K2 Base Camp Trek
About this tour
Join us for an unforgettable 22-day Concordia K2 base camp trek, starting with your arrival in Islamabad. We handles every aspect of your journey, from travel and lodging to logistics, camping, and food. Our dedicated team of trekking experts, mountain guides, high altitude porters, and expert cooks ensure an exceptional experience. With decades of specialization in organising treks to Concordia and K2 base camp, we treat you like family, ensuring unforgettable memories. Contact us now for details and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan to Islamabad, Pakistan
International flight arrives in Islamabad with time to relax. On this Day Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast
Day 2: Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan to Skardu International Airport, Skardu
Fly to Skardu Given good weather we fly to Skardu (perhaps the most spectacular commercial flight in the world, with magnificent views of Nanga Parbat the ninth highest mountain in the world. If the weather doesn’t allow the flight, we take the Karakoram Highway (the old silk route) is just as spectacular. It’s a long drive but one of the great journeys of the world between the deep gorges of the mighty Indus. Overnight hotel in Chilas (10–12-hour drive). On this Day Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Skardu
We complete our journey in around 8 hours passing Nanga Parbat and the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You will look back in awe and reflect on what an amazing civil engineering achievement the Karakoram Highway must have been in its time. You will have crossed the point where four great continental plates come together forming four of the world’s greatest mountain ranges (Himalaya, Karakoram, Hindukush the Pamir. An evening Barbeque is provided, and the Baltistan culture will start to unravel. On this Day Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Skardu to Askole
Drive to Askole village 3045m Embark on a thrilling 7-hour jeep ride to Askole village, traversing the cold desert to reach the enchanting Shigar valley first. As we journey through the rugged terrain, the landscape transforms before our eyes, offering glimpses of the remote beauty that awaits. Askole greets us with its quaint charm, its few houses lining a solitary street. The final leg of our drive takes us through Braldu Gorge, a route once reserved for a two-day trek before the advent of the jeep road. Along the way, we navigate streams and rugged terrain, the roar of the Braldu River accompanying our journey. Though the road may pose challenges, our adventurous spirit remains undeterred. Tonight, under the vast expanse of the night sky, we find solace in the embrace of Askole village, our gateway to adventure in the heart of the mountains. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 3045m Distance: 121 km Time: 7 - 8 hours Elevation Gain 810m Min/Max Elevation: 2235/3,045m
Day 5: Askole to Jhola Camp
Our journey kicks off with an exhilarating trek from Askole, the final outpost before Concordia, where we're greeted by the bustling activity of Balti people tending to their fields—a captivating sight indeed. As we make our way towards the foot of the awe-inspiring Biafo Glacier, the world's third-longest outside the polar regions, we're drawn into its icy embrace, a gateway to the majestic Hispar Pass and the fabled Snow Lake, connecting the realms of Baltistan and Hunza Valley. Our path leads us through the picturesque Panma Valley, where we pause for a rejuvenating lunch at Korofong before ascending into the realm of towering peaks. Following the meandering course of the Braldu River, we navigate rocky terrain and cliffside trails, eventually reaching the camp site On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 3151m Distance: 14km Time: 6 - 7 hours Elevation Gain 106m Min/Max Elevation: 3,045m/3151m
Day 6: Skardu
Day 6: Trek to Paiju 3420m If the river is sufficiently low, we will edge our way round the base of the huge rock walls that guard the valley towards the Baltoro glacier. If not, then a higher traverse will be taken before we regain the old riverbed that leads to Paiju, our campsite for the next two nights. Despite the stories in old guidebooks and journals, much has been done in recent years to remove rubbish and human waste to leave an incredibly clean environment with well managed camps. In fact, they are some of the bests we have seen. 8-9 hours On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 4420m Distance: 21 km Time: 8-9 hours Elevation Gain 350 Min/Max Elevation: 3,151/3,405m.
