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K2 Base Camp Trek

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Fixed Departures 2024-25

Baltoro Glacier & Concordia Trek

World's 5th longest non-polar glacier

K2 Gondogoro La Trek

View 4 eight-thousanders from Gondogoro Pass

Welcome to Karakoram, Pakistan.

Welcome to Skardu, Pakistan

We are a hometown company providing dedicated and complete destination services for K2 base camp trek, Gondogoro La Trek and additional trails (including numerous mountain passes) in the Karakoram Range. For the love of our mountains, we do our best to provide reliable information, meaningful guidance, user-friendly online booking system and complete logistics for full-board treks via Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La/Pass.

K2 base camp trek mainly involves walking over and marching along the world’s 5th longest non-polar glacier i.e. Baltoro glacier (63 km). At the end of Baltoro glacier is Concordia which is known as “Throne Room of Mountain Gods”. It is the supreme point for views of K2 (world’s second tallest mountain) and other mighty peaks above 8000 m.

It is a legend that one night under the grand mountains in Concordia adds to life span of any soul by one year. Concordia is a glacial confluence of the Baltoro Glacier with the Glacier of Godwin Austen. Trek to K2 base camp and Broad Peak base camp is altogether a one day return trip from Concordia on the Godwin Austen glacier.

Trekking from Askoli (first camp) over Baltoro glacier to Concordia offers views of several famous 6000 m and 7000 m peaks, several glaciers (including Biafo – world’s 3rd longest non-polar), glacial lakes etc. You can easily access the itinerary for the trek to K2 base camp.

There are two options on return to Concordia after trek to K2 base camp. One is taking the same route back home and the second is crossing a mountain pass for more adventures.

When K2 base camp trek is extended from Concordia towards Hushey valley over Gondogoro La (Pass), the comprehensive trek is then commonly referred to as “Gondogoro La Trek” and also “K2 Gondogoro La Trek”. It is a strenuous but an action-packed and demanding circular trek ( Gondogoro La Map ).

K2 Gondogoro La Trek involves trekking first over the Upper Baltoro glacier and later on the Vigne glacier before ascending and crossing the Gondogoro la/pass (5585 m). The top of the pass is a broad area offering breathtaking views of 4 eight thousand meter peaks.

After descending the pass, the walk mostly continues over glaciers (including Gondogoro glacier) and lateral moraine. The trek offers views of new landscape including pastures, glaciers and gorgeous peaks until the downstream journey is made to Hushey valley.

These two incredible trekking routes mentioned above which were once considered harsh proposals are now considered good challenges by hiking and trekking enthusiasts from around the world. On this dedicated website we offer fixed departures for trekking to K2 base camp and K2 Gondogoro La Trek. We also welcome personalized plan requests from groups and individuals.

We are the base camp for trekking in the Karakoram mountains. Book with us now!

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How to get ready for K2 Base Camp Trek?

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Trekking to K2 base camp in Pakistan: everything you need to know

Jan 12, 2021 • 7 min read

The trek to K2 basecamp is one of the most rewarding journeys in the world © Peter Watson / Lonely Planet

The K2 base camp trek in Pakistan is one of the great hikes on earth. Trekkers follow a rocky trail that winds up the mighty Baltoro Glacier, passing through a colossal amphitheater of sky-scraping summits – including seven of the 19 highest mountains on the planet – en route to the base of the world’s second highest peak. Feet twitching? Here’s everything you need to know about hiking to K2 base camp.

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Introducing the Karakoram

The spectacular Karakoram mountains of Pakistan are home to some of the wildest landscapes on Earth. And while tides of eager walkers flood the trails of Nepal , Pakistan receives just a trickle of trekkers in comparison. But the Greater Ranges of Asia span many borders. While the classic Himalayan routes of Everest and Annapurna may steal the limelight, the Karakoram trails of northern Pakistan are no less magnificent.

The crown of the Karakoram is K2. At 8,611m (28,251ft) it is the world’s second-highest mountain and an expedition to its base camp at 5,150m (16,896ft) makes for one of the most exciting walks in the world. Beginning in the remote village of Askole, the trail winds its way along the grand Braldu Valley before mounting the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia. Positioned 12km (7.5 miles) from K2, Concordia is one of the few places on Earth where it’s possible to see four 8,000m (26,247ft) peaks from one place: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II.

Unlike the approach to Everest base camp in Nepal, where trekkers are treated to only teasing glimpses of the iconic summit, K2 is unimpeded by its satellite peaks, and instead stands imposing, watching over all who tackle the trail to its base. K2 may be second in height and notoriety to Everest, but as a spectacle, it is second to none.

In 2018, Pakistan’s prime minister Imran Khan highlighted tourism as one of his main objectives after his election. The year 2019 saw the launch of a new e-visa system and relaxation of visa restrictions for over 50 countries. Meanwhile, British Airways became the first European airline to resume direct flights to Islamabad , the closest international airport to the Karakoram. As an additional boost, a visit from the British Royal family in 2019 drew the attention of the world’s media to Pakistan.

Tourist numbers have begun to climb, albeit cautiously. The number of trekkers registering to enter the Central Karakoram National Park rose by 50% from 2018 to 2019, albeit to only 1300 in total. It’s worth remembering that over 30,000 people make the Everest base camp trek every year. As such, trekkers in Pakistan can expect to find quiet and uncrowded trails throughout the season. 

To be sure, the COVID-19 pandemic has all but halted mainstream tourism to Pakistan, but as the world emerges from lockdowns (and subsequent re-lockdowns), countries like Pakistan will be keen to invite new travelers.

Pakistan has long-been touted as tourism’s "next big thing," but alarming headlines have often discredited those predictions. Perhaps as Pakistan and the world recover from COVID-19, the country can finally realize its potential as a trekking destination to rival its Himalayan neighbors. If so, then now is the time to start planning.

Trekking to K2 base camp

The K2 base camp trek takes 14 days in total (up and down), and starts in the village of Askole. Once away from this small green oasis, the mighty Karakoram doesn’t take long to reveal its beauty. Serrated summits and towering cliffs rear up either side of the wide valleys. By the end of the first day trekkers are camped beneath the distinctive peak of Bakhor Das, affectionately referred to as Mango Peak due to its curiously shaped summit cone.

The following day the remarkable granite spires of Trango Towers and Cathedral rear up, standing sentry over the trail for three days. Once onto the Baltoro Glacier the first 7,000m peaks (22966ft) – Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower – appear. Despite their dominance, it’s not long before the first 8,000m peaks (26247ft) emerge on the horizon. At the end of Baltoro Glacier stands the Gasherbrum Range, a massif of five peaks over 7,000m including two above 8,000m.

Another day of walking brings trekkers to the huge rocky amphitheater of Concordia that makes the European ranges look puny in comparison. The eye is immediately drawn from the Gasherbrums, across the wide summit ridge of Broad Peak to the sharp and abrupt pyramid of black rock ridges and glinting snow gullies of K2. On this night, trekkers pitch their tents at one of the finest campsites on the planet.

The following day trekkers have a choice of how to approach K2 base camp. They can make the exhausting round trip from Concordia in a day. However, the more popular option is to hike to Broad Peak base camp and stay for the night. The following day is then a far more agreeable push to K2 base camp and back.

K2 base camp is not the sea of yellow tents and prayer flags that’s found at the foot of Everest. There are no iconic signs; instead a modest rockpile marks the site. Depending on the time of the season and the number of expeditions, hikers may well find they’re alone at base camp. There, at the foot of over two vertical miles of rock and ice, the second highest mountain on Earth stands proudly as reward for over a week of toil.

Depending on their itinerary, trekkers either return to Askole back down the Braldu Valley or head towards the high pass of Gondogoro La (finishing the trek in the village of Hushe). While the Gondogoro La pass provides an alternative perspective of the Karakoram, it also proves quite the challenge. Trekkers should be confident with an ice axe and crampons and willing to rise at the stroke of midnight to take on the high pass.

Whichever route one opts for, a trek through Pakistan’s mighty Karakoram to the foot of the world’s second highest mountain, is one of the world’s classic – and currently lesser-tackled – high-altitude adventures. 

Practical information

Distance: The trek takes around 14 days in total and, while no specialist equipment is required, climbers should be fit and healthy and have tackled at least one high-altitude climb before. Additionally, opting to tackle the Gondogoro La pass requires some basic rope work and the use of an ice axe.

Camping: The only accommodation available throughout the trek is camping. Tents are two-person affairs so solo travelers should expect to share. Campsites are pitched either on rock, ice or both, so make sure to pack a thick, warm camping mattress. It should also be noted that most campsites do not have toilet facilities so prepare to do your business in the wild, following the principles of “leave no trace” (ie digging holes and burning toilet paper).

Equipment: It is common for porters to carry your personal gear. But this all depends largely on the level of service you pay for. The more expensive outfits provide chairs, dining table, toilet tent and full porterage. Cheaper outfits require clients to carry some or all of their personal gear and forego the other luxuries.

When to go: The best months for trekking in the Karakoram are July and August, although the trekking season runs from mid-June through mid-September. Outside of those dates excessive snow remains on passes and north-facing slopes, keeping any passes above 3,000m (9843ft) closed. Unsurprisingly, the weather in the Karakoram can be changeable. Be prepared for a range of weather including wind, rain, snow and plunging temperatures, particularly at night.

Terrain: The terrain is far more challenging than the well-trodden trails of Nepal. On the Baltoro Glacier trails are constantly changing as the ice shifts and crevasses open up, so a degree of cross-country walking is to be expected. It’s also not unusual for rivers to swell to excessive levels or wash away footbridges, so be prepared to get your feet wet.

Access: To trek to K2 base camp foreigners must have a licensed guide with them and obtain a No Objection Certificate from the tourism office in Skardu. The trek begins at Askole, which is a six-hour drive via 4WD from Skardu, in turn a short domestic flight from Islamabad (journey time: one hour). Trekkers can leave excess luggage in Skardu at their guesthouse. Most visitors to Pakistan require a visa; more information is available on Pakistan's official visa portal .

Safety and security: Despite recent improvements, foreign governments still advise against travel to several areas of Pakistan. Seek up-to-date advice on the situation in the areas you plan to visit before traveling.

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This article was originally published November 2019. It was updated in January 2021.

This article was first published November 2019 and updated January 2021

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K2 Base Camp Trek – 12 Most Asked Questions (Expert Guide)

The K2 Base Camp Trek is an epic and challenging trek to the base camp of the second highest mountain in the world!

This remote and rugged trek is considered one of the greatest hikes in the world as it takes you through the dramatic terrain of the Karakoram range with unparalleled views and incredible natural formations. Below is a guide to all the most frequently asked questions about the K2 Base Camp Trek so that you can get all the information you need before embarking on your adventure!

Trekking To K2 Base Camp (12 FAQs)

When is the best time to hike the k2 base camp trek.

The best time to hike to K2 Base Camp is  between  July and August . Although, the trekking season runs from mid-June to mid-September, so it is possible to trek anytime during those months. It is not recommended to trek in early-June because the snow has not yet melted away. Thus, passes above 3,000 meters are closed until enough snow has melted away to enable hiking. Gondogoro La and many of the other passes will also close by the end of September due to the return of heavy snowfall as the seasons change.

See more on attempts at K2 Winter Ascents . 

Important Consideration

If you choose to hike towards the end of the trekking season, you also run the risk of having to cross Gondogoro La without any additional support as the Mountain Rescue Support Team are only available up until early September.

What is the weather like on the K2 Base Camp Trek? 

The weather you’ll experience on the trek depends on what time of year you choose to hike. July and August are the most popular trekking months. This is when the skies are more likely to be clear and the weather more stable. While the weather during the trekking season is generally quite good, hikers should always be prepared for anything as mountain conditions can be very unpredictable - especially in the higher reaches. You can expect strong winds, rain and snow as you hike. But hopefully you’ll experience mostly clear skies. Temperatures on the mountain range from below freezing at night to quite warm during the day. So it is advisable that you pack multiple layers of clothing that you can easily put on and remove as the temperatures change. The higher you trek, the colder it gets. Temperatures also get significantly colder as you reach the glacier so make sure you pack the right clothes to keep you warm. 

Photo by Zacharie Grossen

How long is the K2 Base Camp Trek?

Most itineraries for the K2 Base Camp Trek are between 21 and 25 days long. Though the number of days you will actually be trekking to the base camp is about 14 (weather permitting). The long itineraries generally include meeting with your hiking group and guide, sightseeing in Islamabad and Skardu, travel to the starting point at Askole , making the trek and travelling back to Islamabad. Many itineraries also include one or two extra days in case of bad weather that may cause delays or prevent trekking.

How difficult is the K2 Base Camp Trek?

The K2 Base Camp trek is long and strenuous. You should have a good level of fitness and be in good health if you are planning to take on the challenge. There isn’t a proper trail on the Baltoro Glacier , which you’ll be trekking on for a couple of days, so it is quite slow going and difficult at times due to loose scree. If your trip includes crossing the Gondogoro La, you will need to know how to use crampons and an ice axe . It is recommended that you have done some winter hiking in snow and at high altitude before taking on this trek. 

Can I trek to K2 Base Camp independently?

You cannot hike the K2 Base Camp Trek independently. All travelers must be accompanied by a licensed guide. 

Photo by Stefanos Nikologianis

How much does the K2 Base Camp Trek cost? 

The cost of the K2 Base Camp Trek varies depending on the tour operator you choose and the length of the trip you book for. 

Below is a breakdown of the trek costs according to budget, mid-level and luxury options. 

You can find budget tour operators offering the K2 Base Camp Trek for about $1500 - $2300. We don’t recommend booking through these tour operators unless you absolutely have to. The lower cost means less food and very basic amenities.

Mid-level tour operators will cost you between $2500 and $3500. You can expect a good trek with added comforts of chairs, tables, good tents, quality meals and a generator to keep everything charged. The tour operator should offer visa support and communicate all necessary information to you before your trek. You will also likely have a western guide accompanying the local Balti guides. Mid-level tour operators offer everything you need for the K2 Base Camp Trek and are worth spending the extra few hundred bucks on.

Luxury tour operators offer the most comfortable and well-planned treks to K2 Base Camp with several western guides, comfortable camping furniture, air mattresses and plenty of food. However, all these extra luxuries come at a cost as these treks could cost you anywhere between $3500 and $5000. These operators cater to the smaller, older crowd who can afford the extra costs.

What gear do I need for the K2 Base Camp Trek?

Gear that you need for the K2 Base Camp Trek can be split up into essentials, equipment, clothing and other accessories.

See more in our essential hiking gear list for multi-day treks . 

First and foremost, you will need a good quality duffel bag to keep all your clothing, boots, sleeping bag and climbing gear organized. This bag should have a capacity of about 80L but if you have a large sleeping bag, then consider getting a bigger expedition bag. We recommend The North Face Base Camp Duffel . 

During the trek, you will hike with your  daypack , so it should be big enough to fit all of your essentials in. We recommend getting a daypack with a capacity between 30L and 45L. This pack will be used to carry snacks, water, a rain jacket, extra clothing layers, sunblock, your camera and your passport. The Osprey Talon 33 is a great daypack choice. 

Hiking boots and Alpine boots

Your  hiking boots are one of the most important items on your trek so it is essential that you get a good quality pair and break them in before you embark on the K2 Base Camp Trek. For the higher sections of the trek, you will need a good pair of alpine boots . Especially if you’re crossing the Gondogoro La, as you will need to use crampons.

Sleeping Bag

It is vital to have a good quality  4-season sleeping bag so that you don’t freeze at night. A nice, warm sleeping bag will make your nights much easier as you’ll be able to sleep better in addition to being warm and comfortable. We recommend the Outdoor Vitals Summit 0 Degree Sleeping Bag .

Sleeping Pad

Tour operators should provide a  sleeping pad for you, but it will most likely be a very thin, foam mat. Unless you’ve booked a luxury trek, we recommend bringing your own if you have one so that your nights will be more comfortable. 

We highly recommend using  crampons on the K2 Base Camp Trek, especially if you are planning on tackling Gondogoro La. However, if you are trekking in August, you will not need them as the ice would have melted away. 

Microspikes

Microspikes, like the  Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System , are cheaper than crampons and are also a suitable option for trekking on ice.

If you are crossing Gondogoro La, we recommend wearing a helmet as there is a high risk of rockfall. Melting ice can cause rocks to become loose and if one happened to fall one you it could be fatal. So better to be safe than sorry.

Harness and locking carabiner

Another item you’ll need if you’re taking on Gondogoro La is a  harness so that you can clip yourself onto the fixed rope to prevent falls. The Black Diamond Momentum Harness is a top harness choice.

Trekking poles

Trekking poles can come in handy on the K2 Base Camp Trek as the mountainous terrain is very rugged and uneven. Trekking poles will help you keep your balance as you trek and take some pressure off your knees. We recommend the  Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork  trekking poles. 

• Down jacket
• Hard shell rain jacket
• Base layer top
• Trekking shirts
• Base layer bottoms
• Lightweight hiking pants
• Hard shell trousers
• Sun hat and beanie
• Buff or balaclava
• Trekking socks (avoid cotton!)
• Synthetic underwear

Accessories/Other essential items

• Water purification tablets or water filter bottle (like the GRAYL Geopress Water Purifier Bottle )
• First Aid Kit
• A book to read
• Satellite messenger device

Is the K2 Base Camp Trek dangerous?

As with any high-altitude  trek, there are some risks when hiking to the K2 Base Camp. The camp lies at about 5,400 meters so make sure you take enough time to acclimatize during your ascent to ensure you don’t suffer the effects of altitude sickness . When walking on the glacier and the icy terrain, take your time so that you don’t slip and sprain your ankle. There is also the danger of rockfalls when crossing Gondogoro La so wearing a helmet is highly recommended.

Which route should I take for the K2 Base Camp Trek?

There are a few different routes that tour operators offer for the K2 Base Camp Trek, although most follow the easiet route that starts and finishes at Askole (avoiding Gondogoro La). This route is the most popular because it doesn’t require technical skills and offers some variability as you can decide to take a detour to the Trango Towers Base Camp or stay overnight at the Broad Peak Base Camp. If you do want to tackle Gondogoro La, it is still recommended to start at Askole as it allows for better acclimatization. This route requires some technical skill when you cross the high mountain pass. The trail then descends the other side and follow the valley until you reach the village of Hushe.

Photo by Johncanivley

Is it safe to travel to Pakistan?

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have changed their recommendations regarding travelling to Pakistan for trekking purposes by removing their advice to avoid all but necessary travel for Skardu and Gilgit. However, they still advise against travelling on the Karakoram Highway. It is considered safe to travel within the trekking region. You can find out more about security in Pakistan from the FCO’s website .

Do I need travel insurance for the K2 Base Camp Trek?

You do need travel insurance if you are planning on hiking the K2 Base Camp Trek. Make sure you get a plan that covers any medical emergencies, repatriation and emergency helicopter rescue. You should have a minimum coverage of $200,000 and ensure that the policy covers mountaineering and high altitude trekking up to 5,600 meters. 

See more in our guide on the best hiking insurance . 

K2 Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek - which is the better trek? 

Wondering whether you should hike to K2 Base Camp or Everest Base Camp (EBC)? Here are some of the main differences between the two iconic treks to help you decide which one is right for you. The Everest Base Camp Trek sees tens of thousands of trekkers every year. Its popularity means that the routes are very well maintained and difficult to miss. Due to safety concerns regarding travelling in Pakistan, the K2 Base Camp Trek sees far fewer people and has only quite recently become more of a consideration for avid hikers. This also means that the K2 Base Camp Trek is much quieter and less crowded than the EBC trek. So if you want a more remote and isolated adventure, then K2 Base Camp is the trek for you. You get pristine views of the 8000ers around you from the K2 Base Camp Trek and witness the incredible convergence of glacier and rock at Concordia. The scenery along the EBC trek is also very different and varies from forests and rivers to icy rocks and alpine terrain. Meanwhile, the K2 Base Camp trek is quite dry and dusty before ascending into the rocky mountains icy glaciers. Despite being similar in elevation, the two treks are completely different and you should choose the one you think you’ll get the most out of. Maybe you’ll even have the opportunity to do both one day!

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See more information on Asia . Or check out these other Asian Hiking articles:

• Hiking in India
• Guide to Climbing Everest
• Best Hikes in Nepal
• Classic Annapurna Trek
• Best Hikes in Asia

About the author 

Adie Marais

Adie is a nature and wildlife lover living in Cape Town, South Africa. Growing up, she had many opportunities to explore the outdoors by hiking, going on safaris and venturing into the karoo with her family. This led to her love of animals, the environment and discovering new places to explore.

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Very helpful and informative. Thank you. People like you are priceless

I have a question which can only be answered by people who have been to the base camp, so after Askole, you walk along side a river to Concordia, and you hardly walk on ice. And the river valley is quite wide too. So if someone has a special off-road jeep why don’t they just drive along the river to base camp instead of walking?

Thank you for such detailed and informative content. This is really helpful for us. Thank You. Keep it Up.

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Home » Asia » Pakistan » K2 Base Camp Trek Guide

K2 Base Camp Trek Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Nestled deep in the Karakoram range of Northern Pakistan lies a mountain or should I say a series of  legendary  mountains steeped in mystery, cloud, and ice. Towering above them all is the 2nd biggest mountain on earth:  K2 .

For experienced adventurers looking to escape the crowds found in Nepal and around Everest, tackling the K2 Base Camp trek is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a kind of magic, beauty, and local culture not found anywhere else on our planet.

The K2 Base Camp trek is a MUST for anybody serious about taking on one of the least frequented long-distance hikes in the world. Why? Because, well, it is a whole hell of a lot of fun and the atmosphere is second to none.

Below, I answer the most important questions surrounding what it is actually like to trek to K2, what to pack for two weeks in the Karakoram, K2 Base Camp trek cost, on the ground logistics, how to choose the right tour company, required permits, traveling in Pakistan, and much more.

Time to lace up your alpine boots amigos. Let’s get to know what it takes to get to the base of the  Savage Mountain .

The Ultimate Guide to the K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 base camp trek cost, what to pack for the k2 base camp trek, top tips for the k2 base camp trek.

What the Hell is the K2 Base Camp Trek Exactly?

As the name suggests, this hike is a trek to the base of the K2 mountain (Balti name: Chogori) . That’s the obvious bit though. Unlike the trek to Everest Base Camp, arriving at the K2 base is not the end-all highlight of the trip. Far from it. In reality, the trek is MUCH more than that. Here is the general breakdown :

Pretty much without exception, all groups set off by jeep from the dusty Balti bazaar town of Skardu. Jeeps are needed to reach a far-flung outpost on the edge of civilization at Askole. After leaving the small farming village of Askole, the trail enters Central Karakoram National Park, where trekkers will spend the next few days making their way to the Baltoro Glacier.

From the Baltoro, the real fun begins. A majority of the trek is spent walking on the mighty Baltoro Glacier (about 65 KM) until it comes to the confluence with the Godwin-Austen Glacier. This majestic place is called Concordia, aka the “ Throne Room of the Gods “.

Concordia is home to one of the best campsites I have ever been to, with 360-degree views of almost every major peak in the area including Gasherbrum 4, Broad Peak, Marble Peak, Mitre Peak, and of course the impressive, swirling cloud-capped K2 in all her glory.

Return Route Options for the K2 Trek

From Concordia, one has two options to finish the trek.

Option 1 : Hike back how you came, down the Baltoro Glacier to Askole (which takes 4-6 days). Option 2 : The much more exciting and interesting option is to head up the valley to Ali Camp (4800 m), where you will prepare to cross the Gondogoro La (5600 m), hiking through the night to do so. Gondogoro La is a high-altitude mountain pass that proved to be the highlight of the trip for me. From the top (if the weather is clear) the views are second to none.

After descending the La (on a fixed rope, clipped in with a harness), the trek follows the green valley below for several days before arriving at the beautiful Balti village of Hushe. Groups make their way back to Skardu from here using 4×4 jeeps.

How to Plan the K2 Base Camp Trek

Before you get your boots on the ground in Pakistan, a significant amount of forethought and planning needs to be undertaken. Unlike trekking in Nepal or Patagonia, you cannot just show up and do the K2 trek on your own.

All foreigners must have a licensed guide with them. You will not be allowed to enter the Central Karakoram National Park (where K2 and the other 8,000 meter peaks in the area are located) without a guide.

The K2 Base Camp trek is an expedition-style trek , which means everything you will need for the two weeks you are away from civilization must be carried with you and your team of porters. Once you leave the end-of-the-line village of Askole on day one of the trek, there are no permanent human settlements (apart from a ragtag army base near Concordia).

In addition to needing a licensed guide, you will also need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This permit allows you to travel into the National Park, which lies in a restricted military area, as the park borders China to the north and India to the east. Then there is the Pakistani visa to apply for, which actually needs to happen before the NOC is issued. Ready to give up yet? Don’t stress!

All of this sounds complicated, but in reality, it is a fairly straightforward process. At least the process should be straightforward if you choose a solid tour operator to go with. Which brings us to my next point…

How to Choose a K2 Base Camp Trek Tour Operator

A quick Google search will reveal a plethora of Pakistan tour companies offering to fulfill your dreams of completing the K2 Base Camp trek. Like most things in life, not all tour companies are created equal.

The whole quality spectrum is on offer. Budget backpackers might be tempted to go for the cheapest possible option, which in the end, may work out for them just fine. Still, though, it does pay to consider your options and to look carefully at what each tour operator offers.

I found that there are three tiers of quality when it comes to this trek: budget operators, mid-level operators, and luxury operators. So what are the real differences? I went on a quest to find out…

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Budget Operators : Barebones outfits, who often come with quality English-speaking guides and staff, but lack the funding to have many of the comforts found in the other tiers of quality, including a decent food budget.

Many budget tour companies disguise themselves as mid-level operators, and, oh, they will try to charge you just as much as a mid-level company that will offer much better quality at the end of the day.

If you don’t want to starve whilst en route to Concordia and K2 do NOT choose a cheap tour operator unless your budget absolutely demands it. I totally get wanting to do the trip on the super cheap. If you don’t mind eating a little less and having fewer comforts, then a budget operator may be who you want to go with.

Since the K2 Base Camp Trek cost is never going to be dirt cheap, it is worth splashing out the few hundred bucks extra to go with a quality operator. I can promise you that.

Budget Price Range : $1500 – $2300

Mid-Level Operators : Mid-level operators are most likely to cater to the largest demographic of the trekking community. One can expect reasonable comforts such as chairs, tables, nice tents, a generator to charge electronics, a plentiful food budget, excellent pre-tour communication, visa support, and a western trekking guide to accompany the local Balti mountain guides.

Mid-Level Price Range : $2500- 3500

Luxury Operators : People who want to be as comfortable as possible whilst trekking across multiple glaciers for two weeks usually go the luxury route. Luxury operators are always foreign companies who understand very well how to run and execute a very comfortable and well-planned trek.

For a high price, you can expect several western guides and several Balti guides, a very well stocked mess tent (maybe even with espresso), excellent/plentiful meals, high-end camp chairs, table cloths, air mattresses, white linens (not really)…and maybe a golden toilet?

Luxury operators typically cater to an older crowd who can afford to be more comfortable and are prepared to pay for it. Ian Taylor trekking has the reputation of being a solid high-end operator.

Luxury Price Range : $3500 – $7000+

As always, when planning a major trip into the mountains, having the right gear is one of the bests ways to prepare yourself for a happy and successful trekking experience. Showing up unprepared is pretty much a one-way ticket to the ultimate suffer-fest .

Please, don’t be “that person” who shows up with a summer sleeping bag, no down jacket, and city trainers. You will suffer the consequences, and you will possibly put yourself and your group at risk by being underprepared. Below, I have assembled a list of everything I had with me on the K2 Base Camp trek, as well as a list of stuff that I wish I had brought!

Keep in mind that almost every tour company without fail provides each guest with a 12-kilo porter budget. This means that you should not have the carry the bulk of your stuff as you move between camps. This porter service allowance is also a game-changer regarding what you can bring. This what to pack section is massive, so settle in.

Essential Gear Kit for the K2 Trek

Expedition Duffle Bag : These bags are great for keeping the majority of your “camp” stuff organized. Expedition bags are typically very tough, weather-resistant, and are very easy for the porters to strap onto the mules.

