The name Muztagh Ata means “Ice Father” in the local Uygyr language. It’s easy to understand why it got such name, as it really dominates all surroundings. Its glaciated summit looms about 4 kilometers over the beautiful Subashi Valley and the deep blue Karakol Lake completes the picture.
Our aim is the Muztagh Ata peak! And our journey will start from the capital of Kyrgyzstan – Bishkek. Our next stop and city closest to the Base Camp of Muztagh-Ata is Kashgar. For many centuries Kashgar as a magnet have been attracting adventure-seekers from all over the world. Thousands of caravans and expeditions were passing through this city; it was an ancient gate to Central Asia and Tibet, China and India. Some of those who were passing through Kashgar remembered it for the lifetime, and others, being charmed by the place, stayed here forever. And you will be one of those lucky few who decided to cross this land to get to the Base Camp under Muztagh Ata peak.
Itinerary
Bishkek - Naryn
Pick up at Bishkek airport and drive to Naryn, where we’ll spend the night in our hotel.
Transfer from Naryn to Kashgar via Torugat pass
After our breakfast in hotel, we’ll drive through Torugat pass where we’ll meet with our Chinese Driver and Guide at the border. Here, we’ll change our vehicle and drive to Kashgar after Chinese customs and immigration checks gives us an all clear. We’ll arrive in Kashgar in the evening.
Transfer from Kashgar - Subashi
We will drive along the Karakorum highway winding for several hours through the narrow gorge of the Gez River then ascend to an altitude of 3900 m by the shores of Karakur lake, 196 km from Kashgar. Horses, yaks and camels graze on the rich pasturage. Accommodation in tents.
Trekking to base camp
In the morning we rise for a hike of 13km to base camp. With the camels carrying the team’s equipment, we trek over a level plane and then climb steadily through barren hills to the base camp, which is approximately a 4-hour walk. Drifts of alpine flowers cover the slopes as we approach our destination and the local marmots can often be heard calling out a welcome. Camping overnight.
Climbing and acclimatization in case of bad weather
Period for climbing of Muztag-Ata, which requires building and supplying three high camps. Meals are provided only at the base camp, however if climbers choose to go further they will need to bring their own food.
Base Camp/Subashi/Kashgar
In the morning we will go down to Subashi by trekking, again our gear will be taken by camels. At Subashi our transport to Kashgar will already be waiting and we will arrive there in early evening. Hotel accommodation.
Kashgar
Our last day of the expedition. Our tour includes the tombs of Abakh Hoja Tomb, well-known Kashgar Bazaar, the famous Mosque and the most unique old town with typical Uyghur styled homes. We visit the various shopping alleys full of noodle shops, bakeries, teashops, blacksmiths and carpenters.
Kashgar - Naryn
After breakfast, drive to the Torugat Pass, were we’ll cross the border and meet with our Kyrgyz guide and driver at the pass and continue our drive to the city of Naryn.
Naryn - Bishkek
After the breakfast in hotel, we’ll drive to Bishkek and transfer to Asia Mountain hotel. There you will have free time for sight-seeing of Kyrgyzstan capital.
Departure
Today we’ll transfer you to Bishkek airport to catch your flight. Here we say our goodbyes and wish you for a safe flight home.
