Where the Karakoram Highway ends and the adventure begins, the jeep stop for one of Pakistan's most famous mountain trails.
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Raikot Bridge is a bridge on the Karakoram Highway over the Indus River, in the Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan. Most travelers know it for one reason: it is the only road access point to Fairy Meadows and the Nanga Parbat trails. Everything beyond this point is by jeep and on foot.
The place itself is a small roadside stop with a few hotels, shops and a large jeep stand. The real attraction is the start of the journey: the Indus gorge below, steep brown mountains around you, and the first view of the 4x4 track that climbs towards Nanga Parbat.
8 Days / 7 Nights
8 Days / 7 Nights
The jeep stand at Raikot Bridge is where the trek begins. Local jeeps carry small groups up the steep track to Tato, and drivers are known for handling it confidently. Around the stand you will find tea stalls, simple restaurants and a few places to stay. Porters and horse owners usually meet travelers further up at Tato.
Drive along the Karakoram Highway, about 11 hours. Alternatively, travel via Naran and Kaghan and cross Babusar Pass when it is open (usually summer only).
Continue on the KKH towards Gilgit for about 61 km, roughly 1 to 2 hours.
At the jeep stand, take a 4x4 to Tato village. This takes 1 to 1.5 hours on a steep, narrow track. Jeeps usually carry around 6 passengers.
From Tato, walk or ride a horse for about 2 to 4 hours to Fairy Meadows.
Tip: Do not plan the jeep ride or trek after dark. Reach Raikot Bridge early enough in the day to have daylight for the whole climb.
April to May
The road is open, but the upper trail often holds snow.
June to August
The main season. Open tracks, busy jeeps, warm days.
September to early October
Clear skies and fewer crowds. One of the best times.
November to March
Cold. The jeep track and Fairy Meadows are generally closed.
Travel smart
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Aim to leave Chilas in the morning so you catch the jeeps and have daylight for the trek.
Confirm whether it is a one-way or return price before you set off.
Pack light for the trek and leave extra luggage at your hotel.
There are no ATMs at Raikot Bridge. Withdraw in Chilas or before.
Carry water and snacks for the trek, because food is expensive higher up.
The track is steep and narrow, so sit calmly and listen to the driver.
Phone signal is weak or absent beyond this point.
Check road, weather and security conditions on the KKH. Rain or landslides can block the track or the highway, so check before leaving Chilas.
Carry out your rubbish.
Respect local customs and dress modestly.
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Explore Raikot Bridge in Gilgit-Baltistan and get directions easily.
Gilgit-Baltistan
It is a bridge on the Karakoram Highway and the starting point for the jeep track to Tato village and the trek to Fairy Meadows.
Let us plan your trip from Raikot Bridge to Nanga Parbat while you enjoy the journey.
