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Government License/DTS: 2488

Trip Details

Gasherbrum II Expedition 2024-25

49 Days
  • 5-7 Star Hotel
  • Islamabad
  • Yes
  • Available
  • Yes

Overview

The Gasherbrum II expedition is a challenging and popular mountaineering expedition located in the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan. Gasherbrum II, also known as K4, is the 13th highest peak in the world, standing at an impressive elevation of 8,035m. It is part of the Gasherbrum massif and shares the same base camp. Mountaineers can attempt Gasherbrum I-II by paying an additional royalty fee.

The expedition to Gasherbrum II typically involves a multi-week journey that requires a high level of physical fitness, technical climbing skills, and proper acclimatization to the high altitude. Climbers often start their expedition by flying to Skardu, a town in northern Pakistan, and then trekking to the base camp of the mountain.

From base camp, climbers establish higher camps on the mountain, usually up to Camp 3 or Camp 4, depending on the route chosen. The ascent to the summit involves navigating challenging terrain, including steep ice slopes, crevasses, and potentially avalanche-prone areas.

Weather conditions on Gasherbrum II can be extremely harsh and unpredictable, adding to the difficulty of the expedition. Climbers often face high winds, low temperatures, and sudden storms, which can impact their progress and safety on the mountain.

Despite the challenges, reaching the summit of Gasherbrum II is a rewarding experience for mountaineers, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks and a sense of accomplishment in scaling one of the world’s highest mountains.

Safety is a paramount concern on expeditions to Gasherbrum II, and climbers are advised to be well-equipped, undergo proper training, and work with experienced guides and support staff to ensure a successful and safe climb.

Overall, the Gasherbrum II expedition is a test of endurance, skill, and determination, attracting climbers from around the world seeking to conquer this formidable peak in the Karakoram range. The expedition typically spans around 50 days, starting from Islamabad, progressing through Skardu, and then moving towards the base camp via the Baltoro Glacier.

  • For Foreign Trekkers

In addition to the iconic Gasherbrum II Expedition – 50 Days, we present various climbing vacation choices for individuals and group travelers globally.

7,000 m & 8,000 m Peaks                      Cost USD Cost Euro
Gasherbrum II Expedition – 8,035m $18,000 €18,000
Gasherbrum I Expedition – 8,080m $18,000 €18,000
Gasherbrum I & Gasherbrum II Expedition $30,000 €30,000
K2 Expedition – 8,611m $18,000 €18,000
Nanga Parbat Expedition – 8,126m $30,000 €30,000
Broad Peak Expedition – 8,051m $18,000 €18,000
Spantik Peak Expedition  7,027m $5,000 €5,000

 

Services Base Camp Services Semi Board Full Board
Cost $7,000 $10,000 $18,000

 

Private Expedition Cost

Our top priority is private treks, allowing you to customize your itinerary. We provide exclusive discounts for private treks and international trekking companies.

If you are looking for a private Trip to Gasherbrum II Expedition with friends, our cost schedule for groups are given below in the table:

 

Solo 2 Persons 4 Persons More than 4 Persons
$24,000 $22,000 $20,000 $18,000

Trek Highlights

  • • Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking views of the Karakoram Range, including iconic peaks such as K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum I. The trek to the base camp offers mesmerizing landscapes, particularly from Concordia.
  • • Cultural Encounters: Engage with the local Balti culture in Skardu and surrounding villages, offering a unique cultural immersion in one of the most remote areas of Pakistan.
  • • Base Camp and High Camps: Set up a base camp at 5,150 meters (16,896 feet) on the Gasherbrum Glacier. The climb involves establishing multiple high camps, each providing stunning vistas and challenging terrain.
  • • Technical Climbing Experience: The expedition includes ice training and fixed rope climbing techniques, crucial for navigating the crevasses and steep ice faces on the route.
  • • Sherpa Support: Benefit from the expertise and support of experienced Sherpas, ensuring safety and guidance throughout the ascent.
  • • Historical Significance: Follow the footsteps of legendary climbers and become part of the rich mountaineering history associated with Gasherbrum I.