Day 7: Skardu
Trek to Khoburste 3800m A trek from Paiju leads upstream to Baltoro Glacier from where the melting water outpours into the river. We ascend and walk on top of the glacier that is rubbles and rocks. The team follows the traditional trails here, but it will be a tough walk on the mighty glacier. The team will create our path through Baltoro glacier and towards the south side pursue the moraine trails. We head east to continue along the glacier till we get to the glacier’s smaller side. Here we move towards South till we make crossing to enter the valley. We reach by night to camp Khoburtse. Magnificent views of Cathedral towers group, Trango towers, and Uli Biaho tower can be enjoyed after a great trekking day. Baltoro Glacier Trek can be demanding for many participants on the first day. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 3,800m Distance: 14. km Time: 5-6 hours Elevation Gain 380m Min/Max Elevation: 3,420m/3800m
Day 8: Skardu
Trek to Urdukas 4130m Considering the increase in sleep altitude and being wary for all participants, we have a short trek day. We will continue alongside the glacier, sometimes on it or above the moraine. We pass by the Trango tower and the lonely peak “unnamed tower” to our camp. This day’s campsite was found and cleared by the K2 expedition by Duke of Abruzzi in 1909. The team will climb around hundred meters higher than the glacier to the terraces where the campsite is located. It offers a mesmerizing view of the Lobsang, Trango Towers, cathedral group etc. We will reach here to have delayed lunch and spend the day resting. Gondogoro La Trek begins to pay off, providing grand views from Urdukas camp. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 4130m Distance: 6 km Time: 4-5 hours Elevation Gain 330m Min/Max Elevation: 3800m/4130m
Day 9: Skardu
Trek to Goro II 4350m – Now we are in the heart of Concordia with only ice on which to place our tents we are surrounded by views of the great peaks: Muztagh Tower, Gasherbrum 4 and the most spectacular of them all Masherbrum, it’s guaranteed to take your breath away. If we are rewarded with a clear evening, nothing will have prepared you for the evening sunset and the red hue over Masherbrum, it will never be forgotten! On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Distance: 12 km Time: 7-8 hours Elevation Gain 220m Min/Max Elevation: 4130/4350
Day 10: Skardu
Trek to Concordia(4560m) Baltoro glacier trek to Concordia offers the greatest spectacles of the Gondogoro La Trek. We continue our walk on the mighty Baltoro while participants pass by Mustagh Tower (7,284 m) and Gasherbrum IV, partially obscuring behind it the Gasherbrum I (8,080 m), thus called “Hidden Peak”. We can spot it on the right side of Gasherbrum IV with fin like ridges. Making our route up on Baltoro, views of Broad Peak (8051 m) appear while Marble and Crystal Peaks appear on the left. K2 remains concealed till the minute we reach Concordia; a breathtaking sight that becomes a beautiful memory forever. Concordia is wide area of glacier which is one of the greatest places on earth. We will be surrounded by 4 eight-thousanders, 10 out of 30 highest peaks of the world. Camp will be set at over 4,500 m in Concordia on the moraine. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 4560m Distance: 11 km Time: 7-8 hours Elevation Gain 210m Min/Max Elevation: 4350/4560m
Day 11: Skardu
K2 Base camp (5100m) On this day of Gondogoro La Trek, we can start early through crevasses and small rivers created by melting ice. We follow on the glacier that is named after Godwin Austin who first declared K2’s height. After three hours we will be at Broad Peak base camp where we will have a great sight of the astonishing Karakoram 2nd (K2), Mitre Peak behind us and the Bride Peak. We walk on the moraine which is mostly boulders. However, we do walk on ice occasionally. After another 3 hours trek, we shall complete one way journey of the K2 Base Camp reaching a moraine safe zone, a traditional base camp area for K2 climbers. One can also visit Gilkey Memorial if time allows. The memorial has names of brave souls inscribed on plates and plagues. These tough ones died attempting K2. The decisions about trekking to K2 Base Camp, Broad Peak BC, Gilkey Memorial, choosing one or another or all options or choosing to rest at Concordia on this day depends on the participants. Return to Concordia on this day is compulsory. some stay overnight at K2 base camp. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 5100m Distance 12km Time 6-7hrs Elevation Gain 540m Min/Max Elevation: 4,560m/5,100m