You probably do not need more than an 8o liter bag, but if you have a bulky sleeping bag or other large items, getting a few extra liters is not a bad idea. This bag is where the majority of your stuff will be, sleeping bag, clothing, alpine boots, crampons, helmet, harness, excess snacks, etc. Be sure to not overpack your duffle (it’s easy to do) as you will have to pay more for porter services if the bag weighs more than 12 kilos.

Recommendation : Northface Expedition Duffle

Trekking Backpack : Since you will be packing the majority of stuff into your expedition duffle, you do not need to bring a massive backpack. This is the pack that you will hike with daily. I recommend going with a 35 – 45-liter backpack.

You will use this backpack to carry your daily essentials like water, rain gear, clothing layers, snacks, your camera, suncream, and passport. You must have experience using this backpack. Make sure it fits properly, and it is comfortable to wear for long periods.

Recommendation : Gregory Paragon 48

Check out our best hiking backpacks review .

Trekking Boots : Perhaps the single most important piece of kit you pack is your hiking boots. If you are going to splurge on something, splurge on quality hiking boots. For most of the K2 trek, you do not need a serious mountain boot. That said, you want a hiking boot that can take a beating from all of the rocks found on the Baltoro Glacier, stay dry when splashed with water, and crucially, do not give you any soon-to-be festering blisters.

As always, BREAK YOUR BOOTS IN BEFORE COMING TO PAKISTAN.

Without fail someone always turns up to tackle the K2 trek with a shiny new pair of hiking boots. After one day of trekking (also without fail), they have blisters the size of small grapes swelling up on their feet. Break in your boots and save yourself from a world of pain.

Recommendation : Lowa Renegade GTX

Check out my review of the best hiking boots .

Alpine Boots : Having a good pair of alpine boots with you will only be a benefit when the going gets tough (and the trail is covered in snow). In all likelihood, there are only a few places where you will really need them: Concordia to K2, Concordia to Ali Camp, Ali Camp – Gondogoro La.

It is also possible to hike in alpine boots (summer mountain boots) for the entire duration of the trek. A summer alpine boot is not an unreasonable choice.

That said, alpine boots will be hotter and heavier on your feet than standard trekking boots, especially down at the lower elevations. Also, if you have crampons, you will need a proper boot to receive them.

Recommendation : La Sportiva Trango Tower

Sleeping Bag : A sleeping bag is another piece of gear that you DO NOT want to skimp on. Temperatures can plummet well below freezing at any time of the year, especially around Concordia, Goro 2, and Ali Camp. If you bring a summer rated sleeping bag, you will be putting yourself in a potentially life-threatening situation. Plus, nobody wants to be cold for days on end. Invest in a good sleeping bag and guarantee yourself many nights of solid (and warm) sleep.

Recommendation : Marmot Lithium 0

Sleeping Pad : Most tour operators provide you with a sleeping pad. Unless you are going with a luxury tour operator, the pads they provide are these super-thin foam mats that do not offer much in the way of comfort. They do make for a good barrier to the cold ground (you are sleeping on a glacier for most of the trek), but in terms of comfort, I’ll just say that you feel the rocks beneath you.

If you already have a quality sleeping pad, better to bring it as it will most definitely be more comfortable than the ones provided to you.

Recommendation : Theram-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm

Gaiters : I almost always hike with gaiters now, as they help to keep stones, mud, and water out of my hiking boots. For a majority of the trek, you do not need gaiters. Up at the higher elevations though, I found them to be very handy and practical.

If you wear them at a lower altitude, you will find them to be too hot. For the snowy sections of trail around Concordia, Ali Camp, and Gondogoro La, having gaiters was a godsend.

Recommendation : Black Diamond GTX Front Point

Crampons : Crampons are not mandatory for the K2 trek. In my opinion, though, it is much better to have them than to not, especially if you are going to attempt Gondogoro La in August you will almost 100% not need them as there is no ice present.

For expeditions starting in June or early July though, not packing crampons would be a mistake.

Recommendation : Petzl Sarken Leverlock Universal

Microspikes: Also a very legitimate option for gaining purchase on the ice (plus they are cheaper than crampons). If you have never worn crampons in your life before, I recommend that you bring Microspikes instead of full-on crampons.

Recommendation: Kahtoola Micro Spikes

Helmet: When crossing the Gondogoro La, there is a high danger of rockfall. This is truer if you are crossing later in the day and the warm sun is melting ice high above on the mountain. You only need the helmet for the few hours you are descending the La, but it could certainly save your life if you are unlucky enough to be struck by a large stone.

I have heard of people getting killed by rockfall on the Gondogoro, so bringing a helmet is a no brainer.

Recommendation : Black Diamond Half Dome

Harness with Locking Carabiner : The final piece of kit needed for the Gondogoro La crossing is a climbing harness. Without it, you cannot securely clip into the fixed rope. You will also need a sling with a locking carabiner attached.

This will serve as your lifeline in case you slip and fall on the descent.

Recommendation : Petzl Corax

Trekking Poles : I am a firm believer in the importance of using trekking poles. Given the uneven terrain found on the glaciers, having a solid set of trekking poles is key to taking the weight off of your knees, maintaining balance, and preventing falls. If you are new to using trekking poles, now is the time to learn.

Recommendation : Black Diamond Alpine FLZ

Check out our full Black Diamond Alpine FLZ review .

Headlamp : A staple on any trek. Handy for evenings at camp and needed for ascending Gondogoro La in the dark.

Recommendation : Petzl Actik

Check out this article on the best headlamps for trekking.

Water Filter Bottle : Water sources found along the trail are sketchy and can be polluted by a variety of heavy minerals, animal manure, and even human waste (the sad truth). All hail the mighty Grayl Geopress. The Grayl Geopress is the ultimate badass water filter bottle.

It is actually a purifier, which means that it removes bacteria, heavy metals, viruses, and countless other invisible devils hell-bent on ruining your hike. Perhaps along with my favorite hiking boots, having my Grayl Geopress was probably the single most important piece of gear I brought with me. While others were spending their days dashing behind rocks to relieve their terribly upset bowels, I had clean drinking water every single day.

Recommendation : Grayl Geopress

Check out my full Grayl Geopress review .

Dry Bags : Be 100% sure that your most important items stay dry when they arrive at camp. I typically keep all of my clothing, sleeping bag, and important electronics and documents in dry bags. Plus, you can stuff a dry bag with your down jacket and other fluffy clothing to make a damn good improvised pillow.

Recommendation : Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag

Power Bank : Most tour operators will have a small generator with them for most of the trek. However, it is much more convenient to be able to charge your stuff inside your tent. Also, the guides only run the generator at night for a few hours (to provide lighting), so your time to charge stuff is quite limited.

When your power bank runs low, you can charge it or your other electronics on the generator. Ah, the luxuries of modern times.

Recommendation : Rav Power 26800

Camera : For capturing the raw awesomeness of the Karakoram of course. Recommendation: Fujifilm X-T3 .

First Aid Kit : Again, your guide should have a proper mountain first aid kit, but they will not have everything . Bandaids (plasters), wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lip balm, suncream, antibiotic cream, and electrolyte tabs are all crucial personal supplies to have in the mountains. Bring moleskin for blisters, antibiotics for stomach issues, and Diamox for altitude sickness (optional).

Recommendation : Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight

Essential Clothing for the K2 Base Camp Trek

Now that we have covered essential gear, let’s take a look at the clothing systems required for this trek.

Down Jacket : Like hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and a water filter bottle, having a good down jacket is 100% crucial for the K2 Base Camp trek. Down jackets provide excellent insulation for those chilly nights at camp and early morning starts on the trail. This insulation provides you with the ability to lock in your body heat, even when temperatures fall to freezing or below.

Recommendation : Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie

Check out my full review of the best down jackets .

Hard Shell/Rain Jacket : When the going gets wet, windy, snowy or all three, you need a way to lock in your warmth and keep yourself dry. A rain shell is the key to a successful layering system as they function as a sort of warmth seal in addition to acting as a barrier to the elements.

Cheap rain jackets just do not cut it in the Karakoram. They leak, get clammy inside, and will result in your down jacket and other layers below getting wet. You don’t want that. Stay dry amigos.

Recommendation : Arc’teryx  Beta AR .

Check out my full Arc’teryx  Beta AR review .

Fleece : The fleece layer is likely to be your most commonly used torso layer. When it is not quite cold enough to throw on the down jacket, the fleece acts as a comfy around the camp layer. You can also hike in the fleece without getting totally overheated.

Recommendation : Patagonia Better Sweater

Base Layer Top : I don’t think I took my base layer off for the entire two weeks I was hiking to K2 Base Camp. In addition to providing warmth, the base layer gives you much-needed protection from the searing Karakoram sun. Even if the weather is quite warm, I still recommend wearing your base layer top to help prevent sunburn (or sunstroke).

Recommendation : Merino Icebreaker 200 Oasis

Base Layer Bottoms : If you are a cold sleeper, base layer bottoms will be good for you. For particular frigid nights hanging out at camp, having the ability to chuck on another layer for your legs is nice. I found that I rarely hiked with base layer bottoms on, as they get too hot too quickly. The one exception might be the Gondogoro La crossing depending on weather conditions.

Recommendation: REI Lightweight Base Layer Bottoms

Sun Hat and Warm Hat/Beanie : Hats are a personal preference. A baseball-style trucker hat or safari broad bill that will work. Whichever style you prefer, DO bring a hat. The skin on your face will thank you. Also, bring a warm hat/beanie for the cold temperatures

Recommendation:  Patagonia Fitz Roy Trucker

Sunglasses: You don’t know the sun’s true force until you’re walking along a bright white glacier for days. This is why a SOLID pair of sunglasses is essential for the K2 base camp trek. And I don’t mean a cheap pick you found at the Skardu bazaar, but a high-quality, non-destructible pair. Always have a backup or two–especially if you’re eyes are at all sensitive to light.

Recommendation : Abaco Polarized

Buff : This tiny piece of fabric may not seem useful or necessary, but once you have integrated a Buff into your gear kit, there is no going back. They have so many practical applications from serving as a dust mask to keeping the sun off of your neck. Plus, you could use it as a mask to rob a bank. Just kidding, but seriously, you could.

Recommendation : Buff Lightweight Merino

Gloves : Very important for keeping your hands warm whilst trekking at altitude. Also, gloves are mandatory for gripping the rope as the group descends Gondogoro La. Make sure the gloves are not bulky and that you are able to have some decent dexterity. Waterproof gloves are best.

Recommendation : Sealskinz Multisport Insulated Gloves

Trekking Shirts (3-4) : Go with something synthetic. Avoid cotton. I recommend bringing two shirts, but you may well want more. Don’t spend a fortune on fancy trekking shirts.

Recommendation : REI On the Trail Run

Lightweight Trekking Pants (1-2) : Trekking pants are probably the item you need to worry about the least. You can find an acceptable pair of trekking pants for under $50. You don’t need anything fancy. I took two pairs with me. One lightweight pair for most trekking days, and a thicker, warmer pair for the higher altitudes.

Recommendation : REI Sahara Roll-Up

Warm/Multisport Trekking Pants – Lightweight trekking pants won’t keep your legs warm in freezing temperatures or wind the wind rips across the valley floor. You don’t need down pants, but choose something with a bit of insulation.

Recommendation : Arc’teryx Gamma AR softshell pants

Socks (6-7 pairs) : Trekking socks can be expensive, but they are worth the investment! Avoid cotton socks at all costs! A nice pair of trekking socks will mean the difference between making yourself susceptible to blisters or not. Plus, they dry quickly and don’t get nearly as rank as fast as cotton socks do. By the end of the trek, they will be rank though, be sure. 5-6 pairs are sufficient.

Recommendation : Darn Tough Hiker Boot

Underwear (4-6 pairs) : Your call. I like to wear cotton myself as they breath better than synthetic. The drawback is that they stay sweatier for longer. 4-5 pairs are all you need.

Recommendation : Smartwool Merino Sport 150

Non-Essential, but Awesome Items to Pack for the K2 Base Camp Trek

Satellite Messenger Device : Having two-way texting capabilities from anywhere in the world is badass. Stay in touch with your family, friends, partner, or whoever else you want from the comfort of your tent. You can also send tracking information, get altitude readings, and send your exact GPS location to your loved one.

Most devices also have SOS emergency response settings, in case of hard times. Keep in mind that your guide should have a satellite phone with them for emergencies.

Satellite messenger devices also require a monthly paid subscription. They are well worth it in my opinion as I used mine nearly every day en route to K2. Our Garmin-In-Reach Mini review will tell you more about it.

Recommendation : Garmin In-Reach Mini

A Good Book : This is almost an essential item! There is a lot of downtime on the K2 Base Camp Trek. Bring along your Kindle or a good book so that you can have something to do during rest days and evening time.

Recommendation : Buried in the Sky: Extraordinary Story of the Sherpa Climbers on K2’s Deadliest Day

Staying Safe on the K2 Base Camp Trek

Trekking in mountain environments is inherently dangerous. Certain factors like weather, rockfall, acts of God, etc. are beyond your control. The best thing to do though is to properly prepare for factors within your control.

Take your time when walking on sketchy stretches of the glacier. You do NOT want to roll your ankle out here. Purify your water! The water sources along the way are not guaranteed to be clean. Pack the right gear and keep yourself hydrated and warm. Be observant of your surroundings and do not take unnecessary risks.

Make sure that the company you go with has an emergency plan in place. Confirm the group has a satellite phone, radio, and other communication devices. Take solid travel insurance that will actually help you in a worst-case scenario situation. Which brings us to my next point…

You also need to bear in mind that the K2 base camp is well in the Altitude Sickness Zone. Altitude sickness is caused by thinner, less oxygenated air effecting blood circulation. It begins to kick in at around 2500 metres and symptoms include shortage of breath, dizziness, confusion, troubled sleep and in some cases death. To avoid AML, you must steadily acclimatise to altitude so plan your ascent itinerary accordingly. You can also take tablets that help your body adjust.

How to Choose Travel Insurance for the K2 Base Camp Trek

If you are going on a multi-week backpacking trip in the Karakoram of Pakistan, you are going to NEED travel insurance. I suggest that you go with a plan that will cover you for damage to your personal effects and offers compensation for emergency helicopter rescues (just in case). Read the fine print and confirm that you are covered for adventure sports like trekking at altitude.

Some companies won’t cover you if an accident occurs over a certain altitude. Since the maximum altitude gained on the K2 trek is around 5,600 m, you’ll need to be covered up to that elevation.

As a wise man once said, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you shouldn’t be traveling. Traveling without insurance is risky and you should consider getting insurance before you go. We use World Nomads who specialise in covering digital nomads and backpackers.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Apply for a Pakistani Visa and NOC

Pakistani Tourist Visa : Luckily, it has never been easier to apply for a Pakistani Tourist Visa thanks to the new Evisa program launched by the Pakistani Government early on in 2019.

Before, travelers had to submit their passport and documents directly to the Pakistani consulate in their home country. The wait times were long; the process complicated, and for certain nationalities, it was pretty expensive. With the Evisa program, from the time you submit your documents to the time you have a visa approval notice is about 5 – 10 days. Awesome!

Foreigners still have to obtain a Letter of Invitation to apply for a visa. Every licensed tour operator offering the K2 Base Camp trek can issue the LOI and other supporting documents you need to apply for your visa. Once you have had your visa approved, it’s time to apply for your NOC.

Update June 2021: The Pakistani Government has just introduced a new visa scheme for trekking and mountaineering in the Karakoram. Under the new scheme – all parties planning on going to K2 BC or entering central Karakoram National Park can now apply for the Trekking and Mountaineering Visa instead of the regular tourist visa. Your tour operator can help you with all of the information you need to apply. This will make things easier when it comes to getting all of the final permitting done just before the trek since the visa is specifically for trekking and mountaineering activities. 

If you’re JUST planning on coming to Pakistan to trek or summit a mountain, this is the best option. However, if you want to trek to K2 and also explore other parts of Pakistan independently, you can also get your permits arranged with a tour company while traveling on a tourist visa. This was specifically seen and confirmed in early July 2021.

The No Objection Certificate (NOC) : I’ll start by saying that for travelers, obtaining the NOC is NOT your responsibility to apply for. Your tour operator should sort this out for you. The NOC is a necessary permit that allows you to enter the restricted area within the Central Karakoram National Park. Without one, you cannot start the K2 Base Camp Trek.

Obtaining the NOC can take anywhere between 3 weeks and 2 months to complete, as there is only one office in Islamabad that processes these permits. Once you have your visa in hand, all you need to do is send a copy of your passport and visa approval notice to your tour operator and they will start the process of applying for the NOC. You should start this process as soon as your visa is approved.

When to Start the K2 Base Camp Trek

The season in the Karakoram is short and to maximize your chance for clear views and a successful Gondogoro La crossing, you’ll need to be strategic about when you start the trip.

July is typically the best month to do this trek. The weather is stable, skies are more likely to be clear, and there is less snow at the higher elevations.

Also, there is little to no ice on the Gondogoro La descent, which removes the need to use crampons. The earliest you would want to attempt the trek would be towards the end of June. Any earlier than that and you risk ending up with poor weather/snowfall, limited views, and lots of snowpack above 4500 meters.

August is also a fine month to start the trek, though August is typically when most groups are on the trail.

Keep in mind that the first days of the trek in July and August are hot, dusty, and exposed to the fierce Karakoram sun. Out here though the fierce sun is much more ideal than a thick blanket of cloud obscuring all of the best views and big peaks.

What is Accommodation Like on the K2 Base Camp Trek?

During the trek to K2 and back trekking groups stop off at a series of seasonal camps, set apart at intervals with reasonable elevation gains. All accommodation along the K2 Base Camp Trek is in tents, which the porters carry, set up, and break down daily.

Depending on the time of year, a group will have to share the campsite with two or three other groups. This means that including guests, guides, porters, cooks, and pack animals a campsite could host more than 150 people at any one time. This can come to a bit of a shock to those seeking a true wilderness experience, but it is the reality.

Camps take on a sort of festival atmosphere. People mingle about, sipping steaming cups of chai. Sometimes the porter teams join forces for a rowdy night of singing and dancing. If you don’t mind being around people in the middle of a remote mountain range, then you will love the camaraderie.

At the lower elevations, these fixed camps have individual toilet “cubicles”, and always have a source of running water (though this water is not always safe to drink). At the higher camps, the cooking teams forage for the clearest glacier water they can find, sometimes with mixed results.

Where Do Groups Start the K2 Base Camp Trek From?

Folks flying in from overseas should arrive into the Islamabad Airport. From there you will join your group and either fly to Skardu or make the journey overland by road. Budget Operators opt to drive as it is considerably cheaper—yet another reason to avoid budget operators.

By road, it takes a hellish 30 hours to reach Skardu as the road (from the KKH to Skardu) is appalling. The flight from Islamabad takes 45 minutes and offers up killer views of Nanga Parbat and other major peaks in the area.

Skardu is the largest city in Baltistan. There is not a whole lot to see and do in Skardu before you start the trip, but a visit to the Kharpocho Fort and Buddha rock are well worth it. Skardu is the place where your guides and cooks will organize themselves before the trek. It is from here that they buy the food, organize the porters and jeeps, finalize the NOC permits, and purchase any last-minute good needed for the trek.

A walk through the chaotic Skardu bazaar provides a welcome introduction to mountain life in Pakistan. There are a few gear shops in town too if you need to pick up something you forgot. The gear shops are located on the main road of the main bazaar, pretty close to the large, colorful Jamia Imamia Mosque . Don’t expect a western selection of gear though. These gear shops are about as big as my bedroom.

Still, though, you can find things like trekking clothes, helmets, crampons, climbing equipment, trekking poles, and the like.

From Skardu, groups take 4×4 jeeps to Askole to start the trek. Skardu to Askole by jeep takes between 7-9 hours with a lunch stop. Bring a dust mask/scarf/buff/bandana for the ride.

Below is a list of helpful tips to maximize your chance for an awesome few weeks in the mountains…

1. Go with a good tour operator : The most crucial decision you will make regarding the K2 trek revolves around which company you go with.

2. Arrive with a good state of fitness: The more fit you are, the more you will enjoy your time in the mountains. Period.

3. Bring a Grayl Geopress – These bottles are amazing. Nothing is worse than trying to trek with an upset belly obtained from drinking dirty water.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

4. Use suncream and sun protection : Spend money on quality sunscreen, a good hat, and a nice top base layer. The sun is super intense, shade is non-existent, and you’ll need every bit of protection you can get. Bring a few tubes of lip balm also!

5. Wash your hands often : Sanitary norms sharply degrade in the mountains. Do your best to wash your hands regularly and/or use hand sanitizer after using the toilet and before eating.

6. Break-in your boots : Do not turn up with brand new boots. I am repeating myself here because it bears repeating.

7. Buy a good sleeping bag : There are certain pieces of gear that you simply can not be a cheap ass about. A sleeping bag is one of those things. Go for a 0 degree F bag.

8. Get to know the porters and guides : Part of the experience of the K2 trek is getting exposure to Balti culture. Take the time to chat with your team of hard-working porters, cooks, and guides. They always have amazing insights into what life is like in Baltistan and on the Baltoro Glacier.

9. Bring snacks : The availability of quality snack food in Skardu is very limited. Bring your favorite assortment of snacks from home and chow down during trail breaks. Nuts, jerky, energy gels, Cliff bars, dark chocolate, superfood powder, bliss balls… these are all solid snack foods.

10. Be Patient : Things do not always go as planned in Pakistan and sometimes delays can occur. This is true whether you are on the trail, road, or in the city. Bring a positive attitude and your patience A-game, and try not to take yourself or the situation too seriously.

A Brief Climbing History of Climbing K2

Over the years, K2 has developed a reputation as one of the most difficult and dangerous 8,000-meter peaks to climb in the world. Of the five highest mountains in the world, K2 is the deadliest where approximately one person dies on the mountain for every four who reach the summit.

The  1954 Italian Karakoram expedition  finally succeeded in ascending to the summit of K2 via the Abruzzi Spur on 31 July 1954. The expedition was led by Ardito Desio, and the two climbers who reached the summit were Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni.

The team included a Pakistani member, Colonel Muhammad Ata-Ullah, who had been a part of the 1953 American expedition. Also on the expedition were Walter Bonatti and Pakistani Hunza porter Amir Mehdi, who both proved vital to the expedition’s success in that they carried oxygen tanks to 8,100 meters (26,600 ft) for Lacedelli and Compagnoni. The ascent is controversial because Lacedelli and Compagnoni established their camp at a higher elevation than originally agreed with Mehdi and Bonatti.

Being too dark to ascend or descend, Mehdi and Bonatti were forced to overnight without shelter above 8,000 meters leaving the oxygen tanks behind as requested when they descended. Bonatti and Mehdi survived, but Mehdi was hospitalized for months and had to have his toes amputated because of frostbite. Sketchy Italians…

As of 2019, no expedition has ever made a successful winter ascent, despite numerous attempts. Whoever eventually manages a winter ascent on K2 will become immortalized forever in mountaineering lore, that is for certain.

Final Thoughts on the K2 Base Camp Trek

By now, you should be beyond stoked to add this epic trek to your bucket list of adventures . Honestly, the K2 trek is one of the coolest adventures you can go on and the rewards are endless.

Towering mountain peaks, cerulean glacier pools, remote wilderness, Balti culture, alpine passes, comrades to adventure with, I mean, what else do you need?

Hopefully, this K2 Base Camp trek guide will help you prepare to have an awesome adventure of your own!

See you in the mountains amigos.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Chris Lininger

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21 Comments

Ensure your travel company has a few satellite phones as the group can get divided owing to emergencies or some people not able to continue so each sub group need an emergency satellite phone. An emergency military helicopter will not take off till around $7500 are paid into a military bank a/c. Your insurance company are likely to ask you to pay it and ask you to reclaim. It will be difficult to do this over a satellite phone and paying into a foreign bank if you have the funds available in the first place.

Mountain Sunglasses like Julbo brand with side shields cat 3 are a must to prevent sun burning eyes at high altitude.

We needed a helicopter rescue on this trip this is a military only fly zone and they asked for the money up front $7500. Our insurers asked us to pay up front, please ensure either you or your insurance know how to pay for the helicopter directly into the military bank account. Bad weather can hinder helicopter take off.

This is indeed the case!

Chris, I really enjoyed reading this post..very helpful information.. My friend and I plan to take this trek next year so I am in the early phase of exploring for information..

Do you happen to know how is it with drones on this trek? Have people used them? Thank you!

I have no personal experience of this but can say that in a deeply militarised environment like Pakistan drones can cause a lot of problems – especially up in the mountains to borders like K2 is.

Hi; we are planning to go there this year and this article is providing lots of good information and links for us, Thanks.

I am now scared to go on this track as it sounds more difficult than I thought . Thanks for the details and all the essentials needed for a great adventure like this .

Hi Emir, This is indeed a long trek, but achievable if you are well prepped with a guide, porters and a realistic idea of the environment and country. Also make sure you are physically up to the challenge by starting training well in advance.

You may wish to cover sunglasses (catogary 3)

Sunglasses are indeed a must pack for any trip to the mountains.

Good article, but potential risk of altitude sickness should be adressed.

You are absolutely right. I have updated the post now.

Hi Chris, Thinking of going over to the K2 trek but Pakistan is a very hot spot for Covid right now( April ) I would like to know your thoughts on this. I have been vaccinated but I understand that there are variants over in Pakistan. Stuart

Both Chris and Will are currently in Pakistan as we speak.

It seems that from now on, there will always be variants of COVID so personally, I would not let that fear stop you from living your life.

Also bear in mind that Pakistan has never been considered a “safe” destination anyway!

Oh and I appreciate the disclaimers too. Thanks for being transparent and letting the readers know where there’s a partnership involved. Partnership or not, this post def helps carve out your niche. I was wondering how a $1500 trek is different than the ones Epic Backpacker tours offers and this post helped explain that

Thanks for the detailed post, Chris. This is the one of a kind, elaborate post that was missing. You can find hundreds of articles about stuff like the Annapurna circuit but only a handful of resources on K2. This gave me a good idea of the logistics of the K2 trek. Appreciate the effort you put into this. Thinking of doing a basecamp trek this summer.

Hello Haider, Glad you enjoyed the article. Indeed a few years ago I noticed that there was not a huge amount of info online about this trek so I thought I would put my knowledge into one article.

If you decide you want to do the trek this year with Epic Backpacker Tours, do get in touch! We only have a few free places left on the trip too fyi. All the best.

Woah! What a read. I didn’t initially intend to read the whole thing and had no idea how long and detailed it’s going to be. But man I’m impressed at the information you provided. Thanks. I think this is virtually all I’ll need to read if I start planning to trek to K2 base camp.

Excellent and necessary information Thanx

Really good information for trekkers who want to plan to do this excellent trek.

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K2 Base Camp Trek Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

Categories HIKING , PAKISTAN

For those willing to pursue adventure, one of the world’s greatest adventures lies deep in the Karakoram Mountain Range of Northern Pakistan. This region is like no other in the world and is home to five peaks that reach above 8000m, including the aptly named ‘Savage Mountain’, otherwise known as K2 (Karakoram 2). For seasoned adventurers, the K2 Basecamp Trek is a challenging and unimaginably scenic, multi-week expedition along the Baltoro Glacier beneath monolithic mountains.

The trekking expedition with Epic Expeditions is a two-week route traveling to K2 Basecamp along the Baltoro Glacier en route to reaching the foot of K2, which is the world’s second-highest mountain after Mount Everest. The height of K2 Base Camp is just over 5000m but this won’t be the highest point of the route. The trail is a loop route (in good weather) that takes you over Gondogoro Pass, which has a high point of 5,585m.

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Table of Contents

BOOKING A TOUR FOR K2 BASECAMP TREK

The K2 Basecamp Trek does require a guide. I did the trek with Epic Expeditions, which is one of the top trekking companies when it comes to the K2 Basecamp Trek. The owner, Chris, has explored all over Pakistan and is joined by an experienced Pakistani team of cooks, porters, and guides.

The trek costs approximately $4200 USD with Epic Expeditions as of 2023 and includes all transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks, and permits. The itinerary is 21 days even though the trek is just 14 days, which is to allow for domestic travel on either side of the trek and any potential delays with domestic flights or road conditions/landslides. I honestly had a great time and can wholeheartedly recommend Epic Expeditions .

You can use my discount code ‘ JACKSON5 ‘ for 5% off the total price of your trek with Epic Expeditions , which is a pretty handy saving of almost $250!

TREKKING TO K2 BASECAMP GUIDE

In this blog post, I will cover everything you need to know about the logistics of the K2 Basecamp Trek and also share with you my experience on each day of the trek in the form of a short journal entry and my photos from that day. This will give you an idea of what to expect and a great insight into the scenery you will find on each day of the trek. Before sharing my experience on the trek in the second section of this blog post, I will detail all of the information you need to know in this complete guide about the K2 Basecamp Trek.

K2 BASECAMP TREK DETAILS

While trekking through the Karakoram Mountain Range towards K2 Basecamp, you can expect harsh camping weather conditions such as snowstorms or days on end of the exposed sun. The rocky, glacial terrain makes this a tough trek but also provides some of the most incredible trekking views in the world. Unlike the popular Everest Base Camp trek , which is visited by more than 100,000 trekkers annually, the K2 Basecamp Trek sees just over 1000 visitors a year making it a brilliant alternative for adventure-seekers.

• Distance : 160 km through-hike
• Days required : 12-14 days
• Total Incline : ( with undulation) – 10,000 m
• The highest point on the trek : 5,585m, which was at the Gondogoro Pass
• Difficulty : This trek was much harder than Everest Base Camp Trek as it was 30% longer, much steeper, and less commercialized. One of the major differences are that you will be camping every night rather than in tea houses. Also, the terrain is along a rocky glacier making it much more difficult to cover distances rather than a path that leads you to Everest Base Camp. Having said that, there was nothing technical involved to reach basecamp although a small section of fixed rope action on the Gondogoro Pass was the most diffucilt part of the trek. Our longest day was 25km with 1200m of incline. If you can handle the altitudes of above 5,000m and can walk each day for 6-10 hours, you will be fine on this trek. The acclimatization profile was very good as you have seven days to reach base camp, so it eases you into it.
• Permits : Your tour operator will take care of these. It isn’t possible to hike independently and you must book with a guide and a registered tour operator.
• Guide: A guide is required on this trek and the guide manages all of the logistics, distances, directions, and camping sites. The directions weren’t always very clear like on the Everest Base Camp trek and having the guide manage all of the logistics was great.
• Accommodation : Each night you will camp at an incredibly scenic campsite with views of 7000m and 8000m peaks visible. Trust me you will be entranced just while looking out of your tent window.

KEY POINTS ABOUT THE K2 BASECAMP TREK

• This trek is way less crowded than Everest Base Camp trek and most well-known routes in the Himalayas. On average, 1000 trekkers visit K2 Basecamp per year compared to 100,000 trekkers to Everest Base Camp. This gives you an idea of the off-beat nature of this route.
• The K2 Basecamp Trek is off-the-beaten-path and remote so you will have no access to electricity or cell signal for more than two weeks. However, your team may bring a generator or solar chargers to keep your batteries, headlamps, phones and cameras charged.
• The trailhead is reached by jeep after flying into Skardu from Islamabad.
• The first couple of days of the trek are quite dusty and hot while running alongside the river. By day three, you are well and truly on the Baltoro Glacier and will experience the rocky terrain for the remainder of the trek.
• You will visit K2 Basecamp but also pass by Broad Peak basecamp and a few other basecamps of 7000m peaks along the way.

INSURANCE FOR THE K2 BASECAMP TREK

Pakistan is a precarious place for climbing or hiking because the availability of helicopter rescue is almost non-existent. Compared to places like Nepal, helicopter rescue requires prior organization and deposits of $5000+ by your trekking or climbing company. There is a solution though .

Need extra protection?

Regular travel insurance is great but won’t cover you for high altitude hikes or for helicopter evacuation. Each year, I purchase a Global Rescue Subscription .

For less than $500 per year or $100 per expedition, you can purchase a Global Rescue subscription and be covered no matter how extreme the hike or how high the climb is.

TREKKING TO K2 BASECAMP: WIFI/ELECTRICITY AVAILABILITY

Wifi: There is no WiFi on this trek although some operators may provide a satellite connection. Most will not offer WiFi. There is some 4G connection available until Concordia Camp if you are using SCOM. The sim card and data costs about $10-20 and worked intermittently but just for messaging and some Google search. I went without internet for the entire trip and it was nice not to be looking for bars of service but if it is important to you, know that it can be possible in a few spots. Electricity:  Our team had a generator, which was carried by a mule. Each night, one jug of gasoline would be used for the generator so we could charge cameras, phones, headlamps, power banks, and even drone batteries for a few hours each night. This seems to be standard practice among tour operators but you will need to check if it is available. I also took a small solar panel, which worked well to charge my phone and power bank each day.

K2 BASECAMP TREK ITINERARY

• Day 1: Islamabad Arrival
• Day 2: Fly to Skardu
• Day 3: Market Day in Skardu
• Day 4: Drive from Skardu to Askole
• Day 5: Askole to Jhula Camp (3150m)
• Day 6: Jhula to Paju (3,383m)
• Day 7: Paju – Khoburtse (3,566m)
• Day 8: Khoburtse – Urdukas (4,130m)
• Day 9: Urdukas – Goro 2 (4,250m)
• Day 10: Goro 2 – Concordia (4,600m)
• Day 11: Concordia – K2 Base Camp (5000m) – Concordia
• Day 12: Rest Day at Concordia
• Day 13: Concordia – Ali Camp (5000m)
• Day 14: Ali Camp – Gondogoro La Pass (5,600m) – Kuisbang (4,700m)
• Day 15: Kuisbang – Saicho (3435m)
• Day 16: Saicho – Hushe – Drive to Skardu
• Day 17: Rest Day in Skardu
• Day 18: Rest Day in Skardu
• Day 19: Fly to Islamabad
• Day 20: Contingency Day in Islamabad
• Day 21: Client Departure Day

MY K2 BASECAMP TREK VIDEO

I filmed a short video showing some of the highlights of the trek so you can get an idea about the terrain and camping conditions.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jackson Groves (@jackson.groves)

MY EXPERIENCE ON THE K2 BASECAMP TREK

Our journey began by flying from Islamabad on a domestic flight to Skardu. A quick glimpse at Nanga Parbat out the plane window had us craving the mountains. We took a Jeep from the airport to Skardu town and checked into our hotel. We would stay here for the next couple of nights waiting for our comrades to catch up who had missed their international flights. This gave us time to explore Skardu. Walking the streets and meeting the friendly locals had us entertained for a couple of days before we made the long, bumpy drive to the start of the trek. There has recently been a road built past Jhula camp so we didn’t need to hike the first dusty day from Askole and could instead begin from Jhula Camp.

Day 1: Jhula to Paju (3,383m)

Trail report: Early start with 7-9 hours of trekking. Mostly flat with small gains and descents. The day is hot, exposed to much sun, and dusty. Sunscreen and lots of water will be your greatest friend today!

• Incredibly hot and dusty with little shade to hide from the sun throughout the 21km
• Followed the river all day with constant undulation on rocky and sandy trails.
• The views became better around every corner with 7000m and 8000m peaks coming into view, which was unexpected this early into the trek.
• Paju camp, our resting place for the night, had amazing views of the mountain range but also long-awaited shade from the trees.

Day 2: Paju – Khoburtse (3,566m)

Trail report: 6-8 hours of hiking. After about an hour of walking, the trail enters the Baltoro Glacier. The trail follows the mighty Baltoro until we reach Concordia in several days’ time. The terrain is hilly, rocky, and uneven, with a few scattered bits of a proper trail. Khoburtse camp can feel a bit cramped, but there is a beautiful waterfall nearby as well as great opportunities for sunrise viewpoints.

• A tough 8km climb with 800m of incline through the rocky glacier for the morning session
• First experience on the glacier and interesting to come across turquoise pools and ice caves
• A vast, lifeless area of undulating rocky terrain was the scene for most of the day.
• We are surrounded by peaks in all directions and it’s hard to believe the views we have on day two of this long trek into the thick of the Karokoram Range.

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Day 3: Khoburtse – Urdukas (4,130m)

Trail report: Easy day, finishing after about 5 kilometers (2-4 hours). The trail gains in altitude, be mindful not to push yourself too hard or sleep too high too fast. Urdukas is a truly spectacular campsite, and one of the favorites along the whole trek. Excellent views of Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, and Lobsang can be seen directly from the camp.

• Traversed a glacier for the first time in the trek while following the porters, which was incredible.
• A short 6km hike had us at camp by mid-morning and a full day to relax.
• The shower with a view of Trango and Cathedral was probably the best shower view of my life and very refreshing in the midday sun.
• Sitting around camp without a shirt in the sun while at 4,100m was Heaven.
• Sunset atop the rocks above camp was beautiful with the sun dipping below Lobsang Spire to finish the day.

Day 4: Urdukas – Goro 2 (4,250m)

Trail report: 5 – 8 hours of moderate difficulty up and down glacier terrain. Today you will be starting to feel the altitude. Lunch stop at Goro 1. Temperatures can drop below zero at night at Goro 2. Spectacular views along the trail of Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IV, and the summit of Broad Peak can be seen from just outside your tent.

• Surrounded by 8000m peaks as we weaved through the rock-laden glacier.
• Views of Broad Peak, Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IIII highlighted the trek.
• Showered on ice with water so cold it was only a few degrees from ice itself.
• Sunset with Alpenglow on the 8000m peaks around us was incredibly special.
• Fell into a glacier river and soaked myself up to my neck. Luckily camera gear survived.

What are my favorite pieces of trekking gear?

There are six pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go trekking. These are five items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my trekking essentials.

• Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket : This is my go-to rain jacket. It’s super light, folds down into a tiny ball, and protects brilliantly in a storm. This one never leaves my backpack.
• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots : For the best ankle support, waterproofing, and durable exterior I’m a fan of tough but light hiking boots like these Salomons for my adventures.
• Black Diamond Head Torch : I can’t tell you how many times, I’ve arrived back from a hike unexpectedly late. I always keep this lightweight but strong headtorch in my bag for the unexpected.
• Darn Tough Socks : These are the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn and last for years. They also have a lifetime warranty and you just send them in with a hole and they replace it no questions asked.
• Osprey Atmos AG 65L Backpack : I’ve never had a more comfortable 65L pack than this one. I got it in the Navy Blue and have trekked with it through many a mountain.
• Bl ack Diamond Trekking Poles : They might feel weird at first, but on a long trek with incline and decline you’ll begin to love these.
• Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle : I’ve used this for three years. It filters your water with one press and you can drink directly from it. Never buy a plastic water bottle again!

Day 5: Goro 2 – Concordia (4,600m)

Trail report: Today we reach the “Throne Room of the Gods”, aka Concordia. 5-7 hours of pleasant trekking over the glacier, with more ice present than previous days. Amazing views of Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Broad Peak, Marble Peak, and of course, K2 can be seen from camp! Temperatures at Concordia drop well below freezing at night and snow/snowfall is possible here any time of the year. After a great dinner and solid rest, tomorrow we head to K2 Base Camp!

• Began the morning walking through the field of giants with massive glaciers surrounding my path.
• A rocky, undulating journey to Concordia in a piercing sun with no shade all day made this day pretty tough.
• Massive peaks surrounded us and seemed to be getting closer.
• Concordia is an intersection of glaciers with views of K2, Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum IIII and many more. An incredible sunset lit up the clouds behind all of the peaks for a once in a lifetime view.
• With binoculars we could spot 14 tents at camp four on K2, which put the worlds second highest mountain into perspective.

Day 6: Concordia – K2 Base Camp (5000m)

Early start to K2 Basecamp. The total trekking distance to Concordia is roughly 14 km. We will visit the Art Gilkey Memorial and then head to K2 Base Camp for tea and to chit-chat with expedition teams hoping for a successful summit bid. The terrain is relatively easy. Most of the route follows the Austen-Godwin glacier directly to the base of mighty K2.

• A 13km hike down the gauntlet with relentless sun beating down on us. Reaching 5000m at K2 Basecamp was a great achievement at the midway point of the trek. The rocky path didn’t allow a moments rest for the feet or mind with absolute focus required.
• Seeing the porters carry 35kg each without the mules and then start cooking and setting up camp as soon as we arrived was beyond humbling. These guys are on another level and tough as nails.
• The basecamp of K2 has an incredible vibe due to the precarious and deadly nature of the climb. It’s a quiet atmosphere where little needs to be said about the task at hand for the climbers on the mountain.
• Soup and a great meal sat inside the mess tent capped off a great day and marked the middle of our journey.

Day 7: Rest day at K2 Base Camp

• A rest day at K2 base camp. All of the climbers came down due to bad weather so was awesome to see them coming back into camp.
• Spent the morning singing songs and dancing with the porters from all of the different camps who seem to be drawn to our campsite.
• Visited the memorial, where many climbers from around the world are honored upon the rocky perch above base camp. It’s a powerful and moving memorial for climbers who haven’t made it out alive from the ‘Savage Mountain’.
• Cards and Balti lessons in the porter tents made the time pass by and the body enjoyed the rest day immensely.

Day 8: K2 Basecamp to Concordia

• Woke up to snow covering my tent and the entire K2 basecamp, which looked like a winter wonderland despite being the middle of summer.
• Harsh trek back to Concordia in snow, rain and hail amidst white-out conditions.
• Dried out our clothes all day in the main tent heated by a gas oven cooker.

Day 9: Rest day at Concordia

Due to heavy snowfall, we decided to head back down the Baltoro Glacier rather than the challenging Gondogoro Pass due to avalanche risk. This was disappointing but it’s the nature of trekking in what can be some very dangerous mountains.

• Rest day at Concordia watching clouds, rain, sun, snow, hail and wind come and go
• Decided not to trek the pass due to avalanche risk and will trek back to Jhula camp over the next three days.

GONDOGORO PASS

As I mentioned, our group wasn’t able to adventure to the Gondogoro Pass due to the heavy snow, which caused an avalanche risk. However, I will detail what to expect on the pass as it is quite an amazing part of the trek and is usually possible. I’ve included some photos taken by our guide Chris Lininger from his previous trip so you have an idea of what to expect.

Gondogoro Pass Day: Ali Camp – Gondogoro La Pass (5,600m) – Kuisbang (4,700m)

Trail notes 10-12 hours of trekking. The group will set off in the dark by headlamp around midnight. From Ali Camp, it is 4-5 hours of steady climbing to gain the top of the Gondogoro La pass. 

Once atop the La, the group can enjoy stunning sunrise views of every major peak in the area. The descent from Gondogoro La into the valley below is done with the assistance of a series of fixed ropes. Extreme care needs to be taken on the descent (helmets will be worn) and all guests will be clipped into the rope from their climbing harness. Microspikes should be carried for the descent, but are rarely needed as the slope is a mix of rock and deep snow (not so much ice). 

Trekking from the top of the pass to Kuisbang Camp takes about five hours. If the weather is clear, the group will be treated to incredible views from our camp of Laila Peak, located just down the valley before taking a well-earned rest at Kuisbang Camp.

K2 BASECAMP PACKING LIST

I pack pretty light and managed to wash most of my clothes each afternoon/night for the first half of the trip. In the latter stages of the trip, it was pretty cold so we weren’t sweating as much and we wore our warm gear basically nonstop. During the day it was incredibly hot and then very cold at night so you need a good spread of warm weather gear and cold weather gear. Our porter allowance was 12kg and the rest we needed to carry during the day such as personal items, cameras, and rainjackets.

• 1 pair of pants that maybe convert to shorts
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 Warm or thicker pair of hiking pants
• 1 Long sleeve quick-dry shirt
• 1 Long-sleeve thermal shirt
• 2 Short-sleeve t-shirts
• 1 Thermal long underwear
• 4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
• 1 Lightweight down jacket
• 1 Heavy-duty summit down jacket
• 1 Neck Buff
• Hiking boots
• Microspikes
• 1 pair of warm summit socks
• 3 pairs of regular socks
• Trekking poles
• Water filter

My camera gear included a DJI Mavic Pro 2 drone, 100-400mm, Mirrorless body, 16-35mm lens, 24-105mm lens, GoPro Max, Sony RX100, and a tripod. I used a 40L camera bag and my porter had my 12kg duffel. For a full list of the gear, I use you can check out my article about the ‘ What’s in my Camera Backpack ‘ article.

I hope this was a helpful article for you while planning our K2 Basecamp Trek. It’s truly an unbelievable hike and I hope you have an amazing time exploring the Karakoram Range.

Thursday 21st of December 2023

Excellent Blog! No problem with drone at airport / Pakistan?

Friday 8th of September 2023

Amazing write-up. Thank you so much Jackson. Going there in Summer 2024.

Wednesday 6th of September 2023

Great Review of Gondogoro La. I have written about it too https://how2havefun.com/travel/trip-k-2-base-camp

I can't find a single picture of the climb to Gondogoro La. I guess everyone is so exhausted and it is too early in the morning to get a clear shot

Thursday 6th of July 2023

Thank you so much for your article. Im setting out there in 2 days and was feeling quite uneasy watching films on YouTube etc. Your report made me enjoy the adventure again, so balanced and really encouraging. I believe I can do it now!

Iqbal Askole

Friday 9th of June 2023

thanks for your write very useful.

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K2 Base Camp Trek – A Complete Guide

The K2 Base Camp Trek takes you to the base of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, and is a demanding and rewarding trekking journey. The trek, which is in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, passes through arid terrain and stunning scenery, including the Baltoro Glacier. The trek demands a high level of physical preparedness and mental fortitude, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, along with the chance to engage with the local way of life, make it an unforgettable experience for those who take it on.

On the way to the base of K2!

Table of Contents

1. Tentative Itinerary for K2 Base Camp Trek

2. approved companies for k2 base camp trek, 3. best time for k2 base camp trek, 4. k2 base camp height, 5. k2 base camp trek difficulty, 6. safety on k2 base camp trek, 7. k2 base camp trek without guide, 8. summary of k2 base camp trek, 9. photo album k2 base camp trek.

Trekkers at Ali Camp during K2 base camp trek

Below are the companies approved by the government of Pakistan for K2 base camp trek. 

Gilkey Memorial near K2 Base Camp

When is the best time for trekking to K2 Base Camp?

The summer months, from June to September, are the ideal time to complete the K2 Base Camp Trek. The weather is often dry and stable throughout this period, with clear sky and decent visibility. At lower elevations, daily temperatures often range between 59 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 20°C).

The Karakoram Range’s winters, in contrast, can be brutally cold, with significant snowfall, strong winds, and temperatures that can plunge well below freezing. The trail may be hazardous due to snow and ice, and visibility of the nearby peaks and glaciers may be compromised by the inclement weather.

Although the K2 Base Camp Trek is often thought to be best done in the summer, it’s vital to keep in mind that weather in the mountains can be erratic. You can encounter abrupt changes in the weather, such as severe rain, snow, or strong winds, even in the summer. To keep safe and comfortable, it’s imperative to be equipped with the right clothing and gear for all types of weather.

The ideal time to complete the K2 Base Camp Trek ultimately relies on your specific priorities and tastes. While some visitors might choose to avoid the crowds by travelling in the off-peak months, others might be prepared to put up with more extreme weather conditions in exchange for a new perspective on the mountains.

No matter when you decide to travel, it’s critical to thoroughly plan and get ready to ensure a safe and pleasurable vacation.

Walking the Vigne Glacier

K2 Base Camp is located at a height of about 5,150 metres (16,900 feet) above sea level. In Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, the base camp is situated at the base of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. A difficult and rewarding journey, trekking to K2 Base Camp passes through some of the most stunning and untamed terrain in the Karakoram Range. Trekkers can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers as well as the mountain’s breathtaking beauty up close at the base camp. Being at K2 Base Camp requires careful acclimatisation in order to prevent altitude sickness due to the high altitude.

Trekkers at the Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m)

Is K2 Base Camp Trek a difficult adventure?

Certainly, The K2 Base Camp Trek is regarded as a demanding and arduous journey. The trail is difficult and rocky, with rocky ground and a high altitude. It takes good physical stamina, endurance, and mental fortitude to trek to K2 Base Camp.

The walk begins in Islamabad, Pakistan, and lasts for roughly 14–16 days. Trekkers must negotiate treacherous terrain during this period, including the Baltoro Glacier, one of the biggest glaciers in the world. With abrupt weather changes, the possibility of landslides, and the danger of rockfall, the trail can be unpredictable.

Altitude sickness can result from the huge elevation difference experienced while walking to K2 Base Camp. It’s crucial to properly acclimatise and take preventative measures to avoid altitude sickness, such as drinking lots of water, taking many rests, and adhering to a suitable plan that allows for steady climb.

The climb to K2 Base Camp is immensely rewarding despite its difficulties. For many trekkers, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience because of the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys as well as the chance to learn about the local culture and hospitality of the Balti people.

Anyone with a healthy level of physical fitness and a sense of adventure may go on this trek and enjoy the magnificence of K2 and the Karakoram Range with the right planning and direction.

The trail towards Hushe Valley

Is K2 Base Camp Trek Safe?

When necessary precautions are taken, the K2 Base Camp Trek can be safe, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and difficulties associated with trekking at high altitudes in an isolated mountain area.

Altitude sickness, which can develop when going to high altitudes too quickly without providing the time for acclimatisation, is one of the main concerns connected to the K2 Base Camp Trek. It is crucial to adhere to a correct schedule that allows for a slow ascent and incorporates rest days to aid in your body’s adaptation to the higher altitude. To reduce the danger of altitude sickness, it’s also critical to consume a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and abstain from alcohol and smoke.

With its steep inclines, rocky terrain, and risk for landslides and rockfall, the trail can also be difficult. Trekkers should always heed the advice of their knowledgeable local guides and be physically and mentally prepared for the challenges of the journey.

Research the current situation and heed the counsel of your travel agency or local guides because the area where the K2 Base Camp Trek is located has a history of political upheaval and security difficulties. Trekking with a reputable and knowledgeable tour operator and making sure that the necessary safety precautions are taken can help to reduce the risks involved with the trek.

Ultimately, the K2 Base Camp Trek can be a safe and pleasant journey for those who take the required measures and follow the advice of knowledgeable local guides, even if it involves careful planning and preparation and there are some potential risks to consider.

Trekkers wait for their friends in the Gondogoro Valley

The K2 Base Camp Trek should not be attempted without a guide. The terrain is difficult, and trekking in a remote alpine area without a guide can be risky and even fatal.

Professional local guides are well-versed in the terrain, climate, and potential dangers of the hike. They can also offer helpful guidance on acclimatisation, avoiding altitude sickness, and administering first aid in an emergency. They can also provide insights into the history and culture of the area, adding to the trek’s educational value.

Without a guide, navigating the trail can be challenging and even dangerous, especially for individuals who are inexperienced with high-altitude trekking. With abrupt weather changes, the possibility of landslides, and the danger of rockfall, the trail can be unpredictable. Trekkers’ safety can be helped by knowledgeable local guides by taking the required precautions and offering the right safety measures.

Moreover, going with a reputable and knowledgeable tour operator that offers a local guide may help ensure that all required licences are secured as well as that all logistical preparations, such as lodging and transportation, are made.

In conclusion, it is not advised to attempt the K2 Base Camp Trek alone because to the potential risks and difficulties associated with high-altitude walking in an isolated mountain area. To have a secure and enjoyable trekking experience, it is imperative to trek with an expert local guide or with a reputable tour operator that provides a guide.

Trekkers descending the Gondogoro La Pass with the help of guides and rope fixing team.

The second-highest mountain in the world, K2, is a once-in-a-lifetime trek to its base camp. The K2 Base Camp Trek leads hikers through the stunning and untamed terrain of the Karakoram Range to the base of the impressive mountain. It is a difficult trek that needs a lot of preparation—both physically and mentally—but it is also incredibly rewarding. This essay will go into great detail about the K2 Base Camp Trek and examine what makes it such an amazing experience.

The 13–15 day K2 Base Camp Trek departs from Skardu, Pakistan. The trek passes through the lovely Skardu Valley, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the mountains in the area. You will then proceed to the tiny village of Askole, where the actual hiking will start. One of the world’s largest glaciers, the Baltoro Glacier, is traversed during the trek, which follows the Braldu River. The trail is difficult, so hikers must be in good physical shape to complete it. But it’s all worth it when you see the breathtaking peaks and glaciers in the area.

The K2 Base Camp Trek offers the chance to discover local culture and connect with the locals in addition to trekking. The Balti people, who have a distinctive culture and way of life, are one of the many ethnic groups who call this region home. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to stop in tiny villages and observe local life. You will be cordially welcomed into the houses of the Balti people because they are renowned for their warmth. You will have the opportunity to sample local food and discover their traditions and customs.

Reaching Concordia, a high-altitude plateau that affords breathtaking vistas of some of the highest peaks in the world, is one of the highlights of the K2 Base Camp Trek. Four of the fourteen eight-thousander mountains in the world converge in Concordia: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. You will never forget the amazing experience of viewing the city from Concordia. The trail from Concordia leads to K2 Base Camp, where you may get a close-up view of the magnificent peak. It’s a fantastic feeling to be so near to one of the tallest peaks in the world when standing at the base camp, which is located at an elevation of 5,150 metres.

Good weather at Concordia, the throne room of Mountain Gods.

In summary, the K2 Base Camp Trek is a demanding but worthwhile adventure that passes through some of the most stunning and untamed landscapes on earth. The views of some of the highest peaks in the world are breathtaking, and it provides an opportunity to learn about the local culture and engage with the populace. Although the walk calls for extensive physical and mental preparation, it is an experience you won’t soon forget. The K2 Base Camp Trek is definitely something to think about if you enjoy hiking and want to challenge yourself.

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K2 Base Camp Trek Guide: The Complete Trekking Resource

People often ask me: what is the best trek in Pakistan? While I am not one to define what’s the absolute “best” since there are so many trekking possibilities in this country – I’ll say this: the K2 Base Camp Trek is one of the most rewarding active adventures one can embark on in Pakistan.

Nestled deep in the Karakoram mountains in the borderlands between China and India lie four of the world’s 8000-meter peaks, including the namesake mountain for this trek; the world’s 2nd highest mountain: K2. Of all the treks I have done in my life, none quite stack up to the sheer raw beauty and scale one encounters on the K2 Base Camp Trek.

I have now done the K2 BC Trek three times and led two groups of adventurers there – and I have learned a TON along the way. This epic guide to the K2 Base Camp Trek breaks down everything you need to know to prepare for this hiking adventure of a lifetime.

Below I’ll cover a daily overview of the K2 BC trek details, visa information, my personal trek packing list, when to go, and how to best prepare for your trip.

If you have done Everest Base Camp or another long-distance trek at altitude and you are wanting to up your game, this K2 Base Camp Trek guide will show you the way to your next big adventure…

DID YOU KNOW THAT I RUN TOURS IN PAKISTAN?

Every year I lead unique trips to Pakistan including the K2 Base Camp Trek and to the Hunza Valley?

Trekking to K2 Base Camp: 10 Things You Should Know When Planning Your Adventure

The trek to K2 Base Camp is not something you can just rock up and do. It takes time to prepare your gear, body, and crucially – the paperwork.

Before we dive into the meat of this K2 Base Camp trek guide, here is a quick list of things you 100% should know when you are in the planning phase:

1. Central Karakoram National Park is a Restricted Area

A national park that lies within an army-controlled restricted area? Welcome to Pakistan.

Due to simple geography and natural borders with India and China, the area contained within Central Karakoram National park (CKNP) – where K2 and 3 other 8000 meter peaks are located falls in an area controlled by the Pakistani army.

This means one thing for trekkers: more paperwork. Luckily though, your tour operator handles most of this stuff for you.

2. The Trekking and Mountaineering Visa

In 2020, the Pakistani authorities changed the way they issue permits for foreign trekkers. It use to be the case that you could obtain a Pakistani tourist visa per usual and then have the company you booked sort out the rest of the permits for you.

