Embark on an unforgettable trekking holiday to K2 and Concordia in the breathtaking Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan, culminating in the thrilling crossing of the Gondogoro La to the picturesque Hushe Valley.
The K2 and Gondogoro La Trek, nestled in the Gilgit Baltistan region, is an iconic adventure. As the second-highest mountain in the world, K2 reigns as the king of the Karakoram. This trek promises breathtaking views of the Trango Towers, Masherbrum, the Gasherbrums, and of course, K2 and Broad Peak. Walking on the renowned Baltoro Glacier, you will pass through Concordia, famously dubbed the “Throne Room of the Gods,” surrounded by a stunning 360° panorama of 7,000m peaks.
At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we have been crafting extraordinary trekking experiences since 2012. Our carefully organized 20-25 day K2 and Gondogoro La Trek prioritizes safety, acclimatization, and enjoyment. The duration of the trek can be tailored to suit your experience, abilities, and schedule.
Your adventure begins in Islamabad, the beautifully designed capital of Pakistan. Our friendly guide will meet you at Islamabad International Airport and escort you to your hotel for rest and recovery. In the afternoon, we’ll hold a briefing about the trek. The next day, you will take a breathtaking flight to Skardu, where you’ll catch your first glimpses of Nanga Parbat, K2, and numerous other majestic peaks. Upon arrival in Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, you’ll check into your hotel and have the rest of the day to prepare for your adventure.
The following day, we will drive along the mighty Indus River and into Shigar Valley, heading towards Askoli—the last village before entering the serene wilderness of the Karakoram National Park. Here, you’ll spend your first night under a starry sky in your tents.
On your first day of trekking, you’ll navigate towards the Braldu Gorge and the snout of the Baltoro Glacier, leading you to Concordia. This central hub of the Karakoram boasts fantastic mountain views, surrounded by ten of the world’s thirty highest peaks, including K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum peaks.
You have the option to explore the Godwin-Austen Glacier, visiting the base camp of K2, Broad Peak, and the Milky Memorial before returning to Concordia for the night. Continuing your trek, you’ll ascend the upper Baltoro Glacier towards Chogolisa and Ali Camp, where you’ll spend the night.
From Ali Camp, you’ll begin the next phase of your journey by crossing the Gondogoro Pass (5,585m). This requires the use of crampons, and a rescue team from Hushe Village will assist in fixing ropes and ensuring your safety during the crossing. You’ll start your ascent early in the morning to avoid potential ice falls and avalanches. The climb begins gently for two hours before transitioning to a steeper section equipped with fixed ropes, where safety carabiners will ensure your secure passage.
Upon reaching the top of Gondogoro Pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of four of the world’s eight-thousand-meter peaks: K2 (8,611m), Broad Peak (8,051m), Gasherbrum I (8,080m), and Gasherbrum II (8,035m). Descending from the pass, you will enter the charming Hushe Valley, a traditional Balti village known for its warm hospitality.
After a scenic six-hour drive along the Shyok and Indus Rivers, you’ll return to Skardu, where you can enjoy a comfortable bed and a hot shower. The next day, you’ll take a flight back to Islamabad. If flights are canceled, we’ll travel via the iconic Karakoram Highway. After a restful night in Islamabad, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your journey home.
At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we are committed to creating unforgettable memories through our K2 and Gondogoro La Trek.
✔ Internal flights and airport transfers
✔ All land transportation (private vehicle with driver)
✔ Accommodation (3-star hotels and camping)
✔ All meals (3 meals a day)
✔ Trekking permits and other fees
✔ Camping equipment (tents, chairs, tables, lights)
Additional Provisions
✔ Kitchen equipment and supplies
✔ English-speaking, experienced mountain guide
✔ Wages and basic gear for all staff
✔ Insurance for crew members (excluding helicopter rescue)
✔ Sleeping tents, mess tents, and toilet tents
✔ Satellite phone for emergencies
✔ Generator/solar panels for light and charging devices
✔ Basic first aid kit
✔ Domestic flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ International flights and visa fees
❌ Tips for guides and support staff
❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra food, etc.)
