoms, pleasant weather |
| September – October | Golden autumn leaves, quieter trails |
| Winter (Nov–March) | Heavy snowfall – access very limited |
Photography Spots
| Spot | Subject |
|---|---|
| 🏞️ Above Pari | View of Laila Peak during sunrise |
| 🐐 Pasture Lands | Local herders, goats, and yaks |
| 🧕 Villagers at Work | Balti culture, farms, traditional dress |
| 🌌 Night Sky | Clear, star-filled skies — zero light pollution |
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually