K-2 Base Camp & Gondogoro Trek

K-2 Base Camp & Gondogoro Trek

The K-2 Base Camp & Gondogoro Trek is one of the most thrilling and adventurous trekking routes in the world, set in the heart of the Karakoram Range in Pakistan. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, challenging paths, and the opportunity to get close to the world’s second-highest peak, K2 (8,611 meters). This trek also includes crossing the Gondogoro La Pass (5,585 meters), adding an extra element of adventure and technicality to the journey.

Itinerary 

     Day 01 Upon arrival at the Islamabad International Airport, transfer to hotel 

Day 02 Flight to Skardu (1 hour) or drive to Chilas (10-12 hours)

Day 03 Free day in Skardu or drive from Chilas to Skardu (7-8 hours)

Day 04 Drive to Askoli (6 hours)

Day 05 Trek to Jhola (5-6 hours)

Day 06/07 Trek from Jhola to Paiju (6 hours) 

Rest day at Paju  

Day 08 Trek from Paiju to Khuburtse (5 hours)

Day 09 Trek from Khuburtse to Urdukus (5 hours)

Day 10 Trek from Urdukus to Goro-II (6 hours)

Day 11 Trek from Goro-II to Concordia (5 hours)

Day 12-13 Rest day at Concordia: trek to k2bc and return to Concordia ,depend on the trekkers otherwise photography at Concordia ,incase bed weather trekker will wait for good weather to cross gondogoro la  

Day 14 Concordia to Ali Camp : Trek from Concordia to Ali camp

Day 15 Trek Ali camp to gondogoro la Pass to Khuispang : Trek at midnight from ali camp to ggla 5hrs ro reach on top ,taking amazing photos ,and descending from top to khuispang 3hrs  

Day 16 Trek from Khuispang to Saicho ,the amazing view of Laila peak

Day 17 Trek from Saicho to Hushe ,and continue drive to Skardu

Day 18 Flight to Islamabad or Drive to Chilas

Day 19 Drive from  Chilas to Islamabad or Explore Islamabad

Day 20 Transfer to Islamabad Airport for the departure flight. 

Trek Details

• Location: Karakoram Range, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

• Duration: Typically 18-22 days, including travel and acclimatization days

• Maximum Altitude: 5,585 meters (Gondogoro La Pass)

• Difficulty Level: Strenuous and challenging; suitable for experienced trekkers

• Best Time to Trek: June to August

Highlights

• K2 Base Camp: The trek takes you to the base camp of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. Standing at the foot of this giant is an awe-inspiring experience.

• Baltoro Glacier: One of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions, the Baltoro Glacier offers dramatic views of towering peaks like Masherbrum, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum IV.

• Concordia: Known as the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods,” Concordia is a majestic meeting point of glaciers surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountains.

• Gondogoro La Pass: This pass offers unparalleled views of K2, Broad Peak, and the surrounding peaks. The crossing is technical, requiring ropes and mountaineering skills.

• Remote Villages: Experience local Balti culture in remote mountain villages along the way, including Askole, the last inhabited village before entering the wilderness.

Trek Difficulty

• Technical Aspects: The crossing of Gondogoro La requires basic mountaineering skills, as ropes, crampons, and ice axes may be necessary depending on snow conditions.

• Altitude Sickness: Due to the high altitude, acclimatization days are essential to avoid altitude sickness.

• Physical Fitness: The trek demands a high level of fitness and endurance due to long days of walking and significant altitude gains.

Permits and Regulations

• Permits: Special permits are required to trek in the Karakoram region and for crossing Gondogoro La. You will also need a guide, as independent trekking is not allowed in these areas.

• Guides & Porters: Due to the difficulty of the terrain, it’s advisable to hire experienced guides and porters. They are familiar with the route, and porters can help carry supplies.

What to Expect

• Scenery: Towering snow-capped peaks, glaciers, rugged terrain, and stunning landscapes make this trek visually spectacular.

• Wildlife: While rare, you might spot Himalayan ibex, snow leopards, and various bird species.

• Camping: The trek requires camping in tents as there are no permanent shelters along the route.

Gear and Equipment

• Trekking boots, poles, and crampons for icy terrain

• Warm, layered clothing for extreme weather conditions

• Sleeping bags suitable for sub-zero temperatures

• Climbing gear (ropes, harnesses) for the Gondogoro La pass

Cultural Experience

• The trek offers an opportunity to explore Balti culture in the mountain villages. The Baltis, of Tibetan descent, are known for their hospitality and resilience in these high-altitude environments.

Cost

The cost of this trek can vary based on the tour company, group size, and services included. Typically, it ranges between $3,500 to $5,500 USD per person, covering permits, guide services, porters, meals, and internal transportation.

The K-2 Base Camp & Gondogoro Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore some of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth.