Pakistani Expedition Reopens Historic Hindu Kush Pass After 27 Years
A Pakistani mountaineering expedition has successfully crossed Phargam An Pass in the Hindu Kush, reopening the historic high-altitude route for the first time in 27 years.
The expedition also marked another milestone, as women climbers successfully reached the 5,100-metre summit during the journey.
Historic Route Reopened
Supported by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA), the expedition completed the crossing between Laspur Valley in Upper Chitral and Golain Valley in Lower Chitral.
The team navigated glaciers, snow-covered slopes, rocky terrain, and other challenging mountain conditions to complete the route.
Team Members
The expedition included:
- Kamran Khan
- Mehrosh Akhtar
- Samar Khan
- Noman Khan
- Noormal Rehman
- Zohaib Khan
- Omar Khitab Sheerani
- Sohniya Babar
- Amina Shabbir
- Madeeha Syed
Local guide Zamurd Khan led the expedition.
The climb also featured the participation of Chitrali sisters Smell Rose and Madhu Shala Akhtar, highlighting the growing involvement of women in adventure sports and mountaineering in Pakistan.
Challenging Mountain Conditions
According to the expedition team, the route has changed considerably over the years due to natural factors, including retreating glaciers, rockfalls, and shifting mountain terrain.
Despite these challenges, the group successfully completed the crossing and documented the current condition of the historic pass.
Rediscovering a Historic Memorial
During the expedition, the team also rediscovered a memorial plaque dedicated to Austrian mountaineer Georg Kronberger, who lost his life in the region in 1975.
The discovery adds historical significance to the journey and highlights the area’s long-standing connection with international mountaineering.
Promoting Adventure Tourism
Officials said the expedition is part of the KPCTA’s Tirich Mir Project, an initiative aimed at identifying historic trekking routes, preserving exploration heritage, and promoting sustainable adventure tourism in Upper Chitral.
They believe reopening the Phargam An Pass will help attract trekkers and mountaineers while showcasing the natural beauty and tourism potential of Pakistan’s Hindu Kush region.
