K2 Basecamp and Concordia Trek

The K2 Base Camp and Concordia trek in Pakistan offers an extraordinary adventure, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Karakoram mountains and the majestic Baltoro glacier.

Commencing with a flight from Islamabad to Skardu in Gilgit Baltistan, the aerial view treats you to breathtaking sights of the Karakoram range, including Nanga Parbat. After spending a night in Skardu, a jeep transport takes you to the starting point of the trek at Jhola.

Standing tall at 8,611m, Mount K2 is the world's second highest peak, renowned for its steep slopes and challenging climbing routes. The mountain was first conquered in 1954 by an Italian expedition following the Abruzzi spur.

As you trek along the Baltoro glacier, the route unfolds with awe-inspiring vistas of numerous majestic peaks, such as the Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, Masherbrum, K2, and Broad Peak. Concordia, often described as the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods" by Galen Rowell, captivates with its unique panorama of 7,000m and 8,000m mountains, including the prominent Mitre Peak.

We organize 2 treks that embark on the K2 Base Camp journey. The K2 Base Camp & Concordia group retraces their steps back down the Baltoro glacier from Concordia, while the K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La group crosses the challenging Gondogoro La pass at an altitude of 5,560m, requiring mountaineering skills.

Join us on this extraordinary trek to experience the grandeur of K2 Base Camp and Concordia, where nature's wonders unfold at every step.

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN ISLAMABAD (540M)

• Arrive in Islamabad 
• Sightseeing in Islamabad 
• No meals

We meet you on arrival at Islamabad airport and drive to the hotel. At some point during the day, your leader will give the trek briefing and check your gear. The rest of the day is free to explore Islamabad and pack your bags.

DAY 2: FLY TO SKARDU (2,228M), IF CANCELLED DRIVE KKH TO NARAN (2,409M)

• Flight to Skardu

Bus to Naran (5 hours) Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 

• PTDC in Naran
• K2 Motel in Skardu

This morning we take the PIA flight to Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. If there is a cancellation of this flight then today we will start driving Karakoram Highway (“KKH”). It takes two days to drive KKH and on the way we have one night at the hotel in the town of Naran.

DAY 3: JEEP DRIVE TO ASKOLE (3,048M)

• Drive by jeep to Askole (6 hours) 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

Prepare for an exhilarating journey along a winding jeep trail, featuring thrilling sections with steep inclines. Just a short distance from Skardu, we cross the Indus River at a bridge near its convergence with the Shigar River. Continuing our drive, we venture into the expansive Shigar Valley, passing by charming villages and their lush fields.

As we progress, we reach the next confluence of rivers and begin tracing the upstream path of the Braldu River. The gorge grows steeper and the landscape more arid as we ascend. Along the way, we encounter a handful of villages adorned with green fields nourished by irrigation and shaded by apricot trees. The final village in this valley is Askole.

The duration of the drive to Askole can vary depending on the condition of the road, which fluctuates from year to year. The Braldu section is susceptible to landslides that may obstruct the route. However, the skilled local drivers possess the expertise to address any challenges that arise, devising solutions to clear the road or utilizing alternate jeep routes.

DAY 4: DRIVE TO JHOLA (3,170M), TREK TO BARDUMAL (3,305M)

• Drive by jeep to Jhola (2 to 3 hours) 
• Walking 11km (4 hours)
• Walking ascent 150m
• Walking descent 50m
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

 Embarking on a new day of our adventure, we resume our journey in jeeps along the “new” road. As we drive, we pass by the former campsite at Korofong and continue onwards to Jhola. In 2021, the road extending from Skardu has been expanded beyond the traditional road-head at Askole. As a result, walking along this section is no longer recommended, as it now follows a dusty road bustling with jeep traffic. In light of these changes, we opt to drive further beyond Askole to the new road-head located in Jhola.

Beyond Askole, our route aligns with the Braldu River, and after surpassing the snout of the Biafo Glacier, we arrive at Korofong. Here, we cross a tributary called the Dumordo River via a new bridge, which leads us to the road-head situated in Jhola. Interestingly, this place derived its name from the locals’ utilization of an old trolley system or “jhola” with a bucket to cross the river. The vistas from this point are striking, with Bakhor Das (5,809m) and the needles of Paiju Peak visible in the distance.

Our trek commences from Jhola as we follow the main trail toward K2 Base Camp. Continuing from Jhola, our path takes us to Bardumal Camp (also known as Skambong Scok), where we traverse a trail that curves around a corner to reconnect with the Braldu Valley. Bardumal Camp is located in a spacious, flat area adjacent to the river.

