places Categories: Attractions and Mountains
The large and green Thalle Lungma leads north-west from the Shyok River, 15km west of Khaplu and 85km east of Skardu. The upper valley divides, and the north branch leads over the infrequently crossed Tusserpo La (5084m), while the south branch leads over the easier Thalle La (4572m). Both passes lead to the Bauma Lungma, which runs south-west to Shigar. The British, who used the route between 1891 and 1947, preferred the Thalle La between Skardu and Khaplu, as it offered grazing for their pack animals.
The Thalle La, one of the few non-glaciated passes and one of Baltistan’s easiest, lends itself to backpacking. It can be crossed in either direction, and the Shigar trailhead is easily reached from Skardu. Because many trekkers use the Thalle La as a return trek from Hushe or Khaplu, the description below is from east to west. Early in the season, expect much snow on Thalle La’s east side, and even more on Tusserpo La. The Swiss Foundation for Alpine Research 1:250,000 orographical map Karakoram (Sheet 1) and Karakoram (Sheet 2) cover the trek. Doghoni isn’t labeled, and Khasumik is labeled as Khusumik. The trail over the Thalle La is not hard to find, so hiring someone is optional. Because the higher and harder Tusserpo La is infrequently crosses, hiring someone is recommended. Porters ask for a flat rate of Rs 220 per stage, including payment for food rations.
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