Women trekkers make history at Tirich Mir

In a landmark achievement for adventure tourism in Pakistan, 17 women trekkers have successfully crossed treacherous trails, icy glaciers, and high-altitude passes to reach the Advance Base Camp of Tirich Mir, the highest peak in the Hindu Kush range. The group made history by advancing beyond Babu Base Camp, a feat previously accomplished only by male teams.

The expedition, organized under the auspices of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA) in collaboration with the Tirich Mir Backpackers Club, brought together participants from diverse backgrounds — including one Kalasha woman, three from Chitral, four from Gilgit-Baltistan, and others from Balochistan, Islamabad, and various cities. They were supported by 36 local porters and three experienced guides.

Adding a heartwarming chapter to the adventure, six-year-old Shiz Mir, son of a local guide, completed his first trek alongside the group.

Starting their journey from Chitral, the women trekkers navigated a challenging route through Shughrum, Shenyak Camp, Byasam, and Astor Nall before reaching Babu Base Camp and pushing on to the Advance Base Camp. The route tested their endurance with fast-flowing streams, steep ascents, and unforgiving glaciers.

Tirich Mir, standing 7,708 meters above sea level, is the crown jewel of the Hindu Kush. This year marks a historic moment as the KP government has declared 2025-26 "The Year of Tirich Mir" and is officially supporting a Pakistani mountaineering team's attempt on the summit for the first time.

Previously, only two all-male teams had completed treks to the base camp via the Tirich Valley and Oweer Valley routes. The women's success now sets a new benchmark for gender representation in Pakistan's adventure tourism sector.

Participants praised the KP government, KPCTA, and the Tirich Mir Backpackers Club for their excellent arrangements and support. They described the journey as both a rigorous physical challenge and a memorable display of teamwork.

Officials hope the achievement will inspire more women to explore Pakistan's mountain landscapes and draw international mountaineers to Chitral Valley, further boosting the region's adventure tourism potential.