Day 12: Skardu
Trek back to Concordia Heading back from K2 base camp to Concordia, after spending a memorable night at base camp, visiting Gilkey memorial meeting mountaineers, testing their ability to climb k2 and broad peak, we trek with memories of our adventure. Descending through the rugged terrain, we savor the stunning views and camaraderie. Each step brings us closer to Concordia, where our journey concludes, leaving us with lasting memories of our Karakoram adventure. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 4560m Distance 12km Time 5-6hrs Elevation Loss 540m Min/Max Elevation: 5100m/4,560m
Day 13: Skardu
Trek to Goro I Camp (4200m) While trekking up from Urdukus towards Concordia, trekkers camp at Goro II. On the return journey from Concordia, the downhill trek is easier, and after acclimatization, on this day, we trek to Goro I and camp overnight instead of Goro II. Sights of Mashbrum Peaks Having enough rest at Urdukas we move eastward along the moraine till the point where we climb on the mighty glacier. We will go the glacier’s center through a smooth flow, and we will be able to view Masherbrum (7821m). Going over and around the rubble on the mighty glacier, continuously descending and ascending, we will eventually reach to witness peaks surrounding Concordia and the great Gasherbrum IV (7925 m) staring down at us and behind us still visible are the Trango tower and the Cathedral peaks while we move towards camp ‘Goro’ (4,150 m). Sleeping at high altitude on the mighty Baltoro, it is essential to stay warm especially at nights. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 4200m Distance 13km Time 6-7hrs Elevation Loss 360m Min/Max Elevation: 4,560m/4200m
Day 14: Skardu
Trek to camp Khoburtse (3800m) Early in the morning, we trek down from Goro I along the Baltoro Glacier. For lunch, we stop at Urdukas. After lunch, the trek follows the same route down to Khoburtse camp. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 3800m Distance: 10.5.5km Time 6-7hrs Elevation Loss: 210m Min/Max Elevation: 4200/3800m
Day 15: Skardu
Trek to Bardumal Camp 3250m Today's trek from Khoburtse to Bardumal begins with a descent to Bardumal camp via the Baltoro Glacier. For about two and a half hours, we walk along the Baltoro Glacier to its end and then trek via the army camp side, which is shorter and quicker, avoiding the long rerouting to Paiju camp. Instead of camping at Paiju, we camp at Bardumal, also known as Manjon. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 3250m Distance 20.5km Time 7-8hrs Elevation Loss: 550m Min/Max Elevation: 3800m/3250m
Day 16: Skardu
Today marks the culmination of our unforgettable trek. As the sun rises, we embark on our final descent, tracing our steps back to Askole village. With each step, we reflect on the breathtaking vistas, the challenges overcome, and the camaraderie forged along the way. As we wind our way down the trails, the memories of towering peaks, shimmering glaciers, and pristine landscapes flood our minds, reminding us of the incredible journey we've undertaken. Tonight, as we settle in Askole village for our last overnight stay, we carry with us a sense of fulfillment and gratitude for the adventure that has enriched our souls. On this Day Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner GPS Data Altitude 3100m Distance 24 Km Time 7-8hrs Distance Elevation Loss: 205m Min/Max Elevation: 3250m/3045m
Day 17: Askole to Skardu
Drive to Skardu After our trek, we drive back to Skardu from Askole, concluding our adventure in the mountains.