❌ Extra luggage fees at the airport
❌ City tours in Islamabad and Skardu
Join our K2 and Gondogoro La Trek with our Solo group departures, limited to a maximum of 12 people per group. For those seeking a more personalized experience, we also offer private group options. Please select your desired dates and contact us to customize your itinerary and cost. Discounts for groups, couples, and families are available, so reach out to us before booking.
Our K2 and Gondogoro La trek itinerary runs from Islamabad to Islamabad. Alternatively, you may join our group in Skardu and conclude your journey there. For more details, please contact us prior to booking.
Most international flights arrive in Islamabad, with your return flights departing from Islamabad International Airport on the last day of the itinerary. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport and accompany you throughout your journey, ensuring a seamless experience and seeing you off at the airport on your departure day.
Please note that there are often limited seats available at the advertised price for our K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek Solo departures. To avoid additional costs, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak seasons. If we cannot secure seats at the advertised price, we will promptly contact you with an alternative quote.
To secure your place, a deposit of $170 is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance payable upon your arrival in Pakistan. This deposit is fully refundable if the trip is canceled due to COVID-19, security issues, or political unrest in Pakistan or your home country.
We’re excited to offer you flexible payment options to make your dream adventure a reality. At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we understand that planning a vacation can be challenging, so we’ve designed a convenient four-installment payment plan to ease your financial burden.
While prices for the K2 and Gondogoro La Trek may fluctuate, K2 Expedition & Trekking guarantees that the price at the time of booking will remain unchanged. Whether you book for this year or next, the price you see is the price you pay. To avoid any potential price increases, we encourage early bookings for the best flight prices and to take advantage of our No Surcharge Guarantee. As a licensed and bonded tour operator, we adhere to strict regulations set by the Tourism Department of Pakistan.
Meals During the Trek
We provide all meals during the trek, featuring Pakistani, continental, and vegetarian options. Our meals are delicious and made to keep your energy up, especially at high altitudes.
We can also accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets—just let us know when you book.
Accommodation
During the trek, you’ll stay in comfortable, tourist-standard hotels (3-4 stars) in Islamabad and Skardu. You’ll share a room with someone of the same sex unless you request a private room for an extra cost. You can also book extra nights if you wish.
If you want to acclimatize in Skardu or Deosai before the trek, you can arrive early. Our travel adviser will help you with the details.
Internal Flights
Flights to Skardu can be affected by the weather, so cancellations may happen. If a flight is canceled, you’ll travel by road along the scenic Karakoram Highway.
Skardu Airport is now an international airport, reducing cancellation chances. If your flight is canceled, you will stay overnight in Naran before continuing to Skardu.
Health & Vaccinations
Check with your doctor about necessary vaccinations. Make sure you have routine vaccinations and consider vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis and typhoid. Malaria is rare in the mountains but can occur in Islamabad.
Insurance
We strongly recommend travel insurance for your K2 Base Camp Trek. Your policy should cover medical expenses and any activities planned during your trek.
Mountain Guide and Supporting Staff
Your trek will be led by a licensed mountain guide who speaks good English, along with porters and cooks. All our guides are local experts who know the area well.
Altitude
The K2 Base Camp Trek goes to high altitudes (above 3,500 meters). It’s important to know how to prepare for high-altitude trekking.
Climate
In summer, temperatures can reach about 30°C in Gilgit Baltistan. In Baltoro and Concordia, daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, dropping below 5°C at night. The weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Language and Time
Currency
The currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). ATMs and currency exchange services are available at airports and hotels. Credit and debit cards are accepted in Islamabad, and there are ATMs in Skardu.
Passport & Visas
You need a passport with at least six months’ validity to visit Pakistan. Check with your nearest Pakistani embassy for visa requirements. E-visas and on-arrival visas are available for many countries.