Services Included:

  • Services included for both International & local trekkers
  • • Implementation of government SOPs/Guidelines in case of new pandemic variants.
  • • All domestic flights (Checked Baggage Allowance: 20kg, Hand Carry: 7kg)
  • • All road transfers including airport transfers
  • • All hotel accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing room)
  • • All trekking accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing dome tent)
  • • All camping site fees and bridge fees
  • • All trekking logistics (all tents, non-personal equipment and tools etc)
  • • All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and beverages/water during meals
  • • Snacks including dry fruits and tea/coffee during the trek
  • • Free refills of boiled drinking water on the trek
  • • Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
  • • Government trekking permit fees and paperwork
  • • Waste management fees (government requirement)
  • • Skardu city tour including all entry fees
  • • Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
  • • Porters - personal luggage (14kgs)
  • • Storage service for baggage in Skardu (for leaving a bag behind in Skardu before going on the trek)
  • • First aid medicine kit (basic)
  • • Satellite phone for emergencies
  • • Trekking map and trip achievement certificate

Services Not Included:

  • Services not included for both International & local trekkers
  • • Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: (Global Rescue)
  • • Visa to Pakistan (five supporting documents will be offered)
  • • International airfare
  • • Personal equipment (e.g. trekking shoes, down jacket, walking sticks etc)
  • • Personal mountain equipment (crampon, mountaineering boot, ice axe, harness, two carabineers, helmet etc)
  • • Extra nights in Islamabad (hotel check in/out is 12pm)
  • • Additional trek weight/baggage
  • • Storage service for baggage in Islamabad
  • • Tips/gratuities for guides, porters, staff etc
  • • Miscellaneous (minibar, bottled water, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
  • • Early Windup/Return Costs (e.g. early return from trek due to any reason)
  • • Costs due to Force Majuro (e.g. earthquake, landslide, floods, etc)

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Arrival

Arrival at Islamabad International Airport, after arrival our representative will escort you to a hotel in Islamabad. If you want to explore Islamabad after having some rest our team member will take you to short tour in Islamabad. In the evening, meet the expedition team in the evening for a briefing on the upcoming journey and necessary preparations, and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad.

On day 2 we will leave from hotel in the morning and move fly towards Skardu Intl Airport, from Islamabad Intl Airport. During the flight you can enjoy the beautiful view from your window seat and have a glance at Giant Nangaparbat, the three mountain ranges Karakorum, Himaliyas and Hindukush.
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu.

After breakfast, we will go on an acclimatization hike to the kharpocho and old castle some hundred meters hike from Skardu Bazars. The fort provides a breathtaking view of the Indus river, Skardu, and its Surroundings.
Company will provide drone to make a memorable footage.
While the afternoon you can check out your climbing kit or need to buy something you can explore markets for shopping or sightseeing.
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu.

On Day 4 of Gasherbrum II Expedition, will drive to Askoli with our crew and supplies. It's a 5-7-hour jeep drive from Skardu to Askoli. After half hour drive from Skardu, we will reach the Shigar valley which hosts the second-highest peak on the planet. The narrow track will lead us to Aksoli driving along to the Braldu River. Our porters will join us from Askoli or at Paju camp. This is the last village before Gasherbrum II expedition trek.
After an hour's drive, we will reach Korofon camp where we will take some rest. This place is the junction of the Biafo Glacier and Baltoro River. Snow lake and Hisper la trek are taken via this Glacier on our left. We will resume our drive to Jhula camp. In case of late arrival, we will take launch at Jhula camp otherwise will move to Paju camp or any other suitable campsite for lunch. A notable peak to see is Bakhordas peak facing Jhula Camp. Bakhoradas is the first peak to be seen while Gasherbrum II trek. After two hours or less drive along the bank of Baltoro River crossing trails and streams, we will be on our destination, we will camp overnight at Paju camp.
Accommodation: Camp at Paju.

