K2 BASE CAMP AND GONDOGORO LA TREK

Day 1 — Arrival: Islamabad

• Program: Meet and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon briefing by guide (route, safety, equipment check)

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 25–35 °C (hot, humid; monsoon possible)

• Notes: If arrival is early, a short city tour (Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, local bazaars) can be provided; otherwise, this is reserved for post-trek. Final documents and permits are reviewed.

Day 2 — Islamabad → Skardu (flight; road backup)

• Flight to Skardu for an hour (weather permitting);  Otherwise, via luxury vehicle along the Karakoram Highway is provided. Stay in Chilas, and the next day you will be in Skardu.

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 10–30 °C (warm days, cool nights; comfortable).

• Highlights: Mountain views on descent/approach; hotel welcome dinner and final gear packing.

Day 3 — Rest & Skardu Sightseeing (Acclimatization day)

• Full rest day in Skardu. Short local visits: Kharpocho Fort (Kharfocho), Sadpara Lake, Shangrila Resort (Shangri-La), and Sarfaranga cold desert. Final gear checks and porter/crew introductions. Official briefing (tourism ministry / CKNP formalities) for foreign and local guides.

• Overnight altitude: 2,440 m (Skardu).

• Elevation change: 0 m.

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 10–28 °C.

• Terrain/walk type: Easy walking, short cultural strolls.

• Notes: Last opportunity to purchase minor items and to confirm emergency plans, communications, and altitude medications.

Day 4 — Drive Skardu → Askole

• Program: Early departure by 4WD to Askole, the last village before trekking. Off-road, so travel time depends on weather and landslides. Meet crew and porters, and in the evening, gear check, briefing, and camp introduction.

• Distance (drive, approx.): 140 km by jeep (approx. 6–8 hours).

• Altitude: ~3,000 m (Askole campsite area).               Elevation gain: ≈ +560 m (2,440 → 3,000 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 5–18 °C (diurnal; colder at night).

• Highlights: First contact with Baltoro Valley scenery and Askole village culture; meet porters and kitchen crew.

Day 5 — Askole → Jhola (3100 m) — Trek day

• Trek follows the Braldu River, passing small settlements and wide valley sections. Lunch at the Korophon area,  and continue to the Jhola campsite.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 14 km — 7–8 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 3,100 m (Jhola).                     Elevation gain: ≈ +100 m (3,000 → 3,100 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 0–15 °C (cool mornings; warm sun if clear).

• Terrain/walk type: Riverbank trails, rocky paths, occasional scree; well-defined trekking trail.

• Highlights: First full day on the Baltoro; views of the river, seasonal flora; growing sense of remoteness.

Day 6 — Jhola → Pajju (Pajju) (3,418 m)

• Continue along the Braldu glacial valley toward Pajju. This is a steadily climbing day with increasingly dramatic rock features (Trango Towers, Cathedral Peak visible depending on approach).

• Distance (trek, approx.): 16 km — 7–8 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 3,418 m (Pajju).                                  Elevation gain: ≈ +318 m (3,100 → 3,418 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 0–12 °C (sunny daytime warm; strong UV).

• Terrain/walk type: River trail, moraine sections, occasional steep pitches; watch for sun exposure.

• Notes: Strong sun protection recommended (high SPF, lip balm, hat).

Day 7 — Paiju — Rest & Acclimatization

• Active rest day for acclimatization. Short hikes to nearby (optional) and a social evening with local music/dance around camp as groups converge. Porters prepare glacier provisions.

Day 8 — Paiju → Khoburtse (3,788 m)

• Trek onto the glacial sections approaching the snouts of Baltoro glacier, with careful route-finding as the trail shifts across moraines and snow/ice. Lunch at Liligo and continue to Khoburtse campsite.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 12 km — 5–7 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 3,788 m (Khoburtse)                         Elevation gain: ≈ +370 m (3,418 → 3,788 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −2 to 8 °C (cooler; nights below freezing possible).

• Terrain/walk type: Mixed (moraine, glacier approach, rocky ridges).

Day 9 — Khoburtse → Urdukas (4,050 m)

• A shorter but demanding day due to sustained altitude gain. Cross glacial stretches into Urdukas, the last developed campsite. Spectacular views of Cathedral Peaks opposite the camp.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 6 km — 2–4 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 4,050 m (Urdukas).                          Elevation gain: ≈ +262 m (3,788 → 4,050 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −5 to 5 °C (cold nights; daytime mild in sun).