These days, things are slightly different. Now, you must apply for the Trekking and Mountaineering Visa – NOT the plain ol’ tourist visa. The major downside to this is the time it takes to obtain.

This year it took me 2 months to get the visa – when I have had same-day approval for a tourist visa in the past. This means you need to apply well in advance of when you plan to start the trek.

Once obtained, you typically submit your visa to the tour operator you booked with and they sort out the final permits and clearance. As long as you give yourself enough time to obtain the visa, the whole process is pretty straightforward so don’t be intimidated!

3. The K2 Base Camp Trek is an Expedition-Style Trek

Once you leave the jeeps behind in Askole or Jhula, there are no permanent settlements, hotels, tea houses, or proper shops. This is a wilderness area where all of the supplies for the expedition are brought in by each group on the backs of mules and human porters.

You need to pack accordingly!

It is possible to buy Cocacola though at some of the higher camps. The price can be as high as $10 a bottle.

If you are wanting to learn how to start mountaineering , then going on an expedition-style trek is a great way to get the feel of what a proper climbing expedition can entail. Check out my friend Jackson’s complete K2 Base Camp Trek guide for a first-hand account of our trip.

4. K2 Base Camp Sees Less Than 1000 Hikers a Year

In stark contrast to the Himalayan treks in Nepal like the Everest Base Camp trek or the Manaslu Circuit trek – K2 Base Camp sees less than 1000 foreign visitors each year (even less with Covid). That is compared to the 100,000+ that make the trek to Everest BC every year.

That fact is mindbending to me, given that K2 is the world’s 2nd highest mountain.

5. Weather is Highly Variable

At lower altitudes, it can be so hot that people get heatstroke. Above 5000 meters it could snow on any given day. On the K2 Base Camp Trek, I have literally experienced every single season and wild swings in temperatures over the course of a 14-day hike.

Mentally, physically, and with your packing list – it is important to prepare as much as possible for the harsh environment of the Karakoram.

6. Army Outposts in CKNP

By now you know this trek takes place in a restricted area. So along with the massive glaciers, towering peaks, and mule trains are also far-flung army outposts.

Having the army out there does not really have an effect on the trekker’s experience in any way. It is worth noting here as it explains why on clear days you’ll see military helicopters running supplies and personnel out and back along the glacier.

7. The Highest Point on the Trek is Gondogoro La

There are a few different ways to complete the K2 BC Trek. The classic route is the straightforward out and back journey along the Baltoro Glacier.

A far more interesting route turns the trek into a loop of sorts – culminating in a high-altitude pass crossing of Gondogoro La at 5,585m. I recommend going this way if possible as the views are insane. Loop hikes tend to always be more interesting as well.

8. Helicopter Rescues are EXPENSIVE

This is not Nepal; helicopter rescue operations do not happen in Pakistan very often and thus, they are very expensive. At last check, it costs around 15k USD to be evacuated from K2 Base Camp.

Make sure: 1. you have insurance covering you up to 5000-6000 meters for heli rescue and 2. make sure the tour operator you book with pays the heli-deposit to Askari Aviation in Islamabad. The helicopter will not come for an injured person unless they are paid first.

Budget tour operators for local Pakistani groups DO NOT pay this heli-rescue deposit so if you go on a budget barebones trip – know that you are also taking the option of a heli-rescue off the table in a worst-case scenario.

9. There is Internet Connection at Concordia?!

Northern Pakistan is a region in which internet connectivity is mediocre in the best of times. So in the summer of 2021 when I turned up to Concordia (4,600m) – I was shocked to learn that 4g internet was possible thanks to a recently built cell tower.

In order to pick up a signal though, you will need an SCOM SIM card, which you can easily buy in Skardu – that is if you must have internet out here.

10. Drinking Water Along the K2 Base Camp Trek Is Not Great

Despite being in a wilderness area – I don’t recommend drinking most of the water sources without doing some sort of filtration. Many of the campsites have mule waste (or worse) scattered around and the heavy mineral content of some glacier water can upset stomachs and cause problems.

This has been a problem for individual trekkers and guides in the past – and no joke – I have seen people turn back after the first day because they got super sick from drinking bad water. You don’t want that, and there is no reason why that should happen to you with the tools we have at our disposal.

Bring a Grayl Geopress and purify your daily drinking water to avoid getting a potentially trip-ruining stomach bug.

K2 Base Camp Distance

K2 Base Camp Trek Quick Facts:

• Distance : 160 km Jhula Camp – K2 BC and Back
• Days required : 12-14 days
• Total Incline : 10,000+ m (with ups and downs) 
• K2 Base Camp Altitude: 5000 Meters
• Difficulty : Strenuous

Depending on which route you take – from the time you take the Jeep in Skardu, start trekking, and return back to Skardu is about 12-14 days, depending on your exact itinerary.

On average, it has taken my group about five days to reach Concordia and six to reach K2 Base Camp. Throw in a few rest days, changes in the itinerary due to weather, and the return journey, and the trip can easily extend to 14 days.

Taking the time to not go too high too fast will aid in the acclimatization process – which is not to be overlooked.

The trek can be a bit shorter (by kilometers) if you are going with a group that also does Gondogoro La pass. From Ali Camp (the last camp before the pass) to GG LA and down to Kuisbang is the most challenging day and takes the average person around 10 hours to complete.

Note: Askole village is no longer the starting point for the trek. Most expeditions now start from Jhula Camp thanks to a newly finished jeep track that extends deeper into the national park. This allows trekking groups to skip the rather boring day from Askole to Jhula.

Want to Join a K2 Base Camp Trek in 2022?

I will be leading a group on the K2 Base Camp Trek and Gondogoro La in July 2022 with my company Epic Backpacker Tours . Space is very limited so get in touch if you are keen to join me and my fantastic team of experienced Balti guides.

What to Pack for the K2 Base Camp Trek

The gear you bring on the K2 Base Camp Trek will determine the kind of experience you will have. If you skimp on any of the important stuff, you could put yourself in potentially life-threatening danger.

On one occasion, I have even had a client turn up with a summer sleeping bag rated to 20 degrees C (68 F). The client promptly bought a new one in Skardu under my firm encouragement.

The point being, the equipment list for this trek is very important to follow. The top five things you MUST not skimp on are:

• Hiking boots
• Sleeping bag
• Down jacket(s)
• Grayl Geopress purifier bottle
• Polarized sunglasses

Here is the list of gear that I personally used on the K2 Base Camp Trek and other long-distance high-altitude treks in Pakistan. The extra stuff that is not 100% mandatory is labeled optional.

Expedition Duffel Bag or Large Trekking Backpack 90-120 liter tough expedition duffel bag. Recommendation: Northface Base Camp Duffel

Day Trekking Backpack A 25-36 liter backpack. Recommendation: Osprey Talon 36

Trekking Boots Quality, waterproof hiking boots. Recommendation: Lowa Renegade GTX

Alpine Boots (B1/B2) (Optional) Recommendation: La Sportiva Trango Tower. Sandals/Tevas/Keens/Crocs A pair of camp shoes to change into after a day of hiking Recommendation: Keen Targhee 3 Sandals

Gaiters Gaiters help to keep the snow and rocks out of your boots. Recommendation: Black Diamond GTX Front Point

Crampons Only people with experience using crampons should bring them. I recommend bringing microspikes over crampons, especially if you never used crampons before. Recommendation: Grivel G-12

Microspikes I recommend bringing microspikes over crampons. Recommendation : Kahtoola Micro Spikes

Sleeping Bag A warm sleeping bag -18 C / 0 F comfort rating. Recommendation: Mountain Hardware Phantom 0 or Marmot Lithium 0

Sleeping Bag Liner Give yourself a few extra degrees of warmth. Recommendation : Cocoon Silk Liner

I nflatable Sleeping Pad A quality inflatable pad for insulation on the cold glacier. Recommendation : Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm

Travel Clothes Casual clothing for air travel and our time in cities.

Down Jacket A warm Down Jacket is 100% crucial. Recommendation : Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie

Heavy Weight/Hi-Loft Down Jacket This jacket is not mandatory but very nice to have. Recommendation : Patagonia Fitz Roy Parka

Hard Shell/Rain Jacket To lock in your warmth and keep yourself dry. Recommendation: Arc’teryx Beta AR

Fleece The perfect middle layer. Recommendation : Patagonia Better Sweater Base Layer Top Wear your base layer top to help prevent sunburn. Recommendation : Merino Icebreaker 200 Oasis Base Layer Bottoms For cold sleepers and frosty mornings, base layer bottoms will be good for you. Recommendation : Smartwool Merino 250 Sun Hat and Warm Hat/Beanie The skin on your face will thank you. Also, bring a warm hat/beanie for the cold temperatures. Recommendation : Durable Trucker Hat Trekking Shirts (2-3) Go with something synthetic – Avoid cotton at all costs. Bring on a shirt to sleep in Recommendation: REI Lightweight Base Layer Shirt

Trekking Pants (1-2 pairs) Comfortable pair(s) of trekking pants – Nothing fancy. Recommendation : Kuhl Renegade Rock Pant

Synthetic Multisport Trekking Pants Choose something with a bit of insulation. Recommendation: Black Diamond Highline Stretch Pants

Waterproof / Rain Pants – (Optional) These are good in case we get caught in snow/rain. storm or in case you want an extra warm bottom layer. Almost a mandatory item. Recommendation: REI GTX Pants

Trekking Socks (6-7 pairs) Quality pairs of trekking socks can be expensive, but worth the investment. Merino is best. Recommendation: Darn Tough Hiker Boot

Underwear (4-6 pairs) Recommendation : Icebreaker Underwear

Buff and Bandana So many practical applications from serving as a dust mask for keeping the sun off of your neck. Recommendation: Buff Lightweight Merino

Gloves For keeping your hands warm and mandatory for gripping the rope as the group descends Gondogoro La. Recommendation : Northface Apex

Trekking Poles Trekking poles provide balance and stability. Recommendation: Black Diamond Alpine FLZ

Headlamp Get a rechargeable one if possible. Recommendation: Petzl Actik

Grayl Filter Bottle The Grayl Geopress is the ultimate water filter bottle. Recommendation : Grayl Geopress

Large Wide Mouth Water Bottle or Water Pouch You can refill from your Grayl Geopress. Should be 1 liter.

Dry Bags Be 100% sure that your most important items are dry. Recommendation: Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag

Personal First Aid Kit Bandaids, hand sanitizer, lip balm with spf, tampons, strong quality sun cream (50 spf+), antibiotic cream, paracetamol, throat lozenges, electrolyte tabs, moleskin for blisters, antibiotics for stomach/general, earplugs, and Diamox for altitude sickness (optional). Recommandation: Medical Kits Explorer Kit

Polarized Sunglasses The sun reflecting off of the glacier is so strong that you risk damaging your eyes without proper sunglasses. Get something polarized!

Helmet For descending Gondogoro La. Recommendation : Black Diamond Half Dome

Harness with a 60 cm Sling and Locking Carabiner This will serve as your lifeline when coming down GG La, Don’t forget to pack this crucial piece of kit. Recommendation : Petzl Altitude Harness

Camera / Extra Battery Capture the stunning landscapes of the Karakoram. Recommendation: Fujifilm X-T3

Power Bank and Chargers/Phone Cable / Solar Charger I have found the lightweight backpacking solar chargers to be quite handy on this trek.

Satellite Messenger Device Stay connected to people back home Recommendation : Garmin In-Reach Mini A Good Book / Kindle and Podcasts (Downloaded) These are almost essential items! Bring what you need to stay entertained at camp. Pee bottle/device – (Optional) Wide mouth Nalgene clearly marked “pee bottle”. This is to avoid having to leave your tent at night. Recommendation for Women: Pibella Travel Device Combination Lock Easily lock your portered bag. Recommendation : Pacsafe Lock

Trekking to K2 Base Camp: A Day-By-Day Breakdown

So what is the daily experience and trail like when you start trekking to K2 Base Camp? Below I offer my experiences with a day-by-day breakdown of each section.

Keep in mind that itineraries are subject to change due to delays with permits, weather, or a variety of other factors that are just the norm of traveling in Pakistan.

Here is a typical K2 Base Camp Trek itinerary from Islamabad to Islamabad:

K2 Base Camp Itinerary

• Day 1: Islamabad Arrival
• Day 2: Fly to Skardu
• Day 3: Market Day in Skardu
• Day 4: Drive from Skardu to Jhula Camp (3150m)
• Day 5: Jhula to Paju (3,383m)
• Day 6: Paju – Khoburtse (3,566m)
• Day 7: Khoburtse – Urdukas (4,130m)
• Day 8: Urdukas – Goro 2 (4,250m)
• Day 9: Goro 2 – Concordia (4,600m)
• Day 10: Concordia – K2 Base Camp (5000m)
• Day 11: Rest Day at K2 Base Camp
• Day 12: K2 Base Camp to Concordia
• Day 13: Concordia – Ali Camp (5000m)
• Day 14: Ali Camp – Gondogoro La Pass (5,600m) – Kuisbang (4,700m)
• Day 15: Kuisbang – Saicho (3435m)
• Day 16: Saicho – Hushe – Drive to Skardu
• Day 17: Rest Day/Contingency Day in Skardu
• Day 18: Rest Day/Contingency Day in Skardu
• Day 19: Fly to Islamabad
• Day 20: Contingency Day in Islamabad
• Day 21: Client Departure Day

Day 1: Jhula to Paju (3,383m)

Distance: 20.5 km

Trail report:  Early start with 7-9 hours of trekking. Mostly flat with small gains and descents. The day is hot, exposed to much sun, and dusty. Sunscreen and lots of water will be your greatest friend today!

There are not spectacular mountain vistas on day one of the hike, but you begin to have the feeling of being in the big mountains. Without any cloud cover, this day can be a bit of a slog. The dust from the trail sticks to your face as sweat beads down and the radiation from the sun can be intense.

I recommend soaking your Buff and hat in the small streams you pass every few hours.

Arriving at Paju Camp feels like you have reached an oasis of sorts and there are plenty of trees to enjoy some shade after a hard-earned first day.

Day 2: Paju – Khoburtse (3,566m)

Distance: 14 km

Trail report:  6-8 hours of hiking with a lunch break. After about an hour of walking, the dirt trail and the Baltoro Glacier begin. The trail follows the mighty Baltoro on and off until Concordia. The terrain is hilly, rocky, wet (in places), and uneven, with a few scattered bits of a “proper” earthen trail. Khoburtse camp can feel a bit cramped, but there is a beautiful waterfall nearby as well as great opportunities for sunrise viewpoints. The general view from camp is nothing to scoff at.

The Baltoro provides a (mostly) welcome change to the dusty trails of day 1 – with cool glacial caves, blue and green ponds, and trippy ice formations to be seen around every corner. The views definitely start to pick up in grandeur – and this is only day two!

Many trekkers opt for a quick “bath” in the small cold stream just beyond the lower side of camp.

Day 3: Khoburtse – Urdukas (4,130m)

Distance: 6.75 km

Trail report:  Easy day, finishing after about 6.75 kilometers (2-4 hours). The trail gains in altitude but nothing too physically demanding. As always – be mindful not to push yourself too hard or sleep too high too fast. Urdukas is a truly spectacular campsite, and one of the favorites along the whole trek.

There are excellent views of Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, and Lobsang can be seen directly from the camp. Urdukas is where being ever-deeper in the Karakoram range really starts to hit home. It’s epic.

Here it is possible to have a small, freezing “shower” – with an incredible backdrop of mountains behind you. The water is cold, but very refreshing if you make it here early enough in the day. The nights can be chilly.

Dig the photos in this guide? Check out my K2 Base Camp trek photo gallery .

Day 4: Urdukas – Goro 2 (4,250m)

Distance: 12 km

Trail report:  5 – 8 hours of moderate difficulty up and down glacier terrain. Today you will be starting to feel the altitude. Lunch stop is at Goro 1, by a small stream and under a burning sun if there are no clouds. Temperatures can drop below zero at night at Goro 2.

Expect spectacular views along the trail of Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IV, and the summit tip of Broad Peak can be seen from just outside your tent.

Goro 2 is the point in the trek where the landscapes begin to look other-worldly. Strange ice formations the size of a large house rise up from turquoise glacial rivers whilst towering peaks dominate the horizon on all sides.

Real talk though: Goro 2 campsite can be a bit of a rubbish heap sometimes. Every year I organize a trash clean-up here with my group in an effort to reduce our impact and improve the overall vibe of the place – from trash heap to the epic campsite that it is.

Day 5:  Goro 2 – Concordia (4,600m)

Trail report:  Today we reach the “Throne Room of the Gods”, aka Concordia. 5-7 hours of pleasant trekking over the glacier, with more ice present than previous days. Amazing views of Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Broad Peak, Marble Peak, and of course, K2 can be seen from camp! Temperatures at Concordia drop well below freezing at night and snow/snowfall is possible here any time of the year. After a great dinner and solid rest, tomorrow we head to K2 Base Camp.

Concordia is simply one of the best campsites in the world – full stop. Nowhere else on earth can you sit with a steaming cup of coffee and take in 4 of the world’s biggest mountains (and countless others of formidable size).

Recently, the CKNP rangers installed drop toilets here – which vastly improves the sewage issues Concordia has faced in the past. That said, the porters still tend to go wherever they please – I don’t think I saw a single porter use the actual toilet. Hopefully, this improves.

Day 6: Concorida (4600 m) – K2 Base Camp (5000 m)

Early start to K2 Basecamp. The total trekking distance to Concordia is roughly 14 km. The terrain is relatively easy though at this altitude – nothing is really that “easy” if we are being honest. Most of the route follows the Austen-Godwin glacier directly to the base of mighty K2.

Arriving at K2 BC usually produces a range of emotions. This is one of the major targets on the trek and standing directly beneath K2 drives that fact home in a very satisfying way.

Be sure to visit the Art Gilkey Memorial located on the opposite side of the glacier from camp. Chatting with expedition teams hoping for a successful summit bid over chai is always one of my favorite ways to spend the following rest day.

Of the many times, I have done this journey – none was more difficult than the last – for the sole reason that the sun was beating down with such ferocity that it nearly sidelined a few of our group members. Even at altitude, it can get very hot when you have no cloud cover. On the way back it dumped snow, so go figure.

Note: Because of time constraints, some groups opt to do Concordia to K2 BC and back in a single day. I wholeheartedly don’t suggest this option; it is a death march and you will not enjoy K2 Base Camp nearly as much if you don’t spend a few nights here.

Day 7-8: Rest days at K2 Base Camp (5000 m)

Rest Day Report: Today is most likely going to be your first or second rest day so far of the trip. Take the time to soak it in. Let your body recover. Drink 15 cups of chai and coffee.

During my various visits to base camp, a group of the Balti porters get together to play traditional music – almost without fail. This turns into a bit of a dance party on the glacier and is a highlight of the day off in camp.

The last time I visited K2 BC, it snowed heavily both nights we were camped there. The hike out was in a near whiteout. Be mindful to not wander off from your guide as the glacier can be tricky to navigate in low visibility.

Day 9: K2 Base Camp (5000 M) to Concordia (4600 m)

Trail Notes: Going down the Godwin-Austen glacier feels easier than going up. The weather will really determine how your experience is though. Prepare for scorching heat or a blizzard and pack plenty of snacks along the way. Groups don’t typically stop for lunch along the way back to Concordia so you’ll need to power through.

Tip: follow a porter back for the last 3-4 kilometers. The glacier turns into a crazy maze and it is very easy to get lost and turned around. The porters know the way so don’t lose sight of them when you start to get close to Concordia.

Day 10 : Concordia Rest Day

Rest Report: Most groups opt to rest one more day at Concordia before setting off for the return route. Each expedition has different plans though and it usually comes back to the weather.

If you are planning to cross Gondogoro La in the coming days – your guide will determine if the conditions are right or not. I have had two successful crossings of GG LA. On the third trip we got very unlucky with the weather and after a week of crystal clear blue skies – it snowed for 3 days straight – just before we were set to do the crossing.

This is the point in the trip which is always uncertain and 100% dependant on the weather and conditions on the mountain.

If you are not able to cross Gondogoro La, you will need to return the way you came.

On our trip, our rest day included drying out all of our wet clothes, playing UNO, and drinking copious ammounts of chai and coffee.

Day 11 – Ali Camp (4800 M) or Back Down the Baltoro

Distance: 15 km

Trail report: 5-7 hours of trekking over glacial terrain and pockets of deep snow, especially as we approach the upper end of the valley close to Ali Camp. Some of our porter team will be leaving us today with the pack mules, as the mules are unable to cross over Gondogoro La.

Ali Camp is set in an absolutely stunning location, though the camp is quite small and can be quite crowded if many teams are present. No established toilet facilities are present, which is something we are working to solve with the Central Karakoram National Park staff.

We will rest for the majority of the afternoon and early evening before setting off to cross the Gondogoro La around midnight. We will have dinner early so that guests can catch a few hours of rest before we begin the climb.

Day 12: Ali Camp (4800) – Gondogoro La Pass (5,600 M) – Kuisbang (4,700 M)

Distance: 20 km more or less

Trail report: 10-12 hours of trekking. Groups set off in the dark by headlamp around midnight (it is advisable for slow trekkers to leave around 9 or 10 pm). From Ali Camp, it is 4-5 hours of steady climbing to gain the top of the Gondogoro La pass. 

Once atop the La, one can enjoy stunning sunrise views of every major peak in the area.

Every group prays for clear weather of course! The descent from Gondogoro La into the valley below is done with the assistance of a series of fixed ropes. Extreme care needs to be taken on the descent (helmets will be worn) and all trekkers should be clipped into the rope from their climbing harness. 

Microspikes or crampons should be carried for the descent, but are rarely needed as the slop is a mix of rock and deep snow (not so much ice). 

Trekking from the top of the pass to Kuisbang Camp takes about five hours. If the weather is clear, the group will be treated to incredible views from the camp of Laila Peak, located just down the valley. 

Day 13: Kuisbang – Saicho (3435 M)

Distance: 22 km

Trail report: 6-8 hours of trekking. The first two hours are on a glacier moraine before the landscape changes into a green, hilly, easy trail. There are a few small river crossings and several steep, exposed sections to be expected as well. The landscape here could not be more different from where we started near Jhula. It is green, lush, and there is no dust!

A beautiful, well-spaced campsite with multiple stream systems running through it awaits us at Saicho.

Day 14: Saicho – Hushe – Drive to Skardu

Trail report: 2-3 hours of trekking. The trek ends from this side in the beautiful Balti village of Hushe.

Here it is customary to take a final cup of chai and say goodbye to the team of porters before making the journey back to Skardu by jeep (6-7 hours depending on road conditions).

Groups usually have lunch halfway to Skardu. Once you reach the hotel in Skardu, be prepared for one of the best showers of your life!

Wifi and Electricity on the Trek

Internet : As recently as early 2021, the whole breadth of the Askole to K2 Base camp distance meant no internet connectivity. This is still pretty true for the most part. Like I said above, there is now an SCOM tower at Concordia where you can pick up enough signal to have a Whatsapp call, check your email, your crypto portfolio (just kidding), etc.

Maybe in the future connectivity will improve – but to be honest I hope it doesn’t. The remote mountains are among the final frontiers free from the online world, notifications, emails, social media, and all the BS that comes with it.

If you don’t have a SCOM SIM card, don’t expect to find any wifi connection along the trail.

Some of the mountaineering expeditions on K2 and Broad Peak sometimes bring satellite internet devices with them – but plans for such devices are EXPENSIVE AF.

Electricity : Almost every expedition brings along a generator on the back of a mule. The generators almost always need to be coerced into actually running – but eventually – some handy porter gets it running after a lengthy battle. The generator allows you to charge your camera, phone, etc. I still recommend bringing a lightweight solar panel though as the sun is usually more reliable than these beat-to-hell generators.

How Much Does the K2 Base Camp Trek Cost?

The cost of Trekking to K2 Base Camp varies across the board. The price for a local Pakistani person is also different for a foreigner – somewhat because of the permits involved and also the level of service that is offered.

A quick Google search will reveal a vast array of tour companies offering to fulfill your dreams of conquering the K2 Base Camp trek. One thing is certain though: not every tour company delivers the same value.

Budget vs Mid Range K2 Base Camp Expeditions

The entire spectrum of quality can be found among tour operators in Pakistan. Bare-bones budget hikers might be keen to go for the cheapest possible option, which may end up being ok in the end. For a trek of this duration and caliber though – it is very important to think about what sort of experience you want to have.

I found that there are three tiers of quality when it comes to this trek: budget operators, mid-level operators, and luxury operators.

The trips I run for Epic Backpacker Tours fall into the middle category and we sell trip spots for £2950 (summer season 2022).

The one trip I have sat in on with an all-Pakistani team was a bit rough. We did not have enough food most of the time, we had no tables and chairs, no toilet tent, pretty mediocre lunches, and generally a low level of comfort. We did have excellent staff – they were just limited because their budget was so low to start with.

I totally get that people have different budgets and standards and I am very happy to see Pakistani people and folks with low budgets still enjoying the mountains and embarking on this trek.

I am just saying that people use to western standards should think twice before joining a budget local expedition. Again this is only my opinion gleaned from what I have observed over the years of running trips here myself.

If you are interested in joining me on the next K2 Base Camp Trek I run , click the link, and please reach out!

Wrap Up: Trekking to K2 Base Camp Musings

By now you should be stoked on what lies ahead for you if you are planning on embarking on the journey to K2 Base Camp.

I’ve done a lot of long-distance hikes in Pakistan and across the world – and I’ll say it with conviction – the K2 Base Camp Trek is one of the best hikes in the world – period. The incredible landscapes, the vast remoteness, the Balti culture, the tasty food – the whole package makes for an experience you’ll never forget.

Best of luck on your epic adventure!

If you found this guide helpful, let me know in the comments below!

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Great write cheers from the karakoram!

thanks for the support!

Yo Chris, found your site while doing K2 BC trek Google search. Extremely helpful site, nicely done. Awesome work man! I am heading out to K2 BC in few weeks and looking forward to an epic and safe adventure. Who knows, I might see u on the trail. 😁

@khansolohiker

Nice! Hope it was an awesome hike!

Hi Chris I live in South Africa, I can’t find any operators, I was thinking of arranging the logistics and getting a group together to go, I hope to cover my costs this way as well, how do I get in contact with a licenced operator in Pakistan? I will be thankful for any advice you can give me, my own little project possible.

Regards Rob

Hi Robert. Thanks for getting in touch. I am organizing groups next year (2023) as well – and can help you with everything you need to run a trip. Please email us at [email protected] to learn more and see how we might be able to put something together for you and your team.

Does Paksitani Citizen also need a license to Go to Base camp ?

You need a permit yes since the trek is in a restricted area, but obviously no special visa. It is pretty easy for Pakistani citizens to go to base camp, you just need to do the formalities, etc. Hope that helps! cheers.

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Tips for trekking to K2 base camp: a complete guide

Our tips for trekking to K2 base camp, gathered from the many questions our readers sent in

Before, during and after my  K2 base camp trek  in  Pakistan , Atlas & Boots received dozens of questions about the experience via email and social media. We’ve collated them below in a comprehensive Q&A which includes all our tips for trekking to K2 base camp.

Tips for trekking to K2 base camp

Is Pakistan safe?

Pakistan has suffered from bad press for a while now. It would be remiss of me to suggest the country is without its problems; there are still areas of Pakistan where travel is not advisable . That said, the trekking trails of the Karakoram have long been trouble-free. Regardless, the region’s trekking industry  flatlined  during the years following 9/11.

This is anecdotal, but during my time in Pakistan I never once felt in danger or worried about my safety. I felt more comfortable walking the streets in Pakistan than I did in several other South-Asian countries. I did not encounter touts like I did in India . Those who did approach me on the street were genuinely interested in talking to me as opposed to selling me something.

Pakistan’s prime minister Imran Khan highlighted tourism as a main objective in his “100 day agenda” following the 2018 election. Initiatives have included increasing the availability of tourist visas, developing an online e-visa system , inviting the Royal Family for a state visit and recommencing direct flights to Islamabad ( British Airways  became the first European airline to do so in June).

