Our Story
Born in the Mountains, Built for Adventure
Company Story
Karakoram Backpackers was founded in Gilgit-Baltistan by Ali Shan (Founder & Trip Manager) and Zahid Hussain (Co-Founder & Tour Operator). Based in Danyore, we specialize in customized tours across northern Pakistan and focus on sustainable tourism — authentic experiences in the Karakoram, Hindukush, and Himalayas.
Today we lead family tours, festival journeys, and treks across Fairy Meadows, Hunza, Skardu, Khaplu, Shimshal, Darel, and Kalash — always with local expertise, sustainable practices, and an unwavering commitment to safety.
Our Mission
To share the unparalleled beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan with travelers worldwide through safe, sustainable, and deeply authentic adventure experiences led by local experts.
Our Vision
To establish Pakistan's northern areas as a premier global adventure destination — where world-class expeditions meet warm Balti hospitality and leave positive impact on local communities.
8+
Years Guiding
438
International Guests
173
Local Guests
611
Trips Led
Meet Our Team
Ali Shan
Founder & Trip Manager
Founder of Karakoram Backpackers. Plans and leads trips across the Karakoram, Hindukush, and Himalayas from our Danyore office.
Zahid Hussain
Co-Founder & Tour Operator
Co-founder and tour operator. Oversees operations and guest experience for customized northern Pakistan itineraries.
Dr. Nabeel Hussain
Expedition Doctor
Expedition doctor supporting high-altitude trips and guest wellbeing on the trail.
Ikhlaq Hussain
Senior Trip Leader
Senior trip leader for multi-day tours across Gilgit-Baltistan.
Zahoor Mehdi
Senior Tour Guide
Senior tour guide with deep local knowledge of mountain routes and village culture.
Rehan Shango
Off-Roading Expert & Tour Guide
Off-roading specialist and tour guide for jeep tracks, remote valleys, and high passes.
Zameer Abbas
Tour Guide — Gilgit & Skardu
Guide for the Gilgit and Skardu region, including lakes, forts, and Baltistan circuits.
Hasnain Fida
Tour Guide — Nagar & Hunza
Guide for Nagar and Hunza Valley — forts, Passu, and the Karakoram Highway corridor.
Hammad Faiz
Senior Tour Guide — Lahore Region
Senior tour guide coordinating departures and guest care from the Lahore side.
Sumaira
Senior Trip Leader
Senior trip leader supporting group logistics and guest experience on the trail.