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Join us in summiting K2 (8,611 m), the world’s second-highest peak, located in the stunning Karakoram region of Pakistan. Known locally as Chogori, K2 is a perfect pyramid of ice and rock, demanding skill and endurance.
Our K2 Expedition is one of the ultimate mountaineering adventures in the world, blending high-altitude trekking with the awe of scaling one of the planet’s most formidable peaks. Along the journey, you’ll explore the picturesque Himalayan and Karakoram valleys of Skardu, Shigar, and Askoli, experiencing the local culture and hospitality firsthand.
During the trek, you’ll witness awe-inspiring views of several iconic peaks, including Broad Peak (8,044 m), the Gasherbrum group, Chogolisa (7,686 m), and the towering Trango Towers, among others.
K2 Expedition & Trekking has been organizing expeditions for over a decade, working with mountaineers from around the world. We provide complete logistical support for 60-90 day K2 expeditions during both summer and winter seasons. The length of the expedition can be customized based on your experience, skill, and available time.
The primary climbing route on K2 is the Abruzzi Ridge, first attempted in 1909 by Luigi Amedeo, Duke of the Abruzzi, and successfully climbed in 1954 by an Italian team led by Ardito Desio. Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni were the first to reach the summit, with critical support from Walter Bonatti and Pakistani Hunza porter Mehdi. The team’s heroic efforts, including a dramatic high-altitude bivouac, are etched into mountaineering history.
The Abruzzi Ridge, beginning at 5,400 m, involves steep rock ribs, snow slopes, and ice fields. Climbers navigate through the challenging “House’s Chimney” and “Black Pyramid” sections, and face the daunting Bottleneck—a narrow couloir near the summit, perilously close to hanging seracs.
With over 12 years of experience as a local operator, we have the expertise and in-depth knowledge to manage your expedition safely and efficiently. Our local community roots and commitment to sustainable tourism make us a trusted partner for your K2 adventure. Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus on reaching the summit of the mighty K2!
Climbing a Mountain in Pakistan
Pakistan spans approximately 880,000 square kilometers, stretching from the Arabian Sea to the majestic peaks of Central Asia. This diverse country is a tapestry of landscapes, from expansive dusty plains to the towering, snow-capped mountains of Gilgit Baltistan, where the world’s three great mountain ranges—the Karakoram, the Hindu Kush, and the Himalayas—converge. This region is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking peaks, including K2 (8,611 m), the magnificent Nanga Parbat (8,126 m), Hidden Peak (8,080 m), Broad Peak (8,047 m), and Gasherbrum II (8,035 m). Gilgit Baltistan also boasts the largest glaciers outside the polar regions, including the Baltoro and Hispar Glaciers.
At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we believe the possibilities for climbing and mountaineering in Pakistan are virtually limitless. Your climbing holiday will depend on your experience, the type of climbing you desire, the season, and the time you have available. With over a decade of experience since 2012, we are well-equipped to assist you in organizing your K2 Expedition.
Climbing & Trekking Permits
Once you choose your desired peak, we will help you prepare and apply for the necessary climbing permits. A permit is required for peaks above 6,500 meters, and certain areas, such as the Central Karakoram National Park, require trekking permits. We have detailed knowledge of all peaks, permit fees, and the regulations governing mountaineering in Pakistan. Rest assured, we will handle everything so you can focus on your climb.
Royalty Fees and Government Clearance
The Gilgit-Baltistan Council publishes the official royalty fees each year for the climbing season. We apply for permits, which require a deposit from you, as the fees are paid to the Gilgit-Baltistan Government and are non-refundable. We will need details about all expedition members to secure government clearance for your climbing permit. It’s best to send this information well in advance to avoid delays; we recommend applying at least three months before your expedition.