I believe Pakistan is safe for travel and is finally ready to realise its potential as one of the world’s premier trekking destinations.

Which company did you trek with?

I joined  Lost Horizon Tours and Treks  on a trek to K2 base camp combined with a technical crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass. 

How big was your group?

Our group had seven trekkers with a support team of 12 people including a lead guide, a cook, porters and mule men. The mules and their handlers do not cross the Gondogoro La Pass. It is reasonable to expect between four and 12 trekkers in your group.

How long does the trek take?

My itinerary was 21 days long, which included 14 days of trekking. Below is the trekking itinerary we followed, although it should be noted that all schedules come with a certain degree of flexibility. 

It should also be noted that distances and times vary significantly, depending on the condition of the trails and river crossings. The trails over the Baltoro Glacier are constantly changing as the ice shifts and crevasses open up.

It’s also not unusual for rivers to swell to excessive levels or even wash away bridges. We were twice delayed due to swollen rivers. 

Where does the trek start and finish?

The trek begins in the village of Askole and ends in the village of Hushe. The closest airport is in Skardu. If you don’t cross the Gondogoro La Pass, then the trek starts and ends in Askole.

How do you get to the trailheads?

Travelling from Islamabad to Skardu can be done via an overnight drive (included) or by a short flight combined with a shorter 4WD drive. This saves a day of driving on either side of the trek. If trekkers choose the flight option, then budget an additional $150 USD each way.

To get from Skardu to the trailheads at Askole and Hushe, a transfer in a 4WD vehicle is necessary. Both journeys take around six hours.

How hard is the trek?

The trek is challenging. The absence of proper trails and the loose moraine and scree on the Baltoro Glacier can make it laboriously slow at times. Additionally, you’ll be camping on the glacier for at least four nights, which is significantly colder than sleeping on rock or grass.

I met a range of trekkers on the trail from teenagers to retirees, so it is possible for people of all ages. However, I would not recommend this as your first high-altitude trek.

How much does it cost?

Prices start from around $2,000 USD, depending on dates and itinerary, for a round trip from Islamabad. The price includes all accommodation, all meals on the trek, an English-speaking local guide and assistants throughout the trek, porters to carry equipment between camps, entrance fees to Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) and all transport between destinations. Allow an extra $200-300 USD per person for tips.

How cold does it get?

This will of course depend on the time of year and your location on the trail. The higher you are, the colder it gets. At the beginning of the trek it was much hotter than I had anticipated. However, once the trail moved onto the glacier, the temperature dropped significantly.

Expect temperatures to drop below freezing, particularly at night. Also, as you’ll be sleeping on the glacier it can feel even colder. It’s worth keeping an eye on the weather station located at K2 (select 5,000m on the left).

What is the weather like?

During my trek in September, it didn’t rain or snow once. All but two or three days were clear. However, this is one of the world’s highest mountain ranges and trekkers must be prepared for all types of weather. Expect wind, rain and snow, and hopefully you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

When is the best time to trek?

The best time for the K2 base camp trek is from mid-June to mid-September with July and August being the optimum months. Before then, trekking is still possible, but until mid-June, excessive snow remains on passes and north-facing slopes, keeping any passes higher than 3,000m closed.

Most passes, including the Gondogoro La, are closed by the end of September when heavy snow returns. The mountain rescue support team near Gondogoro La departs in early September, so trekkers (as we did) will have to cross the pass unsupported after this time.

What should I pack?

I’ve put together a complete  K2 base camp gear list . It contains everything I took with me including clothing, trekking gear, toiletries, medication, electronics and documentation.

Can I buy trekking gear and clothes locally?

It is possible to buy some equipment in Skardu or Islamabad, but Pakistan doesn’t have the range of shops that you find in, say, Kathmandu in Nepal . I would advise that you do all your shopping before you leave home to prevent any last-minute emergencies.

Is there phone reception (or wifi) on the trail?

No. None. Soon after leaving Skardu I lost all phone reception for the duration of my trek. It is possible to buy a dedicated phone and SIM card to use in some areas of the more remote regions, but these are not smartphones and can only be used for local calls and texts.

Your guides should carry a satellite phone for emergencies. Check this before departure.

Can I charge electronics on the trail?

There is no electricity on the trail. I took a powerbank , solar charger and spare batteries with me to ensure my camera and gadgets remained charged.

Where do I get drinking water?

Guides provide boiled water for trekkers. I often topped up my water directly from running streams or meltwater, but always treated it with water purification tablets. Trekkers should carry at least two litres of water on them and aim to drink at least four litres a day.

Do not take bottled water onto the trail as there is no way to dispose of the plastic.

What is the food like?

Pretty varied and delicious considering the challenges of cooking for numerous people at high altitude in a remote region! We had a range meals over the course of the trip. Towards the end of the trek, as supplies diminish, the menu will likely become less varied. The below gives you an idea of what to expect on the trail.

• Breakfast: butter, jam, cornflakes, porridge, omelette, fried eggs, paratha pancakes, tea and coffee (instant).
• Lunch: soup, biscuits, crackers, long-life cheese and chocolate.
• Dinner: rice, dhal, vegetables, biryani, pakoras, fried rice, soup and noodles.

I would urge meat eaters to go vegetarian for the entirety of the trek. This will discourage your guides from taking animals along the trail for slaughter. It is a difficult challenge for the animals and entirely unnecessary. All meals will be vegetarian after a day or two anyway, so ask your guides to avoid this practice.

Are meals included in the price?

All meals on the trek are included in the price, although you may want to take along some of your favourite snacks. Some meals and drinks in Islamabad and Skardu are not included. Allow $5-10 USD per meal.

How do I go to the toilet?

Some of the campsites at lower altitudes have simple drop-toilet facilities, but trekkers should expect to do their business in the wild, leaving no trace  in the process. It is essential to follow these basic principles:

• Walk well away from the trail and any water sources
• Dig a hole with your heel or a trekking pole
• Cover the waste thoroughly with soil
• Place large boulders on top to stop animals from digging it up

For a more thorough explanation, read Kathleen Meyer’s  How to Shit in the Woods  for a “delightfully shameless discussion of a once-secretive activity”.

Can I take a shower along the trail?

There are no shower facilities along the trail. Urdukas is the only campsite with running water, albeit cold. For washing on the trail, I suggest trekkers take soap, antibacterial wipes and coin tissues , all of which must be biodegradable.

What maps or guidebooks do I need?

Currently, there are few up-to-date Pakistan guidebooks available. Therefore, I recommend the waterproof 1:175,000 Karakoram Trekking Map by TerraQuest for the K2 base camp trek.

Are there alternative routes?

There are several variations on the classic K2 base camp trek. I joined a K2 base camp trek combined with a technical crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass. This trek can be completed in either direction. However, starting at Askole is by far the better option as it allows more acclimatisation.

The most popular (classic) itinerary is a simple ‘there-and-back’ route. This option starts and finishes at Askole and is easier as it avoids the high pass of Gondogoro La. It also offers more flexibility as it’s possible to take a number of detours en route including to Trango Towers base camp, as well as options to camp overnight at either K2 or Broad Peak base camps, or both.

These options can all be discussed with your guides before and during the trip to allow you and your group to get the best from the trek. All the groups I met were trekking different variations on the classic K2 base camp itinerary, adapted to suit their wants and abilities. Likewise, our group adapted our itinerary slightly as we progressed.

Is the trek dangerous?

All high-altitude trekking involves a certain degree of risk. However, if you follow these basic tips for trekking to K2 base camp and the advice of your guide, adhere to basic acclimatisation principles and are fit and healthy, you should be able to complete the trek without any serious issues, given that you are fit and healthy.

The important thing with high-altitude trekking is to not rush, go at your pace and listen to your body. Read our detailed guide on how to identify, treat and prevent  altitude sickness symptoms .

Do I need specialist insurance?

One of our most important of these tips for trekking to K2 base camp is to make sure you select a travel insurance policy that has sufficient medical coverage. It must have a minimum coverage of $200,000 USD for repatriation and emergency rescue.

Make sure you check how your policy covers ‘dangerous activities’ such as trekking at altitude (above 5,000m) and mountaineering. Additionally, it must cover the possibility of a helicopter evacuation along with general medical evacuation.

Should I take Diamox?

This is very much down to the individual. I have never taken Diamox, but I have been up to this altitude several times before so know what to expect. However, I do carry some with me in case I ever feel bad at higher altitudes.

The best advice I can give is what my guide gave me on my Everest base camp trek . Have some Diamox with you and take it as soon as you start to feel the pulsing headaches that are synonymous with  altitude sickness . He said it’s good to have some available at the higher altitudes – particularly where you sleep above 5,000m– so you can use it to help get a good night’s sleep.

Do I need sunscreen?

Yes! Despite the cold, the sun is intense. Make sure you wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 40, lip balm with SPF protection, sunglasses and a sunhat.

Do I need a trekking permit?

To trek to K2 base camp you must enter CKNP where you will need to pay a national-park fee and complete a registration form. For foreigners, the fee is $10 USD per person. A full list of park entry fees can be found  here .

Additionally, trekkers must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the tourism office in Skardu. This permit allows you to travel in a restricted military area. The CKNP is in such an area as it borders India and China.

Both of these permits will be organised by your trekking company and only take a few minutes at each office.

Can I trek it solo?

No. All foreigners must have a licensed guide with them. Foreigners will not be allowed to enter the park without a guide.

Do I need mountaineering skills for the Gondogoro La Pass?

Trekkers do not necessarily need mountaineering skills to cross the Gondogoro La, but experience using crampons and an ice axe will be helpful. If your itinerary does not include a high pass crossing then neither are required. Check these details with your guides when you book.

What will the porters carry for me?

The porters will carry your tent, sleeping bag, all cooking equipment and food. You will be responsible for carrying all your personal gear and clothing. Porters may carry 3-4kg of your personal gear on request.

Speaking to other groups, I heard that porters could, and did, carry much more for their clients. This can be negotiated at the time of booking, but obviously expect to pay more for additional porters.

How much should I tip guides and porters?

Budget a minimum of $200 USD for tips. Tipping when travelling can be a bit of a quagmire, but the guides and porters on the trek deserve every penny they earn and then some. Our head guide collected all the tips on our behalf and then distributed them fairly among the team.

Is the trail busy?

No. Compared with other treks I’ve completed, the trails are practically empty.

Recently, the CKNP has seen a moderate increase in visitor numbers. In 2018, just 900 tourists registered to enter the park. When we entered in early September as one of the last trekking parties of the year, that number had risen to 1,300.

Despite the increase, it’s worth remembering that over 30,000 people make the Everest base camp trek in Nepal every year. Pakistan still has a long way to go to catch up with its Himalayan neighbour. With that in mind, now is a great time to go trekking in Pakistan.

What mountains can you see?

Loads! During the trek you’ll see some of the most beautiful mountains in the world , including the famous peaks of Trango Towers, Mitre Peak and Laila Peak.

When it comes to really big mountains you will see several 7,000m-plus peaks, starting with Masherbrum, the 22nd highest mountain in the world and the ninth highest in Pakistan. 

Shortly afterwards, the Gasherbrum Range with the first eight-thousanders will come into view. The Gasherbrum Range is a collection of five peaks over 7,000m including two over 8,000m.

Finally, Concordia, the last stop before K2 base camp, is one of the few places in the world where you can see four 8,000m peaks from one place: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II.

Additionally, on the flight from Islamabad to Skardu, if you sit on the right-hand side of the plane, you may glimpse Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world. On the return flight, sit on the left.

Is it like the Everest base camp trek?

The K2 base camp trek is an entirely different beast to the Everest base camp trek. It’s harder, less comfortable and far more remote. Gone are the crowds and comforts of Nepal. Gone are the villages, teahouses, prayer flags and monasteries – even the trails are missing in sections.

However, for me the K2 base camp trek is far more rewarding. The mountains in the Karakorum seem bigger and more imposing as they are unobstructed by their neighbouring ranges.

On the approach to Everest base camp, trekkers get sporadic peekaboo glimpses of its summit as the satellite peaks effectively hide it. But K2 towers above the surrounding massif, completely unimpeded. It may be second in stature to Everest, but it has a grace and symmetry that, in my mind, make it the most striking of the 14 eight-thousanders.

Is the K2 base camp trek worth it?

Yes – a resounding yes. If you take one thing from this K2 base camp trekking guide, it is that the expended effort is 100% worth it.

The K2 base camp trek is a stunning journey to the foot of a legendary mountain. It traverses some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on the planet, the most humbling of which is seen at Concordia where the world’s most majestic coliseum of high peaks is guarded by the crown of the Karakoram: K2.

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K2 Base Camp Trek Guide: The Ultimate Trekking Resource

Date: December 26, 2023 By haider Categories: K2 No comments

K2, standing tall at 8,611 meters, is a colossus in the heart of the Karakoram Range. As the second-highest peak globally, its allure attracts adventure enthusiasts seeking the ultimate trekking experience. The journey to K2 Base Camp promises breathtaking landscapes and a test of physical and mental endurance K2 Base Camp Trek Pakistan .

Do you need a guide for K2 Base Camp?

Whether or not you need a guide for the K2 Base Camp trek depends on your experience level, navigation comfort, and familiarity with high-altitude trekking. While the trail is well-established, the challenges of the terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather make having a guide a valuable asset. A knowledgeable guide can assist in navigation, provide insights into the local culture, and ensure emergency safety. Many trekkers opt for experienced companions to enhance their trekking experience and minimize risks.

How challenging is the trek to K2 Base Camp?

The trek to K2 Base Camp is considered challenging and demanding. It involves trekking through diverse terrains, including rocky paths, moraines, and high-altitude areas. The unpredictable weather conditions in the Karakoram Range amplify the trail’s difficulty. Trekkers should be physically fit, mentally prepared for the challenges of high altitude, and equipped to handle the rigors of the trail. Altitude sickness is a concern, and acclimatization days are typically built into the itinerary to mitigate its effects.

Can you hike K2 without a guide?

While it is technically possible to hike to K2 Base Camp with a guide, it is recommended to have one, especially for those with extensive trekking experience in high-altitude environments. A guide provides essential navigation assistance, ensures safety, and offers insights into the local culture. Additionally, having a guide can be crucial in emergencies, as they are trained to handle altitude-related issues and can coordinate necessary support.

What is the best trek in K2 Base Camp?

The trek to K2 Base Camp itself is the highlight for many trekkers, offering stunning views of K2 and the surrounding peaks. However, other notable treks in the region include the Concordia trek, which provides breathtaking views of multiple high peaks, and the Baltoro Glacier. The Gondogoro La trek, which offers a challenging but rewarding circuit, is also famous for those seeking a more extensive trekking experience in the K2 region K2 Base Camp Trek Pakistan .

Best time for K2 Base Camp trek?

The best time for the K2 Base Camp trek is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is relatively milder during this period, and the snow has melted, allowing for more apparent trails and better visibility. However, weather conditions in the Karakoram Range can be unpredictable, so trekkers should be prepared for sudden changes and be equipped for various temperatures.

How challenging is the K2 Base Camp trek?

The K2 Base Camp trek is considered challenging, primarily due to its high altitude, varied terrains, and unpredictable weather. Trekkers must be physically fit, mentally prepared, and have prior trekking experience at high altitudes. Altitude sickness is a concern, and acclimatization days are crucial to mitigate its effects. The difficulty level makes the trek suitable for those with intermediate to advanced trekking skills.

K2 Base Camp to summit distance?

The distance from K2 Base Camp to the summit of K2 is approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). However, reaching the summit of K2 is a highly challenging and technical climb that requires mountaineering skills. The trek to K2 Base Camp does not involve summiting K2. Still, it provides trekkers with awe-inspiring views of the majestic peak from a distance. The summit climb is typically undertaken by experienced mountaineers with specialized training and equipment.

K2 Base Camp vs Everest Base Camp?

K2 Base Camp and Everest Base Camp are iconic trekking destinations, each offering a unique experience. K2 Base Camp, located in the Karakoram Range in Pakistan, provides trekkers with awe-inspiring views of the world’s second-highest peak, K2. The trek is known for its challenging terrain and the raw, rugged beauty of the Karakoram. Everest Base Camp, situated in the Himalayas in Nepal, offers trekkers breathtaking views of Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth. The trek to Everest Base Camp is renowned for its cultural encounters with Sherpa communities and the vibrant landscapes of the Khumbu region. Both treks present challenges and rewards, attracting adventurers who love high-altitude trekking.

K2 Base Camp Elevation?

K2 Base Camp is located at approximately 5,150 meters (16,896 feet) in the Karakoram Range. The journey to this high-altitude destination takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, including glaciers, moraines, and rocky terrains, providing a challenging but enriching experience.

K2 Base Camp Trek Cost?

The cost of the K2 Base Camp trek can vary based on factors such as the trekking package, duration, inclusions, and the trekking company chosen. When considering the K2 Base Camp trek, choosing a reputable tour operator is essential for a well-organized and safe experience. One such reliable option is Jasmine Tours, known for its expertise in organizing treks in Pakistan. Their packages cover imperative services like permits, experienced guides, and accommodations. By selecting a reputable tour operator, you ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable trekking experience without the stress of organizing logistics. It’s advisable to contact Jasmine Tours directly to get detailed information on their packages and services for the K2 Base Camp trek.

K2 Base Camp Trek Map?

The K2 Base Camp trek is in the Karakoram Range, specifically in the Baltoro Glacier region. The tour offers stunning views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum peaks. The Karakoram Range is known for its vast glaciers and towering peaks, creating a dramatic and challenging landscape for trekkers. The neighboring mountains include Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, and the mesmerizing Baltoro Kangri. The trek is often linked with other regional hikes, such as the Concordia and Gondogoro La trek. The map of the K2 Base Camp trek showcases the intricate network of trails through breathtaking valleys and high-altitude plateaus, providing an immersive experience in one of the world’s most remote and captivating landscapes.

K2 Base Camp:

Situated amidst the grandeur of the Karakoram Range, K2 Base Camp serves as a haven for those yearning for adventure. Tucked away in the rugged terrain, it beckons trekkers worldwide, promising an unforgettable odyssey through nature’s wonders.

Getting Ready for the Adventure:

Embarking on the K2 Base Camp trek requires meticulous planning, starting with obtaining the necessary permits and visas. This section unravels the bureaucratic maze, providing a step-by-step guide to ensure a seamless entry into the world of K2.

Journey to Skardu: 

Skardu, the gateway to K2, sets the stage for your adventure. Delve into the logistics of reaching this charming town, nestled amidst stunning landscapes, as you prepare to take your first steps toward the mighty peaks.

Preparing for K2:

Preparation is vital for a trek of this magnitude. From physical fitness to mental readiness, this checklist covers everything you need to ensure you are fully equipped to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

Choosing the Right Time:

Timing is crucial when it comes to conquering K2. Explore the seasonal nuances and discover the best months for embarking on this epic journey, considering weather patterns and the optimal conditions for a successful trek.

Weather Wizards:

The Karakoram Range is known for its unpredictable weather. Equip yourself with insights into the region’s climate, understanding its fluctuations, and learning how to adapt to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Navigating the Trail:

Embark on a virtual journey through the K2 Base Camp trek, unraveling the details of each leg of the adventure. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the entire trail from the starting point to the majestic destination.

Landmarks and Legends:

Beyond the physical challenges, the K2 trek has landmarks and tales that add a cultural and historical dimension to your journey. Discover the significance of each point, enriching your trek with stories from the Karakoram.

Physical and Mental Preparation:

Tackling the K2 Base Camp trek demands physical resilience. Explore fitness regimens tailored for the challenges of high-altitude trekking, ensuring you are in prime condition to conquer the peaks.

Mind Over Mountain: 

While physical preparedness is vital, mental fortitude is equally crucial. Delve into strategies for maintaining focus, managing stress, and cultivating the mental toughness required to navigate the demanding terrain.

Essential Gear and Equipment:

Discover the essential gear needed to withstand the diverse conditions of the K2 trek. From clothing to camping equipment, this comprehensive guide ensures you are well-equipped for the journey ahead.

Local Treasures: 

Navigate the logistics of acquiring gear, whether through renting or purchasing locally. Gain insights into the pros and cons of each option, ensuring that you make the best choices for your trek.

Cultural Insights:

The K2 Base Camp trek is not just a physical journey; it’s a cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Balti people, gaining a deeper understanding of the local culture that adds richness to your trek.

Tea with Locals: 

Forge connections with the hospitable locals. Explore the tradition of sharing tea, a gesture that goes beyond language barriers, fostering a sense of camaraderie between trekkers and the Balti community.

Accommodations and Facilities:

Navigate the accommodations available along the trek, ranging from cozy lodges to rustic camping sites. This section provides insights into the varied options, allowing you to choose the experience that suits your preferences.

Essential Luxuries Facilities : 

While the trek is a rustic adventure, basic facilities are available. Understand what to expect in terms of amenities, ensuring you are prepared for the essentials while embracing the rugged beauty of the K2 trail.

Safety Measures:

Altitude sickness is a genuine concern in high-altitude treks. Equip yourself with knowledge on recognizing symptoms, preventive measures, and handling altitude-related challenges to ensure a safe ascent.

SOS on the Trail: 

Safety is paramount. Explore emergency protocols, including contact information for local authorities and rescue services, providing you with a safety net in case unforeseen circumstances arise K2 Base Camp Trek | Pakistan’s No.1 K2 Guide .

Capturing the Moments:

The K2 Base Camp trek is a visual feast. Unleash your inner photographer with tips on capturing the grandeur of the Karakoram Range, ensuring that your memories are as stunning as the landscapes you traverse.

Viewpoints and Vistas: 

Discover the best viewpoints along the trek, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Plan your stops to maximize the visual splendor and create lasting memories of your K2 adventure.

Leave No Trace:

Delve into the principles of responsible trekking, emphasizing the importance of leaving minimal environmental impact. Discover how to tread lightly and contribute to preserving K2’s pristine wilderness K2 Mountain – Facts and Information .

Eco-Trekking: Preserving K2’s Pristine Wilderness

Explore eco-friendly practices and initiatives that contribute to the conservation of the K2 region. Learn how to be a responsible trekker, leaving behind nothing but footprints and preserving the natural beauty for future generations.

Conclusion:

As we conclude this comprehensive guide, reflect on the wealth of information provided for your K2 Base Camp trek. Feel inspired to embark on this unparalleled adventure, armed with the knowledge and confidence to make it an unforgettable experience.

Embrace the Challenge: The Call of K2 Awaits!

The K2 Base Camp trek is not just a physical journey; it’s a call to embrace the challenge, conquer the peaks, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Karakoram K2 Expedition | Pakistan’s No.1 Guides

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K2 Base Camp Trek

Dates: 21 June to 15 July and 5 August to 29 August 2024 & 2025 (25 days) . 

Add on extra days, itinerary changes, and choose your own custom dates.

Full Service Cost: $5,450, £4,350, €5,050   (fixed in USD)

Join the team

K2 is the second highest mountain, and is thought by many to be the best base camp trek in the world. The trek offers an optional finish over the spectacular Gondogoro-La pass.

Trek leader Dan Mazur has been to K2 basecamp 8 times and is a K2 summiter, placing the first living Briton and first Americans on the Summit.

Recent News: Please  Click here  to view news of our successful K2 base camp trek.

Please click here for Baltoro Trekking Booklet by Fabio Tosti

K2 is the ultimate trekker’s high! Expert leader, Dan Mazur has led multiple K2 and Everest expeditions successfully to basecamp and beyond. Be part of the select few to walk on the roof of the world. Trek on a less traveled circuit among the 8000 metre ‘Giants’ of the Karakorum. Trip includes internal flights/transportation, food, accommodations, staff, and group equipment

Check out this amazing video

Our full-service expedition includes:

• Expert British, American, and European leader/coordinator
• All internal / domestic flights buses, jeeps, porters
• 25 Kg (55 lbs) per member transport for personal baggage
• Three meals per day on trek, in basecamp, and on the mountain
• All permit fees and liaison officers
• Group, emergency equipment, satellite phone
• Shared tents in basecamp (Single tents can be supplied for a small additional fee)
• Full base camp with dinning tents, showers, bathroom, and solar charger
• Two nights stay in Islamabad hotel on arrival and two nights prior to departure in a double room. Private rooms are available for a small additional fee

What is not included?

• International flights to Islamabad and back to your home country
• Trekking rescue and travel insurance
• Personal climbing and trekking equipment and clothing
• Pakistan visa
• Day 1 - Arrive Islamabad. Meet our staff at airport. They will bring you to the hotel.
• Day 2 - Guided sightseeing and shopping in Islamabad (508 metres / 1,667 ft.).
• Day 3 - Fly to Skardu, transfer to Skardu hotel.
• Day 4 - Skardu sightseeing. Hotel. (2,230 metres / 7,316 feet)
• Day 5 - Skardu - Briefing at Department of Tourism. Final preparations. Hotel.
• Day 6 - Drive by Jeep to Askole, a lovely little farming village. Camp. (3,039 metres / 9,970 feet).
• Day 7 - Trek to Jhola. (3,170 metres / 10,400 feet). We enter Karakoram National Park and trek past a slope filled with garnets and cross a lovely bridge.
• Day 8 - Trek to Paiyu. (3,666 metres / 12,028 feet). Trek to this famous forest in the Baltoro Valley.
• Day 9 - Rest Day in Paiyu. On this day, porters will bake all of their bread for the upcoming trek.
• Day 10 - Trek to Khuburtse. (3,800 metres / 12,467 feet). a fabulous campsite near a lake on the edge of the Baltoro Glacier.
• Day 11 - Trek to Urdukas. (3,950 metres / 12,959 feet). Camp amongst grass and lovely giant boulders, with amazing views of the Great Trango Towers.
• Day 12 - Goro II. (4,300 metres / 14,108 feet). Camp on the flat stones on the surface of the Baltoro Glacier with lovely views of the mightiest peaks all around, like Masherbrum, Cathedral, etcetera.
• Day 13 - Concordia. (4,550 metres / 14,928 feet). Concordia must be the most famous campsite in all the Karkakoram. Incredible views of K2, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum 4, and many more.
• Day 14 - Walk to Broad Peak base camp (4,850 metres / 15,908 ft.) and camp on the Godwin Austen Glacier.
• Day 15 - Walk up to K2 base camp and visit the Gilkey Memorial. Return to Concordia.
• Day 16 - Follow the Upper Baltoro Glacier to Ali Camp (4,800 metres/15,748 ft.)
• Day 17 - Cross the Gondogoro La (5,585 metres / 18,323 ft.). Descend to Huisprung (4,600 metres / 15,088 ft.). Camp near a lovely lake.
• Day 18 - Trek down the Gondogoro Valley to Saitcho (3,350 metres / 10,991 ft.)
• Day 19 - Last day of trekking to Hushe Village (3,050 metres / 10,0007ft.). Drive beside the Hushe River and follow the Shyock and Indus rivers to Skardu (2,230 metres / 7,316 ft.).
• Day 20 - De-briefing at Tourism Department. Showers, laundry, shopping. Hotel
• Day 21 - Islamabad / Chilas. Hotel
• Day 22 - Final paperwork, shopping, farewell dinner in Islamabad. Hotel
• Day 23 - Fly Home.
• Day 24 - Reserve day in case of weather.
• Day 25 - Reserve day in case of weather.
• Cotton t-shirt
• Cotton long sleeved shirt;
• Polypropylene light weight thermal long sleeved shirt
• Fleece jacket
• Wind/waterproof jacket with hood
• Umbrella (optional)
• Pair of light weight liner gloves
• Pair of medium to heavy weight waterproof/windproof gloves
• Head scarf or buff
• Fleece balaclava or very warm hat
• Head torch with extra batteries
• 2-3 pair cotton underwear briefs
• Walking shorts
• Long trousers
• Polypropylene light weight thermal leggings
• Fleece/pile trousers
• Wind/waterproof trousers
• 2 pair cotton socks
• Sandals for use in hotel
• 2 pair medium weightwool socks
• Sturdy, leather trekking boots with good ankle support (broken-in please)
• Lightweight running shoes/trainers for trekking on flat, easy trails
• Sleeping bag rated to -18 C or 0 F
• At least 1 closed cell foam kari-mats and/or in high quality inflatable sleeping pad (optional). Most of the tea houses we stay in have nice soft mattresses to sleep on.

