This Central Karakoram National Park travel guide explains how to visit the largest protected area in Pakistan, which holds K2, Broad Peak, Masherbrum and some of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions. Most visitors enter through Skardu and meet the park on treks such as K2 Base Camp, Concordia, Snow Lake and the Gondogoro La crossing. It is a place for planned expeditions, not casual drives.
Quick answer: how do you visit Central Karakoram National Park?
Base yourself in Skardu, arrange a registered operator, permits and a guide, and choose a trek that fits your experience and season. The Baltoro Glacier and Concordia route is the best known, while Biafo and Hispar offer a longer glacier crossing.
Central Karakoram National Park quick facts
| Detail | Central Karakoram National Park |
|---|---|
| Region | Gilgit-Baltistan, mainly Skardu and Ghanche districts |
| Established | 1993 |
| Area | About 10,557.73 km2, the largest protected area in Pakistan |
| Altitude range | From about 2,000 m to over 8,000 m |
| Main glaciers | Baltoro, Panmah, Biafo and Hispar |
| Famous peaks | K2 (8,611 m), Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and II, Masherbrum |
| Zoning | Core zone of about 7,607 km2 and a buffer zone |
| Main entrance | Skardu |
| Languages | Balti, Shina and Burushaski regionally; Urdu widely understood |
| Mobile coverage | None on most treks; plan for a satellite device |
Location
The park occupies the heart of the Karakoram range, which meets Pakistan, India and China. According to the park’s own website, over 60 percent of its area lies in Skardu and Ghanche districts, which is why Skardu is the most common entrance. The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan lists the park across Nagar, Gilgit, Skardu, Ghanche and Shigar, while the park website names four districts, so you will see both versions.
History and management
The park was declared in 1993. Its boundaries were first given as four coordinates, and a formal management plan was only completed in February 2015 after community consultation. The park is divided into a core zone with higher protection and tourist corridors, and a buffer zone. It has been on Pakistan’s World Heritage Tentative List since 2016, according to a mapping source. For general context on parks, see our Pakistan national parks overview.
How to reach Central Karakoram National Park
- Nearest airport: Skardu Airport, with weather-dependent flights from Islamabad. See our domestic flights guide.
- Nearest railway station: None in Gilgit-Baltistan; Rawalpindi is the usual rail starting point.
- Road access: Skardu can be reached by the Karakoram Highway or the Skardu road; see road trip vs flight to Skardu. From Skardu, jeeps run to trek roadheads such as Askole.
Best time to visit and weather
Trekking and climbing are concentrated in the summer months, roughly June to August. Weather in high Karakoram changes quickly, and snow can fall at any time. We do not give temperatures, because they vary strongly with altitude.
Places to visit and things to do
- Baltoro Glacier and Concordia: see our Baltoro Glacier trek guide and Concordia trek guide.
- K2 Base Camp: covered in our K2 Base Camp trek guide.
- Snow Lake and Hispar: see our Snow Lake Hispar trek guide.
- Gondogoro La: a high pass described in our K2 Gondogoro La guide.
- Peaks: Broad Peak, Trango Towers and Masherbrum.
Wildlife and landscape
The park spans arid plateaus, alpine meadows and glacier systems. Reported wildlife includes snow leopard, Himalayan ibex and lammergeier, though sightings are uncommon and depend on the area.
Photography spots
Concordia gives the classic group of peaks, and glacier camps offer wide views at dawn and dusk. Carry spare batteries, since cold drains them. Ask porters and guides before photographing them.
Where to stay and what to eat
Skardu has hotels and guesthouses; see our Skardu hotels guide and Skardu food guide. On trek you camp, and your operator provides meals.
Estimated costs
We do not publish PKR or USD figures because trek and expedition prices vary and change. Ask for written quotes that list permits and fees, porters, guide, food, gear, transport and insurance. See our permit fees guide.
Packing checklist
- Warm layers, shell jacket, hat and gloves
- Broken-in boots and trekking poles
- Cold-rated sleeping bag
- Sun protection and water treatment
- First-aid kit and spare camera batteries
Travel tips
- Use a registered operator; see how to hire a guide.
- Check permits with our permits guide.
- Allow acclimatisation time; read the altitude sickness guide.
- Respect local customs; see our etiquette guide.
Safety tips
- Glacier travel has crevasse and rockfall risks; walk with a guide.
- Buy insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation.
- Carry a satellite device through your operator.
- Turn back in storms or if symptoms of altitude illness appear.
Responsible tourism
Stay in designated tourist corridors, carry out all rubbish, use toilets provided by operators and pay porters fairly with suitable clothing and shelter.
Emergency contacts
Your operator should hold current rescue and communication plans. We do not publish phone numbers because they change; confirm them before you leave.
Possible itinerary
- Days 1 to 2: Arrive in Skardu, sort permits and gear.
- Day 3: Jeep to Askole.
- Days 4 to 9: Trek the Baltoro to Concordia.
- Next days: Continue to K2 Base Camp or return the same way.
- Final days: Walk back to Askole and drive to Skardu.
Frequently asked questions
How big is Central Karakoram National Park?
About 10,557.73 km2, the largest protected area in Pakistan.
Which peaks are inside the park?
K2, Broad Peak, the Gasherbrum group and Masherbrum are the best known.
Where do I enter the park?
Skardu is the most common entrance.
When was the park established?
In 1993, with a management plan completed in 2015.
Do I need a guide or permit?
Treks in the park normally need a registered operator and permits. Confirm current requirements.
Nearby attractions and related guides
Conclusion
Central Karakoram National Park is the main gateway to Pakistan’s great glaciers and peaks. Plan with a registered operator, respect zoning rules and allow time for acclimatisation.
Sources and official information
- CKNP official website: About
- Forest, Wildlife and Environment Department, Gilgit-Baltistan: CKNP
- Wikipedia: Central Karakoram National Park
Last reviewed October 2026. Permits, fees and conditions change; verify before you travel.