Accomodation

5 Star Hotel
Arrival City

Islamabad
Guide

Yes
Tour Availability

Available

Overview

The K2 Expedition is a challenging and exhilarating journey to the world’s second-highest mountain, standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) above sea level. Known as “Mount Godwin-Austen”, K2 is part of the Karakoram Range, straddling the border between Pakistan and China. Renowned for its difficulty and danger, K2 is often dubbed the “Savage Mountain” due to its high fatality rate and technical challenges.

Difficulty and Preparation

Climbing K2 is one of the most formidable mountaineering challenges, requiring extensive technical skills, high-altitude experience, and exceptional physical fitness. The K2 Expedition typically spans 6-8 weeks, including acclimatization, climbing, and rest periods. Climbers must navigate harsh weather conditions, steep ice, and rock faces, particularly the infamous sections like the “Black Pyramid” and the “Bottleneck”.

Best Time to Climb

The optimal time for a K2 Expedition is during the summer months from June to August. This period offers stable weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and reduced avalanche risks. Securing a K2 climbing permit from the Pakistani government is essential, which is typically managed through authorized expedition operators.

Support and Logistics

Due to the extreme conditions and complexity of the climb, it is highly recommended to join a guided expedition. Experienced guides and Sherpas provide critical support, logistical management, and ensure safety protocols are followed. These expeditions are usually well-organized, offering comprehensive services from arrival in Islamabad to the summit attempt and return.

For Foreign Trekkers

We offer a variety of K2 mountaineering and trekking packages tailored to suit the needs of individuals and group travelers from around the globe.

K2 Expedition & Trekking Holidays	Cost USD	Cost Euro
K2 Expedition–50 days (All-Inclusive)	$18,000	€18,000
K2 Base Camp Trek–20 days (All-Inclusive)	$2,050	€2,000
K2 Base Camp Trek-14 days (Trek only)	$1,650	€1,650
K2 BC Trek for Beginners / Seniors -24 days	$2,600	€2,500
K2 Gondogoro La Trek-20 days (All-Inclusive)	$2,150	€2,100
Snow Lake Hisper La Trek (20-Days)	$2,700	€2,600

Services	Base Camp Services	Semi Board	Full Board
Cost	$6,000	$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 K2 climbing expedition with family and 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

Book Your K2 Expedition Today!

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Skardu Trekkers. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner, our K2 Base Camp expedition promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Karakoram mountains. Contact us now to reserve your spot or customize your private expedition!

Trek Highlights

1. Concordia: Known as the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods," Concordia offers breathtaking views of some of the world's highest peaks, including K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums. It's a central hub for mountaineers heading to various peaks in the Karakoram range.
2. Baltoro Glacier: This is one of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions, providing a dramatic and challenging approach to K2. Trekking across this glacier is a unique and exhilarating experience, with stunning views of surrounding peaks like the Trango Towers and Masherbrum.
3. Base Camp Experience: The base camp at K2 is a bustling community of climbers from around the world. It's located at the foot of the mountain, offering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among climbers as they prepare for the challenging ascent.
4. High-Altitude Climbing: The climb itself is a mix of technical rock climbing, ice climbing, and high-altitude endurance. Climbers tackle the famous sections like the House’s Chimney, Black Pyramid, and the Bottleneck, each offering their own set of challenges and requiring a high level of skill and determination.
5. Cultural Encounters: Along the journey, trekkers and climbers get to experience the rich culture of the Balti people. Starting from Skardu, climbers interact with locals in villages like Askole, the last human settlement before entering the high-altitude wilderness.
6. Spectacular Scenery: The entire route offers unmatched natural beauty, from the lush green valleys near Skardu to the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Karakoram. Every day presents new and stunning vistas that are both inspiring and humbling.
7. Challenge and Achievement: Summiting K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, is a lifetime achievement for any mountaineer. The extreme conditions, technical difficulty, and the sheer scale of the mountain make it one of the most prestigious climbs in the mountaineering community.

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)

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.

Day 2 :

Flight to Skardu

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.

Day 3 :

Skardu City Tour & Shopping

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.

Day 4 :

Drive to Askoli / Paju

On Day 4 of K2 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 K2 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 k2 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.

Day 5 :

Rest Day at Paju camp

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.

Day 6 :

Trek to khobusre

On this day of k2 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.

Day 7 :

Trek to Urdukas

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 K2 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.

Day 8 :

Trek to Goro II

On this day of the K2 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

Day 9 :

Trek to Concordia

A very special day of K2 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

Day 10 :

Trek to Broad Peak Base Camp and K2 Base Camp (Gilkey Memorial)

This day we have a flexible schedule this day, we start our trek towards Broad peak base camp crossing the Glacial streams flowing through the junction of Glaciers very next to the Concordia camp. This part of the glacier between Concordia and K2 Base Camp is rough and technical due to the melting down of the glaciers and the rest is smooth plain track till Broad Peak Base Camp. It will take almost three hours to reach Broad Peak Base camp, where we will take our lunch and resume the trek for two more hours till K2 base camp through Godwin Austin Glacier mostly white glacier. K2 Base Camp elevation/height estimated as 4998m (16,400 ′) almost five thousand meters above sea level. At K2 Base Camp, Gilkey Memorial is a 10-15 minutes’ hike on the mountain. We can find the memories of legends who lost their lives while scaling mountains in the Karakoram. We would have chances of meeting with other climbers at Broad Peak and K2 Base Camp only when we are there during July and August. After paying homage to the legends at Gilkey Memorial we will start the trek back to Concordia via the same route and overnight camp at Concordia. Accommodation: Camp at K2 Base Camp.

Day 11 :

Day 11-41: Acclimatizing & Climbing Period

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 K2. This period includes rest days, preparation, and ultimately, the summit push.

Day 12 :

Day 42: Rest Day at Concordia

On this day of K2 Expedition, Pack up all equipment and clean the base camp to ensure no waste is left behind. We will trek back to Concordia from K2 Base Camp and rest there. Accommodation: Camp at Concordia campsite. Details: Approximately 5-7 hours of trekking

Day 13 :

Day 43: Trek to Ali Camp

On this day of K2 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

Day 14 :

Day 44: Gondogoro La Crossing and Trek to Khuspang

This is the critical day of K2 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

Day 15 :

Day 45: Trek to Saicho

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

Day 16 :

Day 46: Trek to Hushe Village

On this Day of K2 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

Day 17 :

Day 47: Drive Back to Skardu

Today marks the final leg of our K2 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.

Day 18 :

Day 48: Debriefing at Skardu

On this day the participants will attend a debriefing session at the Ministry of Tourism after the completion of the K2 Expedition. And then spend the rest of the day exploring Skardu or resting. Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu.

Day 19 :

Day 49: Flight to Islamabad

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.

Day 20 :

Day 50: Departure to Home Country

This is the last day of K2 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

Expand all

Why Choose Skardu Trekkers?

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

We offer our staff and porters wages that are higher than average.
Our cooks are dedicated to preparing high-quality meals that go beyond the typical Baltoro fare, adding our unique twist to hearty trekking food.
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.
Each trek has a minimum of two trip leaders – one Western leader and one local leader.
Group size: You will NEVER see a Skardu Trekkers Expeditions team with more than 12 people.
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 K2 Expedition Safe?

The K2 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 K2 Expedition?

All guests joining the K2 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 K2 Expedition?

Yes, trekking experience is essential for the K2 Expedition. K2, standing at 8,611 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 K2 Expedition. It’s recommended to have prior experience with similar high-altitude, technical climbs before attempting

Is it safe for a Solo Woman to join the K2 Expedition?

Roughly 50% of our clients on the K2 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 K2 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.