Most towns in Gilgit-Baltistan sit at moderate altitude, where few people have trouble. Problems start above about 3,000 metres, which you reach on day trips to Deosai and Khunjerab and on every major trek. Knowing the heights helps you plan.
Approximate altitudes
- Gilgit: about 1,500 m.
- Skardu: about 2,230 m.
- Karimabad, Hunza: about 2,500 m.
- Fairy Meadows: about 3,300 m.
- Rama Lake: about 3,300 m.
- Deosai Plains: about 4,100 m on average; Sheosar Lake about 4,140 m.
- Babusar Pass: 4,173 m.
- Khunjerab Pass: 4,693 m.
- Concordia: about 4,600 m; K2 Base Camp: about 5,000 m.
- Gondogoro La: 5,585 m.
Symptoms to watch
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) feels like a hangover: headache, nausea, loss of appetite, poor sleep, dizziness and unusual tiredness. Serious forms, HAPE (fluid on the lungs: breathlessness at rest, a wet cough) and HACE (swelling of the brain: confusion, loss of balance), are emergencies that need immediate descent.
How to prevent it
- Above 3,000 m, raise your sleeping altitude by no more than 300 to 500 m a day, with a rest day every 3 to 4 days.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and sleeping pills at altitude.
- On day trips to Khunjerab or Deosai, keep your stay short and come down to sleep.
- Arrive in Hunza or Skardu a day or two before a high trek to acclimatise.
- Talk to your doctor about acetazolamide before travel if you are going above 3,500 m.
Frequently asked questions
What is the altitude of Khunjerab Pass?+
Khunjerab Pass is 4,693 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest paved border crossings in the world. Keep visits short and come back down to sleep.
Can you get altitude sickness in Hunza?+
It is uncommon in Karimabad (about 2,500 m), but possible on day trips to Khunjerab (4,693 m) or on treks such as Rush Lake (4,694 m).
How high is K2 Base Camp?+
K2 Base Camp is at about 5,000 metres, and Concordia at about 4,600 m. The trek requires gradual acclimatisation over 8 to 10 days from Askole.
What is the altitude of Deosai Plains?+
The Deosai Plains average just over 4,000 metres, and Sheosar Lake lies at about 4,140 m.
