Gashabrum – I
The Gasherbrum I Expedition takes adventurers deep into the heart of Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountain range. This thrilling journey offers the excitement of climbing a Karakoram peak surrounded by glacial beauty and exploring the vibrant valleys of Skardu, Shigar, and Askole, which provide stunning mountain vistas. Along the way, climbers can catch sight of iconic peaks such as Trango Towers, Masherbrum, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Golden Throne, Broad Peak, K2, and the entire Baltoro Massif. Gasherbrum I presents a significant challenge and is known for its technical difficulty, especially at the lower stages of the ascent. The Northwest Face is the most commonly used route for climbing Gasherbrum I.
With over 40 years of experience, Chogori Expeditions has been organizing Gasherbrum I expeditions for mountaineers from around the world. We offer a comprehensive 62-day expedition with full-board logistical support up to the base camp. The length of the expedition can vary based on a climber’s experience, skills, and the prevailing weather conditions.
The Gasherbrum I Expedition begins in Islamabad, Pakistan. Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, a representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll spend the rest of the day recuperating from your journey, with an expedition briefing scheduled for the afternoon to cover the details of your adventure.
The next day, weather permitting, you’ll take a breathtaking flight to Skardu, Baltistan, offering spectacular views of Nanga Parbat, K2, and other impressive Himalayan and Karakoram range peaks. Upon arriving in Skardu, a 40-minute drive will take you to your hotel for rest and final preparations for the expedition.
Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, serves as the gateway to many of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, Broad Peak, Masherbrum, and the Gasherbrums. Trekkers and climbers often complete their final preparations here. The next day, you’ll set off by jeep, traveling along the majestic Indus, Shigar, and Braldu Rivers to reach Askole, the last village before you enter the rugged wilderness of the Karakoram. Here, you'll spend your first-night camping under the stars.
The trekking portion of your expedition begins the following day with a hike through Braldu Gorge to the snout of the Baltoro Glacier, which you will follow to Concordia. Known as the center of the Karakoram Range, Concordia offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks. From here, you'll trek to the Gasherbrum Base Camp, where the non-guided climbing portion of the expedition begins. Our staff will remain at base camp throughout the climbing period, while our chefs will prepare nutritious meals to support you during the ascent. We believe that maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial to success in high-altitude mountaineering.
Once the climbing phase of the expedition is complete, you’ll follow the same route back to Islamabad, though an alternative return is possible by crossing Gondogoro La into the Hushe Valley, before continuing to Skardu. From Skardu, you will take a mountain flight back to Islamabad. After spending one night in the city, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight, marking the end of your expedition.