• Terrain/walk type: Glacial walking, moraine; careful route management for crevasses.

• Notes: Respect rest and hydration—this is the last developed camp before higher glacial camps.

Day 10 — Urdukas → Goro II (4,380 m)

• Trek northwards on glacier terrain toward Goro II. The path becomes more demanding with variable ice, crevasse fields, and moraine humps. Views of G-4, Mashabrum, and Mustagh Tower energize the group.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 10 km — 5–7 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 4,380 m (Goro II)                             Elevation gain: ≈ +330 m (4,050 → 4,380 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −8 to 2 °C.

• Terraine: Glacier travel and high-altitude trekking techniques are needed.

Day 11 — Goro II → Concordia (4,650–5,000 m)

• Shorter today for Concordia, the junction of the Baltoro and Godwin-Austin glaciers. Spectacular panoramas open (G1–G4, Broad Peak). Camp is set with the world’s most dramatic skyline.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 8 km — 3–4 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 4,650–5,000 m                                    Elevation gain: ≈ +270–+350 m

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −10 to 0 °C (cold; strong sun midday).

• Terrain/walk type: Glacier travel (broad, flat but with crevasses); high altitude trekking.

• Highlights: First full vista of K2 from nearby ridgelines; many parties camp here to soak in views.

Day 12 — Concordia → K2 Base Camp (5,135 m) → Return to Concordia

• Early departure toward the K2 Base Camp and pass Broad Peak BC en route. At K2 BC, visit the Art Gilkey memorial and soak in the scale of K2. Return to Concordia the same day.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 26 km round trip — 5–8 hours one way, generally listed, but plan 5–8 hours each way depending on conditions (itinerary lists 5–8 hours to K2 BC; return same day).

• Overnight altitude: 4,650–5,000 m (Concordia — return).

• Elevation gain (Concordia → K2 BC): ≈ +135–+485 m

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −12 to −2 °C (very cold at K2 BC; nights and mornings are extreme).

• Terrain/walk type: Glacier travel, mixed ice and moraine; careful route finding; long, exposed glacier day.

• Notes: This is an iconic long day; adequate food, layered clothing, and glacier skills are essential. Return to Concordia for overnight.

Day 13 — Concordia — Rest & Explore

• Full rest day at Concordia. Short hikes for better viewpoints, photography, or a longer day trip to nearby.

Day 14 — Concordia → Ali Camp (5,010 m)

• Trek from Concordia through Vigne Glacier toward Ali Camp, base for the Gondogoro La approach. Prepare for the high pass. Weather assessment critical here (pass window).

• Distance (trek, approx.): 12 km — 5–8 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 5,010 m (Ali Camp).                 Elevation gain: ≈ +10–+360 m

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −15 to −3 °C.

• Terrain/walk type: High glacial/moraine approach; careful crevasse navigation and ropework preparation.

Day 15 — Ali Camp → Gondogoro La → Khuspang (4,830 m)

• After 12 AM start and ascend to the Gondogoro La (≈5,580 m), the most technically demanding part of the itinerary. Pass the summit pass before 9:00 AM is the target. After reaching the pass, descend steeply in the valley to reach the Khuspang campsite.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 12 km — very long, technical day (4–6 hours ascent + descent time; total 8–12 hours including ropework and slow, careful progress).

• Overnight altitude: 4,830 m (Khuspang).

• Elevation gain/loss: Ascent ≈ +570 m (Ali Camp → Gondogoro La);
  descent ≈ −750 m (Gondogoro La → Khuspang).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): −20 to −5 °C (very cold at pass; wind chill severe).

• Terrain/walk type: Technical. Requires headlamps, crampons, Helmit, a harness, and trained guides.

• Safety note: This is the trek’s most demanding day — guides make the final GO/NO-GO decision; an extra buffer day may be used if the weather is unfavorable.

Day 16 — Khuspang → Saicho (3,300 m)

• Descend from Khuspang into the green upper valleys. Trail becomes more vegetated as altitude drops; cross streams and enter junctions. Saicho is the junction between the Gondogoro and Charakusa valleys.