Trekkers need a trekking visa to hike in the Baltoro region, which costs about $80 and takes 6-8 weeks to process. Apply early to avoid delays.
Previous Experience/Fitness
The K2 Base Camp Trek is challenging and requires good fitness. You should be comfortable with multi-day hikes on rough terrain. Most days involve around seven hours of walking, with breaks.
Equipment List
Keep your trekking gear under 17 kg, including your sleeping bag and mattress. We will weigh your bags before the trek starts. You can leave unneeded items at our Skardu office for free.
Airport Transfers
City Tours
Islamabad: Visit places like Faisal Mosque and the Pakistan Monument.
Skardu: Explore Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara Lake, Kachura Lake, and the local market.
We can arrange city tours in Islamabad and Skardu. Contact us for more information.
For more information about the K2 Base Camp Trek, please email us at info@k2expeditiontrekking.com
Deposit for Pakistani Nationals
Pakistani nationals are required to pay a deposit of PKR 100,000 or 30% of the total package cost, whichever is higher. The deposit is non-refundable in all cases.
Currency Options
International travelers can pay in USD, EUR, or GBP, while Pakistani nationals will be charged in PKR at the current exchange rate.
Single Supplement Options
Arrival and Pickup
Our guide will meet you at Islamabad International Airport, holding an orange sign with our company logo and your name. Please provide your flight details at least five days before arrival.
Transfer to Hotel
You’ll be transferred to a hotel to rest after your journey. If arriving between 9 am and 12 pm, after lunch and some rest, we will meet at 6 pm for a briefing and any remaining payments, followed by dinner. For late arrivals, payments and briefings will be handled in Skardu.
Accommodation
Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
GPS Data: Altitude: 2,498m
In the morning, participants will take a scenic flight from Islamabad to Skardu, with views of Nanga Parbat if the weather is clear. After arriving in Skardu, the rest of the day is free.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
Altitude: 2,498m
After breakfast, participants will hike up to Kharpocho Fort, which offers stunning views of the Indus River and Skardu town. They can also choose to visit Sadpara Lake and enjoy free time shopping in Skardu Bazaar.
Meanwhile, our staff will handle the necessary government paperwork in Skardu, which may take up to two days. We have extra days planned at the end of the trek in case of any delays.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,015 m
Participants will start a jeep safari toward Daso, passing through the Shigar Valley alongside the Braldu River, heading to Askole—the last village on the route. From Askole, the trek begins, though sometimes walking starts earlier, depending on road conditions. The journey takes 6 to 8 hours.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,103m
Distance: 20 km
Time: 5-8 hours
After organizing supplies, porters will load up for the trek to Jhola. The route passes the Biafo Glacier, which stretches over 50 km from Hispar La to Braldu. Participants will cross the glacier’s snout and descend to the lunch spot by the Korofon River.
The trek continues along the newer trail, crossing a bridge over the Braldu and Domordo rivers. After crossing, participants will follow the riverbank to reach the Jhola campsite.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Distance: 19.8 km
Time: 6-7 hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will follow the Braldu Gorge along the riverbank. They’ll witness the stunning rock formations of Trango Tower and Cathedral Peak. Since the conditions can be hot and dry, it’s important to protect against sunburn.
Several glacier streams flow into the valley, and participants may need to wear river-crossing shoes depending on water levels. On a clear day, the snout of the Baltoro Glacier may be visible. The trek ends with a climb away from the river to camp at Paiju, the last campsite with trees for a while.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Before heading to Concordia, Paiju Camp serves as the acclimatization point at the foot of the Baltoro Glacier, where the Braldu Valley widens. This is a key stop on the K2 Base Camp Trek, with access to spring water. The camp offers basic facilities, including long-drop toilets, wash basins, and a bathroom.