On sunny days, temperatures can soar, often reaching around 40°C. It is crucial to bring an ample supply of water (at least three liters), wear a sun hat, and generously apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the scorching heat.

DAY 5: TREK TO PAIJU (3,383M)

• Walking 7km (3 to 4 hours) 
• Walking ascent 330m 
• Walking descent 160m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

With an early start from Bardumal, we reach Paiju by mid-morning, strategically timing our departure to facilitate the crossing of several side rivers when their flow rate is at its lowest. Since these rivers lack bridges, we must navigate them on foot. Originating from glaciers, these rivers transform into formidable torrents on hot days as snow melts rapidly. Nestled under the protective embrace of Paiju Peak (6,611m), Paiju reveals itself as a verdant oasis. It is from this camp that we are greeted with our first glimpses of the vast Baltoro Glacier, an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

DAY 6: TREK TO KHOBURTSE (3,566M)

• Walking 12km (7 hours) 
• Walking ascent 785m 
• Walking descent 355m
•  Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

Following an hour’s trek from Paiju, we embark on our first encounter with the Baltoro Glacier. The path over the glacier traverses a rugged moraine terrain, necessitating caution due to its uneven surface. We highly recommend the use of trekking poles to aid in stability. Over the next two days, we will encounter numerous ice ridges on the glacier, requiring us to ascend and descend these slopes as we ascend.

Around midday, we pause for a lunch break at the historic Lilligo campsite. Resuming our journey, we cross beneath the snout of the Lilligo Glacier, returning to the expanse of the Baltoro Glacier. The trail may be indistinct at times, making it crucial for the group to stay together and follow the guidance of our local guides to avoid losing our way. As we progress, we traverse several moraine ridges, navigating their rises and descents before finally arriving at the Khoburtse campsite.

DAY 7: TREK TO URDUKAS (4,130M)

• Walking 6km (4 hours) 
• Walking ascent 420m 
• Walking descent 150m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

Starting from our camp, we embark on a trail that follows the lateral moraine alongside the glacier. As we progress, we continue to descend onto the vast Baltoro Glacier, passing by two side glaciers along the way. Although it is a relatively short day of walking, the undulating moraine terrain presents its challenges, requiring considerable effort as we steadily gain elevation. Throughout the journey, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Trango and Cathedral spires, as well as the majestic presence of Mount Uli Biaho (6,005m) and Mount Biale (6,841m).

Our arrival at the Urdukas camp is met with awe-inspiring beauty, as it offers remarkable vistas overlooking the expanse of the Baltoro Glacier and the majestic mountains that grace the landscape. Given that we have surpassed an altitude of 4,000m, we choose to spend two nights at Urdukas, allowing for vital acclimatization to the high altitude conditions. This strategic pause will help us adapt and ensure a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

DAY 8: ACCLIMATISING DAY AT URDUKAS (4,130M)

• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

We have found in the past that taking a rest day at Urdukas has worked well. The advantages of spending an extra night here are:

• It helps the acclimatisation process and has proved to be more effective than a rest day at Paiju (3,383m).
• There is a walk behind the campsite through grassy slopes full of alpine flowers. By climbing high and sleeping low is the best way to help your body adapt to high altitude.
• This is the last campsite on grassy slopes off the main glacier. There are also facilities for washing and cleaning.

DAY 9: TREK TO GORO 2 (4,250M)

• Walking 11km (7 hours) 
• Walking ascent 535m 
• Walking descent 280m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

Setting off from our camp, we descend onto the glacier, where we will remain until our return to Urdukas. As we ascend higher on the Baltoro Glacier, the glacial ice becomes flatter, resulting in easier walking conditions with fewer moraine ridges to cross. We navigate along the center of the glacier, treating ourselves to magnificent panoramic views of towering mountains on both sides. Among the majestic peaks, we catch sight of Muztagh (7,270m) and Masherbrum (7,800m). Near Concordia, at the head of the Baltoro Glacier, Gasherbrum IV (7,925m) makes its impressive presence known. Our campsite at Goro II is situated directly on the glacier, featuring leveled ledges on the rocky terrain, providing suitable spots for our tents.