Helicopter Rescue Bond and Liaison Officer
Each K2 Expedition must obtain a helicopter rescue bond from Askari Aviation before the expedition commences. If rescue services are not utilized, the bond will be refunded minus administrative charges. Additionally, the Government of Pakistan assigns a Liaison Officer for expeditions climbing between 6,500 meters and 8,611 meters. All expenses for this officer are covered by the expedition team, and we help facilitate these arrangements.
Environmental Responsibility
We require all K2 Expedition participants to submit an environmental undertaking, ensuring that all garbage is taken back with them after the expedition. The Liaison Officer will verify the cleanliness of the area before the expedition’s conclusion. Fines will be imposed for failure to meet this requirement, and a separate environmental waste management fee will be charged to each expedition member.
Expedition Support and Staff
K2 Expedition & Trekking provides a full support team, including kitchen staff and experienced high-altitude porters, to ensure your climbing experience is safe and enjoyable. The number of staff will depend on the number of climbers, but we typically provide one head cook, one assistant cook, and several helpers for base camp services. We encourage you to inquire about hiring high-altitude porters well in advance to secure the best assistance during your climb.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel or postpone your K2 Expedition, please note that the royalty fee will be forfeited and cannot be transferred to a future trip. We will partially refund costs related to our services based on our Terms & Conditions.
What’s Included?
Our all-inclusive package covers everything from liaising with the Ministry of Tourism for your climbing permits, accommodations in Islamabad and Skardu, meals during the trek, and necessary gear at the base camp, to road transfers and porterage of your equipment.
What’s Not Included?
Certain costs such as international flights, personal climbing gear, high-altitude porter expenses, insurance liabilities, and tips for staff are not included in the package.
Meal Plan and Accommodation
Throughout your K2 Expedition, meals will be fully inclusive from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 63. You’ll spend a few nights in Islamabad and Skardu at comfortable hotels before camping on the trek.
Internal Flights and Health Precautions
Be aware that flights to Skardu are weather-dependent. We recommend checking with your doctor regarding necessary vaccinations and health precautions, especially considering the risk of dengue fever.
Insurance
We highly recommend obtaining adequate travel insurance for your K2 Expedition. This should cover all activities you plan to undertake during your trip, including cancellation coverage, as all deposits are non-refundable.
What’s Included in Full-board Service?
✔️ High Altitude Climbing Leader/Sherpa (details upon request)
✔️ Rope fixing team of Sherpas (details upon request)
✔️ Lodging above base camp
✔️ Group climbing gear (tents, ropes, ice crew, etc.)
✔️ High altitude food/snacks above base camp
✔️ All meals during trek and at base camp (B, L, D)
✔️ Four nights in Islamabad hotel (B&B only)
✔️ Lodging at base camp (single supplement)
✔️ Full base camp facilities (dining tent, bathroom, showers, solar charge)
✔️ All internal/domestic transport
✔️ Domestic flights
✔️ 65kg (110 lbs) personal baggage
✔️ Liaison officer(s) – equipment fee and allowance
✔️ Group emergency equipment/satellite phone
✔️ Staff insurance (guide, cook, kitchen staff, porters)
✔️ Experienced Pakistani cook
✔️ Kitchen staff and porters for supplies
✔️ Solar power at base camp
✔️ Backup electricity generator
✔️ Communication radio (walkie-talkie)
✔️ Weather reports from European sources
Base camp Service include
What’s Not Included in Base Camp & Full-Board Services?
❌ Government Royalty Fee (as of Sep 2024):
❌ Personal Climbing Sherpa: USD 12,944 (includes wages, kit, flights, meals, oxygen, etc.)
