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Rakaposhi
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Mountain
Rakaposhi, also known as Dumani ('Mother of Mist'), is a prominent peak in the Karakoram mountain range, situated in the Nagar Valley of northern Pakistan. It stands at an elevation of 7,788 meters above sea level and is ranked as the 27th highest peak in the world. The mountain is world-renowned for its extraordinary vertical relief; from the Hunza River valley floor to the summit, it rises nearly 6,000 meters in a horizontal distance of only a few kilometers. This sheer face makes it one of the most visually impressive mountains on Earth. The first successful ascent of Rakaposhi was achieved in 1958 by a British-Pakistani expedition led by Mike Banks and Tom Patey. The mountain is surrounded by several famous glaciers, including the Minapin and Bagrot glaciers, which are vital water sources for the region. Due to its accessibility from the Karakoram Highway, it remains a popular challenge for mountaineers and a major attraction for trekkers visiting Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Location: Pakistan
- Top sights: Rakaposhi · Easy to follow track to 3920 m viewpoint
- Nearby: Gilgit (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -12 | -10 | -4 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 9 | 3 | -3 | -9 |
| Rain mm | 24 | 31 | 29 | 32 | 22 | 21 | 23 | 24 | 16 | 10 | 18 | 14 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The massive mountain is clearly visible from a distance along the Karakoram Highway; however, trekking expeditions to the base camps typically launch strictly from small mountain villages in the Nagar Valley, like Minapin, where one is best driven by expert guides.
Best season
The extremely narrow time window for tolerably safe high-altitude trekking is mostly strictly limited to the core summer months from June to September, when the paths are largely free of deep snow and the severe avalanche danger on the trails is highly minimized.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is brutally high-alpine, heavily dominated by glacial moraines, steep and slippery rock faces, and intensely unpredictable, rough terrain that is exceptionally demanding and absolutely requires true sure-footedness and magnificent physical conditioning.
What to bring
Complete, highly professional mountaineering equipment is sternly required: heavy alpine boots, highly insulating clothing, thick windproof layers, a thoroughly reliable first-aid kit, strong sunglasses, and all completely necessary camping gear for freezing nights.
Parking
Vehicles, whether personal rental cars or the tour operators' rugged jeeps, are usually parked completely securely down at local guesthouses in the starting villages like Minapin, as there are absolutely no drivable roads whatsoever leading any further up the mountain.
Safety
Life-threatening altitude sickness, suddenly cascading glacier avalanches, extreme localized weather changes, and the utter lack of fast rescue options make this area extremely hazardous; a professionally guided tour heavily relying on local expertise is hugely advised.
Time needed
While a simple photo stop on the highway takes mere minutes, a genuine trekking expedition from the deep valley up to the base camp and safely back usually requires at least two to three very full days just to allow the human body sufficient time for acclimatization.
Geography
Facts
- The peak stands at an elevation of 7,788 meters above sea level.
- First climbed on June 25, 1958, by Mike Banks and Tom Patey.
- Features one of the highest vertical rises on Earth (nearly 6,000 meters).
- Located in the Karakoram range within the Nagar District.
- Ranked as the 27th highest mountain in the world.
- The name 'Dumani' translates to 'Mother of Mist' in local languages.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Rakaposhi (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How is the view of Rakaposhi?
You have a fantastic view directly from the Karakoram Highway.
Can one hike to the base camp?
Yes, there is a popular hiking trail from Minapin.
Is the mountain suitable for beginners?
Hikes to base camp yes, summit climbs only for experts.
Are there accommodations?
In Minapin there are basic accommodations for trekkers.
What is the best season?
From June to September, the trails are free of snow.
Rakaposhi: where is it located?
Rakaposhi is located in Pakistan.
Rakaposhi: what is there to see?
Highlights include Rakaposhi, Easy to follow track to 3920 m viewpoint.
Rakaposhi: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Rakaposhi: why is it worth visiting?
Rakaposhi, also known as Dumani ('Mother of Mist'), is a prominent peak in the Karakoram mountain range, situated in the Nagar Valley of northern Pakistan.
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