Rucksack and Travel Bags

• Medium backpack (40-60 liters, can be used for carry on luggage)
• Waterproof rucksack cover (optional);
• Large expedition duffle bag with lock (100+ liters for checked bag)

Personal Hygiene

• Tooth brush and tooth paste
• Bar of soap
• 1 small towel
• Female or male hygiene supplies
• Hand sanitiser
• Disposable gloves
• Disinfectant wipes
• Bottle of water-treatment tablets
• 2 tubes lip sun cream (minimum 15 SPF)
• 1 tube skin sun cream (minimum 30 SPF)
• Anti-mosquito cream
• Blister repair kit
• Bottle anti-diarrhea pills
• Bottle anti-headache pills
• Bottle cough and/or cold medicine
• Bottle anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox, Acetylzolamide

Personal Food

• Snack / daily cold energy food: 2 kilos/4.4 pounds, is a good amount.
• Small roll of repair tape
• Sewing repair kit
• Cigarette lighter, 1 small box matches
• Compass or GPS
• Battery powered alarm clock/watch
• Camera with extra cards and extra batteries
• Nylon stuff sacks for food and gear storage
• Two 1 litre water bottles
• Plastic cup and spoon
• Small folding knife
• Binoculars (optional)
• 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks
• Passport, 2 extra passport photos, flight ticket, flight itinerary
• Separate photocopies of passport, relevant visa pages, and proof of insurance
• Dollars, pounds or euros cash
• Bank/ATM/Cash and credit cards
• Bathing suit/swimming costume (you never know)
• Paperback books, playing cards, iPod/mp3 player, musical instruments, ear plugs, lots of batteries, etc.
• Travel clothes for basecamp and in town
• Light weight mountaineering ice axe with wrist leash
• Crampons (must fit boots perfectly)
• 2 Safety Slings (each 1 metre of 6 mm UIAA rated accessory cord)
• 1 Large Locking Carabiner
• 1 Normal Size Locking Carabiner
• 1 Standard Size Non-Locking Carabiner
• 1 Figure 8 Belay Device

We provide a plethora of top-quality, and time-tested equipment, group gear, and supplies, including: trekking tents; cookers, fuel, etcetera.

Prayer flags

Glacial pool

Urdukas Camp

Askole school

River crossing

Kachura Lake

Buddha Rock

Please fill out an application and return it to us with your refundable ten-percent deposit to hold your place on the team.

• K2 Trekking for World Team Members (UK Office) :  PDF Form  or  MS Word Doc
• K2 Trekking for US Team Members (US Office) :   PDF Form  or  MS Word Doc

In addition to your application, we will need the following at least two months before the trip begins:   

• Completed Payment
• Oxygen order (if any)
• Sherpa order (if any)
• Trip Registration form
• 1 Passport sized photo
• A scan of your passport identification pages
• Complete flight itinerary
• Proof of travel, accident, and repatriation insurance. We strongly recommend Global Rescue, with at least $50,000 worth of helicopter rescue insurance.
• Trip cancellation/interruption insurance is recommended

Please contact us with any questions you may have.

Comment from Lee: It was a great trip and beautiful. There were 5 trekkers. The leaders, guides, and the other staff were available to help the trekkers. This was very nice because often the trekkers needed help. Some people might consider this to be labor intensive, having to watch over people. Your team did it well. Thanks Again, - Lee

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K2 base camp trek

• 1.1 When to go
• 1.2 Permits
• 1.3 Personal
• 1.4 Sleeping
• 1.7 Tourist information
• 3 Itinerary
• 5 Stay safe

K2 base camp trek is a multi-day hike generally based from Skardu , Pakistan . It takes about 10 to 16 days and involves a distance of about 180 km return. The hike occurs within the Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP).

K2, at 8,611 m (28,251 ft) above sea level, is the second-highest mountain on Earth, only about 250 m less than Mount Everest . Mountaineers consider it a more difficult and dangerous climb than Everest, partly because it is considerably farther north so poor weather is more common.

For general information on the mountains of the region, see Himalayas . K2 is in the Karakoram range, not in the Himalaya proper.

Understand [ edit ]

When to go [ edit ].

The best time to hike is July and August, though the trail can be done as early as June to as late as September; otherwise winter conditions will be present. The Mountain Rescue Support Team is only available for Gondogoro La until around August 27th.

Permits [ edit ]

A special trekking visa is required to do the hike. Acquiring this visa takes about 4 weeks, requires a letter from one of 216 approved trekking companies , and the process can be started 6 months before your arrival in Pakistan. Visas are than good for 3 months from your arrival.

To enter the CKNP a fee of US$150 is required as of 2023. This is paid on your behalf by the trekking tour company.

Personal [ edit ]

The hike cannot be done independently as the government requires foreigners to be accompanied by an approved guide.

Whether a person uses porters is an individual choice. However; the required guide, will generally require at least one porter. Most groups have thus have 2 to 10 local staff per foreign trekker (staff may include guides, porters, cooks, and horse people). Many groups also travel with a team of horses.

A "No Objection Certificate" was required; however, this requirement was withdrawn in 2017 .

Sleeping [ edit ]

After leaving Skardu, camping becomes the primary or only option; with only small very basic hostels at Askole and Hushe.

Gear [ edit ]

With respect to glacier gear, if one is to cross Gondogoro La, crampons, climbing harness, and a carbineer are generally recommended. There are fixed ropes for certain sections during July and August and thus bringing ones own ropes is only required outside this season. In 2023 the fixed ropes were removed August 28th.

As of 2023 cost for using the ropes is 28,000 Rs for up to 2 people, 38,000 for 3 to 4 people. Over 4 people each additional person is 9,000 Rs.

Cost [ edit ]

Doing this trek is fairly expensive. Getting the appropriate visa can require paying around $900 US for the letter of invitation from a government approved company (this price includes the $150 CKNP fee). Next you will need to hire a guide, a porter for the guide, food for the two of them, and pay for jeep transport to and from the start which costs about $1,100. The jeep transport itself is about 25,000 rupees (just under $100) while porter wages are about US$144 for the trip.

For two hikers travelling with minimal support and with all their own gear and food the cost runs around $3,000 making this one of the more expensive countries in the world in which to trek.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• CKNP parks official website

Get in [ edit ]

There are generally daily direct flights from Islamabad to Skardu with Pakistan International Airlines that take about an hour of flight time. There are also flight to Skardu from Karachi . Flights, however, only operate when the weather is favorable.

Skardu is on the Karakoram Highway so it is also possible to reach it by car or bus. The bus from Islamabad can take up to 36 hours. A stopover in Gilgit breaks up that journey and allows for acclimatisation to the altitude; Gilgit is around 1500 m, Skardu over 2000, and the actual trek higher. Flying in to Gilgit then taking a bus to Skardu is also an alternative.

Itinerary [ edit ]

Camp sites occur at:

• Askole (3,050m)
• Korophong: No toilets. Limited facilities.
• 35.696082 75.974499 1 Jhola (3,200m) Also known as Jola, facilities include toilets and water for washing
• Paiju (3,450m) facilities include toilets, water for washing, and garbage cans. A coke goes for the exceedingly expensive price of 1,500 rupees (maybe less with bargaining)
• Khoburtse few facilities
• 35.7045 76.31035 2 Urdukas (3,990m) facilities include toilets, water for washing, and garbage cans
• Gore 2 (4,380m)
• Broad peak basecamp (4800m). Very few facilities.
• 35.834545 76.509271 4 K2 base camp (5,000m). Very few facilities.

After this are high camps used by those attempting to summit 35.881111 76.513333 1 K2 :

• Advanced base camp (5,250m)
• Camp 1 (6,000m)
• Camp 2 (6,650m)
• Camp 3 (7,300m)

From Concordia camping spots include:

• Ali camp (5,000m)
• Hushe (3,048m)

The drive from Hushe back to Skardu takes about 6 hours.

Map [ edit ]

A map of the route with campsites marked.

Stay safe [ edit ]

It is estimated that around 25% of foreigners need rescue either by horse or by helicopter due to sickness or injury. Rescue by horse costs about $300 to 600 US depending on your bargaining skills. Helicopter rescue is via the Pakistani military, the only option, at a cost of $13,000 to 15,000. It is often a good idea to include pack horses when planning your trip so that you are covered if something goes wrong.

The greatest risk is probably infectious diarrhea , with most foreigners getting at least somewhat sick. Sanitation is basically non-existent on much of the route. While toilets are available at certain camps, open defecation is still very common. On the glacier water is collected from the contaminated run off and when insufficiently boiled causes sickness in those without tolerance. Typical symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, and weakness which may last a few days. The vaccine Dukoral may help prevent some cases. After onset, the antibiotic azithromycin 500 mg once per day until better or at most 3 days may help. Antibiotics can be easily and inexpensively purchased in Skardu. Remember to bring sufficient baby wipes, much stronger than toilet paper, just in case.

Altitude sickness is also a risk; Askole is above 3000m, base camp is about 5000 m and Gondogoro Pass is around 5500 m. Allow time in your schedule to acclimatize with the goal of at most 400 m elevation gain per day.

Even the trek to the base camp requires good health, good boots and clothing, and considerable effort. The trail is rough, narrow, and unstable in places. There are also sections with significant overhead hazards such that crossing during heavy rains may be unsafe. Going over Gondogoro Pass requires greater efforts and equipment, as mentioned above. Both require decent weather and should not be attempted in winter.

Actually trying to climb K2 is extremely difficult and dangerous, more so than Everest. Only expert mountaineers with good guides and equipment should even consider it. Wikipedia says that, as of 2021, 377 people had reached the summit and 91 had died attempting it.

See also [ edit ]

• Mountaineering
• Trekking in Nepal

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• Has map markers
• Marker with Wikivoyage article but no wikilink
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K2 Base Camp Trek

A circular route

A trek to K2 base camp in Pak­istan’s Karako­ram Range, apt­ly called the Throne Room of the Moun­tain Gods, is in the world’s most spec­tac­u­lar moun­tain region. The fabled expe­di­tion and walk­ing route up the Bal­toro Glac­i­er to K2 offers tru­ly one of the world’s great­est treks, and jus­ti­fi­ably so. Sur­round­ed by six peaks over 25,919 feet / 7,900 meters and crowned by the mas­sif of K2, this is with­out ques­tion one of the most mag­nif­i­cent places on the plan­et. The list of peaks along the way is exten­sive and each holds a sig­nif­i­cant place in climb­ing his­to­ry. Muz­tagh Tow­er, Gasher­brum IV, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Tran­go Tow­ers, Uli Bia­ho, Paiyu Peak, Broad Peak and K2 form a gallery of the most beau­ti­ful, and most dan­ger­ous places on earth. 

With the cir­cu­lar trek that includes going over the pass and descend­ing into the beau­ti­ful Hushe Val­ley before return­ing to the trek’s start­ing point at Skar­du, you’ll enjoy one the most incred­i­ble treks on the plan­et, the friend­ly peo­ple of the Karako­ram, and the intrigu­ing cul­ture of Pak­istan — a true jour­ney for the soul, mind, and body.

Want to make sure you are ready for this dif­fi­cult trek- check out Peru’s Ulti­mate Blan­ca Trek and Climb for the per­fect train­ing trip and an incred­i­ble jour­ney on its own.

If you’re not a spir­i­tu­al per­son, this place might just change that for you. Just being here will prompt you to rede­fine our plan­et and our place in the cos­mos — it’s just that pow­er­ful! And like the Ever­est region, you will be walk­ing where moun­taineer­ing leg­ends test their lim­its, some suc­cess­ful­ly and oth­ers falling to the over­whelm­ing pow­er of the place per­ish­ing in huge Karako­ram storms, being buried in avalanch­es that con­stant­ly roar off the high slopes, and oth­ers suc­cumb­ing to the thin air. This is the great­est range in world on so many levels.

Description

Start­ing in the vil­lage of Askole, where the stark land­scape is coun­tered by the lush and bril­liant greens of orchards and fields in the val­ley floor, you fol­low a route tak­en by some of the great­est climbers in his­to­ry into the heart of the Karako­ram Range. As you ascend into the moun­tains, the Bal­toro becomes the path lead­ing to Con­cor­dia, the junc­tion of the Bal­toro and God­win-Austen Glaciers. 

This trek adds an extra dimen­sion by adding a cross­ing of 18,537 foot / 5650 meter Gon­do­goro Pass, mak­ing it pos­si­ble to return via the beau­ti­ful Hushe Val­ley. With a lit­tle weath­er luck, the view from the Pass is sub­lime and only equaled by the view at Con­cor­dia. From no oth­er place on earth can you see such incred­i­ble views of K2 (28,2868 ft / 8616 m) the sec­ond high­est peak in the world, and the world’s most beau­ti­ful high pyra­mid, Broad Peak (26,404 / 8048 m), Gasher­brum I to 6, Gold­en Throne (23,753 / 7240 m), Chogolisa (25,148 ft / 7665 m), and the entire upper Bal­toro Mas­sif. The K2 cir­cu­lar trek requires a good degree of phys­i­cal fit­ness, and the vari­able weath­er con­di­tions can make the cross­ing of Gon­do­goro Pass quite chal­leng­ing, but very rewarding.

For this trek, a Pak­istan Trekking Visa will need to be obtained pri­or to the depar­ture. Although this is a rel­a­tive­ly sim­ple process that can typ­i­cal­ly be done online, it will take some time to final­ize (typ­i­cal­ly 4 work­ing weeks). The required doc­u­ments are list­ed below.

• Pho­to­graph
• Trekking Appli­ca­tion Form
• Spon­sor letter/​Agreement with des­ig­nat­ed tour oper­a­tor by Depart­ment of Tourist Ser­vices (pro­vid­ed by Moun­tain Madness)
• List of any mem­bers who are accom­pa­ny­ing the appli­cant dur­ing the trek

A more detailed descrip­tion of this process will be pro­vid­ed with the trip wel­come pack­et. If you do need addi­tion­al help going through the appli­ca­tion process, feel free to give us a call at 800−328−5925.

Iqra Fund school supplies

We are pleased to be work­ing with the Iqra Fund to deliv­er school sup­plies to schools in the Karako­ram region. Trekkers are able to con­tribute sup­plies while on their trip and vis­it the schools in the region. The Iqra Fund is a U.S. based non­prof­it orga­ni­za­tion com­mit­ted to serv­ing girls in remote regions faced with eco­nom­ic, social, and polit­i­cal bar­ri­ers to education.

For more details email Mark at markg@​mountainmadness.​com

Have a Question? Contact Us!

• (800) 328-5925
• [email protected]

$9,100 – 25 Days / Includes trav­el time

5 Person Minimum

Sin­gle Sup­ple­ment (I want my own room) – $550

Price Includes

• Visa sup­port letter
• Liai­son officer
• Trekking fee $50 per per­son, CKNP fee $50 per per­son and per­mit process.
• Airport/​hotel trans­fers in AC coach
• Hotel accom­mo­da­tion and three meals at Hill View Hotel in Islam­abad, Con­cor­dia Hotel at Skar­du and Shangri-La Indus View in Chi­las (in case of road jour­ney due to flight cancellation.)
• Domes­tic air­fare for ISB/KDU/ISB in econ­o­my class at US$270 per per­son (sub­ject to change with­out advance notice by the air­line). Sur­face trans­fers in case of flight can­cel­la­tion for Islamabad/​Skardu/​Islamabad against the air­fare as per fol­low­ing detail.
• Road trans­fers in 4WD jeeps to the start/​from the end of the trek
• All meals dur­ing trek.
• Tents, mat­tress­es, kitchen tent, toi­let tent, mess tent with tables/​chairs and camp­ing fees.
• Kitchen equip­ment, crock­ery, fuel and relat­ed camp­ing gear.
• Ser­vices of Eng­lish-speak­ing guide, cook, assis­tant cook, porters sir­dar and low alti­tude porters.
• 33 lb / 15 kg of per­son­al bag­gage dur­ing trek.
• Wages of guide, cook, assis­tant (s), sir­dar and porters as per gov­ern­ment guidelines
• Food and fuel for crew and porters accord­ing to the govt. guidelines
• Equip­ment for crew and porters as per gov­ern­ment guidelines
• Insur­ance cov­er­age of field staff and porters in case of death/​serious injury
• (insur­ance poli­cies in Pak­istan does not include heli­copter evac­u­a­tion for local crew)
• Porter­age at air­port and hotels, toll tax­es and park­ing fee etc.
• Gon­do­goro La cross­ing fee to the local res­cue team.
• Coor­di­na­tion for land/​helicopter evac­u­a­tion in case of emer­gency (cost not included)

Price Does Not Include

• Inter­na­tion­al air­fare and air­port tax. Excess weight on domes­tic flights/​during the trek
• Extra nights in Kath­man­du above the stan­dard itin­er­ary (see inclu­sions above)
• Extras at hotels, drinks, laun­dry and per­son­al phone bills
• Insur­ance lia­bil­i­ty and oth­er under Force Majeure con­di­tions, med­ical aid, and heli­copter res­cue cov­er­age, etc.
• Expens­es relat­ed to self- change of plan or ear­ly depar­ture of trekking members
• Per­son­al clothing/​equipment
• Any oth­er ser­vices not men­tioned above
• Gra­tu­ities (cus­tom­ary, but not manda­to­ry in Pak­istan for local staff, porters and drivers)

Payment Schedule

• $700 deposit at time of reg­is­tra­tion, which includes a $300 non-refund­able reg­is­tra­tion fee
• Bal­ance due 120 days pri­or to departure
• The bal­ance may be paid by check, wire trans­fer, ACH or cred­it card with a 3% con­ve­nience fee

K2 Base Camp Trek 2024

• Jun 12, 2024 — Jul 6, 2024

Cancellation / Refund Policy

• MMI strong­ly rec­om­mends trip cancellation/​interruption and evac­u­a­tion insur­ance for all trips. Our insur­ance part­ner, Rip­cord , offers com­pre­hen­sive trav­el insur­ance includ­ing trip can­cel­la­tion, as well as rescue/​evacuation poli­cies and can assist in answer­ing any ques­tions. In addi­tion, Par­tic­i­pant is expect­ed to have suf­fi­cient med­ical insur­ance as pre­scribed by their coun­try of ori­gin. Par­tic­i­pant under­stands that MMI does not include any type of insur­ance with the cost of the trip.
• If you decide to can­cel your trip or change your itin­er­ary, MMI must be noti­fied in writ­ing. Your trip will be can­celled from the date writ­ten notice is received. If prop­er writ­ten can­cel­la­tion notice is not received, amounts paid and reser­va­tions made will be forfeited. 
• Non-refund­able fees may apply for cer­tain trips in order to secure per­mits and oth­er ser­vices. MMI must strict­ly adhere to can­cel­la­tion poli­cies out­side MMI’s control. 
• Due to the per­son­al­ized ser­vice we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accom­mo­date changes and can­cel­la­tions, waiv­ing cer­tain fees when feasible.
• Cir­cum­stances out­side the con­trol of MMI and its part­ners, may require amend­ed cancellation/​refund poli­cies. Such cir­cum­stances may include, but are not lim­it­ed to COVID-19, nat­ur­al dis­as­ters, wild­fires, ter­ror­ism and so forth.

Inter­na­tion­al Trips/​Courses:

• Full refund, less the non-refund­able reg­is­tra­tion fee, will be pro­vid­ed 121 days or more before the depar­ture date
• No refunds will be pro­vid­ed 120 days or less before the depar­ture date

Trip Insurance

We strong­ly rec­om­mend the pur­chase of trav­el can­cel­la­tion insur­ance to pro­tect you from the unex­pect­ed. You aren’t like­ly to think of it now, but peo­ple do get ill, break a bone, have a fam­i­ly emer­gency or get assigned to a last-minute busi­ness trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emer­gency res­cue & evac­u­a­tion can be very expen­sive.

We also strong­ly urge you to con­sid­er res­cue and evac­u­a­tion insur­ance if your own pol­i­cy does not pro­vide the cov­er­age need­ed. Ser­vices avail­able may include, but are not lim­it­ed to, heli­copter evac­u­a­tion, med­ical care, etc.

If you choose not to pur­chase insur­ance, you assume full respon­si­bil­i­ty for any expens­es incurred in the event of a med­ical emer­gency and/​or evac­u­a­tion, as well as for trip can­cel­la­tion, inter­rup­tion, lost lug­gage, etc. We are not the experts and there­fore ask that you please con­sult our trav­el insur­ance part­ner direct­ly with any spe­cif­ic questions.

To pro­tect against loss­es due to ill­ness, acci­dent, or oth­er unfore­seen cir­cum­stances, Moun­tain Mad­ness strong­ly rec­om­mends the pur­chase of trav­el insur­ance as soon as pos­si­ble after mak­ing a deposit. Moun­tain Mad­ness has part­nered with Red­point Res­o­lu­tions as our pre­ferred trav­el insur­ance provider. Redpoint’s Rip­cord Res­cue Trav­el Insur­ance™ is designed for adventurers. 

For a quote, or to pur­chase trav­el insur­ance, please click this link Rip­cord Res­cue Trav­el Insur­ance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pric­ing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and lev­el of coverage.

Crit­i­cal ben­e­fits of Rip­cord Res­cue Trav­el Insur­ance include:

• A com­plete­ly inte­grat­ed pro­gram with a sin­gle point of con­tact for emer­gency ser­vices, trav­el assis­tance, and insur­ance claims
• Evac­u­a­tion and res­cue ser­vices from your point of injury or ill­ness to your hos­pi­tal of choice
• Com­pre­hen­sive trav­el insur­ance for trip cancellation/​interruption, pri­ma­ry med­ical expense cov­er­age, bag­gage loss or delay, emer­gency acci­dent and emer­gency sick­ness med­ical expense, emer­gency den­tal, acci­den­tal death and dis­mem­ber­ment, and more
• Option­al secu­ri­ty evac­u­a­tion cov­er­age in case of an unplanned nat­ur­al dis­as­ter or oth­er secu­ri­ty events
• Waiv­er for pre-exist­ing con­di­tions (must be pur­chased with­in 14 days of tour deposit)
• Option­al ​ “ Can­cel for Any Rea­son” cov­er­age (must be pur­chased with­in 14 days of tour deposit)

Flight Information

The total num­ber of days for your trip includes all trav­el to and from your des­ti­na­tion, with some excep­tions. Dates list­ed on the web­site start with your depar­ture date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip you will need to arrive in Islam­abad, Pak­istan on Day 3 of the itin­er­ary. You will cross the date line in mid-flight to Asia, thus los­ing a day. If you are trav­el­ing from out­side the U.S. your itin­er­ary may require less time to reach Islam­abad, so all that is required is that you arrive on Day 3 of the itin­er­ary, where Moun­tain Mad­ness ser­vices begin. If you arrive ear­ly, we can assist with extra hotel arrange­ments and activ­i­ties. Oth­er­wise, you can arrive at any time on Day 3. You will be met at the air­port by a Moun­tain Mad­ness rep­re­sen­ta­tive and trans­ferred to your hotel. 

Your return flight home should be sched­uled for the sec­ond to last day of the itinerary.

Please con­tact our office for any help need­ed with your flight schedule.

K2 Base Camp Trek Day by Day

Trav­el to Pak­istan takes sev­er­al days com­ing from the US In order to pro­vide you with the exact num­ber of days need­ed for this excur­sion, we have includ­ed trav­el time in the itin­er­ary. You will depart from the US on Day 1 and, by cross­ing the inter­na­tion­al date line, arrive in Islam­abad on Day 3, where Moun­tain Mad­ness ser­vices begin. If you are trav­el­ling from some­where oth­er than the US, trav­el time may vary, how­ev­er Moun­tain Mad­ness ser­vices still begin on Day 3.

Arrive Islam­abad. Trans­fer to hotel for overnight.

Skar­du / Chilas

a) Fly to Skar­du (flight is sub­ject to weath­er). Upon arrival trans­fer to hotel for overnight.

b) In case of can­cel­la­tion of flight, dri­ve by coach to Chi­las (300 miles / 480 km) on the Karako­ram High­way. Overnight at hotel.

a) Free day at Skar­du. Wel­come recep­tion and brief­ing with the Tourism Depart­ment of Gilgit Baltistan.

b) If you are dri­ving, com­plete the road jour­ney from Chi­las to Skar­du (10 – 12 hrs) (170 miles / 275 km) The route has a good view of Nan­ga Par­bat 26,657 ft / (8125 m) along the way.

Ele­va­tion: 9,843 ft / 3000 m

Dri­ve to Askole by jeep (7 — 8 hours). The last vil­lage with about 50 hous­es. The vil­lagers grow their own grain, veg­eta­bles and fruit and own large herds of sheep, goats, yaks and dzos. Overnight in tent.

Ele­va­tion: 10,500 ft / 3200 m

Start on a rel­a­tive­ly easy trail (3 — 4 hrs). After a lunch break con­tin­ue toward Paiyu for anoth­er 2 — 3 hours. The trail climbs to a van­tage point pro­vid­ing a view of the snout of Bal­toro glac­i­er. In the far dis­tance is a mag­nif­i­cent panora­ma of Cathe­dral Tow­ers and the tri­an­gle of K2 to the left for the first time. Paiyu camp­site. Overnight in tent.

Ele­va­tion: 11,811 ft / 3600 m

Today we’ll rest and accli­ma­tize for the remain­der of our trek. We’ll like­ly stretch our legs with a short local hike to aid in the acclimatization. 

Ele­va­tion: 13,123 ft / 4000 m

Grad­ual climb up Bal­toro Glac­i­er along the south­ern edge. After about two hours, the path divides at the snout of Bal­toro glac­i­er where the left branch goes to the BC of Tran­go Tow­er and the Sar­po Lago pass. Con­tin­ue to the right, climb­ing up on the glac­i­er that stretch­es up the val­ley 39 miles / 62 km with a width of 1.2 miles / 2 km. Anoth­er steady 2 — 3 hour climb on a long diag­o­nal to the oth­er side. Fol­low the south­ern edge to Lili­wa and onward to Khuburtze for about 90 min­utes to the camp­site. Overnight in tent.

Ele­va­tion: 13,780 ft / 4200 m

A 3‑hour walk most­ly along the crest of a lat­er­al moraine with stun­ning views of Paiyu Peak, Chorichi, Uli Bia­ho, Tran­go Tow­ers, etc. Urdukas is a spec­tac­u­lar camp­site. The fol­low­ing day we’ll enjoy a rest/​acclimatization day. Overnight in tent.

Ele­va­tion: 14,764 ft / 4500 m

Today’s 3 — 4‑hour walk is across dif­fi­cult side crevass­es, how­ev­er the way is smoother and eas­i­er in the cen­ter. Con­tin­ue to Goro‑I oppo­site of Yer­ma­nen­do Glac­i­er cas­cad­ing down from Masher­brum pass. For the next 2 — 3 hours con­tin­ue east up the Bal­toro glac­i­er. Goro-II camp­site is pitched on the rough stones and ice in the cen­ter of the Bal­toro glac­i­er with water from the glac­i­er melt. Day 12 is built into the itin­er­ary as a con­tin­gency day to be used as/​if need­ed. Overnight in tent. 

Con­cor­dia

Ele­va­tion: 15,420 ft / 4700 m

A 5 — 6 hour slight­ly easy walk, with spec­tac­u­lar views and gigan­tic moun­tain panora­mas, includ­ing Muz­tagh Tow­er, Gasher­brum IV, Mitre Peak and the mighty K2. Camp at Con­cor­dia named by Mar­tin Con­way after the place De La Con­cor­dia in Paris. Overnight in tent.

Concordia/​Optional K2 Base Camp Visit

Ele­va­tion: 15,420 / 4700 m

Two days free for local explo­rations and an option­al excur­sion to K2 base camp. Overnight in tent.

Vigne Glac­i­er / Ali Camp

Ele­va­tion: 16,732 ft / 5100 m

A 5 — 6 hour walk on Vigne Glac­i­er, with superb views of Chogolisa, and Mitre Peak. A rare moun­tain panora­ma and camp just below pass. 