❌ Supplemental Oxygen for climbers (prices below):
6 Large 4L Russian: USD 5,940 (new), USD 3,900 (used)
❌ Oxygen set for climber (includes regulator, mask, hoses, transport): USD 980
❌ Summit bonus for personal Sherpa: USD 1,500
❌ International airfare
❌ Personal climbing gear (for 8,000m peak) and sleeping equipment
❌ Mountain climbing rescue and evacuation insurance
❌ Personal equipment cargo to/from Islamabad
❌ Pakistan visa fee
❌ Tips/gratuities (USD 490 for staff, cook, assistants)
❌ Meals in Islamabad
❌ Extra hotel nights post-climb
❌ Trip cancellation insurance
❌ Costs due to early wind-up/summit (extra nights, meals, evacuation)
❌ Delays beyond control (force majeure)
❌ Personal communication (phone, fax, email)
Group Leader & Support Staff
Your K2 Expedition will be led by an experienced Mountain Guide who knows the terrain and challenges of the Karakoram. Throughout the trek, the team will be accompanied by a full support crew, including an Assistant Guide, a Cook, and a dedicated Kitchen Crew. Porters will also be available to carry all equipment and personal trekking bags, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Altitude Considerations
The K2 Expedition involves traveling to very high altitudes. During the trek, you will spend at least one night above 4,000 meters and may ascend to heights of 5,000 meters or more. Although the human body is capable of adapting to these altitudes, proper acclimatization is essential for a successful expedition. We recommend reading up on high-altitude trekking and consulting one of our experts if you have no prior experience climbing above 7,000 meters. Our team will guide you through best practices to ensure your safety and comfort at these heights.
Climate and Weather Conditions
The summer season, from mid-June to August, typically offers favorable weather conditions for the K2 Expedition. In Skardu, daytime temperatures can reach up to 30°C, while in Hushe and Askole, it may peak around 25°C. Snow cover on the slopes leading to and from the Gondogoro La is common in June and early July. Above 4,000 meters, snow can fall at any time of year, and temperatures can drop to freezing or below at night. At higher camps, expect temperatures to plummet to as low as -15°C to -25°C. Despite generally good weather, short-lived storms are possible, and it’s essential to be prepared for rapid changes.
Recommended Books
For those looking to learn more about the region, we suggest these informative reads:
Passport & Visa Requirements
A passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity is required for all travelers visiting Pakistan. Ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas in place before your trip. Visa requirements and charges may change without notice, so we recommend checking with the relevant embassy or consulate.
Pakistan Visa Information
All nationalities require a visa to enter Pakistan. The approximate fee is $100, and the visa must be obtained prior to departure. To apply, you’ll need a letter of introduction from an approved Pakistani agency, which will be provided by K2 Expedition & Trekking. For the K2 Expedition, a copy of the group’s ‘Restricted Area’ permit will also be required. Visa applications can be submitted online or in person at the nearest Pakistani consulate or embassy. Visit our Blog or Pakistan Visa section for more details on the process.
Equipment List
We will send a detailed equipment list closer to your departure date. As a general rule, try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. Your packed trek bag, including your sleeping bag and mattress, should not exceed 16.5 kg. Items not needed during the trek can be stored at our group hotel in Islamabad or Skardu. Note that your mountaineering equipment will be packed separately into communal kitbags, and this will not be counted as part of your personal 16.5 kg limit.
We look forward to guiding you through one of the world’s most spectacular trekking experiences. Should you have any questions or need further details, our team is always here to assist.
K2 Expedition Pricing Details
The prices listed for the K2 Base Camp Expedition do not include Royalty Fees, Liaison Officer Fees, or High-Altitude Climber Fees. Please note that Royalty Fees and Liaison Officer Fees are mandatory and set by local authorities, and will be added to your total expedition cost. High-Altitude Climbers, however, are optional and can be arranged upon request based on their experience and previous summit history.
Our pricing covers services from Islamabad to K2 Base Camp and back to Islamabad. If you require additional services above Base Camp, such as High-Altitude Porters or Climbing Guides, feel free to reach out for more information and customization options.
Travel Information and Recommendations
Islamabad is well-connected to major international cities, and return flights will depart from Islamabad International Airport on the final day of your K2 Expedition. We recommend planning your expedition well in advance to secure lower international airfare rates. The Royalty Fees must be paid to the Government of Pakistan in advance to secure your climbing permit.
