- Overview
- Itinerary
- Gallery
Embarking on this remarkable trek to K2 Base Camp and Concordia, followed by crossing the formidable Gondogoro La pass at 5,560m, requires a set of technical mountaineering skills. It is a challenge that rewards with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Our journey commences with a flight from Islamabad to Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan, treating you to awe-inspiring views of the Karakoram, including Nanga Parbat, from the airplane. After spending a night in Skardu, we proceed by jeep to the trek's starting point at Jhola.
At an imposing altitude of 8,611m, Mount K2 stands as the second-highest peak globally, featuring steep slopes and technical climbing routes. Its first ascent was accomplished in 1954 by an Italian expedition, following the challenging Abruzzi spur.
As we trek along the Baltoro glacier, the route offers magnificent vistas of the surrounding mountains all the way to Concordia. Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, Masherbrum, K2, and Broad Peak are just a few of the majestic peaks we encounter. Concordia, often described as the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods" by Galen Rowell, presents a unique panorama of towering 7,000m and 8,000m peaks, with K2 commanding an impressive presence.
From Concordia, the demanding trek continues, leading us over the Gondogoro La pass. A skilled local team from Hushe assists by placing ropes along the ascent and descent. Crossing this technically challenging pass requires mountaineering expertise. The view from the top is simply superb, revealing the elegant contours of Leila Peak on the Hushe side and a multitude of peaks across the high Karakoram on the other.
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
- K2 Motel in Skardu
- PTDC in Naran
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
DAY 13: TREK TO ALI CAMP (5,000M)
- Walking 11km (7 hours)
- Walking ascent 560m
- Walking descent 160m
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Camping
From Concordia, our path takes us southeast along the Upper Baltoro glacier, guiding us past the impressive Mitre Peak. Continuing in a southerly direction, we traverse the Vigne glacier. Today's leg of the journey unfolds on relatively flat sections of the glacier, with only a few moraine ridges to overcome before reaching the Vigne Glacier. Along the way, we are treated to awe-inspiring views, particularly of the mesmerizing ice flutings adorning Vigne Peak (6,281m) and Khumil Gri (6,840m).
As we progress, we encounter a glacier section dotted with crevasses before reaching Ali camp. With caution and skill, we navigate our way through the crevasses, as this glacier is predominantly dry and avoids any hazards. Upon arriving at Ali camp, we meet the dedicated members of the Hushe Rescue Team, entrusted with maintaining the fixed rope on Gondogoro La. These experienced climbers will accompany and support us during our crossing and ascent to the summit of the pass.
DAY 14: CROSS THE GONDOGORO PASS (5,560M), TREK TO KHUSPANG (4,600M)
- Mountaineering 11km (7 hours)
- Mountaineering ascent 860m
- Mountaineering descent 1,090m
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Camping
This challenging day at high altitude rewards us with breathtaking views from the top of the pass. On the Karakoram side, we are treated to the sight of four majestic 8,000m peaks. Turning our gaze the other way, we behold the picturesque Hushe valley with the enchanting Leila peak.
To ensure safety during the descent down the Hushe side of the pass, we begin our ascent in the early hours, around midnight, when the risk of rockfall is minimized. The climb up the pass involves moderate angled snow slopes, requiring the use of crampons and ice axes for secure footing on the Vigne side. Rope is available for steeper sections, where a harness, ascender, carabiner, and sling enhance safety. In favorable snow conditions, the ascent can be relatively swift, taking approximately 5 hours from Ali camp to the summit of Gondogoro La.
Descending the Hushe side can pose its challenges, although ropes are in place at the top. The slope starts with a sustained 50-degree incline on snow, transitioning to loose scree towards the bottom. From there, we navigate a rocky slope until we reach a trail leading down the lateral moraine. Along the way, we pass through grassy areas adorned with vibrant flowers. Finally, we arrive at the tranquil green oasis of Khuspang, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved cup of tea.
The successful crossing of Gondogoro La hinges on favorable weather and conditions. If it is deemed unsafe to ascend the pass, we will retrace our steps down the Baltoro glacier to Askole. Our carefully designed itinerary maximizes our chances of crossing the pass by:
- Ensuring proper acclimatization through the gradual ascent on the trek.
- Incorporating two buffer days (Day 16 & 17) to account for potential delays or adverse weather.
DAY 15: TREK TO SHAISHO (3,400M)
- Walking 17km (8 hours)
- Walking ascent 200m
- Walking descent 1,320m
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Camping
After bidding farewell to Khuspang, we venture onto the vast expanse of the Gondogoro glacier. Navigating our way through a combination of moraine and ice, we make our way towards the center of the glacier. As we traverse this icy terrain, we are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The glacier leads us to Dalsangpa, aptly named the "field of flowers." From here, we are treated to a magnificent sight of Masherbrum and its majestic glacier cascading down Masherbrum Pass.
The path to Shaisho is a delightful journey, taking us past picturesque yak pastures and granting us our first encounter with trees since our time at Paiju. Shaisho welcomes us with its quaint settlement, where a friendly local runs a shop. It's worth mentioning that this individual has previously served as a High Altitude Porter on a K2 expedition, providing valuable insights into the region. We set up camp here for the night, reveling in the higher levels of oxygen and the warmer temperatures that accompany this lower altitude.
DAY 16: TREK TO HUSHE (3,048M)
- Walking 10km (3 hours)
- Walking ascent 100m
- Walking descent 280m
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Camping
We have an easy walk out along the river and then through fields to the village of Hushe.
DAY 17: DRIVE BY JEEP TO SKARDU (2,228M)
- Drive by jeep to Skardu (6 hours)
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- K2 Motel in Skardu
In the morning we have a beautiful 6 hour drive through villages back to Skardu.
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.
