Shimshal Valley

Shimshal Valley is located in the Hunza District, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. It is often revered as the “Valley of Mountaineers” and lies in the majestic highlands. This remote valley has produced some of the country’s most celebrated climbers, whose feats are chronicled by international mountaineers in books, interviews, and articles.

Despite being rich in talent, many of Shimshal’s climbers have faced acute financial constraints, spending their lives working as high-altitude porters to support their families. Names like Rajab Shah, Mehrban Shah, Azizullah, Qudrat Ali, Sarwar Ali, and Shaheen Baig stand out, with Rajab Shah and Mehrban Shah having been honored with the Presidential Award for Pride of Performance by the Government of Pakistan.

The valley is also home to Pakistan’s first female mountaineer, Samina Khayal Baig, who has conquered Mount Everest. Shimshal stands as a testament to the untapped potential of Pakistan’s mountaineering heritage, hidden amidst breathtaking natural beauty.