DAY 10: TREK TO CONCORDIA (4,600M)

• Walking 12.5km (6 hours) 
• Walking ascent 700m 
• Walking descent 380m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

 We continue our trek up the center of the Baltoro Glacier, where the terrain becomes increasingly icy and rocky features diminish. The flatter expanse of the glacier here makes walking easier and more manageable. At Concordia, a remarkable junction, we are treated to splendid views of Broad Peak and certain members of the Gasherbrum mountain range.

DAY 11: TREK TO K2 BASE CAMP (5,150M) AND BACK TO BROAD PEAK BASE CAMP (4,960M)

• Walking 16km (8 hours) 
• Walking ascent 425m 
• Walking descent 150m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

Departing from Concordia, our route takes us through a region marked by a combination of jumbled ice fins and moraine ridges. This fractured area represents the meeting point of the Godwin Austen Glacier and the Baltoro Glacier. Upon crossing this rugged terrain, we proceed along the flatter sections of the glacier, leading us towards Broad Peak. The Godwin Austen Glacier showcases fascinating patterns with alternating stripes of pristine ice and rocky moraine. At times, we opt to traverse the smoother ice sections, as they offer more comfortable footing compared to the loose rocks found on the medial moraine.

Once we reach Broad Peak Base Camp, we press on further to our ultimate destination, K2 Base Camp, and pay our respects at the Gilkey Memorial. Upon our return, we retrace our steps to Broad Peak Base Camp, where we spend the night. Our tents are strategically positioned on the moraine near the base of the climbing route on Broad Peak, providing us with one of the most magnificent vistas of K2.

DAY 12: TREK BACK TO CONCORDIA (4,600M)

• Walking 8km (5 hours) 
• Walking ascent 450m 
• Walking descent 500m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

The following morning, we begin our descent from Broad Peak Base Camp, retracing the same trail we ascended the day before, until we reach Concordia.

DAY 13: TREK TO GORO 1 (4,150M)

• Walking 17km (8 hours) 
• Walking ascent 375m
•  Walking descent 600m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

Regrettably, our time at Concordia must come to an end. Today marks the beginning of our journey back down the Baltoro Glacier, with our overnight stop planned at Goro 1. As we retrace our steps, following the same route that brought us here, we have the opportunity to catch another glimpse of the magnificent mountains in case they were veiled by clouds during our ascent. Although it is a lengthy trek back to the road head, many trekkers relish the chance to lay eyes upon these awe-inspiring mountains once more, savoring their grandeur before bidding them farewell.

DAY 14: TREK TO KHOBURTSE (3,566M

• Walking 10km (8 hours) 
• Walking ascent 750m 
• Walking descent 1,080m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

We continue the trek back down the Baltoro with an overnight camp at Khoburtse.

DAY 15: TREK TO PAIJU (3,383M)

• Walking 12km (6 hours) 
• Walking ascent 400m 
• Walking descent 800m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

We come off the Baltoro glacier and spend the night at the green oasis of Paiju.

DAY 16: TREK TO JHOLA (3,170M)

• Walking 20km (8 hours) 
• Walking ascent 500m 
• Walking descent 750m 
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
• Camping

 Following the path from Paiju through Bardumal, our trek leads us to the road-head located at Jhola camp. As we near the end of our remarkable journey, we gather together to commemorate our achievements, spending our final night beneath the shelter of canvas. A special occasion calls for recognition, and in gratitude for the dedicated efforts of our porters who have tirelessly supported us during the trek, we express our appreciation by offering them well-deserved tips. Additionally, as a gesture of thanks, it is common for us to contribute any surplus equipment we no longer require, providing the porters with practical items that can be of use to them in their future endeavors.

DAY 17: DRIVE TO SKARDU (2,225M)

• Drive by jeep to Skardu (8 to 9 hours)
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• K2 Motel in Skardu

Today we drive back to Skardu by jeep.

DAY 18: FLY TO ISLAMABAD (OR DRIVE KKH TO CHILAS)

• Flight to Islamabad
• Bus to Chilas (7 hours)
• Breakfast

We plan to take the early morning flight to Islamabad (inshallah!). If we are unable to fly we will drive back for two days on the KKH.

DAY 19: DAY IN ISLAMABAD (OR DRIVE KKK TO ISLAMABAD)

• Drive to Islamabad on KKH (8 to 9 hours) 
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Islamabad

If we managed to take the flight yesterday then we will spend the day in Islamabad. If driving down the KKH we will arrive in Islamabad in the afternoon. In the evening we have a group meal to celebrate our journey in the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan.

DAY 20: FLY BACK HOME

• Flight back home
• Breakfast

Transfer to airport for flight home. End of trip.