Khosar Gang Peak (6,000+ m) is a stunning and accessible mountain located in the Shigar Valley near Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan. Known as the "Ice Pumpkin" in the local Balti language, it offers a thrilling yet non-technical climb for experienced trekkers. With breathtaking views of the Karakoram giants, it's a perfect entry into high-altitude mountaineering.
Day 1
Arrive at Islamabad (Pakistan) – meet your team, gear check, last minute shopping, rest and prepare.
Day 2
Travel/flight to Skardu. If flight from Islamabad to Skardu is available (weather dependent) it gives spectacular views; otherwise drive via Karakoram Highway. Stay overnight in Skardu, rest and acclimatise somewhat.
Day 3
Skardu → Shigar Valley → village of Sildi (or equivalent staging point) by jeep/4×4. Here you meet your porter team / support and trek to Base Camp of Khosar Gang (approx ~3–4 hours from village). Overnight in tents at Base Camp (≈4,000 m).
Day 4
Acclimatisation day at Base Camp: gear sorting, light hike around camp, glacier introductions, rest. Overnight at Base Camp.
Day 5
Move up: Base Camp → Camp 1 (≈4,800 m). Carry loads, set up camp. Overnight Camp 1.
Day 6
Rest/Acclimatisation at Camp 1. Maybe a short hike above Camp 1, check route to Camp 2, fix rope sections, practice glacier travel. Overnight Camp 1.
Day 7
Camp 1 → Camp 2 (≈5,200 m). Set camp. Overnight Camp 2.
Day 8
Summit push day: Early morning start from Camp 2 toward summit (≈6,000+ m). Ascend, enjoy summit views, descend back to Camp 2 or even to Camp 1 depending on conditions. Overnight accordingly.
Day 9
If summit day was Day 8, descend: Camp 2 → Camp 1 → Base Camp. Overnight Base Camp.
Day 10
Rest / descend back: Base Camp → Sildi village → jeep/4×4 back to Skardu. Overnight Skardu.
Day 11
Rest day in Skardu: sightseeing, local culture, acclimatised body recovery (if needed).
Day 12
Travel back to Islamabad (via flight or road) or onward to next destination. Overnight Islamabad.
Day 13
Contingency day: always wise to build in a spare day in case of weather delays, acclimatisation issues, or transport problems.
Day 14
Buffer/Rest or additional local trekking in the region, or start journey home.
Day 15
Departure from Islamabad back home.
Transportation:
Airport transfers.
Skardu-Hushe round trip (4WD vehicles).
Accommodation:
Hotels in Skardu (twin-sharing).
Guesthouse in Hushe.
Tents during the trek and at Base Camp.
Meals:
Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the expedition.
Hot beverages and snacks at Base Camp.
Permits and Fees:
Peak climbing permit.
Environmental fees.
Guides and Staff:
Experienced mountaineering guides.
Cook and support staff (porters, camp assistants).
Technical Equipment:
Ropes, harnesses, carabiners, and anchors.
Ice axes and crampons.
International flights to/from Pakistan.
Travel insurance (mandatory for climbing).
Personal climbing gear (boots, helmet, gloves, etc.).
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs).
Emergency evacuation costs.
Tips for guides, cooks, and porters.
Personal Gear
Mountaineering boots (insulated for high altitudes).
Climbing helmet.
Down jacket (for extreme cold).
Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms).
Waterproof jacket and pants.
Technical Gear
Crampons.
Ice axe.
Climbing harness.
Ascenders and descenders.
Camping Gear
Sleeping bag (rated for -20°C or below).
Insulated sleeping pad.
Headlamp with extra batteries.
Miscellaneous Items
Sunglasses with UV protection.
Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 50+).
Trekking poles.
Personal first aid kit.
High-energy snacks (nuts, bars, gels).
Khosar Gang Peak offers a thrilling adventure for those passionate about mountaineering, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Karakoram. With proper preparation and the right team, this expedition can be a life-changing experience!