A Japanese tourist who had been missing for the past five days during a trekking expedition in Skardu was found dead on Saturday after rescuers recovered his body from a deep mountain crevice, officials said.

The 65-year-old tourist from Japan had gone missing while trekking near the famous Masroor Rock in the mountains close to Hussainabad village.

According to rescue officials, search operations had been underway for the past five days after the tourist reportedly lost his way during the trek.

Authorities said the body was spotted in a deep ravine during the search operation, prompting a difficult rescue mission in the rugged mountainous terrain.

A four-member team of expert climbers from Sadpara carried out the recovery operation. After nearly five hours of challenging rescue efforts, the team successfully retrieved the body from the crevice.

Officials said the body was shifted to a hospital for legal formalities and further procedures.

Rescue authorities said the difficult terrain and dangerous routes complicated the operation, requiring specialised climbing and recovery efforts.

Local administration and rescue agencies remained active in the area throughout the operation to ensure the safe transfer of the body.