Day 18: Skardu to Skardu International Airport, Skardu
Fly to Islamabad, Sightseeing during the afternoon. The drive from hotel to airport is 40 minutes and it’s a metal road. We board the plane for a thrilling flight towards Islamabad. We once again fly by the Nanga Parbat. Reaching Islamabad airport after a great adventure is very different experience and takes getting used to. Our vehicle will be at Islamabad airport to take us straight to the hotel. We will settle in and have lunch if there isn’t any unusual delay. After a good meal participants can take the day for rest or sightseeing around the city or shopping for popular options like artifacts or rugs. In the evening, we will be together to enjoy special meal at local restaurant or at our hotel and share experiences of Gondogoro La Trek. On this Day Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 19: Islamabad, Pakistan to Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan
Our land package for k2 base camp ends only with breakfast and transfer to airport. On this Day Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast
What's included
Arrival & Departure: Airport – Hotel transfers – Airport (Pick Up and Drop). Hotel Accommodation In Islamabad: 2 nights hotel at 4 star Hotel in Islamabad on bed & breakfast Basis-Twin Bed Room. Welcome Dinner: One Welcome Dinner in tourist standard restaurant in Islamabad with Expedition Staffs. Trekking Permit from the government of Pakistan Garbage Management: Garbage Deposit fees. Insurance: Medical & Emergency rescue Insurance for all involved Expedition staffs during the trek and expedition. Member Transportation: Domestic Flight: Flight for all members for Islamabad to Skardu & Skardu to Islamabad with one Guide, as per Itinerary. 2 Nights accommodation is Skardu Land Transportation (Members): Drive by Jeep Skardu to Askole and on returning Askole to Skardu. Land Transportation (Staffs): Islamabad to Askole via Skardu (by bus / jeep) for All Climbing Guides and Expeditions Staff. (At Skardu all members and staffs will meet each other). Trekking Expedition Stuffs Transportation: Necessary all equipment Transportation for all Members and Staffs From Islamabad- Skardu to Askole by bus / Jeep and to basecamp by Porters / Mule. While Returning: Basecamp to Askole by porters / Mule and Askole to Islamabad by bus / jeep. Member Luggage: Up to 50 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carrying by porters. Food and Lodging: Food 3 meals a day (BDL; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge/Camp during the trek and Basecamp. Well-managed base camp set up for member & Staffs. All Necessary equipment for Camping during the trek. Porter: Porters per member up to Base camp from Askole & Porters while returning from Basecamp to Askole. Base Camp Staff: Experienced and well-trained Base camp Cook & kitchen Helpers as required. Staff Salary and Allowance: All staffs & porters daily wages, salary, equipment, foods & clothing. Base Camp Tent: Each member will have individual tent in Base Camp. Base Camp Equipment: At Base Camp: foam mattresses and pillow per member, 1 Dinning Tent, 1 Kitchen Tent, 1 Communication tent, 1 Toilet & 1 Shower Tent, 1 Staffs Tent, 1 Tent for Pakistani base camp staffs, Store tents, Tables & chairs & all necessary cooking gears. Heater: Heater for base camp in each Dining Tent Solar/Generator/Light: 1 Solar panel or Generator for battery charge and light at base camp for use. Satellite Phone for emergency communication carrying by Guide, also available for members with appropriate charge. Comprehensive Medical kit for group and staffs.
Pakistan Entry Visa fee: Pakistani Visa fee. Lunch & Dinner: Lunch & dinner in during the stay in Islamabad (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary). Extra night in Islamabad: Extra nights accommodation in Islamabad. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary. Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation. Trip cancellation Insurance. Rescue Evacuation: Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests and Hospitalization costs.) Personal Expenses: Telephone, Internet, battery recharge, shower, Laundry, any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Islamabad but we will serve all kinds of beverages for members in basecamp), and also Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking /Climbing Gears. Filming: Special Filming, Camera and Drone permit and its fee (if required). Tips: Calculate some tips for Basecamp staffs. (minimum 300USD) (divided among participants) Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary.
What to know
Group prices are also mentioned This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me. Samiya
Route & locations
Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan to Islamabad, Pakistan