Gon­do­goro La / Khuspang

Ele­va­tion: 18,537 ft / 5650 m 

Ele­va­tion: 15,354 ft / 4680 m

Start very ear­ly in the morn­ing for the stren­u­ous and steep 8 — 10-hour day. Ascend to Gon­do­goro La high pass (18,537 ft / 5650 m), descend to Khus­pang high camp (15,354 ft / 4680 m) on the oth­er side. Overnight in tent.

Khus­pang / Shaieshcho

Ele­va­tion: 8,530 ft / 3600 m

A 2 — 3‑hour easy descent on the glac­i­er to the beau­ti­ful camp­site of Dalzam­pa (14,108 ft / 4300 m) ​ “ field of flow­ers”. A climb to the lat­er­al moraine pro­vides spec­tac­u­lar views of the glac­i­er and jagged spires. Anoth­er 3‑hour walk on the lat­er­al moraine through wild ros­es, goose­ber­ry cedar and Tamarisk bush­es. The Chark­sa val­ley joins the Gon­do­goro at Shaiesh­cho and the route leads toward the base camp of K6 and K7. Overnight in tent.

Ele­va­tion: 10,827 ft / 3300 m

The last day of the trek fol­lows the east bank of Hushe Riv­er for 3 — 4 hours on an easy path through a field and camp out­side the vil­lage of Hushe. Overnight in lodge.

Ele­va­tion: 7,677 ft / 2340 m

Take a jeep back to Skar­du via Khap­lu 5 — 6 hours. The sec­ond largest king­dom in old Baltistan guard­ing the trade route to Ladakh along the Shyok Riv­er. Overnight at hotel.

Farewell meet­ing and debrief­ing at the Tourism Depart­ment of Gilgit Baltistan. Overnight at hotel.

Islam­abad / Chilas

a) Fly to Islam­abad. (Sub­ject to weath­er). Upon arrival trans­fer to hotel.

b) In case of flight can­cel­la­tion, dri­ve to Chi­las. Overnight at hotel.

a) Leisure day in Islamabad

b) In case of dri­ving, com­plete the road jour­ney from Chi­las to Islam­abad. Overnight at hotel.

Depart Islam­abad and fly home on Day 26. Arrive home on Day 26 or 27 depend­ing your flight route and destination .

Note on Itin­er­ary: Although we do our very best to fol­low the sched­ule list­ed, this itin­er­ary is sub­ject to change due to inclement weath­er, unsafe route con­di­tions, or oth­er rea­sons beyond our con­trol and in the guide’s best judgement.

Equipment for K2 Base Camp Trek

Carrying gear, day pack (30-45l).

With padded shoulder straps and waist belt; used for carrying personal gear such as water bottle, extra clothing, snacks, camera, etc. Individual loads will be between 10 and 20 pounds. A pack with a volume between 1800-2500 cu. in. (30-45 liters) serves most people’s needs well

Osprey Stratos

Waterproof cover

Large duffel bag (100L capacity)

Your mountain gear will be kept in it and the entire duffel will go into the group mountain bag that will be carried by the porters. Limit loads to items on the equipment list. Your large duffel cannot exceed 20 kgs (44lbs) Approximate size: 28”x16”x16” No wheels or hard sides, please

Patagonia Black Hole

Small duffel bag

Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip

Small padlock for duffel bags

Extra security

Baggage tags

Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels

Large Duffel (90-125L)

made from water proof nylon

Sleeping Gear

Expedition quality sleeping bag (0f).

Zero-degree F (Minus eighteen-degree C) sleeping bag and stuff sack . Night-time temperatures can be as low as 0°F (-18°C) so bring a warm enough bag

Marmot Never Summer, Feathered Friends Snow Bunting

Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)

A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental pad is recommended. This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir & Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol

Sleeping pad (foam)

A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental sleeping pad is advised for warmth and comfort. Closed cell foam 3/4 or full length. This pad is used in conjunction with the first pad

Therm-a-rest Ridgerest

Climbing Gear

Adjustable trekking poles.

Three piece poles recommended

Black Diamond Trail Back Pole

Aluminum Crampons

lightweight aluminum crampons

Ascender (single)

One full-sized ascender with handle for fixed lines (left handed for right handed climbers, or vice-versa)

Petzl Ascension

Locking carabiners (3)

Three large, pear-shaped carabiners are best

Black Diamond Rock Lock, Petzl William, Petzl Attache

Alpine climbing harness

Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing

Black Diamond Couloir, Petzl Altitude, Petzl Hirundos

Climbing helmet

Lightweight

Black Diamond Half Dome, Petzl Elios

Mountaineering ice axe

under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm

Black Diamond Raven, Petzl Glacier

2 Double length nylon runners (48" or 120cm)

2 nylon runners. Be sure to get nylon not dyneema (18mm width)

Black Diamond Nylon Slings

Head and Face

Fleece or wool hat.

It must cover the ears

Shade hat or baseball cap

A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun

Mountain Madness trucker hat

Bandanas or neck gaiter

Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!

Mountain Madness neck gaiter

Sunglasses or Glacier glasses (w/hard case)

Essential eye protection whether in the tropics, at high altitudes or by the water. Sun glare off the snow can be intense so polarized 100% UVA/UVB glasses work best. Consider bringing a spare pair

Head Scarf for Women

cultural attire while in cities

Fleece gloves

Lightweight gloves to use while trekking and hanging around camp

Climbing gloves

A shell system of a fleece liner and waterproof shell that handles cold

Outdoor Research Arete

Leather work gloves

One pair lightweight to spare your climbing while doing camp chores

Thin socks (2 pair)

Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry

Smartwool or Cool Max

Thick socks (3 pair)

Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on

Smartwool or Thorlo

One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots

Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles

Hiking boots

One pair medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock

Salomon Quest 4D

Tennis shoes or sandals

Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking

Lightweight mountaineering boot

waterproof and crampon compatible

La Sportiva Trango Tower GTX, Scarpa Charmoz, Salewa Crow GTX

Synthetic t-shirts

Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!

Long-sleeved Base Layer

Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best

Patagonia Capilene

Sports bras

Two, synthetic, no cotton!

Softshell Jacket w/ hood

This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip

Outdoor Research Ferrosi

Hardshell jacket w/ hood

A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers

Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet

Down or synthetic jacket w/hood

This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.

Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody

This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun

Outdoor Research

Undergarments

Adequate supply for the entire trip

Hiking shorts

One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain

Long base layer

Two pairs light or mediumweight

Softshell pants

Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day

Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide

Hardshell pants

waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent

Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR

Miscellaneous

Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags.

To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)

Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip

Toilet paper

1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag

Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!

Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!

To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep

Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)

Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.

Water purification

Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.

Water flavoring

Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.

Bring extra batteries!

Pocket knife or multitool

Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!

Personal first aid and drug kit

small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin

Nausea medications

Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly

For wash up in camp

Handi-Wipes

A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene

Spare contacts and glasses

Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set

Umbrella (optional)

Protection from rain and sun; compact and light weight

Snacks (trek)

Trail snacks are important. Bring some power/energy/candy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra

A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone

Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women

It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night

Insect repellent

Personal electronics.

Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!

Electronics charging

If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition

Travel power adapter

Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs

Travel clothing

Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition

Small Solar Panel

for charging phones and accessories

25 Days / Includes trav­el time

Gon­do­goro La: 18,537 foot / 5650 meter

Cir­cu­lar Route: Askole / Bal­toro Glac­i­er / Hushe / Skardu

Sim­i­lar to lev­el four, but there will be days where both length of walk­ing and high­er ele­va­tions will be phys­i­cal­ly chal­leng­ing. Giv­en mul­ti­ple dif­fi­cult days on this lev­el of trek endurance is key and prepa­ra­tion should be more rigorous.

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K2 Basecamp Trek

• Reading List

K2 Basecamp Trek Overview

From K2 Trek 2023: On whole the trip was excellent and Eric and guide staff really gave everyone the best chance to enjoy and be successful on this trek ! Himalayan Trek : Overall, this was an experience beyond my expectations. In the past, I have found that an Alpine Ascents expedition, whether a climb or a trek, has been the envy of other groups – and this trek was no exception. Every aspect of the trek was first-rate. Eric is an exceptional guide.

Described by the legendary American mountaineer and photographer Galen Rowell, as the “Throne room of the mountain gods”, our K2 Trek takes us deep into the heart of the Karakorum range.

Long regarded by mountain climbers as one of the most spectacular regions in the world, our journey takes us thru wild and dramatic landscapes of granite towers, vast glaciers and giant 8000 meter peaks. This is an intrepid mountain trek in a largely undeveloped mountain region. Our adventure is greatly enhanced by the company of our good natured and hardworking Balti porters and Pakistani guide staff.

The K2 base camp trek is an intermediate level adventure from a physical s suited to experienced trekkers. Much of the journey involves walking on the Baltoro Glacier, over rugged terrain ( no experience needed) , for up to 9 hours each day. Accommodation during the trek will be in shared tents, using established camping sites along the way. We will descend the same route over 4 days of walking, before loading in the jeeps for the return drive to Skardu.

Our trip begins in the Northern Pakistan city of Islamabad and takes us through the heart of the rugged Karakorum mountain range bordering China. Islamabad is a vibrant, modern city and the administrative capital of Pakistan. K2 basecamp is located on the upper Baltoro Glacier, home to the 4 most concentrated 8000 meter peaks on earth. K2 (8611m), Broad Peak (8051m), Gasherbrum I (8080m), Gasherbrum II (8035m).

This region of Pakistan is known as Baltistan and is uniquely independent with shades of its old Tibetan roots. The Balti people are an ethnic group of Tibetan descent and most are practicing Muslims. Prior to the partition of British India in 1947, Baltistan was part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir in the Northern Indian subcontinent.

From a recent trek: “Overall experience exceeded all expectations. Eric is a master guide; knowledgeable, personable, great communicator, tremendous leadership; he has it all, in spades. He is a great communicator, thoughtful, well spoken and extraordinarily knowledgeable, with great judgment as he lead and guided people through this experience. I have done several trips like this with other companies. This was clearly the standout; While everything was great, you have a superstar in Eric Murphy. He never missed a thing, his attention to detail was perfect and his ability to advise, share information, coach and support people through the climb was terrific. Kudos to all at Alpine Ascents and Eric Murphy!!!”

From Islamabad ( our arrival city) we board a short, but spectacular flight to Skardu, with views to Nanga Parbat (8126m), the 9th highest mountain on earth. Skardu is located in the Baltistan valley alongside the Indus river. Here we can explore the Skardu Bazar and Khurpucho Fort, before loading into jeeps the next day for our 9 hour drive to Askoli village. Askoli village is known as the gateway to the K2 region. Here we begin our trek, following the Braldu River valley to the to the majestic Baltoro Glacier.

We follow the 62 kilometer long Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest outside of the polar regions. This rugged geography was first explored, surveyed and mapped in 1861 by Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen (1834-1923), an English Lieutenant –Colonel. Upon gaining the lower Baltoro glacier just above 4000m, we pass by some of the most iconic granite Spires in the world, the Trango Tower Group. Great Trango Tower, Uli Biaho, Nameless Tower, all above 6200m. These peaks hold some of the most difficult big wall rock climbs in the world.

Further afield the route crosses to the middle of the Baltoro Glacier and we enjoy views of the West face of Gasherbrum IV (7952m) and Masherbrum (7821m). The West face of Gasherbrum IV, also known as the “shining wall”, is regarded as one of the most difficult alpine climbs in the world. 1st ascended over 8 days in 1985 by Polish / Austrian alpinists Wojciech Kurtyka and Robert Schauer.

Now reaching the upper Baltoro Glacier at 4650m we arrive to Concordia, the confluence of the Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers. Here we are dead center in one of the largest glacier systems outside of the polar regions. The towering pyramid of K2 (8611m), the 2nd highest peak on earth, dominates the skyline to the North. The Abruzzi ridge climbing route is sillouetted on the right skyline. Turning to our right, looms the massive bulk of Broad Peak (8048m), 12th highest. We are truly in the throne room. We spend the next 2 days exploring the base camps of Broad Peak and K2, before beginning our descent back down the Baltoro Glacier and Braldu River valleys.

Approximate mileage on the trek is 126 miles, over 12 days, including 2 rest days. Elevation gain on the trek is approximately 6,300 feet (not including all the trail undulations) with the high point being 16,750 feet at K2 basecamp.

K2 Basecamp Trek Price

K2 basecamp trek schedule.

No Upcoming Departures. Check again soon.

CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY

K2 Basecamp Trek Prerequisites

The trip is very physically demanding but requires no technical experience. Porters and pack animals carry the majority of your gear. The trek is steep in parts but we generally travel unhurried. Pack weight is around 15 pounds.

This is a highly recommended shortlist and we would be happy to pass on a longer reading list for those interested. These links will bounce to Amazon.com with reviews.

The Gilgit Game

The Great Game: The Struggle for Empire in Central Asia

Nanga Parbat Pilgrimage

Nine Lives of Pakistan

Midnights Children

K2: Life and Death on the World's Most Dangerous Mountain

Savage Mountain

This is a great expedition and I look forward coming back again. Vern and Carole are awesome – very skilled and work well with the team both clients and local staff. They did a great job of sharing their skills, abilities, the culture and their experiences. I would sign up for another trip with them in a […]

ALPINE ASCENTS BLOG

First summer cascades conditions report of 2024 – 4/26/24.

Here we go! Our first Rainier Muir climbing team entered the field today marking the start of our season! Mt Rainier currently sits at around 80% of its snowpack with approximately 9′ of snow at Paradise.  April has been a mix of sunny weather and high pressure along with some stormy periods. The updated weather […]

Diabetes in the Wild

Submission By Morgan McGonagle I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 12 years old. As a very active and independent 12-year-old, this was not a convenient diagnosis. I wanted to be outside as much as possible at the time and was planning to attend a summer camp where I would be away […]

Training for Mountaineering Webinar with Steve House

Alpine Ascents International hosted Steve House, founder of Uphill Athlete and author of the training bible for mountaineers and trail runners, Training for the Uphill Athlete, for a free webinar on February 20th. Steve covered the training approach that he used in his own career as a professional climber which he now uses to help […]

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Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. This expertise is based upon years of accumulated experience-not just from individual mountain guides, but through experience on particular mountains where details are fine-tuned over time.

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K2 Base Camp Trek

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K2 Gondogoro La Trek: What you need to know

• 10 Reasons Why the K2 Base Camp Trek Should Be On Your Bucket List
• Everest Base Camp vs K2 Base Camp: Which is better?

How to Prepare for the K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 base camp trek packing list.

• K2 Base Camp Height: How to Manage the Altitude
• The Glaciers of Pakistan – An Overview
• Hunza Valley Culture: People Born in the Mountains
• All About Food in Pakistan
• A Poetic Narrative of our Journey Along the Snow Lake Trek in Pakistan
• How to Start Mountaineering: A Beginner’s Guide
• Hiking in Asian Patagonia: Kyrgyzstan’s Paradise Lost
• 10 Fascinating Kyrgyzstan Facts: Lenin Peak to Alcoholic Horse Milk
• Can Americans Visit Iran? A Complete Guide
• Fann Mountains Trekking in Tajikistan: 6 Things You Did Not Know
• Madeira Island: Epic’s First European Expedition!
• Travel to Iran: Photo Diaries of our Epic Journey
• Kyrgyzstan: The Celestial Mountains in Photos
• Snow Lake Trek 2022: Across the World’s Longest Glaciers

Join us for the K2 Base Camp Trek this summer! Only a few spots left…

At a Glance

DIFFICULTY: Strenuous

TOTAL TREK DISTANCE: 160 km

TOTAL TREKKING DAYS: 12-13 days

MAX ALTITUDE: 5650 meters

LODGING: mix of camping and hotels

GROUP SIZE: 12 people max

AGE LIMIT: 55 years old

• Upcoming Dates
• Packing List
• What's Included

K2 Base Camp Trek Overview

Located in the far reaches of the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan on the border of India and China, the Central Karakoram National Park is home to the world’s second-highest mountain and a mighty glacier system: K2 and the Baltoro .

And this is  exactly where we are headed.

The K2 Base Camp Trek combined with a crossing of the high-altitude mountain pass of Gondogoro La (5650 M) ticks all of the boxes when it comes to an incredible active adventure; traverse massive glaciers, meet internationally renowned climbers, see FOUR 8000-meter peaks, including the world’s second highest mountain (K2), and countless other 6000 and 7000-meter peaks, along the way gaining experience whilst testing yourself at altitude throughout the trek.

This journey will take you into the depths of beautiful Northern Pakistan by plane, jeep track, footpath, and snow-covered trail to allow you the chance of experiencing one of the last true adventure destinations on earth. 

Experience the jaw-dropping landscapes of the awe-inspiring Karakoram Range and the Baltoro Glacier of Pakistan in comfort as we hike amongst some of the planet’s tallest peaks on an expedition-style trek you won’t soon forget.

Why Choose the K2 Base Camp Trek?

• RAW NATURE : Central Karakoram National Park is home to some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes on earth, including the second largest glacier outside the polar regions: the Baltoro.
• EPIC TREKKING:  Challenge yourself in a world-class trekking environment. Come rain, sun, snow, and everything in between, it’ll be some of the best hiking of your life.
• COMFORT IN THE WILDERNESS: Make your way to K2 Base Camp in style. We provide quality, hearty meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), excellent group equipment, and professional staff who go above and beyond to make sure everyone is having an awesome time.
• CLIMBING HISTORY: The K2 region is steeped in alpine climbing lore. Learn about the fascinating history of mountaineering and climbing in the area.
• OFF THE BEATEN PATH ADVENTURE: K2 isn’t Everest, which is exactly why we love it. Escape the circus of Everest Base Camp and come discover why Pakistan is the best adventure destination in the world.
• SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GOOD PEOPLE: Our participants hail from all over the world and come from all walks of life, but at least they all have one thing in common: they love adventure and travel.  Make friends of a lifetime on a trip of a lifetime.

K2 Base Camp Trek Gallery

Upcoming Dates: 2024

*just released*: upcoming dates: 2025, have a question or ready to book.

Whether you’re just curious about this trip or are ready to make a deposit, we’re here for you.

To submit an inquiry or make a trip deposit, please fill out and submit the form below.

*If you are over our 55-year-old age limit but think you are up to the physical challenge of the K2 Base Camp Trek, please email us to book a call with our adventure consulting staff to see if you qualify for this adventure. 

Your K2 Base Camp Trek Trip Leaders

Chris Lininger

Since 2018, Chris has been to Pakistan 16 times (and counting). Every year he leads group trips to K2 Base Camp, the Everest region, and other destinations in Central Asia. He is the director, lead guide, and founder of Epic Expeditions .

Chris wanted to take the concept of an adventure holiday a step further by combining his passion for photography, trekking, and alpine environments into one-of-a-kind curated adventures for people who are as stoked on challenging high-altitude adventures as he is – thus this trip was born!

Chris deeply believes in the magic of Pakistan, the Karakoram Mountain range, and the local people who call this place home. 

Joao Freitas

A veteran of Pakistan travel, João was born in the mountains of Madeira Island in Portugal. Nature lover, writer, musician, and guide –  for him, a day without contact with outdoor vibes is a nightmare.

With a degree in Cultural Studies in Portugal and a Master of Arts in Global Cultures and Creativity in the U.K. João found out that what really matters in life can be found on the trails, and in contact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

When not guiding in Pakistan, João is guiding and exploring in the Madeira Islands trails – discovering some of the hidden treasures on his Portuguese Island.

Sohail Sahki

Sohail is one of the most experienced members of the  Expeditions  Tours team and we are beyond stoked to have him on board. As a veteran of the Karakoram and a native of Karimabad in the Hunza Valley, there is not much Sohail can’t do in the mountains. 

Besides having the ability to speak more languages than we can count, Sohail has explored every corner of Gilgit-Baltistan and logged more trekking miles in a year than most people will do in a lifetime.

As of the summer of 2022, Sohail has summited Gasherbrum 1, Gasherbrum 2, and K2 – three of Pakistan’s five 8000-meter peaks. Sohail guides several trips including our annual bespoke expeditions, but specializes in Hunza Valley and K2 Base Camp Trek expeditions. 

Highlights of the K2 Base Camp Trek

• Get up-close views of K2, Masherbrum, Gasherbrum 4, Broad Peak, Trango Towers, Laila Peak, and many more massive peaks!
• Walk on the massive Baltoro Glacier.
• Experience an expedition-style trek and walk at high elevation.
• Get to know Balti culture.
• Visit K2 Base Camp and the Art Gilkey Memorial.
• Sleep in comfortable tents under a blanket of stars.
• Eat delicious Pakistani food and be treated to filling meals while hiking.
• Learn about the history of mountaineering in the K2 region.
• Explore magnificent glacial and alpine landscapes.
• Cross a high-altitude mountain pass at Gondogoro La.
• Trek with a fun international group of like-minded individuals.

K2 Base Camp Trek Itinerary - Day by Day Breakdown

Day 1: islamabad arrival.

Arrive at Islamabad airport where you will be picked up by our driver (if you are arriving within 24 hours of the start of the tour); we’ll ferry you to the hotel where you can chill out and freshen up. We recommend arriving in Islamabad at least one day early so that you can settle in and be ready to go on the morning of day one. Note: accommodation pre-tour is not included.

After our team has assembled, we will have our first group introduction, team briefing, and welcome lunch.

Dinner will be at one of our favorite places in Islamabad. Our team will return to the hotel and retire early for a good night’s sleep. We have a flight to catch in the morning! 

Day 2: Fly to Skardu

The plan is for our whole group to catch an early morning flight to Skardu (50 minutes), the largest city in Baltistan. If the weather is clear, we can catch some truly epic views of Nanga Parbat and other massive peaks in the area. Once in Skardu guests will have free time throughout the day to rest and explore the city and the bazaar. Today, we will finalize our trekking permits at the local government office and have dinner together as a group. Over dinner, you will be properly introduced to our good friend and lead Balti guide for the duration of the trek, Mr. Zahid.

Day 2 Alternative: Islamabad to Skardu by Road

Unfortunately, flights in Pakistan do not always run on time. If we are unable to take our flight on the morning of day two, it is possible that we will have to drive overland to Skardu from Islamabad (18-24 hours). This journey takes a lot of time as the road from Gilgit to Skardu is in an appalling state most of the time. EBT staff will evaluate what the best options are for the group and go from there. Flying is obviously the best-case scenario!

To break up the drive, we would sleep in Naran or Chilas for the night before pushing on to Skardu the next day.

Day 3: Market Day in Skardu

Today, the Epic team is busy food shopping and packing all of the group supplies. Guests have free time in the city during the morning and afternoon. There are many activities to do in around Skardu including visiting Kharpocho Fort, meandering through the local bazaar, and heading out to the surrounding desert.

We will have dinner again as a group before setting off in the morning.

*If the group is arriving overland from Islamabad, the entire schedule is bumped back a day, to allow for a day of rest in Skardu (that is why we schedule in buffer days!)

Day 4: Drive from Skardu to Jhula

Today, our adventure begins in earnest! Our team will assemble early at the hotel and after breakfast, we will load up the 4×4 jeeps and begin the bumpy, dusty drive past Askole to Jhula camp – the gateway to Central Karakoram National Park. The journey from Skardu takes between 7 and 10 hours depending on road conditions. We will eat lunch en route. 

As of 2021, the road into the national park has been extended – which means we can now start the trek from Jhula camp instead of Askole – which saves us a day of hot, dusty trekking on the road. 

We will arrive at Jhula in the late afternoon and sleep at a permanent trekkers camp at Jhula.

It is also possible that we will need to spend an extra day in Skardu finalizing our permits if they are not ready the day before (again, this is why we schedule buffer days!).

2023 Note: Road to Jhula was damaged so there is now a trek needed from Askole to Jhula. 

• Trekking distance: 20.5km 
• Altitude gain/loss:  624  m up
• Jhula Camp elevation: 3,149 m

Day 5: Jhula to Paiju (3,400 m)

• Trekking distance: 21km 
• Altitude gain:  624 m   up / 
• Paiju Camp elevation: 3,400 m

Early start with 5-7 hours of trekking. Hilly terrain, a few stream crossings and a mix of elevation gains and descents. The day can be hot, exposed to much sun, and dusty. Sunscreen and lots of water will be your greatest friend today! We may be treated to a rowdy Balti music session from the porters after dinner at camp.

Cold “showers” (a faucet basically) are available.

Day 6: Paiju - Khoburtse (3,833 m)

• Trekking distance: 14.3 km
• Altitude gain: 747  m up
• Khoburtse Camp Elevation: 3,833 m

6-8 hours of hiking. After about an hour of walking, we will enter onto the Baltoro Glacier. We will be hiking along the mighty Baltoro until we reach Concordia in several days’ time. The terrain is hilly, rocky, and uneven, with a few scattered bits of proper trail. The final obstacle of the day will be a river crossing (there is a bridge as of 2023) and the water can be quite cold – but it is manageable. 

Khoburtse camp can feel a bit cramped, but views are top notch and there is a beautiful waterfall nearby as well as fine opportunities for sunrise viewpoints. Toilets are basic.

Day 7: Khoburtse - Urdukas (4,053 m)

• Trekking distance: 6.3 km
• Altitude gain: 400  m up
• Urdukas Camp elevation: 4,052 m

Easy day, finishing after about 6.3 kilometers (2-4 hours). As we gain altitude, we are mindful not to push ourselves too hard or sleep too high too fast.

Urdukas is a truly spectacular campsite, and one of our favorites along the whole trek. Excellent views of Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, and Lobsang can be seen directly from camp

Day 8: Urdukas - Goro 2 (4,250 m)

• Trekking distance: 11.5  km
• Altitude gain: 481  m up
• Goro 2 Camp elevation: 4,250 m

5 – 7 hours of moderate difficulty up and down glacier terrain. Today we are starting to feel the altitude.

Temperatures can drop below zero at night at Goro 2. Basic toilets at the camp.

Spectacular views along the trail of Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IV, and the summit of Broad Peak can be seen from just outside your tent.

Day 9: Goro 2 - Concordia (4,600 m)

• Trekking distance: 14 km
• Altitude gain: 541  m up
• Concordia Camp elevation: 4,600 m

Today we reach the “Throne Room of the Gods”, aka Concordia. 5-7 hours of pleasant trekking over the glacier, with more ice present than on previous days. 

Amazing views of Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Broad Peak, Marble Peak, and of course, K2 can be seen from camp! 

Temperatures at Concordia drop well below freezing at night and snow/snowfall is possible here any time of the year. After a great dinner and solid rest, tomorrow we head to K2 Base Camp!

Day 10: Concordia - K2 Base Camp (5000 m)

• Trekking distance: 11.5 km
• Altitude gain: 500 m up
• K2 Base Camp elevation: 5000 m

Early departure to K2 Base Camp. Total trekking distance to Concordia is roughly 11.5 km. We will visit the Art Gilkey Memorial and then head to K2 Base Camp for tea and to chit-chat with expedition teams hoping for a successful summit bid.

Today is a BIG trekking day, but the terrain is relatively easy. Most of the route follows the Godwin-Austen Glacier directly to the base of the mighty K2.

We sleep at K2 Base Camp tonight, enjoying the views of the mighty Savage Mountain.

Day 11: Rest Day at K2 Base Camp

• Trekking distance: N/A
• Altitude gain/loss: N/A
• Camp elevation: 5000 m

After our big hike to K2 Base Camp, we will spend the day relaxing at the camp – reading, drinking tea, eating, going on short explorations of the area – this is the agenda for this chill day.

K2 Base Camp is one of the most spectacular campsites in Pakistan and we want to take a full day to soak it in without any major trekking to do!

It is pretty common for the teams of Balti Porters to throw a bit of a high-altitude dance party of sorts – Balti Style.

Day 12: K2 Base Camp - Concordia (4,600 m)

• Altitude gain:  166m up
• Concordia Camp elevation: 4600 m

Today, we trek back down the Godwin-Austen Glacier to the famed Concordia campsite the way we came. 

We aim to arrive back at camp by mid-afternoon. 

The rest of the day is spent resting and preparing for our trek to Ali Camp the following day. 

If the weather is bad, it is possible that we will sleep an additional night at Concordia – giving us the best chance for the Gondogoro La crossing in a few days.

