The Killer Mountain - Nanga Parbat

At 8126 m (26660 ft), Pakistan's Nanga Parbat is the ninth-highest mountain in the world and one of the most feared peaks in the Himalayas.

The mountain is famous for its enormous south face, the Rupal Face, which rises a staggering 4600 m (15000 ft) straight up from the valley floor. It's one of the tallest vertical walls on Earth. This side has seen some of the most legendary and tragic moments in mountaineering history. Therefore Nanga Parbat is also called "Killer Mountain".

While most visitors experience Nanga Parbat from the famous Fairy Meadows on the northern (Rakhiot) side, which has become the classic, tourist-friendly viewpoint with easy access, comfortable guesthouses, and plenty of crowds, the Tarashing route on the southern Rupal side offers a completely different experience.

This “back side” approach is significantly less touristy, much more remote, and feels far more authentic and wild. You’ll share the trail mainly with local shepherds, yaks, and the occasional hardy trekker instead of large tour groups. The valley is more peaceful and the views of the colossal Rupal Face are even more intimate and overwhelming.

The road to Tarashing isn't exactly one would call a good road. It's a small dirt road, often washed out and damaged and, even if you're riding your own motorcycles like we do, it needs quite some time to reach this remote place. The last proper village in the lush Rupal Valley greeted us with green potato fields, apple orchards, and curious locals who raised eyebrows at our dusty bikes. We set up camp there right above the massive Taraching glacier and stayed for two glorious nights. Perfect for resting the bikes, soaking in the views, and mentally preparing for what was coming.