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Introduction

Stak Valley

Stak Valley is a valley in the Roundu Subdivision of District Skardu, Gilgit-Balitistan, Pakistan. The valley is on the right bank of the Indus River, Pakistan’s longest river, between Skardu and Giligit city. The valley is the biggest valley in term of area and population in Roundu subdivision. The valley has been one of the very important regions of the area in term of in history and of geological formation as well.

Stak Valley Geography

Stak Valley is situated in the middle of Skardu and Gilgit city on the right bank of the Indus River and Gilgit-Skardu Road. In the east of the Stak Valley lies the Askore valley and Thwar Valley. In the west are the Tooklano and Chamachoo. In the south there is Indus River and Ganji Valley just opposite to the Stak valley across the Indus river. In the north and northwest there is Haramosh and Kutia Glacier and likewise in the northeast the Goropha galacier.

The prominent landmarks around the Stak valley are: Kutia Lungma Glacier, Goropha Glacier (which joins the Chogo Lungma Glacier), Haramosh Peak (7,397 m, 24,270 ft), Pharabar Peak (60,321 m 20,740 ft), Stak-La (Stak Mountain Pass 4,601 m, 15,491 ft) and some other peaks (Shinka, Mashika, Korang Kar) which are about 6,000 m (20,000 ft). The Stak River originates from the Stak-La and joins by Goropha, Kutia and Tooklano Streams and falls in Indus River after completing a course of about 30 km. The Stak River bisects the Stak Valley into two halves. One half starts from Rgialmokaza to Skangbudas and the other side starts from Khirzang to Tookla. Tookla is the last village of Stak, which is partly destroyed by a massive flood in 1999 which caused a huge destruction in the area, destroying the Gamba Tookla completely and Gongma Tookla partially. According to Geologists most of the villages are formed by the moraines, although the valley is one of the fertile valleys of the Rondu.

  1. Location and Accessibility
  • Stak Valley, also known as Stak Nala, lies to the north of the mighty Nanga Parbat (8,125 meters), the world’s ninth-highest peak.
  • Situated between the cities of Skarduand Gilgit, this valley rests on the right bank of the Indus River.
  • Accessible via the Gilgit-Skardu Road, Stak Valley beckons explorers with its rugged charm.
  1. Natural Splendor
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: Imagine lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and snow-capped peaks. Stak Valley delivers all this and more.
  • Goropha Glacier: Witness the convergence of the Goropha Glacierwith the Chogo Lungma Glacier—a spectacle that leaves you awe-struck.
  • Haramosh Peak: At 7,397 meters (24,270 feet), Haramosh Peak dominates the skyline, inviting climbers and photographers alike.
  • Pharabar Peak: Rising to 6,032 meters (20,740 feet), Pharabar Peak adds drama to the panorama.
  1. Cultural Insights
  • Balti Heritage: The valley resonates with Balti culture, evident in the warm hospitality of its inhabitants.
  • Festivals and Traditions: Experience local festivals like Shandur Polo Festivaland immerse yourself in age-old traditions.
  1. Trekking and Mountaineering
  • Stak-La (Stak Mountain Pass): At 4,601 meters (15,491 feet), this pass offers a challenging trek with breathtaking vistas.
  • Kutia Lungma Glacier: Explore this icy wonderland, surrounded by rugged peaks.
  • Tookla Village: Despite facing destruction from a massive flood in 1999, Tookla remains a testament to resilience.
  1. Flora and Fauna
  • Alpine Flora: Discover rare alpine flowers, including edelweiss and primroses.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for Himalayan ibexsnow leopards, and various bird species.
  1. Practical Tips
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) offers pleasant weather and clear skies.
  • Accommodation: Basic guesthouses and homestays are available in the valley.
  • Permits: Check local regulations and obtain necessary permits for trekking and mountaineering.
  1. Responsible Tourism
  • Leave No Trace: Respect the environment; carry out all waste.
  • Support Local Economy: Purchase handicrafts and engage with local communities.

Stak Valley is more than a destination—it’s an invitation to explore, connect, and marvel at nature’s grandeur. So pack your gear, embrace the adventure, and let Stak Valley weave its magic around you.

Are you ready for an adventure that transcends boundaries? Look no further than the captivating Stak Valley in Baltistan. Vertical Explorers invites you to discover the magic of this hidden paradise.

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