We will spend this day resting and organizing gear, and acclimatizing to the altitude. And if we are late this day is used to travel to Paju from Askoli. Enjoy the serene environment and the breathtaking views of the surroundings. The members can also spend their time in photography and hike to nearby areas. While porters are issued their rations and they bake themselves bread for their rest of the trek on Baltoro Glacier. Most of the climbers go to Trango viewpoint to get a glimpse of Famous Trango Towers that is just a 20 to half an hour hike away from the camp.
Accommodation: Camp at Paju.

On this day of Gasherbrum II Expedition, we will start our trekking on the 65km Baltoro Glacier and it will follow us till Concordia where it confluence with Godwin Austin Glacier. After half an hour trek from Paju camp, we will be at the snout of Baltoro Glacier. This is where you can see Trango Towers. Uli Baiho and Paju Peak. The trek will take on the high and downs of the Baltoro glacier from here ahead. It is suggested that to be careful while trekking, let the horses and donkeys go if they are crossing your way. 4 to 5 hours trek will take us to Liligo, where we will take our lunch in front of Trango towers. The walk will continue to the Khoburse camp along the right edge of Baltoro Glacier and camp overnight there.
Accommodation: Camp at Khoburse.
Details: Approximately 5-7 hours of trekking.

After early wake up and getting breakfast we will start our trek to Urdukas Camp over the rough terrain of Baltoro Glacier. This is the last camp before glacial camps on Baltoro Glacier during Gondogoro la trek and the shortest day.
The camp is located at a higher location above Baltoro Glacier and provides the best view of the Granite spire (Trango, Uli Biaho, and Cathedrals). This is the second scenic camp during Gasherbrum II trek after Concordia camp. Good weather also provides a glimpse of Gasherbrum 4 as well from Urdukas Camp.

Accommodation: Camp at Urdukas.
Details: Approximately 4-6 hours of trekking.

On this day of the Gasherbrum II Expedition, participants trek in the middle of Baltoro Glacier through the rough moraines. Masherbrum peak is visible on the right side and Muztagh on the left. This day we get the first distant sight of Gasherbrum’s and Broad Peak. 3-4 hours’ trek on the glacier we will take our lunch and rest for a while at Goro 1. After lunch, we will resume the trek and it will take 3-4 hours to Goro 2 and Camp overnight in front of Masherbrum. Goro 2 is a windy and cold campsite this is our first camping at Baltoro Glacier. It is the junction of Baltoro Glacier and Younghusband. Looking back to Baltoro Glacier the views of the collection of peaks are mesmerizing.

Accommodation: Camp on Baltoro Glacier at Goro II.
Details: Approximately 6-8 hours of trekking

A very special day of Gasherbrum II Expedition passing through panoramic scenery of spectacular mountains to Concordia and k2 visible if weather permits. Concordia no doubt is one of the best campsites on the planet, also known as the “throne room of mountains gods”. Surrounded by sky kissing giant peaks as Marble peak, K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum 3, Mitre peak, Baltoro Kangri, Sia Kangri, and Chogolisa. Concordia is the junction of Baltoro, Godwin Austin, Gasherbrum, and Vigne Glaciers. After a 5-6 hours’ trek on the Baltoro glacier from Goro 2, we will reach Concordia. Very few people are fortunate enough to experience this wilderness. The camp is cold and even snowfall many times and overnight camping in a completed wilderness.

Accommodation: Camp at Concordia campsite.
Details: Approximately 5-7 hours of trekking

This day we start our trek towards to the base camp of Gasherbrum II, your home for the next several weeks. This marks the end of the trekking phase and the start of the climbing phase. It takes two hours hike on glacier moraine from Concordia to the campsite.