This entire day is set aside for acclimatization, while the porters bake bread for the journey ahead. For those with extra energy, a hike above the camp offers stunning views of the Cathedral Peaks, Trango Towers, and even K2 on a clear day. Depending on the river’s course, you may also find small pools nearby for swimming.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,788 m
Distance: 14.7 km
Time: 6-7 hours
From Paiju, the trek continues upstream to the Baltoro Glacier, where melting water flows into the river. We’ll ascend and walk on top of the glacier, which is covered in rocks and rubble. Following traditional trails, this tough walk across the glacier leads us along moraine paths on the south side. We then head east and cross to the smaller side of the glacier, moving south to enter the valley.
By evening, we reach the Khoburtse camp, where we can enjoy stunning views of Cathedral Towers, Trango Towers, and Uli Biaho Tower. This first day on the Baltoro Glacier can be challenging for many participants.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,905 m
Distance: 6.4km
Time: 4-6hours
Trango Towers can be eventually seen after coming across two small glaciers. For the following night the participants will make their stop at Urdukas near the army camp. The camp is 100m above the glacier.
Accommodation
Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 4,285 m
Distance: 11.9 km
Time: 6-8 hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will walk in the heart of the glacier, following the medial moraine. To the south, stunning views of Masherbrum (7,821m) will be visible. The trek involves climbing up and down rocky moraine, and participants will pass massive ice seracs along the way.
Tonight, we will camp on the Baltoro Glacier at Goro II, located at the confluence of the Baltoro and Younghusband glaciers. Be prepared for a significant drop in temperature, with beautiful views of Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower revealed.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 4,512 m
Distance: 11.7 km
Time: 5-7 hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will reach Concordia after a steady ascent along the moraine. As you walk, more high snow-capped peaks will come into view, culminating in the stunning sight of K2. Other peaks visible include Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum, Sia Kangri, and many more.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 5,150m
Distance: Return time K2 BC (5,155m) + Gilkey (5,230m)+ Broad Peak (4,844m): 10-12 hours
Return time Broad BC (4,844m): 6-7 hours
Today, we have the chance to walk up the Godwin-Austen Glacier to the Art Gilkey Memorial, dedicated to an American geologist and mountaineer, just before reaching K2 Base Camp. It will be a long but amazing day. We’ll start early in the morning, crossing the glaciers along a faint trail leading to K2 (the rocky path is visible all the way). As we approach K2, it will appear larger and larger. Broad Peak will be on our right, and after about 3 hours, we’ll pass Broad Peak Base Camp (there’s an option to turn back here). We usually stop for lunch here, and those continuing on will carry on with K2 towering above us.
Just before reaching Base Camp, we’ll find the Art Gilkey Memorial among the boulders and ice. A short climb will take us to the spot where we remember those who lost their lives on K2. Plaques and engraved plates are attached to a small rock formation at the foot of this great mountain. We’ll enjoy stunning views of K2 above us, and we might see some climbing teams. After lunch, we’ll head back along the same route to Concordia.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours
On this day, we will retrace our steps back to Concordia, where we can relax and prepare for the upcoming trek.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tents
Meals: Enjoy a full day’s worth of delicious meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with snacks (dry fruits/chocolate) for the trek. An appetizer (soup or fried snacks) will be served before dinner, followed by dessert or fruits after the meal.
On this Day participants will embark on a slightly different and less-explored route. Short detours will be made to avoid crevasses, and participants will navigate rugged ice instead of slippery surfaces. In case of snow, everyone—including porters—will walk together, wearing crampons for safety and securely roped to one another.
The group will establish camp at Ali Camp, reaching it after a 5-6 hour hike. Ali Camp is named after a local porter who was the first to cross the Gondogoro La Pass. Upon arrival, participants will receive instruction on basic skills necessary for crossing the pass the following day.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tents
Meals: Enjoy a full day’s meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with snacks (dry fruits/chocolate) for the trek. An appetizer (soup or fried snacks) will be served before dinner, followed by dessert or fruits after the meal
Participants will wake up as early as 2 AM. After gearing up and having breakfast, the group will rope up and depart for the base of Gondogoro La. Our support crew will assist with fixing ropes and helping members with their gear. The ascent to the top of Gondogoro La Pass takes about three hours, offering breathtaking views of all four 8,000-meter peaks in the Baltoro region: K2, Gasherbrum I, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum II.