Tailor-Made Expeditions and Treks
At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we specialize in creating tailor-made adventure holidays in Pakistan that suit your needs and schedule. Every trip is unique, whether you prefer a more luxurious experience, simple accommodations, or need a guide for exploring remote trails. From a week-long adventure to a month-long expedition, we can design a journey that fits your preferences. We can also accommodate special occasions like honeymoons or milestone celebrations, ensuring your experience is truly memorable.
Our suggested itineraries and favorite accommodations, highlighted throughout our website, are just for inspiration. Speaking with one of our specialists is the best way to start planning your dream K2 Expedition—whether you have a detailed itinerary in mind or just the seed of an idea.
The cost of your K2 Expedition may vary depending on several factors, but unlike some other operators, K2 Expedition & Trekking offers a No Surcharge Guarantee. This means the price you book is the price you pay, whether you’re booking for the current season or the next. Locking in your expedition early allows you to avoid potential price increases, secure the best flight rates, and take full advantage of our price guarantee.
We are a licensed and bonded tour operator, adhering to the strict regulations set by the Pakistan Tourism Department to ensure your safety and satisfaction.
Start planning your K2 Expedition today with confidence—our team is here to help create a journey that will exceed your expectations.
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
Spend an extra day at Urdukas to aid acclimatization. You can take a gentle hike through the grassy slopes behind the campsite, filled with alpine flowers.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving Urdukas, continue along the Baltoro Glacier past the Yermanandu Glacier. Marvel at views of Muztagh, Masherbrum, and Gasherbrum IV as you progress. You’ll camp on the glacier, so prepare for cooler temperatures.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arguably the most scenic day, the trail leads to Concordia, where four eight-thousanders surround you. The views of Broad Peak and K2 are breathtaking, making Concordia one of the most spectacular places on Earth.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Concordia, follow the Godwin Austen Glacier to Broad Peak Base Camp. Enjoy stunning vistas of K2 as you settle into your campsite.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you will reach K2 Base Camp, a major milestone in the expedition. The sight of K2 towering above you is an unforgettable experience, as you set up camp for the climbing phase.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Days 15-55 This period is dedicated to the climbing phase of the K2 expedition. Our experienced staff will remain at the base camp to provide support, assistance, and guidance as climbers make their attempts to summit the second-highest mountain on Earth.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin your descent along the Baltoro Glacier, retracing your steps through spectacular landscapes that now appear from a new perspective. The descent brings warmth and more oxygen, making it an easier journey back to Khoburtse.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue down to Paiju, passing familiar sites such as the Trango Towers and Uli Biaho. The route involves navigating the Liligo Glacier, now slightly more challenging due to its constant changes.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,103 m
Distance:19.8 km
Time: 5-7 Hours
On this day, walking will be easier as participants follow the same trail to the Braldu Gorge. However, there may be some river crossings along the way. The campsite will be set up at Jhola.
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: 2,498 m
Distance:20 km trek + 127 km drive
Time: 5-7 hours trek + 6 hours drive
On this day, participants will return to Askole village after walking along the river to the bridge. After lunch, they’ll get a chance to relax their feet as they are transferred by jeep to 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: 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.
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 Expedition is a mountaineering adventure to summit K2, the world’s second-highest peak at 8,611 meters. The journey takes you through the stunning Karakoram mountains, with challenging treks and breathtaking views.
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While prior high-altitude climbing experience is highly recommended, our team provides full support, including experienced Sherpas, guides, and porters. The expedition is challenging and requires proper training and acclimatization.
We handle the permit application process, which requires personal details of each participant and a deposit to cover the government royalty fees. It’s recommended to apply at least 3 months in advance.
For the trek, you will need a high-quality sleeping bag rated to -15°C, a sleeping mat, walking sticks, and microspikes or crampons. Most clients bring their own, but you can rent these in Skardu for under $150. A harness and ice axe are not required for this trek. See full list here