Accommodation: Camp at Gasherbrum II Base Camp.
Details: Approximately 3-5 hours of trekking

Spend about a month at Base Camp and above, acclimatizing and making several rotations between the higher camps (Camp 1, Camp 2, and Camp 3). Multiple rotations between camps for acclimatization are essential. Await a suitable weather window for the summit of Gasherbrum II. This period includes rest days, preparation, and ultimately, the summit push.

On this day of Gasherbrum II Expedition, Pack up all equipment and clean the base camp to ensure no waste is left behind. We will trek back to Concordia from Gasherbrum II Base Camp and rest there.

Accommodation: Camp at Concordia campsite.
Details: Approximately 5-7 hours of trekking

On this day of Gasherbrum II Expedition, we will start our journey towards Ali Camp via upper Baltoro Glacier. After crossing Mitre peak we will be on Vigne glacier, it is a crispy white glacier very easy to walk on the surface of the glacier. There are many small crevasses on the glacier so it is recommended to walk along with our guide or any other staff member and use crampons in case of fresh snow on the glacier. We will camp at Ali Camp (named after a local porter who discovered Gondogoro Pass). It will take around 5 to 6 hours from Concordia to Ali Camp.
Accommodation: Camp at Ali campsite.
Details: Approximately 5-6 hours of trekking

This is the critical day of Gasherbrum II Expedition. The pass needs to be cross before the sunrise because there are chances of rock falling whiling descending the top. The descending part is mostly rocky glacier so we need to do this before the sun warms the glacier surface. We will wake up before dawn or even midnight, after having a good breakfast we will start our trek to Gondogoro la pass with a rescue member and our support staff. Rescue people are already there we pay them and they watch the ropes on the Gondogoro Pass and assist us crossing the top. We will continue our trek on the west Vigne glacier until Gondogoro la Base. On Gondogoro la base we will put on our harnesses and crampons, and start climbing slowly, our support crew will accompany us during the whole process. It normally takes 3 hours to reach the top of Gondogoro la. We will be on the top at dawn the four 8000m peaks (k2, Broad Peak, G1, and G2) and the whole Baltoro region is just in front of you whole on the other site the ravishing Laila peak and Gondogoro valley will catch your imagination.

Participants need to extra vigilant and must watch every step while descending the top. The fixed ropes are used while descending Gondogoro la into Hushe valley. During early summer this part has snow so keep your crampons on if there is snow while after mid-summer it is mostly rocky so try to trek down without crampons. Our support crew is there always our guide will lead you from the front. Upon descending the pass, the trail becomes essay and straightforward till Khuspang Camp. We will camp at Khuspang camp (4600m) overnight in front of Laila peak.
Accommodation: Camp at Khuspang campsite.
Details: Approximately 5-7 hours of trekking

Today we will resume the trek back to Saicho camp. We start trekking on the Gondogoro glacier for an hour till Dalchanhpa. We will come across Masherbrum while this section of the trek. After lunch at Dalchangpa. We will resume trek to Saicho Camp through the pasture of Gondogoro and will camp at Siacho overnight. Siacho has comparatively better weather so we can wash and take a shower over there. It will be a trek of 5-6 hours today.

Accommodation: Camp at Saicho.
Details: Approximately 5-6 hours of trekking

On this Day of Gasherbrum II Expedition, we will be back to civilization. We will resume the trek back to Hushe Valley. The last village of Ghanche District is known for its hospitality. It will take up to 5 hours to reach Hushe Village we can stay overnight at Hushe or travel to Skardu on the same day.

Accommodation: Camp at Hushe.
Details: Approximately 5-6 hours of trekking

Today marks the final leg of our Gasherbrum II Expedition as we journey to Skardu City. Our jeeps will drive us back to Skardu city, reflecting on the journey and achievements. Spend the evening relaxing and sharing experiences with your fellow climbers.
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu.

On this day the participants will attend a debriefing session at the Ministry of Tourism after the completion of the Gasherbrum II Expedition. And then spend the rest of the day exploring Skardu or resting.
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu.

