Itinerary
K2 and Gondogoro La Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Pakistan! Most international flights arrive in the morning at Islamabad International Airport. Our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the day recovering from your journey. In the afternoon, there will be a detailed group briefing about the trek, and depending on the time, you might explore Islamabad, a city purpose-built in 1961 as the capital of Pakistan.
Day 2: Flight to Skardu or Drive to Chilas
Take a scenic flight to Skardu, the gateway to the Karakoram, weather permitting. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Karakoram peaks, including Nanga Parbat, K2, and Gondogoro Pass. If the flight is canceled, you’ll drive along the Karakoram Highway to Chilas. In Skardu, spend the afternoon visiting local markets, historic forts, and scenic spots such as Satpara Lake.
Day 3: Sightseeing in Skardu or Drive to Askoli
Explore Skardu, a vibrant town known as the hub for trekking and climbing in Baltistan. Visit Kharpocho Fort for panoramic views, stroll through Organic Village, or take an optional jeep tour to Satpara Lake. Depending on road conditions, you may travel directly to Askoli, the last village before entering the Karakoram wilderness.
Day 4: Drive to Johla Camp (or via Askoli)
Travel along the Indus, Shigar, and Braldu rivers to reach Johla Camp. If road conditions allow, you’ll pass through Askoli, a charming village surrounded by walnut groves and cultivated fields. Spend your first night under the stars near the roaring Braldu River.
Day 5: Trek to Paiju (3,380m)
Begin your trek along the riverbank, gradually climbing higher for stunning views of Paiju Peak. Cross streams fed by melting glaciers and arrive at the green oasis of Paiju, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the immense Baltoro Glacier.
Day 6: Trek to Khoburtse (3,760m)
Walk alongside the Baltoro Glacier, navigating rocky trails and moraine ridges. Marvel at the towering Trango Towers, Cathedral Group, and Uli Biaho as you make your way to Khoburtse, a spectacular campsite offering panoramic mountain views.
Day 7: Trek to Urdukas (4,130m)
Enjoy a shorter yet challenging trek to Urdukas. Follow the lateral moraine of the Baltoro Glacier, passing iconic peaks like Great Trango and Cathedral Peak. This campsite provides some of the most awe-inspiring vistas of the trek.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Urdukas
Take a well-deserved rest day to acclimatize. Use this time to check your equipment, practice mountaineering techniques, or simply soak in the breathtaking mountain views from the camp.
Day 9: Trek to Goro II (4,250m)
Continue trekking along the Baltoro Glacier, passing the Yermanandu Glacier and enjoying views of Masherbrum, Muztagh Tower, and Gasherbrum IV. Camp on the glacier itself, surrounded by towering peaks.
Day 10: Trek to Concordia (4,600m)
Trek to Concordia, often called the "Throne Room of the Gods," for its unrivaled 360-degree views of the Karakoram giants. From here, you’ll see K2, Broad Peak, and other towering summits in one of the most awe-inspiring mountain settings in the world.
Day 11: Trek to Broad Peak Base Camp (5,000m)
Depart Concordia and trek along the Godwin-Austen Glacier to Broad Peak Base Camp. This campsite offers some of the best views of K2 and the surrounding peaks, making it a highlight of the trek.
Day 12: Visit K2 Base Camp and Return to Concordia
Walk to K2 Base Camp, an iconic destination for climbers and trekkers. Admire the grandeur of K2 and its surrounding glaciers before returning to Concordia. Begin your descent towards Ali Camp in preparation for the Gondogoro La crossing.
Day 13: Trek to Ali Camp (5,000m)
Leave Concordia and head towards Ali Camp. Trek along the Upper Baltoro Glacier, passing beneath Chogolisa and navigating crevasses as you approach the base of Gondogoro La. Practice using fixed ropes and crampons in preparation for the next day.
Day 14: Cross Gondogoro La (5,585m) to Khuispang
Start before dawn to ascend the Gondogoro La Pass. Use fixed ropes to navigate the steep and icy terrain. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums. Descend carefully into the Hushe Valley and camp at Khuispang.
Day 15: Contingency Day
This spare day is reserved for weather delays or unforeseen challenges during the Gondogoro La crossing. If the pass was crossed successfully, use this day to rest, explore, or continue descending toward Hushe.
Day 16: Trek to Saicho (3,350m)
Continue descending through the Hushe Valley, passing yak pastures and vibrant wildflowers. Arrive at Saicho, a serene campsite surrounded by trees and lush greenery, offering a stark contrast to the high-altitude glaciers.
Day 17: Trek to Hushe and Drive to Skardu
Complete your trek with a short walk to Hushe, a charming Balti village. From here, drive along the scenic Shyok and Indus rivers back to Skardu, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable bed and a warm shower.
Day 18: Fly to Islamabad
Weather permitting, fly back to Islamabad and enjoy one last aerial view of the Karakoram peaks. If the flight is canceled, return via the Karakoram Highway, stopping overnight in Naran or Chilas.
Day 19: Contingency Day in Islamabad
Use this day for sightseeing in Islamabad if the flight operated on schedule. Visit cultural landmarks, shop for souvenirs, or relax at your hotel.
Day 20: Departure
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home, concluding an unforgettable adventure on the K2 and Gondogoro La Trek.
