It stands at an impressive 6340 meters and is located near the Chopchingal Pass at 5100m. Accessible through a restricted zone, climbers must obtain a trekking permit for the ascent, with a recommended round trip duration of 20-25 days from Islamabad.

Geographical Context:

Sonia Peak is situated in Shimshal Valley, part of which is an open zone while the area around Chopchingal Pass and Sonia Peak is restricted. Rawalpindi and Islamabad serve as the gateway to the northern mountains, with an international airport facilitating access.

Historical Ascent:

First conquered by a German team in 1998, Sonia Peak was named in honor of the German climber's wife, Sonia. Since then, it has been a target for numerous ascents, with various routes available. Notably, the north ridge, known as the "Hasil Route," was pioneered by local guide Hasil Shah from Shimshal, offering a safer alternative to the south face.

Regulatory Framework:

The region around Sonia Peak, including Chopchingal Pass, falls within a restricted zone. A trekking permit, include some cost per person, is mandatory. Formalities include briefing and debriefing at the Tourism office, licensed guides, and insurance for guides, cooks, and porters.

Journey to Base Camp:

From Islamabad, trekking permits are acquired before embarking on a 20 to 21-hour road journey to Passu in upper Hunza. A three-hour jeep ride via the newly built Shimshal road leads to Shimshal Village, the starting point for the trek to Sonia Peak's base camp.

Trekking Details:

The trek to the base camp involves 5 to 6 days of challenging terrain, including river crossings, steep hikes, and glacier walks. The base camp is situated at an altitude of 4500m. An additional day of trekking brings climbers to the Advance Base Camp at 5200m. The summit climb, spanning two days, features snow and ice sections, requiring equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and gaiters.

Summit Views:

From the summit, breathtaking panoramic views include all the prominent peaks of the Himalayas and Karakoram, such as Nanga Parbat, K2, Gasherbrum I and II, and Broad Peak.

Safety and Equipment:

Prior experience with fixed ropes, ice axes, and carabiners is essential for Sonia Peak. Approximately 200m of fixed rope is necessary for various sections of the climb from ABC to the summit. After completing the ascent, a descent can be made via the Chopchingal Pass to Karakoram Highway in two to three days.

Highlights:

• Trek through the scenic Shimshal Valley, known for its traditional villages and stunning mountain scenery.
• Reach the base camp of Sonia Peak, offering panoramic views of the Karakoram Range.
• Challenge yourself on a technical ascent of Sonia Peak, requiring experienced mountaineers.
• Experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Shimshal community.

Tour Detail:

Day 01: Arrival at Islamabad

• Arrive in Islamabad.
• Transfer to the hotel.
• Short rest.
• Drive to Islamabad for trek briefing and obtain trekking permit.

Day 02: Rawalpindi - Chilas

• Early breakfast
• 12 hours drive to Chilas.
• Frequent stops and lunch at Besham.
• Overnight at Chilas Inn.

Day 03: Chilas – Passu

• 6-7 hours drive to Passu (2500m).
• Transfer to the hotel.
• Evening preparation for the trek.

Day 04: Passu - Shimshal Village

• Drive by local jeeps to Shimshal Village (3250m).
• Camping at Shimshal Village.

Day 05: Shimshal to Zardgarben

• Trek to Zardgarben (5-6 hours, 1075m ascent).
• Explore Michael Bridge and Band-e-Sar.
• Camp at Zardgarben (4075m).

Day 06: Zardgarben to Jafervask

• Continue trek (4-5 hours, 527m ascent) to Jafervask.
• Explore the landscape, river crossings, and Ibex habitat.
• Camping at Jafervask (4602m).

Day 07: Jafervask to Perchodwashk

• Trek to Perchodwashk (1-2 hours).
• Climb Boisum Pass (4875m).
• Camping at Perchodwashk.

Day 08: Perchodwashk to War-e-Ben

• Continue trek (4-5 hours) to War-e-Ben.
• Explore Qul Beg Maidan and Reza Maidan.
• Camping at War-e-Ben (3597m).

Day 09: War-e-Ben to Chafchingol Base Camp

• Trek to Chafchingol Pass Base Camp (4084m).
• Cross Ghuzherav and enter Chafchingol gorge.
• Camping at Chafchingol Base Camp.

Day 10: Chafchingol to Sonia Peak Base Camp

• Continue trek to Sonia Peak Base Camp.
• Explore the surroundings.
• Camping at Sonia Peak Base Camp.

Day 11-12: Summit Sonia Peak and Return

• Summit Sonia Peak.
• Return to Sonia Peak Base Camp.
• Extra day for climbing or emergencies.

Day 13: Sonia Peak Base Camp to Chafchingol Base Camp

• Trek back to Chafchingol Base Camp.

Day 14: Chafchingol Base Camp to Koksil River

• Continue trek to Koksil River (6-7 hours).
• Cross Chafchingol Pass and descend to Koksil River.
• Camping along Koksil River.

Day 15: Koksil River to Koksil – KKH

• Continue trek (3-4 hours) to Koksil-KKH.
• Meet the van/jeep for a drive back to Karimabad.
• Overnight hotel in Karimabad.

Day 16: Karimabad

• Rest day in Karimabad.
• Explore and visit around.
• Overnight hotel.

Day 17: Karimabad to Besham

• Drive back to Besham (9-10 hours).
• Overnight hotel in Besham.

Day 18: Besham to Islamabad

• Drive back to Islamabad (6 hours).
• Overnight hotel in Islamabad.

Day 19: Debriefing at Ministry of Tourism Islamabad

• Drive to Tourism Office in Islamabad for trek debriefing.
• Free time in the afternoon.
• Overnight hotel.

Day 20: Fly back home

• Departure from Islamabad.