• Distance (trek, approx.): 14 km — 6–8 hours.

• Overnight altitude: 3,300 m (Saicho).                       Elevation change: ≈ −1,530 m (4,830 → 3,300 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 0–12 °C (warmer days; cold nights).

• Terrain/walk type: Steep descent then mixed valley trails; river crossings and rocky paths.

Day 17 — Saicho → Hushey / Skardu (drive)

• The walk descends into Hushey / Machulu Valley with a scenic drive to Skardu. Time in Skardu for a hot shower, laundry, souvenir shopping, and optional short sightseeing. Evening celebratory dinner with crew.

• Distance (trek + transfer, approx.): 10 km trekking + 1–2 hour vehicle transfer.

• Distance (drive, approx.): ~140 km — 3–4 hours (depending on road improvements).

• Overnight altitude: 2,440 m (Skardu).                   Elevation change: ≈ −560 m (3,000 → 2,440 m).

• Temperature (Jul–Aug): 10–28 °C.

• Terrain/walk type: Road travel, short local walking.

Day 18 — Skardu → Islamabad (flight)

• Morning flight to Islamabad (≈1 hour). Transfer to the hotel. Time for rest and city activities.

• Temperature (Jul–Aug, Islamabad): 25–35 °C.

Day 19 — Islamabad — Trip Complete (city & departure prep)

• Optional short city tour, shopping, and final debrief with guides. Review photos, receive certificates (if provided). Prepare for departure the next day.

• Distance (local): ~0–50 km depending on activities.

Day 20 — Departure: Islamabad → Home

• Program: Transfer to Islamabad International Airport after breakfast for outbound flights. Day 22 is reserved as a cushion day (buffer) to absorb delays due to weather, permits, or health/acclimatization issues.

• Notes: If no delays occurred, guests depart today.

1What is the K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La Trek?

This trek is an 18–20 day adventure through Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountains, leading to K2 Base Camp and crossing Gondogoro La (5,585m), offering views of K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum peaks.

2Where is the K2 Base Camp located?

K2 Base Camp lies in Baltistan, Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, near the confluence of the Godwin-Austen and Baltoro glaciers.

3How high is the Gondogoro La Pass?

The Gondogoro La Pass sits at approximately 5,585 meters (18,325 feet) above sea level, offering panoramic views of four 8,000-meter peaks.

4. Why is Concordia called the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”?

From Concordia, trekkers can see K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, and several other giant peaks in a single 360° view — one of the world’s most awe-inspiring mountain panoramas.

5Is the K2 trek harder than Everest Base Camp?

Yes, the K2 Base Camp trek is more remote, rugged, and challenging due to glacier terrain and longer trekking days, though technically it involves no climbing.

Planning & Permits

6Do I need a permit to trek to K2 Base Camp?

Yes, foreign trekkers require a special permit and No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department, usually arranged by your tour operator.

7Can I trek independently without a guide?

No, independent trekking is not allowed. You must join a licensed Pakistani operator with a registered guide and support crew.

8How can I get a trekking visa for Pakistan?

Apply for a Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVoA) through Pakistan’s online visa portal, selecting the “mountaineering/trekking” category and providing operator details.

9Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes. Comprehensive insurance covering high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 m) and helicopter evacuation is required for all foreign trekkers.

10What’s the best time of year for this trek?

Mid-June to late August offers stable weather, moderate temperatures, and clear skies for mountain visibility.

Route & Difficulty

11What is the full trekking route?

Askole → Jhola → Paiju → Khoburtse → Urdukas → Goro II → Concordia → K2 Base Camp → Ali Camp → Gondogoro La → Khuspang → Saicho → Hushe → Skardu.

12How long is the trek in total distance?

The total distance is around 160 km round-trip from Askole to Hushe.

13What’s the daily walking time?

Expect 6–8 hours of trekking per day, depending on elevation and weather conditions.

14Is Gondogoro La dangerous?

It’s a steep and icy pass that requires rope and crampons. Safe under experienced guides when conditions are stable.

15What are the altitude risks?

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is possible. The itinerary includes acclimatisation days to minimise risk.

Logistics & Safety

16What safety measures are in place?

Licensed guides carry satellite phones, oxygen, and first-aid kits. Rescue coordination is arranged through the Pakistan Army in emergencies.

