Description
Ranked among the top ten classic hikes globally, the Concordia K-2 Base Camp Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This remarkable trek navigates towards Concordia, encompassed by towering peaks exceeding 8000 and 7000 meters, including the legendary K-2 (the monarch of mountains), Broad Peak, Gasherbrum IV, Baltoro Kangri, and Chogolisa, among others. Along the journey, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas of renowned high mountains such as Trango Tower, Masherbrum Peak, and Muztagh Tower, alongside numerous tributary glaciers of Baltoro, all of which captivate adventurers in the midst of wilderness.
Commencing from Islamabad, the expedition embarks towards Skardu, serving as the gateway to the majestic Karakoram Range. Traveling by jeeps to Askole, a remote outpost marking the last human settlement, initiates our inaugural day of camping. Subsequent campsites include Jhula and Paiju, the latter nestled as a verdant oasis beneath the imposing Paiju Peak, providing the first glimpses of the vast Baltoro Glacier.
Urdukas awaits as a remarkable campsite, offering panoramic vistas of the Baltoro Glacier and the dramatic rock formations adorning its opposing side. Goro II, situated approximately at 4300 meters, resides directly on the glacier, where leveled ledges accommodate tents amidst views of towering peaks such as Muztagh (7,270m), Masherbrum (7,800m), and Gasherbrum IV.
The journey culminates in Concordia, often referred to as “the throne room of the mountain gods” by Galen Rowell, a renowned climber and author. Here, at the confluence of Baltoro and Godwin Austin Glaciers, alongside several other tributaries, lies the basecamp for the majestic giants of the Karakoram Range.
Trip Summary:
Islamabad-Skardu-Askoli-Concordia-Broad Peak Base Camp-K-2 Base Camp-Skardu-Islamabad
Best time:
Early June to September
Maximum Altitude:
5150 meters
Trek Grade:
Strenuous
Trip Duration:
19 nights/20 days (7 hotel nights & 13 camping nights)
What to Expect
Embarking on the Concordia K-2 Base Camp Trek promises an unforgettable adventure amidst some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Here’s what you can expect:
- Breathtaking Scenery: Prepare to be immersed in stunning landscapes as you trek through the Karakoram Mountains. Towering peaks, expansive glaciers, and dramatic rock formations will surround you at every turn, offering endless photo opportunities and moments of awe-inspiring beauty.
- Physical Challenge: This trek is not for the faint of heart. Expect long days of hiking over varied terrain, including rugged trails, rocky paths, and glacier crossings. Stamina and endurance will be tested, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching each milestone will make it all worthwhile.
- Camping in the Wilderness: Experience the thrill of camping under the stars in remote wilderness settings. Each night, you’ll set up camp in breathtaking locations, surrounded by nature’s grandeur. Sleeping under the open sky with the towering peaks as your backdrop is an experience like no other.
- Cultural Immersion: Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their way of life. From the bustling streets of Islamabad to the remote villages of the Karakoram, immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Pakistan’s mountainous regions.
- Unforgettable Highlights: Highlights of the trek include passing by iconic landmarks such as Paiju Peak, traversing the vast Baltoro Glacier, and reaching the legendary Concordia, where the Baltoro and Godwin Austin Glaciers converge. The sight of towering peaks like K-2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum IV will leave an indelible mark on your memory.
- Challenges and Rewards: The trek will present its challenges, from altitude sickness to unpredictable weather conditions. However, overcoming these obstacles will only enhance the sense of accomplishment and appreciation for the journey.
- Adventure of a Lifetime: Overall, expect the Concordia K-2 Base Camp Trek to be an adventure of a lifetime—one that will push your limits, ignite your sense of wonder, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Islamabad Airport, proceed to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy a half-day city tour followed by an overnight stay at the hotel.
Travel to Chilas, either through Besham, which takes approximately 12 hours, or via Babusar Pass, which takes about 10 hours. Stay overnight at a hotel located at an altitude of 1265 meters.
Embark on a journey to Skardu, a drive lasting approximately 9 to 10 hours. Arrive at a hotel located at an elevation of 2250 meters to spend the night.
Completing last-minute preparations, with the possibility of exploring Kharpochu Fort and Budha as an optional excursion. Stay overnight at a hotel situated at an elevation of 225 meters.
Embark on a jeep journey to Jhula via Askoli, a scenic drive lasting approximately 9 hours. Spend the night camping in tents at an altitude of 3200 meters.
Begin the trek from Jhula to Paiju, a trekking duration of about 6 hours. Camp overnight in tents at an altitude of 3600 meters.
Continue the trek from Paiju to Khuburtse, with an estimated duration of 5 hours. Set up camp overnight in tents at an altitude of 4000 meters.
Trek from Khuburtse to Urdukus, an approximate 5-hour journey. Spend the night camping in tents at an altitude of 4240 meters.
Embark on the trek from Urdukus to Goro-II, a trekking duration of around 6 hours. Set up camp overnight in tents at an altitude of 4500 meters.
Undertake the trek from Goro-II to Concordia, spanning approximately 5 hours. Pitch tents for overnight stay at an altitude of 4687 meters.
Designated as a rest day during the trek, spend the night in tents.
On Trek-07, journey from Concordia to K-2 Base Camp and return to Concordia, reaching an altitude of 5050 meters. Spend the night in tents.
During Trek-08, trek back from Concordia to Goro I, with an estimated duration of 7 hours. Set up camp for overnight stay.
On Trek-09, trek from Goro I, also known as Biango, to Urdukas in approximately 5 hours. Spend the night camping in tents.
Embark on Trek-10 from Urdukas to Bardumal, with an expected duration of 7 hours. Camp overnight in tents.
Undertake Trek-11 from Bardumal to Jhula, continuing on to Skardu, with an estimated duration of 11 hours. Stay overnight at a hotel.
Take a day off in Skardu, spending the night at a hotel.
Choose between flying to Islamabad or driving to Chilas, with the option to stay overnight at a hotel.
Keep a reserve day available or opt to drive to Islamabad, with the possibility of staying overnight at a hotel.
Flight back home with an overnight layover.
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