Abdul Joshi, hailing from the remote valley of Shimshal in Gilgit-Baltistan, is one of Pakistan’s most celebrated high-altitude mountaineers. Known for his technical brilliance and fearless spirit, Joshi has carved his name into some of the world’s most dangerous and challenging mountains.
In 2012, he turned his lifelong passion into a professional mission by founding Shimshal Mountain Guides, a registered adventure company based in Shimshal. Through this platform, he has trained and led dozens of aspiring mountaineers, trekkers, and adventurers from around the world — offering safe, expert-guided experiences in Pakistan’s most remote and stunning terrains.
He has successfully summited Everest (8,848m), K2 (8,611m), Annapurna (8,091m), and Aconcagua (6,961m) — representing both his skill and his determination on the global stage. In addition to the world’s tallest peaks, he has also climbed Sher Rock Peak and the spectacular Passu Cones, showcasing his passion for exploring iconic landmarks in Pakistan.
But Abdul Joshi is more than just a summiteer. He is a true explorer — renowned for crossing some of the most challenging and lesser-known high mountain passes in the Karakoram and Hindukush ranges. These include:
Khurdopin Pass –2007, 2017, 2018 one of the most dangerous and glaciated passes in the Karakoram.
Braldu Pass – 2007, 2010, 2013, 2017 known for its remote terrain and difficult approach.
Tillman Pass – 2019 a newly explored high-altitude pass Joshi crossed in 2019.
Verzjarav Pass – 2018, 2020, 2021 successfully crossed multiple times, including in 2018, 2020, and 2021.
FN Pass – 2019 A newly explored pass named after his expedition team members Farah and Nasir.
Abdul Joshi is not just a climber — he’s an innovator, pathfinder, and role model. He is often referred to as the “Pathfinder of the Karakoram” for his consistent record of discovering and navigating new routes and unexplored passes.
With his humble roots, fearless climbs, and passion for youth training, Abdul Joshi continues to inspire a new generation of Pakistani mountaineers to dream beyond boundaries and rise to the summit.