17Are helicopters available for evacuation?

Yes, Pakistan Army helicopters can evacuate trekkers from Concordia or Goro in emergencies, depending on the weather.

18Are porters used during the trek?

Yes, local Balti porters carry equipment, tents, and supplies. Each trekker carries a small daypack.

19What communication options are available?

Satellite phones are used above Askole. There’s no mobile coverage beyond Skardu.

20Is it safe to trek in Baltistan?

Yes, the region is peaceful and secure for tourists, especially under licensed operators.

Accommodation & Meals

21What kind of accommodation is available?

Camping only. Tents are set up daily by the crew at designated sites.

22Are meals provided?

Yes, three freshly cooked meals per day: tea, soup, rice, lentils, pasta, and local dishes prepared by camp chefs.

23Is drinking water safe?

Boiled or filtered water is provided daily; bottled water is not available along the trek.

24Are there toilets or showers?

Portable toilet tents are provided; no shower facilities except at a few camps like Paiju.

25What about electricity and charging?

Solar panels or small generators may be used for limited charging at higher camps.

Gear & Fitness

26What essential gear do I need?

Hiking boots, down jacket, thermal layers, gloves, hat, sleeping bag (-10°C), trekking poles, headlamp, and glacier sunglasses.

27Do I need crampons for Gondogoro La?

Yes, lightweight crampons or microspikes are essential for safe glacier crossing.

28What is the recommended fitness level?

Excellent fitness is required; regular hiking and cardio training are advised for 2–3 months prior.

29How cold does it get at night?

Temperatures can drop to -10°C or lower above 4,000m.

30Can beginners join this trek?

Not recommended. It’s for experienced trekkers familiar with high-altitude terrain.

Travel & Transport

31How do I reach Skardu?

Fly from Islamabad to Skardu (1 hour). In case of flight cancellation, a 20-hour road journey via the Karakoram Highway is possible.

32Where does the trek start and end?

Start at Askole village and end at Hushe Valley, both in the Baltistan region.

33What is the elevation of K2 Base Camp?

Approximately 5,150 meters (16,900 feet).

34Is local transportation included?

Yes, 4×4 jeeps transport trekkers between Skardu and Askole/Hushe.

35Can I explore Skardu before or after the trek?

Yes, Skardu offers lakes, forts, and cultural sites worth visiting before or after trekking.

Booking & Cost

36What is the average cost of the trek?

Foreigners: USD 3,000–4,000. Pakistani trekkers: PKR 400,000–600,000 depending on inclusions.

37What does the package include?

Transportation, meals, tents, guides, porters, permits, and domestic flights.

38Are private or luxury trek options available?

Yes, bespoke and family-only treks with premium tents, better meals, and private logistics are offered.

39How far in advance should I book?

At least 3–4 months before departure to secure permits and flight seats.

40How do I book through Visit in Pakistan?

Visit visitinpakistan.com or contact our team via WhatsApp or email for booking assistance and custom itineraries.

Budget-Friendly Tours and Trekking

First and foremost, all our tours and treks are designed to be budget-friendly without compromising comfort or service quality. At Visit in Pakistan, we focus on reliability and consistency. As a result, many of our clients choose to travel with us repeatedly.

Moreover, our premium services are highly valued by corporate groups, business travelers, and high-profile clients. At the same time, we offer affordable adventure options for individual trekkers and groups. For example, our Five 8,000-meter Base Camp Trek reflects the balance we maintain between quality, value, and professionalism.

Experienced Local Team

Equally important, our certified mountain guides and porters are born and raised in Baltistan. Therefore, they understand every rock, glacier, and trail in the region. With decades of hands-on experience, they ensure your journey remains safe, well-managed, and truly memorable.

Tailor-Made Itineraries

Furthermore, we customize each itinerary to match your schedule, budget, and travel goals. From flight bookings to base camp logistics, our team handles every detail efficiently. Consequently, you can focus entirely on enjoying a smooth and rewarding tour and trekking experience.

Safety and 24/7 Backup Support

Above all, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. In addition, we provide complete backup support, including rescue coordination, dependable transportation, and continuous on-ground communication. Therefore, you can travel with confidence and peace of mind throughout your adventure.