Gasherbrum I Expedition, Pakistan, is one of the most thrilling climbs in the Karakoram. Also called K5, Hidden Peak, or Shining Wall, it is the highest of the six Gasherbrum peaks. First summited in 1958 by A. Kaufman and P. Schoening, it remains a favorite for mountaineers seeking high-altitude adventure. The trek starts in Skardu, passes through Shigar Valley, and crosses the Baltoro Glacier to reach Base Camp.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

Gasherbrum I Expedition, Pakistan, challenges climbers with snow faces, ice ridges, and steep sections. From Base Camp, the approach crosses heavily crevassed glaciers, then rises over Banana Ridge to Camp 2. Climbers continue up ice pitches to C3 at 7,490 m, traverse to the East Ridge, and finally reach the summit pyramid. The final ascent offers wide-open alpine scenery, with a few steep sections before the narrow summit.

Located near K2 and Gasherbrum II, Gasherbrum I towers over the Concordia amphitheater, one of the world’s most dramatic high-altitude landscapes. This expedition combines technical climbing, stunning scenery, and the ultimate Karakoram mountaineering experience. Gasherbrum I Expedition, Pakistan, is perfect for those seeking adventure, challenge, and unforgettable Himalayan vistas.

Name of Peak:                              Gasherbrum I

Elevation                                             8068-M

Ranked                                               11th(4th in Pakistan)

Base Camp Height                           4800-M

Range                                                  Karakorum-Baltoro Skardu

Duration                                            50 Days

Best Period                                       June to August

  • Day 1 – Arrival Islamabad (540 m): Transfer to hotel; evening briefing at Alpine Club.
  • Day 2 – Islamabad to Chilas: Drive via Babusar Top and Kaghan Valley; overnight in Chilas.
  • Day 3 – Chilas to Skardu (2,200 m): 22–24 hrs drive; overnight in Skardu.
  • Day 4 – Skardu: Final expedition prep; overnight in hotel.
  • Day 5 – Skardu to Askole (3,050 m): 96 km jeep drive, 7–8 hrs; overnight in tents.
  • Day 6 – Askole to Karpophong (3,100 m): 3–4 hrs trek, easy grade; overnight in tents.
  • Day 7 – Karpophong to Jhula (3,150 m): 3–4 hrs trek, strenuous; river crossing, overnight tents.
  • Day 8 – Jhula to Paju (3,480 m): 5–6 hrs trek along Braldu River; moderate; overnight tents.
  • Day 9 – Paju Camp: Rest/acclimatization; overnight tents.
  • Day 10 – Paju to Urdukas (4,130 m): 6–7 hrs trek, moderate; views of Trango, Uli Biaho; overnight tents.
  • Day 11 – Urdukas to Goro (4,500 m): 6–7 hrs on Baltoro Glacier, strenuous; overnight tents.
  • Day 12 – Goro to Concordia (4,720 m): 5–6 hrs trek; spectacular glacier junction; strenuous; overnight tents.
  • Day 13 – Concordia to Gasherbrum Base Camp: 3–4 hrs easy walk; overnight tents.
  • Day 14 – Base Camp: Rest and expedition prep; overnight tents.
  • Days 15–42 – Climbing Gasherbrum I: Summit attempt; duration depends on weather, fitness, and experience.
  • Day 43 – Base Camp to Ali Camp: Early descent via Concordia and Vigne Glacier; overnight tents.
  • Day 44 – Ali Camp to Gondogoro La to Khuspang (5,700 m): 10–12 hrs, strenuous ascent and descent; panoramic views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum.
  • Day 45 – Khuspang to Saicho: 6–7 hrs trek; moderate; cross crevasse, camp at Hushe River with views of Masherbrum.
  • Day 46 – Saicho to Hushe (3,050 m): Easy 3–4 hrs trek along Hushe River; overnight tents.
  • Day 47 – Hushe to Skardu (2,200 m): Full-day jeep drive; overnight hotel.
  • Day 48 – Skardu to Islamabad: Flight (weather permitting) or drive via Kaghan Valley; overnight hotel.
  • Day 49 – Chilas to Islamabad: Early morning drive; overnight hotel.
  • Day 50 – Islamabad – Debriefing: Briefing at Alpine Club; transfer to airport; end of services.

1. Where is Gasherbrum I located?
Gasherbrum I (8,080 m / 26,509 ft) is located in the Baltoro Karakoram Range, on the Pakistan–China border.

2. Why is it called Hidden Peak?
It is known as Hidden Peak because it is not easily visible from the Baltoro Glacier approach.

3. How long does the expedition take?
The expedition typically takes 50–60 days, including travel, trekking, acclimatization, and summit attempt.

4. What is the best season to climb Gasherbrum I?
The ideal season is late June to early August.

5. How difficult is Gasherbrum I?
It is a technical 8,000m peak, more demanding than Gasherbrum II, with steep snow and ice sections.

6. What route is commonly used?
Most climbers follow the Japanese Couloir (normal route).

7. Is prior 8,000m experience required?
Strongly recommended. Climbers should have solid experience on 7,000m peaks and strong high-altitude capability.

8. Where does the expedition begin?
The journey starts in Islamabad, followed by travel to Skardu, then a 7–8 day trek across the Baltoro Glacier to base camp.

9. What camps are established on Gasherbrum I?
Typically:

  • Base Camp (~5,000 m)

  • Camp 1 (~6,000 m)

  • Camp 2 (~6,500 m)

  • Camp 3 (~7,000 m)

  • Camp 4 (~7,500 m)

10. Are climbing permits required?
Yes. A government-issued climbing permit is mandatory and arranged through a licensed operator.

