Experience the adventure of a lifetime with the K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek, one of the world’s most iconic trekking journeys. Nestled in the heart of Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountains, this trek offers unparalleled views of K2, the second-highest peak on Earth, along with other majestic giants like Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. The trek culminates in the thrilling crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m), leading you into the serene and picturesque Hushe Valley. This is a trekker’s dream, combining breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrain, and rich cultural experiences.
K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek: Explore the heart of the Karakoram Range, home to some of the world’s highest peaks.
Spectacular Mountain Flight: Enjoy a scenic flight to Skardu, offering stunning aerial views of Nanga Parbat, K2, and other towering peaks.
Panoramic Views: Witness awe-inspiring vistas of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum massif from the Gondogoro La Pass.
Concordia – Throne Room of the Gods: Trek through Concordia, a glacial junction surrounded by ten of the world’s 30 highest peaks.
Baltoro Glacier: Walk on one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions, a highlight of the trek.
Hushe Valley: Descend into the tranquil Hushe Valley, a traditional Balti village known for its warm hospitality and stunning scenery.
World-Class Trekking: Ranked among the top 5 trekking adventures globally, this trek is a must for avid adventurers.
The K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek is a 20-25 day expedition that takes you deep into the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. This trek is not just about reaching the base camp of K2; it’s about immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Karakoram Mountains. From the towering Trango Towers and Masherbrum to the icy expanse of the Baltoro Glacier, every step of this journey is filled with wonder.
Your adventure begins in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital, where you’ll be greeted by our team and briefed on the trek. A breathtaking flight to Skardu follows, offering your first glimpses of the Karakoram giants. From Skardu, you’ll drive along the Indus River to Askoli, the last village before entering the wilderness of the Karakoram National Park.
The trek itself takes you through the Braldu Gorge, onto the Baltoro Glacier, and up to Concordia, where you’ll be surrounded by a 360° panorama of 7,000m peaks. You’ll have the option to explore the Godwin-Austen Glacier and visit the base camps of K2 and Broad Peak before crossing the Gondogoro La Pass. This challenging ascent rewards you with unparalleled views of four 8,000m peaks. The descent into the Hushe Valley marks the end of your trek, followed by a scenic drive back to Skardu and a flight to Islamabad.
Since 2012, K2 Expedition & Trekking has been crafting unforgettable trekking experiences in the Karakoram Mountains. Our K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek is meticulously planned to ensure safety, proper acclimatization, and maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time adventurer, our team will tailor the trek to suit your fitness level and schedule.
Arrival in Islamabad: Meet our team at Islamabad International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Attend a detailed trek briefing in the afternoon.
Fly to Skardu: Take a scenic flight to Skardu, with views of Nanga Parbat and K2. Spend the day exploring Skardu and preparing for the trek.
Drive to Askoli: Journey along the Indus River and into the Shigar Valley, arriving at Askoli, the gateway to the Karakoram wilderness.
Trek to Baltoro Glacier: Begin your trek through the Braldu Gorge, reaching the snout of the Baltoro Glacier.
Concordia and K2 Base Camp: Trek to Concordia, the “Throne Room of the Gods,” and explore the base camps of K2 and Broad Peak.
Gondogoro La Pass: Ascend the Gondogoro La Pass with the assistance of our expert team. Enjoy breathtaking views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums.
Descend to Hushe Valley: Trek down into the picturesque Hushe Valley, experiencing traditional Balti hospitality.
Return to Skardu and Islamabad: Drive back to Skardu and fly to Islamabad, marking the end of your adventure.
✔ 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
Are you ready to conquer one of the most breathtaking treks in the world? The K2 and Gondogoro La Trek is not just a journey; it’s a life-changing experience that takes you through the heart of the Karakoram Range, offering unparalleled views of towering peaks, glacial valleys, and remote wilderness. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a passionate adventurer, this trek is designed to challenge and inspire you.