Today we will fly back to the capital city of Pakistan Islamabad. You will have a good time to relax at the hotel in Islamabad. In case of flight cancellation or if you wish to, we will drive towards Islamabad. It takes eight hours by a vehicle.

Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad.

This is the last day of Gasherbrum II Expedition; our staff will transfer all of the participants to Islamabad International airport. You can choose to stay in Islamabad if you are not flying home right away, though any additional nights at the hotels are not covered.

FAQs

Why Choose Skardu Trekkers?

Our trip costs more for a few reasons, but here are a few of the main points:

  1. We offer our staff and porters wages that are higher than average.
  2. Our cooks are dedicated to preparing high-quality meals that go beyond the typical Baltoro fare, adding our unique twist to hearty trekking food.
  3. Comfortable camp setup: After a long day of hiking, we aim to make our campsites as comfortable as possible, focusing on the little details. Our camps include tables, comfy chairs, a spacious mess/dining tent, a proper toilet tent for privacy, a generator for charging electronics, and endless pots of French press coffee, tea, and plates of cookies upon your arrival at camp. These details create an unparalleled camp-life experience.
  4. Each trek has a minimum of two trip leaders – one Western leader and one local leader.
  5. Group size: You will NEVER see a Skardu Trekkers Expeditions team with more than 12 people.
  6. Safety plans and protocols: A major difference between Skardu Trekkers and our competitors is our professional and comprehensive safety plan, along with the necessary tools to handle any emergency situation. All of our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and risk management.

Is the Gasherbrum II Expedition Safe?

The Gasherbrum II Expedition involves a certain amount of risk as we venture deep into the mountains of a developing country.

However, member safety is EBT’s top priority. Our experienced ground team does everything possible to ensure a safe adventure, focusing on safety first and injury prevention.

Skardu Trekkers goes above and beyond to be fully prepared for emergencies, bringing all necessary tools to manage any situation.

The reality on the ground in Pakistan is that other local (budget) tour operators often forgo bringing a satellite phone due to its high cost. For us, being unprepared for emergencies is unacceptable. This commitment to safety is a significant reason why clients choose us and continue to return for different adventures year after year.

 

What kind of visa is needed for the Gasherbrum II Expedition?

All guests joining the Gasherbrum II Expedition must apply for a Pakistani Trekking and Mountaineering Visa. This visa is different from the standard tourist visa, so you will not be applying for a tourist visa.

Skardu Trekkers provides all the necessary documentation for the visa application, including the Letter of Invitation (LOI).

Do I need to have trekking experience for the Gasherbrum II Expedition?

Yes, trekking experience is essential for the Gasherbrum II Expedition. Gasherbrum I, standing at 8,080 meters in the Karakoram range, is known for its technical challenges, including steep slopes, rock, and ice climbing.

Trekking and climbing experience are critical for ensuring safety and success on the Gasherbrum II Expedition. It’s recommended to have prior experience with similar high-altitude, technical climbs before attempting Gasherbrum I.

Is it safe for a Solo Woman to join the Gasherbrum II Expedition?

Roughly 50% of our clients on the Gasherbrum II Expedition are female, hailing primarily from the USA, the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Over the years, we have had solo women from more than 20 different nationalities join us on this trek.

You will always be paired with another solo woman as hotel/tent mates. If there is no other female to pair you with due to odd numbers, you will not be required to share a tent.

As a solo woman, you can feel safe joining the Gasherbrum II Expedition. We prioritize the safety and well-being of all our trekkers, and our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring a secure and supportive environment throughout the journey. We have successfully guided many solo female travelers on this trek, and our staff is trained to provide the highest level of care and attention to all participants. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

Northern Pakistan is a very safe part of the world. We often say that you are safer traveling in Northern Pakistan as a woman than walking alone at night in Paris or New York City.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Gasherbrum II Expedition 2024-25
From $18000
/ Adult
  • 5-7 Star Hotel
  • Islamabad
  • Yes
  • Available
  • Yes

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