11. What are the main risks?
Avalanches, crevasses, severe storms, extreme cold, and altitude-related illnesses.

12. Is supplemental oxygen used?
Some climbers use bottled oxygen above 7,000 m, though many attempt without it.

13. What is included in the package?
Climbing permit, liaison officer, base camp logistics, trekking services, meals during trek, fixed ropes, and support staff.

14. What is not included?
International airfare, personal climbing equipment, oxygen (if optional), insurance, personal Sherpa/guide (if optional), tips, and personal expenses.

15. Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Strict acclimatization and health monitoring are essential above 7,000 m.

16. What makes Gasherbrum I unique?
It’s elegant pyramid shape, technical summit ridge, and relatively less crowded environment compared to other 8,000m peaks.

Services Included

  • Liaison with the Ministry of Tourism in Islamabad for the climbing permit process, providing the appointed Liaison officer’s measurements for his prescribed kit.
  • Process during import/export permit from the Ministry of Tourism.
  • Clearance of cargo before the arrival of the team and its storage.
  • Assistance upon arrival/departure.
  • Official Briefing/Debriefing.
  • Hotel accommodation in Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Chilas.
  • All meals during the trek and at B.C. as per the itinerary.
  • Porterage of 75 kg per person of expedition equipment and high altitude food, etc., to the B.C., and 50 kg per person on return from B.C.
  • Road transfers between the airport/hotel and within the city as per the itinerary.
  • Sleeping tents, mattresses, mess, kitchen, and toilet tent with tables/field stools and camping ground fees.
  • Kitchen equipment, crockery, cutlery, fuel, and related community gear.
  • Wages and basic kit of guide, sirdar, cook, and assistant(s).
  • Insurance for our field staff and low-altitude porters (except for helicopter rescue).
  • Porterage at airports, hotels, toll taxes, and parking fees, etc.
  • Mail handling/forwarding to B.C./overseas except for postage charges.
  • Reconfirmation of air tickets.
  • Hiring of HAPs, mail runner(s), and any other crew as per requirement. (Wages and kit to be arranged by the team).

Services not Included

  • International & domestic airfare, airport tax, and excess baggage charges.
  • High altitude porters/any crew above B.C.
  • Helicopter emergency rescue fees (refundable if not used)
  • High altitude tents, sleeping bags, personal and climbing equipment of any kind beyond base camp, including high altitude food and oxygen.
  • Medications, ground evacuations, and helicopter rescue charges of any kind.
  • Room services, laundry, beverages, phone/communication bills, and items of a personal nature.
  • Insurance liability of member (s) and other under force majeure conditions.
  • Climbing Permit, Pollution and Environmental fee, or any other payment required to be paid to Pakistan’s Government.
  • Clearing agent charges.
  • Members climb gears
  • Member’s personal insurance
  • High altitude food
  • High altitude porter
  • Any other service not mentioned in the above list

Budget-Friendly Tour and Trekking

All our tours and treks are budget-friendly, without compromising comfort or service quality. At Visit in Pakistan, we take pride in delivering reliable service, which is why many clients choose to travel with us again. Moreover, our premium services are equally appreciated by corporate groups, business travelers, and high-profile clients. From affordable adventures to luxury experiences, our Five 8,000 m Base Camp Trek is a perfect example of the quality we offer.

Experienced Local Team for Your Journey

Our certified mountain guides and porters are born and raised in Baltistan. Therefore, they know every rock, glacier, and trail. With decades of experience, they make your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable.

Tailor-Made Itineraries

We customize each itinerary to match your schedule, budget, and interests. From flight bookings to basecamp logistics, our team manages everything. As a result, you can focus entirely on enjoying the TREK and tour experience.

Safety and 24/7 Backup Support

Your safety and comfort come first. In addition, we provide full backup support, including rescue coordination, reliable transportation, and on-ground communication. This ensures peace of mind throughout your adventure.

Gasherbrum I Pakistan
Gasherbrum I Pakistan

Tour Reviews

4.25 based on 4 reviews
July 11, 2022

As part of a team of 12 from around the world, including members from Spain, Netherlands, Italy, USA, Denmark, and Chile, I was thrilled to embark on this incredible journey. We all put in a tremendous amount of effort and preparation to make this expedition a success, knowing that scaling Gasherbrum I would be a challenging and rewarding experience.
Throughout the journey, the expert guides and support staff from our tour agency “Visit in Pakistan Treks, Tours & Expeditions” were instrumental in ensuring our safety and enjoyment. Their expertise and experience in the area allowed us to navigate the challenges of the climb with confidence and ease, allowing us to focus on the stunning beauty of the landscape around us.
I on behalf of our entire group would highly recommend this expedition to anyone looking for an adventure in the beautiful landscapes of Pakistan. Thank you to everyone who made this incredible journey possible!

March 20, 2024

Wow, incredible weblog format! Thank you for making our trip more interesting. We will definitely return to you. All arrangements from visa, expedition permit to traveling and camping. Up to the mark.

March 23, 2024

We were group of 12 members from different countries. We had an opportunity to experience an adventure trip with Visit in Pakistan. Every bit of promise fulfilled. They actually stayed on their words. We found easy, secure and trusted tour agency. Recommended.

February 12, 2026

I love places where they show real tourism. This page is exactly about that. Keep up the good work.

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