Camps up to 3500 m, easy way back. Less than 10 km/day, no river crossing, no dangerous parts.
We were the first surprised by this unknown valley, so close to Gilgit. It is at the foot of a little seen and spectacular blank side of Rakaposhi. Easier to access than Rakaposhi base camp, this trek on the high summer pastures of Danyor is a blow of heart. It is your turn to discover it.
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Chance !
We had to go to Chaprot that day ... it was a little late; buses were not full of passengers yet. This valley was clearly visible under Rakaposhi, irresistibly attractive. We changed our plans to go there. Arriving Danyor surprised inhabitants showed us the way. It is a beautiful track that stretches into the gorge for few kilometres before a well markes path, but still no views of Rakaposhi yet visible from the bus station of Gilgit. Eventually, 3 hours later I just saw the summit.
I went up to “Morcouille” unfortunately it was our last day in Gilgit and we could not stay any longer. So I missed what I believe is one of the most beautiful sight on this mountain. This will be without hesitation, our next first trek in Pakistan.
A track, followed by a well marked path that goes up to villages. The following part is short and spectacular. In one day, it is possible to climb up to “ Morcouille”, probably to camp there, or only to continue a little to the base of a glacier after the last ridge.
Guide : 1000 to 1200 rps / day without tips or wapasi.
Porter : See with people in Gilgit or Danyor, you will probably be among the first to open this route.
How to get there : Many vehicles go to Danyor village, a taxi costs 100 rps. Count between 500 and 1000 rps for a special jeep going up to the end of the track.
From May to October
Shopping : Gilgit.
Day 1
End of the track - Morcouille Departure: 2700 m Arrival: 3300 m - 150 m + 700 m Distance: 6 km Length: 3 to 5 hours
If you leave from Danyor, go up on the right side (left bank), don’t follow the river, but go over the conglomerate cliff, count 2 hours minimum to make this trip, after the first bridge it climbs switchbacks.
At the end of the track, a small bridge, leaving the road in construction on the left side, the trail goes up a bit and then continues following the river.
A little later it crosses the river again, still 500 meters and a new bridge. The valleyg gets narrower, and eventually ends as a gorge; a new bridge enables to cross at a very tight part. On the other side we can finally see one of Rakaposhi summits, but we must still wait 30 minutes before discovering the true summit. Just a little before, a good water spring with cups. The following part goes through a big blocks landslide, before a new bridge entering Morcouille area with many fields and houses; it is where I stopped.
It is worth climbing a little more for camping. Water : 30 minutes after the last bridge a good spring, in Morcouille.
Day 2
Morcouille - panorama Departure: 3300 m Arrival? m -? m + 700 m Distance:? km Length: 4 to 6 hours
Go up the valley, pass Unecouille, and continue for at least 2 hours to get a panorama on the Rakaposhi. It must be possible to camp along flat valley and there are many springs, according to locals.
Some practicable passes would be possible to cross in July and August and reach Bagrot valley. To my knowledge they have never been crossed by a westerner. Inquire, there is much contradictory information, if you meet the right hunter, it is sure he knows.
Walk the same way back
Water ?
WARNING Treks described in this rubric have all been walked by the author, itineraries are detailed daily, maps and pictures illustrate them. On no account these sheets will replace the experience of a local guide; they are complementary and should be taken as such! Never go alone, without warning anybody! The course of some trails might change from one year to another, landslides, mud slides are numerous enough.
Print it !
