GASHERBRUM II EXPEDITION PAKISTAN

Day 01: Arrival in Islamabad

On arrival, meet and assist at the airport and then transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in the hotel in Islamabad.

Day 02: Islamabad – Skardu (By Air)

Early morning flight to Skardu (flights are subject to weather); if unable to fly, we will depart for Skardu by road.

Day 03: Skardu

In case the flight is operated, we will go for a sightseeing tour of Skardu, and in case of no flight, the day will be used for overland travel from Chilas to Skardu (t 22 – 24 hrs).

Day 04: Skardu

The day is to finalize the expedition arrangements. Overnight stay in the hotel in Skardu.

Day 05: Skardu – Askole

 After breakfast, we will embark on jeeps for a full day ride on a winding jeep trail to Askole – The last inhabited place on our way to the Great Glaciers. (Tent)

 Day 06: Askole – Jhula

 Trek to the Dumurdo river, cross at Jhula (Jhula means wire rope bridge supported by a wooden basket),  nowadays a wooden bridge has been built to cross it.

Day 07: Jhula – Paiju

We will resume trek along the Braldu River to a green oasis under the shadows of Paiju Peak 6611 M. (Tent)

Day 08: Paiju – Rest Day

Rest & acclimatization day at Paiju.

Day 9: Paiju – Urdukas

Begin trek after an early breakfast.

 Day 10: Urdukas – Goro

A long walk on the icy Baltoro Glacier.

Day 11: Goro – Concordia

After an early breakfast, we will resume a long walk on the Baltoro Glacier to a point called Concordia.

Day 12: Concordia – Gasherbrum BC

Altitude: 4650m (Tent)

Day 14-58: Scaling the Summit

Day 59: Trek down to Hushe

Day 60: Hushe – Skardu

After breakfast, we will embark on jeeps for a full-day ride on Skardu’s winding jeep road. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in. Overnight stay in the hotel in Skardu.

Day 61: Skardu – Chilas

Early morning drive to Chilas. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in. Overnight stay in the hotel at Chilas.

Day 62: Chilas – Islamabad

After breakfast, we will depart for Islamabad, en route to visit rock drawings at Shatial. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Islamabad.

Day 63: Islamabad

We will proceed with debriefing at the Ministry of Tourism in Islamabad. In the afternoon, we will go on a city tour of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Overnight stay in the hotel in Islamabad.

Day 64: Islamabad – Flight out

Transfer to the airport for the flight back home—end of our services.

Please note that Skardu-Gilgit – Islamabad – Skardu-Gilgit flights are subject to weather. In case of flight cancellation, we will travel by road, and one night in Islamabad will be adjusted in the overland travel.

1. Where is Gasherbrum II located?
Gasherbrum II (8,035 m / 26,362 ft) is located in the Baltoro Karakoram Range, on the Pakistan–China border.

2. Why is it called K4?
It was the fourth peak measured in the Karakoram survey, hence the name K4.

3. How long does the expedition take?
The expedition typically takes 45–55 days, including travel, Baltoro trek, acclimatization, and summit attempt.

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

5. How difficult is Gasherbrum II?
It is considered the least technical 8,000m peak in Pakistan, but still extremely demanding due to altitude and weather.

6. Is prior 8,000m experience required?
Strongly recommended. Climbers should have experience on at least one 7,000m peak and advanced high-altitude skills.

7. What route is commonly used?
Most climbers follow the Southwest Ridge (normal route).

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

9. What camps are established on the mountain?
Typically:

• Base Camp (~5,000 m)

• Camp 1 (~5,900 m)

• Camp 2 (~6,400 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?
Extreme cold, avalanches, crevasses, storms, and altitude-related illnesses (AMS, HAPE, HACE).

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

13. What is included in the package?
Climbing permit, liaison officer, base camp services, trekking logistics, 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. Careful acclimatization and medical monitoring are essential above 7,000 m.

16. What makes Gasherbrum II popular?
It is considered one of the more achievable 8,000m peaks, making it a preferred first 8,000m expedition for experienced climbers.

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.