During the descent, fixed ropes will be utilized, and the use of crampons is essential for safety. Participants will enjoy views of the striking Laila Peak (6,096m) and other Trinity Peaks. Care must be taken while descending to avoid dislodging stones. Once off the steep slope, the trail becomes easier as the group moves over the moraine. The camp will be set up at Khuispang (4,600m), the junction of the Gondogoro and Trinity Glaciers.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tents
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus snacks (dry fruits/chocolate) for the trek, an appetizer (soup or fried snacks) before dinner, and dessert or fruits after the meal.
Participants will continue their descent, packing climbing equipment such as ropes and crampons, as the hike downwards is comparatively easier. The rocky terrain will transition to the lush green landscapes of Hushe Valley.
After lunch, the group will hike to the edge of the Gondogoro Glacier, where they will find a trail leading to a beautiful valley filled with rhubarb and grass. At the end of the valley, there are two different routes to their destination. The guide, in consultation with local porters, will choose the most frequently used trail.
The trek becomes easier when the two trails converge, and members will see stone huts built by herders and local settlers. This day will allow participants to witness signs of settlement and enjoy easier breathing thanks to the larger trees and lower altitude. The camp will be set up at Saicho (3,350m), a sandy area with some grass alongside flowing glacial streams.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tents
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus snacks (dry fruits/chocolate) for the trek, an appetizer (soup or fried snacks) before dinner, and dessert or fruits after the meal.
GPS Data
On This Day
Participants will trek down for about 3-4 hours along the river streams fed by the melted waters of Charakusa, Ailling, Masherbrum, and Gondogoro Glaciers. Signs of residence, including shelters and fields, will begin to appear.
They will explore the two-story shelters of Hushe village, where the ground floor houses cattle, and the first floor is for family living. After setting up camp, participants can explore the beautiful Hushe Valley and interact with locals. This marks the last camping day of the Gondogoro La Trek.
Upon reaching Hushe, participants will depart for Skardu town. The journey offers scenic views of various small villages in the Hushe Valley, including a crossing of a suspension bridge over the Shyok River, which flows from Ladakh, India. Previously, traditional rafts made from goat skin filled with air were used for crossing, but the current suspension bridge was built in the 1990s.
The drive from Khaplu to Skardu is smooth, following a paved road along the Shyok River to its confluence with the Indus River. The journey takes about 4 hours, and participants will finally enjoy facilities that have been unavailable for two weeks, starting with a hot shower and a good meal.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or an equivalent standard partner hotel (depending on occupancy) in Skardu.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus tea/coffee and snacks.
GPS Data: Altitude: 538 m
This day is allocated for any potential delays during trekking. We do not want our guests to miss their domestic flight due to delays. These delays can be caused by multiple factors including (but not limited to) road blocks. This time can be utilized for sightseeing in Skardu.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
GPS Data: Altitude: 540m
On this day the participants will take a flight from the airport in Skardu to Islamabad aiport. You will have a good time to relax at the hotel in Islamabad.
The domestic flights sometime get cancelled due to weather conditions. Incase of flight cancellation, you will drive to Chilas for overnight. It takes eight to ten hours by a vehicle.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
This day is reserved for any potential delays if the domestic flight didn’t operate the previous day. Guests will depart early in the morning from Chilas to Islamabad, which can take up to ten hours. If participants arrive in Islamabad on the domestic flight, they’ll have a free day to explore the city.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
Meals: Breakfast
Our staff will transfer all our guests to the airport on their respective departure timings. The checkout time of all our partner hotels is 12pm.
The K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La trek is a challenging but rewarding adventure through the stunning Karakoram mountains in Pakistan. K2 Expeditions & Trekking provides excellent support with experienced guides and comfortable accommodations. Highlights include reaching K2 Base Camp, crossing the Gondogoro La pass, and experiencing the local culture.
