There are hundreds of blogs regarding the K2 Base Camp trek, but none of them ever discuss the campsites in particular. With years of operational and logistical trekking experience in Baltoro, we have prepared this blog to help with only the campsites on the way to the K2 base camp.
Overview of the K2 Base Camp Trek Route
Actual routes start from Skardu and drive for 5-8 hours to reach Askoli. This drive in itself is adventuroues off road experiencing. Camping at Askoli, and starts the trek early in the morning, and stays at 6 different campsites along the way to reach the ultimate K2 base camp.
1. Askole: The Starting Point of the K2 Base Camp Trek
This village is the last human settlement before the wilderness begins. At an altitude of 3000m, we organize for the last time for porters, trekking permits, and supplies. Because anything missed can only be bought from the nearby shop here.
2. Jhola Camp: First Campsite on the Trek
Following the Braldu River, we reach the first campsite, Jhola, at 3200m. It provides the know-how of trekking ahead. The picture above shows the surroundings of Jhola.
3. Paiju Campsite: Gateway to the Baltoro Glacier
The most vital campsite is Pajju at 3450m. Trekkers spend an extra day here for acclimatization. This is the last campsite where you find small vegetation, especially plants, and relatively comfortable camping conditions.
4. Khuburse Camp: Entering Baltoro Glacier
After walking through the Baltoro glacier, you reach Khuburse at 4000m, where the landscape becomes rugged and icy. You can have a view of the Trango Cathedral and Uli Biaho Peaks in front.
5. Urdukas Camp: The Best Viewpoint on the Baltoro Glacier
This campsite at 4050m is one of the most scenic campsites. This campsite is surrounded by huge rocks, unlike other campsites.
6. Goro I: Entering the High Karakoram
At Goro 1, 4150m, groups usually make a stop for lunch on the Baltoro glacier with GIV in front.
7. Goro II: Surrounded by Giant Peaks
At Goro II (4300m), you can see Peaks like Masherbrum, GIV, Mustagh Tower, and other mountains below 7000m. This campsite is very windy, especially at night.
8. Concordia: The Throne Room of the Karakoram
It’s the junctions of trekking ways on Baltoro. At 4600m, from Concordia, trekkers lead to K2 & Broad Peak BC, G1 BC, G2 BC, and GGLA pass. All stays here before going in any direction.
9. Broad Peak BC
Broad Peak at 4900m comes right after Concordia, after a trek for around 3-4 hours. It provides a closer look at the 8000ers around, and looking back at Concordia through the Godwin Austin Glacier is worth eyeing.
10. K2 Base Camp: The Ultimate Trekking Destination
Our final destination was reached at 5150m after around 9-10 days of extensive trekking. Sitting at the base of the world’s second-highest peak is a lifetime memory, and visiting the Gilky Memorial makes your journey more memorable.
Final Thoughts
The campsites along the K2 Base Camp trek form the backbone of one of the world’s most extraordinary trekking routes. Each campsite—from Askole to K2 base camp—plays a vital role in acclimatization, safety, and expedition logistics.
With experienced guides, proper planning, and respect for the mountains, this trek becomes a life-changing experience in one of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth.
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