Questions we get asked most

For July and August, three to six months is sensible — the good guides and the better rooms in Hunza and Skardu go early. Outside peak season, a few weeks is usually enough.

Yes, and most people do. The published routes are starting points. Dates, length, pace and the order of the days all move.

Our set itineraries start at PKR 90,000 per person for Skardu and for Gilgit and Hunza, and PKR 70,000 per person for Kashmir. The final figure depends on length, season, group size and the standard of rooms you want — send us the shape of the trip and we will quote it properly.

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The northern areas we travel in have been quiet for years and see a steady stream of visitors. The genuine risks are road conditions, weather and altitude, which is what our planning is actually for. Check your own government's current travel advice as well.

Yes, and many do, solo included. Dress modestly, expect curiosity rather than hostility, and tell us at the planning stage if you would prefer a female guide so we can arrange it.

The set itineraries are built around short walks that most reasonably fit people manage. Longer treks like Concordia are a different proposition and we will tell you honestly what they ask.

We reroute. It is common enough that our itineraries carry slack for it, and your guide will know the alternative before you do.

In the towns, usually. On Deosai, at Fairy Meadows and in the upper Neelum, no. We agree check-in points before you lose coverage.

Most visitors do. Pakistan runs an online visa service and many nationalities are eligible for a tourist e-visa. We supply the invitation letter and confirmed itinerary the application asks for. See the travel guide.

For most of the north, no. Some border areas and high valleys do, and the rules differ for Pakistani and foreign nationals. We arrange what is needed before you arrive.

Yes. We ask every traveller to carry insurance that covers mountain travel and medical evacuation. It is a condition of travelling with us.

Usually, with notice. Vegetarian is straightforward. Anything stricter needs planning in the upper valleys, where the choice is genuinely limited — tell us early.

Very good, and more varied in the north than people expect. Expect a lot of apricot, walnut and locally raised meat, and in Hunza some dishes you will not find anywhere else.