Description
Ranked as one of the top ten classic hikes globally, the Concordia K-2 Base Camp Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This trek takes you to Concordia, surrounded by towering peaks, including the legendary K-2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum IV, Baltoro Kangri, and Chogolisa, among others. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of other renowned mountains like Trango Tower, Masherbrum Peak, and Muztagh Tower, amidst the wild beauty of the Karakoram Mountains.
Beginning from Islamabad, the journey heads towards Skardu, the gateway to the majestic Karakorams. Traveling by jeeps to Askole, a remote settlement, marks the start of the trek. Camping at Jhula and Paiju follows, with Paiju offering a serene oasis beneath the towering Paiju Peak and the first views of the expansive Baltoro Glacier. Urdukas, a breathtaking campsite with panoramic views of the Baltoro Glacier and dramatic rock spires, awaits next.
At Goro II, nestled at around 4300m on the glacier, the tents are set on leveled ledges, providing views of majestic peaks like Muztagh, Masherbrum, and Gasherbrum IV. The journey culminates at Concordia, famously dubbed “the throne room of the mountain gods” by Galen Rowell, renowned climber and writer. Concordia marks the convergence point of the Baltoro and Godwin Austin Glaciers, surrounded by towering peaks, serving as the base for Karakoram’s giants.
The Gondogoro La at 5450m stands as the most popular high pass in the Karakoram, established in 1986 to connect Concordia and the upper Baltoro Glacier to the stunning Hushe Valley. Despite its challenging and technical nature, this pass offers an alternative route back from Concordia, equally cherished by trekkers and climbers. Weather permitting, the high pass provides an unparalleled vista of K-2, Broad Peak, G-I, G-II, G-III, G-IV, Masherbrum, Chogolisa, and numerous other peaks and glaciers in the region.
Trip Overview:
Starting from Islamabad, the journey encompasses Skardu, Askoli, Concordia, Broad Peak Base Camp, K-2 Base Camp, Gasherbrum Base Camp (optional), Gondogoro La, Hushe, and back to Skardu before returning to Islamabad.
Ideal Time:
Early June through September
Highest Elevation:
Reaching a maximum altitude of 5450 meters
Trek Difficulty:
Rated as strenuous
Duration:
The trek spans 25 nights and 26 days, including 9 hotel stays and 16 nights of camping.
What to Expect
Anticipate a thrilling adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrain, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Spectacular Scenery: Prepare to be awestruck by the majestic beauty of the Karakoram Mountains, including towering peaks like K-2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum IV, as well as sweeping glaciers and pristine valleys.
2. Physical Challenge: Be ready for a strenuous trekking experience, with demanding terrain, high altitudes, and long hiking days. Proper physical conditioning and mental preparation are essential.
3. Cultural Immersion: Encounter the unique culture and hospitality of the local people as you pass through remote villages along the way. Engage with the Balti people and learn about their way of life.
4. Camping Under the Stars: Spend nights under the starry sky, camping in breathtaking locations amidst the wilderness. Experience the tranquility of nature and the camaraderie of fellow trekkers.
5. High Pass Adventure: Crossing the Gondogoro La at 5450 meters presents a thrilling challenge and rewards you with unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
6. Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, ranging from warm and sunny days to cold and windy nights. Dress in layers and pack accordingly for all eventualities.
7. Team Support: Rely on the expertise and support of experienced guides, porters, and support staff who will ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Overall, expect an extraordinary adventure that will push your limits, expand your horizons, and leave you with lifelong memories of one of the world’s most epic treks.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Islamabad Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a half-day city tour, covering 500 meters, before retiring for the night at the hotel.
Embark on a scenic drive to Chilas, with two route options: one via Besham, lasting approximately 12 hours, and the other via Babusar Pass, taking around 10 hours. You'll spend the night at a hotel in Chilas.
Embark on a 9 to 10-hour journey by road to reach Skardu, situated at an altitude of 2250 meters. Your overnight accommodation will be at a hotel in Skardu.
Conclude your preparations for the journey ahead. Optionally, explore Kharpochu Fort and Budha, adding depth to your experience. Spend the night at the hotel, situated at an altitude of 2250 meters.
Embark on a 9-hour drive to Jhula via Askoli, reaching an elevation of 3200 meters. Spend the night in tents at the campsite.
Begin Trek-01 by hiking from Jhula to Paiju, a journey lasting approximately 6 hours. As the day ends, settle into your tents for the night at an elevation of 3600 meters.
On Trek-02, trek from Paiju to Khuburtse, a route that takes around 5 hours. As evening falls, set up camp and spend the night in tents at an altitude of 4000 meters.
During Trek-03, journey from Khuburtse to Urdukus, a hike spanning approximately 5 hours. As the day draws to a close, set up camp and spend the night in tents at an altitude of 4240 meters.
Embark on Trek-04, trekking from Urdukus to Goro-II, a trek lasting around 6 hours. As the day comes to an end, set up camp and spend the night in tents at an altitude of 4500 meters.
On Trek-05, trek from Goro-II to Concordia, a journey taking approximately 5 hours. As night falls, pitch your tents and spend the night at an altitude of 4687 meters.
On Trek-06, take a day to rest and recharge. Spend the night in your tents.
During Trek-07, journey from Concordia to K-2 Base Camp and return to Concordia. This excursion reaches an elevation of 5050 meters. Spend the night in tents.
On Trek-08, trek from Concordia to Ali Camp, a journey lasting 6 to 7 hours. Spend the night in tents at an altitude of 5000 meters.
On Trek-09, embark from Ali Camp to Huispang, crossing the Gondogoro La at an altitude of 5650 meters. This challenging journey spans 12 hours. Spend the night in tents at an altitude of 4600 meters.
During Trek-10, trek from Huispang to Shaitcho, which typically takes around 5 to 6 hours. Set up camp for the night at an altitude of 3300 meters.
On Trek-11, hike from Saicho to Hushe, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Settle in for the night in tents at an altitude of 3000 meters.
Embark on a 7-hour drive to Skardu, situated at an altitude of 2250 meters. Spend the night at a hotel in Skardu.
Either take a flight to Islamabad or opt for a drive to Chilas or Naran, where you'll spend the night at a hotel.
Either keep a reserve day or proceed with the drive back to Islamabad, where you'll spend the night at a hotel.
Depart from Islamabad, spending the night onboard.
Location
Average Reviews
4.0/5
Cleanliness
Facilities
Location
Service
Value for money
Room comfort and quality
Be the first to review “K-2 Circular”
Why Book With Us?
Better than 99% of tour operators in Pakistan
Customer care available 24/7
Exceptional location - Inside city center
Hand-picked Tours & Activities
No-hassle best price guarantee
Popular neighborhood
You might also like...
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.