But what makes this adventure even more special? Our commitment to your safety, flexibility, and peace of mind. We’ve partnered with Global Rescue, the world’s leading provider of medical, security, and travel risk management services, to ensure you’re in safe hands every step of the way. From emergency evacuations to 24/7 support, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s everything you need to know about the K2 and Gondogoro La Trek, including dates, pricing, safety measures, and how to book your spot.
Small Group Sizes: We limit our groups to a maximum of 12 people to ensure personalized attention and a close-knit experience.
Private Group Options: Prefer a more intimate adventure? Customize your trek with a private group.
Safety First: With Global Rescue as our partner, you’ll have access to world-class emergency medical and evacuation services.
Flexible Booking: Change your dates, adjust your itinerary, or modify payments without extra costs.
Expert Guides: Our team of licensed, English-speaking mountain guides and local staff are experts in the region, ensuring a safe and memorable journey.
Our K2 and Gondogoro La Trek begins and ends in Islamabad, Pakistan’s vibrant capital. Alternatively, you can join the group in Skardu, the gateway to the Karakoram Range. The trek takes you through iconic locations like Askole, Concordia, K2 Base Camp, and the thrilling Gondogoro La Pass.
Each day is carefully planned to balance adventure with acclimatization, ensuring you’re prepared for the high-altitude challenges. From lush valleys to rugged glaciers, every step of the journey is a feast for the senses.
We understand that trekking in remote regions comes with risks. That’s why we’ve partnered with Global Rescue to provide:
Emergency Medical Support: Access to medical professionals available.
Evacuation Services: In case of emergencies, Global Rescue will handle your evacuation, whether by land or air.
Travel Risk Management: Stay informed about potential risks and receive real-time updates.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. Your safety is our top priority, and having the right insurance ensures peace of mind throughout your journey.
Early Bird Discounts: Secure your spot early to lock in the best prices and avoid peak-season surcharges.
Flexible Payment Plans: Pay in four convenient installments to ease the financial burden.
No Surcharge Guarantee: The price you see at the time of booking is the price you pay, no matter when you travel.
Fully Refundable Deposit: A deposit of $170 is required to confirm your booking. 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.
Accommodation:
Comfortable 3-4 star hotels in Islamabad and Skardu.
Shared tents during the trek (private tents available for an additional fee).
Meals:
All meals are provided, featuring a mix of Pakistani, continental, and vegetarian options.
Breakfast: Cereal, eggs, bread, chapatis, jam, and honey.
Lunch: Sandwiches, dried fruit, and nuts.
Dinner: Soups, local starters, rice, curry, and desserts like cakes and custard.
Special dietary needs? Let us know when you book!
Transportation:
Airport transfers in Islamabad.
Domestic flights to Skardu (weather permitting) or a scenic road journey along the Karakoram Highway.
Support Staff:
Licensed mountain guides, porters, and cooks who are local experts.
The K2 and Gondogoro La Trek is a challenging adventure that requires:
Good Physical Fitness: Be prepared for 6-8 hours of trekking daily on rugged terrain.
Altitude Awareness: The trek reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters, so proper acclimatization is crucial.
Medical Check-Up: Consult your doctor before the trip and ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations.
Keep your trekking gear under 17 kg, including your sleeping bag and mattress.
We’ll weigh your bags before the trek and store any extra items at our Skardu office for free.
A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.
Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
Visa: A trekking visa is required for the Baltoro region. Apply early, as processing can take 6-8 weeks.
E-Visa: Available for many nationalities. Check with the nearest Pakistani embassy for details.
Extend your adventure with guided city tours in Islamabad and Skardu:
Islamabad: Visit the iconic Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, and Lok Virsa Museum.
Skardu: Explore Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara Lake, and the bustling local markets.
Limited Spots: Our small group sizes mean spots fill up fast, especially during peak season.
Early Bird Discounts: Lock in lower rates by booking early.
Flexible Payments: Pay a deposit now and the balance upon arrival in Pakistan.
The K2 and Gondogoro La Trek is more than just a trek; it’s a journey into the soul of the Karakoram. With our commitment to safety, flexibility, and exceptional service, you can focus on what truly matters – the adventure of a lifetime.
Contact us today to book your spot or customize your itinerary. Let’s make your dream trek a reality!
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.