Day 13: Concordia - Ali Camp (4950 m)

• Trekking distance: 11 km
• Altitude gain: 563  m
• Ali Camp elevation: 4950 m

5-7 hours of trekking over glacier and pockets of deep snow, especially as we approach the upper end of the valley close to Ali Camp. Some of our porter team will be leaving us today with the pack mules, as the mules are unable to cross over Gondogoro La.

Ali Camp is set in an absolutely stunning location, though the camp is quite small and can be quite crowded if many teams are present. No established toilet facilities are present, which is something we are working to solve with the Central Karakoram National Park staff.

We will rest for the majority of the afternoon and early evening before setting off to cross the Gondogoro La around midnight. We will have dinner early so that guests can catch a few hours of rest before we begin the climb.

Day 14: Ali Camp - Gondogoro La Pass (5,650 m) - Kuisbang (4,700 m)

• Trekking distance: 10  km 
• Altitude gain:  668 m up
• Kuisbang Camp elevation: 4,700 m

7-10 hours of trekking – all depends on your pace. Our group will set off in the dark by headlamp around midnight. From Ali Camp, it is 4-5 hours of steady climbing to gain the top of the Gondogoro La pass. 

Once atop the La, we can enjoy stunning sunrise views of every major peak in the area. We will be praying for clear weather of course! The descent from Gondogoro La into the valley below is done with the assistance of a series of fixed ropes. Extreme care needs to be taken on the descent (helmets will be worn) and all guests will be clipped into the rope from their climbing harness. 

Microspikes or crampons should be carried for the descent. 

Trekking from the top of the pass to Kuisbang Camp takes 3-5 hours, again depending on your pace. If the weather is clear, the group will be treated to incredible views from our camp of Laila Peak, located just down the valley.

Day 15: Kuisbang - Saicho (3430 m)

• Trekking distance: 17.2  km
• Altitude gain/loss: 131 m up /  1265 m down 
• Saicho Camp elevation: 3430 m

6-8 hours of trekking. The first two hours are on glacier moraine before the landscape changes into green, hilly, easy trail. There are a few small river crossings and several steep, exposed sections to be expected as well. The landscape here could not be more different from where we started near Askole. It is green, lush, and there is no dust!

A beautiful, well-spaced campsite with multiple stream systems running through it awaits us at Saicho.

Day 16: Saicho - Hushe - Drive to Skardu

• Trekking distance: 10.6 km
• Altitude gain: 81 m up
• Hishe elevation: 3180 m

2-3 hours of trekking. We end the trek in the beautiful Balti village of Hushe. Here we will take a final cup of chai and say goodbye to our team of porters before making our way back to Skardu by jeep (5-6 hours depending on road conditions).

We will have lunch en route to Skardu. Once we reach the hotel in Skardu, be prepared for one of the best showers of your life!

Day 17: Rest Day in Skardu

After completing the long trek, today the group takes a day to reflect, rest, do laundry, and eat!! 

Today is a rest day with no planned group activities. Participants are free to do what they wish and will only have to meet later for dinner.

Day 18: Rest Day in Skardu/ Contingency Day

Rest Day in Skardu: contingency day in case of delays incurred during the trek due to weather. 

Day 19: Fly to Islamabad

Early Morning Flight to Islamabad from Skardu

We will have a chill day in Islamabad and an epic feast all together OR we will be driving the KKH en route to Islamabad if we have flight delays. 

Day 20: Contingency Day in Islamabad

We booked in an extra day in Islamabad in case of travel complications getting back from Skardu. Since you have just completed the most epic hike of your life, we do not want to add any group stress by making the departure window tight.

Today will be a free day in the city with group breakfast and dinner included. After a final meal together, our epic journey of a lifetime has come to an end and the time has come to say goodbye.

Day 21: Client Departure Day

We arrange for transfers to the airport for those who are flying out over the next 12 hours.

Check out of the hotel is around 11 am on Day 21. You can choose to stay on at the same hotel if you are not flying home right away, though any additional nights at the hotel are not covered by EBT.

• All hotel accommodation in between hiking days. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all tour days, except for lunches when we are in cites (when team members have free time in Islamabad and Skardu)
• Islamabad Airport pick up and drop off if arriving 2 days or less from the start date of the tour and leaving on day 21 of the end of the tour.
• All ground transportation whilst on tour
• All on-the-ground logistics and trek planning
• Western and local guides
• NOC/Trekking Permits/National Park permit fees
• Letter of Invitation to Pakistan.
• Internal flights within Pakistan (Islamabad – Skardu return).
• Comfy two-person alpine tents.
• Up to 15 kgs of porter services per person.
• Group generator for charging electronics.
• Dining table, chairs, and a mess tent.
• Access to the group satellite phone (usage at extra cost).
• Group snacks.
• Lots of laughs and epic moments.
• Life-changing experiences.
• Bonus surprises along the way.
• Flights to Pakistan
• Visa application fees
• Islamabad Airport pick up and drop off if arriving earlier than 2 days before the start of the tour and leaving after day 21 of the end of the tour.
• Any pre-tour or post-tour accommodation
• Climbing harness/carabiners, helmets, and micospikes/crampons (for crossing Gondogoro La)
• Travel insurance
• Tips for staff
• Porter services exceeding 15 kgs
• Personal snacks
• Meals when the group has free time
• Single tent/hotel accommodation (requires additional charges).

K2 Base Camp Trek FAQ

We get this question a lot, so let us set the record straight. 

It is possible to find the K2 Base Camp Trek being offered elsewhere for cheaper than our price. But as with most things in life, you get what you pay for.  

Epic Expeditions simply won’t compromise on the level of service we offer, the wages we pay our staff, and we try to never cut corners at the expense of our clients’ experience. 

When you join Epic on a trip to K2 Base Camp, the differences in how we do things, the kind of services we provide, and the general vibe we cultivate for our international community of travelers become obvious from day 1.

Please check out our full article covering the K2 Base Camp Trek Cost question and how our company values and ethics impact our pricing. 

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

• We pay our staff and porters a higher than average wage.  
• Our cooks strive to prepare quality meals outside the box of the standard Baltoro fair. We put our own twist on hearty trekking food. 
• Comfortable camp set up: After a long day of hiking, we want our camp sites to feel as comfortable as they possibly can be and we believe that the little details are what makes this possible. Tables, comfy chairs, a massive mess/dining tent, a proper toilet tent for privacy, a generator for charging electronics, endless pots of French press coffee, tea, and plates of cookies when you arrive at camp; these are some of the little details that provide a second to none camp-life experience. 
• We have a minimum of two trip leaders on each trek – one Western leader and one local leader.  
• Group size: you will NEVER see an Epic Expeditions team numbering more than 12 people.
• Safety plans and protocols: a big difference between Epic Expeditions and the competition? We have a professional and comprehensive safety plan and the tools we need to manage any emergency situation. All of our guide staff have received wilderness first aid and risk management training. 
• Your trip leader is equipped with a satellite communication device (Garmin Inreach) and one Thuraya satellite phone.
• Pre trip one on one phone calls. Before the start of every K2 Base Camp Trek trip we embark on, team members will have one on one phone calls with your western trip leader so that you can be as prepared as possible to have a successful and rewarding trip.
• Check out our full blog article: 10 reasons why you should choose Epic for your K2 Base Camp Trek adventure

The weather in the Karakoram mountain range can be highly variable. We will be traversing through a number of different climatic zones so it is a good idea to be prepared for a variety of temperature conditions.  Islamabad – Hot and humid with the potential for monsoon rain events. Average temperatures: High: 35°C / 95° F Low: 24°C / 76° F. Skardu – Warm to hot during the day, but not humid. Dusty, especially along the main bazaar road. Cooler and pleasant at night. Potential for wind and dust storms. July is the warmest month in Skardu. High: 23°C / 73.4° F Low: 10°C / 50° F. The sun is stronger in the mountains so temps. feel hotter than they actually are. 3,000 – 3,500 Meters – Hot, dusty, exposed during the day. Cooler at night, but not freezing typically. Potential for snow around 3500 meters, but very unlikely. Possible cloud cover developing at any elevation. 3,500 – 4,500 Meters – Daily temperatures remain warm, though mornings and evenings are cooler. Above 4000 meters temperatures can easily drop below freezing at night and in the early morning. Rain, snow, cloud cover are all possible at any time. More ice present on the Baltoro Glacier. 4,500 – 5,600 Meters – Freezing temperatures at night and cool to cold temperatures during the day with periods of warm sunshine possible. Rain, snow, cloud cover are all possible at any time. Deep snow is likely on the trail between Concordia and Ali Camp. Trekking on gritty ice and snow the whole way to K2 Base Camp from Concordia. Potentially heavy snow pack on the ascent/descent of Gondogoro La. The coldest possible temperatures to expect hover around -10° C / 14° F.

The K2 Base Camp Trek carries a certain amount of risk since we are trekking DEEP into the mountains in a developing country. 

That said, member safety is EBT’s #1 priority and our experienced ground team does everything within their power to set our group up for a safe adventure. The name of the game is safety first and injury prevention.

Epic Backpacker Tours goes above and beyond to ensure that we are fully prepared in case of emergency by bringing the tools we need to manage emergency situations. This is the reality on the ground in Pakistan:, other local (budget) tour operators won’t bring a satellite phone because they are expensive to own and operate. For us, not being prepared with the right tools to deal with emergencies is unacceptable  – and a big reason why our clients decide to go with us – and why they keep coming back to do different adventures with us year after year. On average, 1 in 5 Epic customers is a return client from a past adventure. The feedback from our clients speaks for itself. 

Your trip leader is equipped with a satellite communication device (Garmin Inreach) AND at a Thuraya satellite phone. Both of which have communication capabilities to contact outside emergency first responders from any place in Pakistan.

Guests are able to use the satellite phone for personal calls on occasion at the rate of $10/minute (paid in cash on the ground). Check out our full article covering the question Is Pakistan Safe for travelers here.

Trip participants need to be in good shape and capable of trekking over mixed terrain for long distances (maximum 8 hours). On average our trekking days are 5 hours per day. We employ many local porters and mules to help us carry the supplies that will make the trek to K2 a comfortable and rewarding experience. The best way to prepare for the K2 Base Camp Trek is to – you guessed it – hike as much as possible in the months leading up to the trip.  Even if you won’t be doing any actual mountaineering on this trek, people still need to be in shape before embarking. The distances can be long, the terrain unforgiving, and the oxygen thinner than you’re used to  – you need to be ready and able to handle all of these environmental factors. 

Physically preparing yourself for the K2 Base Camp Trek is somewhat similar to what you might have done for other multi-day backpacking trips. Endurance is crucial as is strength, particularly in your legs, glutes, back, and joints. Having these will ensure that you can not only complete the day’s walk without exhaustion but also avoid unnecessary injuries like sprains.  When you’re not out on the trail, do workouts that hit the key bodily areas. Squats, lunges, sleds, burpees, stairs, and anything involving a box e.g. step-ups are good exercises to start with. Don’t forget to work on your stability and stretch when you’re finished as well.

The total trek covers about 160 kilometers over the course of 12 days – with the highest max altitude on the trek being 5,600 meters (Gondogoro La). 

There is simply no avoiding the fact that your body will feel different given the height at K2 Base Camp. 

Nobody feels 100% as they do at sealevel up here – including the professional mountaineers or Nepali Sherpa. 

Here are a few things you can do to manage the symptoms of mild altitude sickness:

• Drink plenty of water
• Try to eat when it is meal time
• Avoid eating meat
• Take your time when moving about
• Stay warm, wear enough layers
• Sleep with a hot water bottle in your sleeping bag
• Carry headache medication like paracetamol or Tylenol
• Take time to rest; take naps during free time
• Drink lots of herbal tea Check out our full article on how to manage the K2 Base Camp Trek Height . 

All guests coming on the K2 Base Camp Trek trip MUST apply for a Pakistani Trekking and Mountaineering Visa. The trekking visa is different from the standard tourist visa, thus you will NOT be applying for a tourist visa.  Epic Backpacker Tours provides you with all of the documentation needed to apply for the visa including the Letter of Invitation (LOI). 

Since 2017, we have had a 100% success rate when it comes to our clients getting their visas on time – a record we are very proud of! 

No you do not. There is only one section of this trek where a harness is needed (crossing Gondogoro La). No ice tools are used and no technical climbing experience is required. 

The K2 Base Camp Trek is a great introduction to being at high altitude if your goal is to eventually climb some 6000 or 7000-meter peaks.  Crossing Gondogoro La is a real challenge that is not be under estimated – however, our staff is with you every step of the way to ensure your safety and to make sure you feel comfortable. We have had people as old as 74 successfully tackle crossing Gondogoro La – so if you are fit and able to push your own personal comfort zone, crossing Gondogoro is achievable for you. 

Islamabad : 4-star accommodation in a central part of Islamabad 

Skardu : 3-star accommodation located near the main market street of the city. 

Trip prices are based on the sharing of rooms/tents and single (same sex) members of the group will typically be put together.

In Skardu will be using nice guesthouses/hotels that offer very comfortable, but simple, facilities without air-conditioning (although the rooms in Islamabad will definitely have AC). In Skardu the rooms have fans, but no AC.

Once we arrive in Askole to start the trek, our accommodation will be in tents until we return back to Skardu. The tents are high quality, waterproof, and comfortable. Two large men over six foot tall can easily be comfortable and have enough personal space in our tents

If you wish to bring your own tent, make sure it is sturdy enough for rocky glacier terrain, potentially high winds, and snowfall. NOTE: Any item(s) that you do not want to bring on the trek can be safely stored with our team in Skardu before leaving for the trek.

Single Room Supplement Costs: If a client would like to reserve a single hotel room and a private tent for the trek, the cost is $600 USD. 

You will need to book your round trip flights into/out of Islamabad International Airport.

Islamabad (the capital of Pakistan) is a major city in Pakistan and as such is very well connected. We advise that you arrive in Pakistan one day before the tour starts. This is so that clients can shake off any jet lag they may be experiencing, and also to give all clients more of a time window in case of schedule changes or flight delays.

We will organize our driver to pick you up at the airport and shuttle you to to hotel if you are arriving within 24 hours of the start of the tour. If you are arriving earlier, we can still arrange the airport pickup for you at cost (around $15 USD). 

Breakfast : Typically includes an omelet/fried eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), pancakes, jam, nutella, honey, etc + green tea/French press coffee. 

Lunch : Every day, each member is issued a packed lunch. This keeps it easy while hiking as you can stop whenever you want to eat your lunch. A typical packed lunch includes a boiled egg + potato, a few chapatis (local flat bread), cheese, dried nuts/chocolate, and a few sweets. 

Dinner : The main event! We pride ourselves on hiring the same cooks every year because they know how to deliver our custom, top notch food menu!

After our nightly soup course, dinner will be a mix of curry vegetables, rice, noodle dishes (like chow mein or pasta with red sauce, daal (lentils), meat (mutton or chicken), French fries, and, salad.

Dessert is something different every night, but for the first week of the trek, expect to have fresh mangoes and melon!

Note: Vegetarians/vegans/gluten/lactose free can be accommodated as well! 

On day two of the trip, the plan is to fly to Skardu from Islamabad. This is one of most scenic flights in the world, highlighted by beautiful views of the world’s 9th highest mountain, Nanga Parbat and the greater Karakoram/Himalayan ranges.   Once we finish the trek, we will also catch a flight back to Islamabad from Skardu. Internal flights are included in the trip price of course! If bad weather cancels the flight, we will go to Skardu by road via the famous Karakoram Highway. The drive takes significantly longer than the flight option, but that is why we have contingency days built into the itinerary. Over the past three seasons, we have had a 90% success rate when it comes to catching our flights. 

Each team member has a 15 kilo (27.5 pounds) porter allowance. This is for your luggage that will be carried to each camp each day of the trek. Members are only required to carry their daypack while trekking – which just has what you need for the day in it, IE water, snacks, layers, suncream, etc.  If your backpack/duffle bag weighs more than 15 kilos, you will need to pay for the additional weight. Cost for additional weight will be determined on the ground as prices for porters vary by the season. If you want to bring 25 kg (so 10 kg extra) as an example, the price will be around $140 USD for the entire trek.

Most other companies give a porter allowance of 12.5 kg, but with all of the gear required for this trip to be comfortable, we want to give you guys a little bit extra weight so you are not having to leave behind things you really want to bring! 

We carry a petrol generator and/or solar panels, so that the team can charge batteries, power banks, phones, etc while on the trek. Each night, we run the generator for 3-4 hours.

We have the generator with us the whole time except for the few days after we cross Gondogoro La (the mules who carry the generator can’t cross the pass). 

Our staff are able to provide hot bucket showers in a private shower tent. While nothing fancy, the hot bucket shower can go a long way in improving how one feels at the end of the way of trekking in the sun and dust. 

Cold showers at the lower camps are also possible (when the temperatures are warm).

Roughly 50% of our clients on the K2 Base Camp Trek are female. Most hail from the USA, the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand – but we have had in total over 20 different nationalities of solo women join us on the K2 Base Camp Trek over the years. 

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

Northern Pakistan is a very safe part of the world – and we often say, you are safer traveling in Northern Pakistan as a woman than you are walking alone at night in Paris or New York City!

What People Have to Say

More Epic Photos from the Trek...

Didn’t find the answer you working for? Try reading our extensive FAQ page first where we break down the tour in more detail. 

K2 the Mountain - Abridged

K2 : a mountain so enormous, so unfathomable, so remote in its existence – both in the physical world and in our imaginations – that few people really know or understand it. Even the name, K2, in its current truncated form, can be considered a flawed attempt at capturing this indescribable peak using mere human language – it’s just too much for us to put into words.

Italian climber Fosco Maraini perhaps said it best when talking about K2:

…(the peak is) just the bare bones of a name, all rock and ice and storm, and abyss. It makes no attempt to sound human. It is atoms and stars. It has the nakedness of the world before the first man—or of the cindered planet after the last.”

At 8,611 meters in elevation, K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world. Don’t let your guard down: K2 is markedly more dangerous than all the other 8000-meter peaks, including Everest. Its flanks are littered with alpine obstacles including massive crevasses, erratic weather systems, and enormous overhanging seracs, including the infamously “Bottleneck”. Every year, climbers perish in pursuit of this unforgiving summit, and despite the dangers, they keep coming back.

The first summit attempt was in 1902 and it wasn’t until 50 years later in 1954 that a team ( the Italian expedition ) actually made it to the top. Since then, there have been roughly 400 successful summits and among them almost 100 deaths: one of the highest summit-death ratios in the mountaineering world.

K2 doesn’t need to be climbed to be appreciated though. Many opt to simply walk up the Baltoro Glacier to visit the legendary base camp of K2, and it is still a fantastic experience. For nearly two weeks, one is treated to non-stop views of some of the world’s most impressive peaks (aside from K2 itself): Mashabrum, the Trangos, G4, Broad Peak, Chogolisa, and many more tower on both sides of the route as you make your way up the Baltoro. By the time one reaches Concordia and is afforded the first glimpses of K2, it becomes obvious why they call this area “The Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”: it is, for a lack of better terms, totally epic .

Additional Resources

10 Reasons Why you Should Choose Epic Expeditions for the K2 Base Camp Trek

Privacy Overview

Clark Tyler 🇨🇦

Adventure Guide

Hailing from the Toronto region of Eastern Canada, with a background as a former standout athlete (hockey of course) and a  love of mountain adventure, Clark is a welcomed addition to the Epic team.

In addition to being a keen photographer and adventurer, Clark brings his brilliant sense of humor, leadership skills, and positive attitude to everything he puts his mind to.  When he is not leading trips, he is working on taking over the hard apple cider game in Canada as a skilled craft brewer. 

Meet him during : K2 Base Camp Trek

Noemi Liebi 🇨🇭

Noemi grew up in the mountains of German-Speaking Switzerland where she naturally developed a deep love and respect for mountain environments.

She is a talented photographer, aspiring climber, and speaks at least 5 languages fluently including Arabic (and probably a few more that we don’t know about), which she taught herself in a matter of months by watching YouTube videos. 

Noemi has spent the last several years traveling, hiking, and photographing her way around many different countries in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Europe, and we could not be more stoked to welcome her to the Epic team! 

Meet her during : Discover the Celestial Mountains | Island Peak Climbing Expedition

Syerik Manap 🇲🇳

As our man on the ground in Mongolia, there is not much this legend can’t do. As a native the Bayan-Ölgii province of the Western Mongolia Altai, Syerik has been working as a guide and tourism entrepreneur…

for the past several years and is one of the rising stars in Mongolia adventure travel industry. 

He is currently building a beautiful Ger (Yurt) camp near his hometown where he will host Epic Mongolia team members on our trip as well as other travelers from around the world! 

He is the perfect guide for your trip to Mongolia. Serik did an amazing job giving us a well rounded experience in the Altai NP region and down in the Gobi… The food was fantastic and Serik gave us many opportunities to learn about the Kazakh culture in that region including traditional meals. (I can’t recommend enjoying the milk tea enough!)

– Coastal

Head of canine operations

Choriza started off life as a care-free vagabond on the streets of Madeira Island without any place to call home. From the moment we met her, we knew this dog was just different, and it was pretty much love at first sight. 

She gave up the dog street life in favor of joining her new dad Chris to become a full-time member of the Epic family towards the end of 2022.

These days she can be found listening in on the fringes of important Epic business meetings while half-asleep on the couch. She is a keen hiker, lover of mud, rare steak, and might just be the sweetest little dog we have ever seen. 

Andrew Golovachevn 🇷🇺

An experienced trek leader and IFMGA aspirant ski guide, avid alpine climber, devoted adventure photographer.

Organized and guided trekking expeditions, climbs and ski tours in Tajikistan’s Pamirs, Patagonia, Peru, Morocco, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Georgian and Russian Caucasus and Kamchatka. A full member and meets the organiser of the British Alpine Club. Visited over 40 countries, lived in the UK for four years. Certified first-aider.

We joined Andrew on a fantastic trip to the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan, pure nature and magnificent scenery! Andrey was super prepared and led us safely up and down numerous passes and through some rough and icy cold rivers. Thank you for a very memorable trip, your planning and prep was excellent!

– Monika Steinlechner

Meet him during : Trekking in the Fann Mountains

Sandip Dhungana 🇳🇵

Our man in Nepal, Sandip is what we like to call a “Swiss Army Knife”. There is not much Sandip can’t do when it comes to helping Epic to run our expeditions smoothly in Nepal.

His tireless work ethic, passion for all things trekking in the Himalayas, and smart decision-making mean that Sandip is a truly invaluable member of our team.

Sandip is passionate about showing visitors to his country an amazing time, and he goes above and beyond to make sure that happens. 

His company Himalayan Masters is Epic’s trusted partner in Nepal and one of the country’s top new tour agencies.

We really enjoyed the entire journey, and I would like to say that Sandip is truly professional. He guided us and he is a hardworking person, providing us with the best service and taking care of each one of us. Plus, he is super funny! The kind of professionnal you always want to find on your path for your explorations! 

– Alexandra Ruth

Fairy Meadows

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Our Favorite Experiences

#1 sunrise from reflection lake.

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#2 Hiking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp

#3 playing cricket with the locals, trips where we visit fairy meadows.

Our flagship Pakistani adventure tour.  Road trip with some  hiking and cultural immersion.

Intermediate

Trekking Among Giants

A trekking-style tour that features some very remote locations, inlcuding a K2 viewpoint.

João Frietas 🇵🇹

João has born in the mountains of Madeira Islands in Portugal. Nature lover, writer, musician, guide, for him, a day without contact with outdoor vibes is a nightmare. 

With a degree in Cultural Studies in Portugal and a Master of Arts in Global Cultures and Creativity in the U.K.

João found out what really matters in life can be found on the trails, and in the contact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Guiding, crazy trekking missions, and sharing observations about the natural world, – these are some of João’s passions. 

After trekking to K2 Base Camp and exploring all over Northern Pakistan, he fell in love with the country and the local people. His experiences resulted in his desire to share these feelings with the world.

João is one of the most experienced guides at Epic and his skillset and positive mindset in the mountains is second to none

When not in Pakistan, João is  guiding and exploring in the Madeira Islands trails –  discovering some of the hidden treasures on his Portuguese Island.

João I can not thank you enough for the off the beaten paths and views you keep giving. Definitely one of the most challenging and amazing hikes we did 1200m meters all the way up to Fanal forest and circling back to the hidden village. Wow!

– Jeffery 

Meet him during : Lost World of Europe | Discover the Hunza Valley   | K2 Base Camp Trek

Sohail Sakhi 🇵🇰

Sohail is the newest addition to the Epic team and we are beyond stoked to have him on board. As a veteran of the Karakoram and a native of Karimabad in Hunza, there is not much Sohail can’t do in the mountains. 

Besides having the ability to speak more languages than we can count, Sohail has explored every corner of Gilgit Baltistan and logs more trekking miles 

in a year than most people will do in a lifetime. As of the summer of 2022, Sohail has summited Gasherbrum 1, Gasherbrum 2, and K2 – three of Pakistan’s five 8000-meter peaks. Sohail guides several trips including our annual bespoke expeditions but specializes in Hunza Valley tours.

Chris and Sohail, and the team at Epic are FANTASTIC! Highly recommend anyone to do a tour with ‘Epic’. They have the perfect balance of fun, excitement and wild adventures, tied in with being super professional and ensuring your safety/health in a foreign environment. Don’t waste a moment and book a tour with these guys as the value for money is UNREAL!

– Borgan

Meet him during : Discover the Hunza Valley

Pedro Ricardo Dias 🇵🇹

Pedro’s been traveling all around the globe since 2009. His keen interests in documentary photography, rural life, and local people from different ethnic groups have been the focus of many of his professional projects. Since 2012, he has developed his passion for travel and awesome shared experiences into a full-time adventure photography tour leader position.

Pedro has found himself continuously going back to the Middle East, with his likely favorite destination being Iran. Pedro lead his 11th tour in Iran with Epic in spring 2020

When Pedro’s not traveling the world with Epic Expeditions, you’ll find him based in the western south of Portugal planning he’s next adventure missions, logistics and working out his photos in local exhibitions.

 I loved the combination of hiking, camping around breathtaking scenery mixed with the cultural aspects. The guide (Pedro) is knowledgeable and work very hard to make the trip as memorable as possible. All in all an epic adventure with some extremely epic individuals! Go for it, you won’t regret it!

Diane Bouvet 🇫🇷

Adventure Admin / Marketing

After fleeing from the corporate fashion world in Paris towards the start of 2020, Diane has been working as a web developer and graphic designer remotely from various bases across the globe

She brings all of her incredible design and organizational power to Epic Expeditions and is responsible for many of the beautiful behind-the-scenes design elements. 

Diane has been to Iran and to Pakistan twice including all over Gilgit Baltistan and KPK.

Ralph Cope 🇺🇸

Head of Operations | Guide

A veteran of Pakistan travel, Ralph is an experienced guide, photographer and writer who specializes in documenting remote locations. 

Not one to simply go where everyone else does, he insists on exploring new and lesser-known areas.

Together with Epic Expeditions, he shows people parts of Pakistan that most other operators don’t even know about. He is particularly fond of the village of Barah, which he believes will become just as famous as Hunza one day.

Just got back from EBT’s Trekking Amongst Giants 15 day tour. The experience was first class. Ralph, our head guide, ensured that the entire trip ran smoothly and relatively on time (a bonus for anyone travelling in Pakistan). We had so many unforgettable days on the tour and the trekking was well-planned, safe but also a rewarding challenge. 

– Calvin

Traveling to a non-tourist destination can be a little intimidating but EBT takes all of the worry and trepidation away. From the pre-trip call to meeting the wonderful staff in person you can tell that you are dealing with a company that has a passion for what they do each and every day. Ralph, Zahid, and Khan were supportive, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone on the trip was getting what they wanted out of the experience.

– Katrina 

Meet him during : Trekking Amongst Giants | Discover the Celestial Mountains | K2 Base Camp Trek

Chris Lininger 🇺🇸

Founder | Adventure Guide | Director

Since he started exploring the world, Chris has been seeking out every shade of adventure in various parts of the globe and had visited more than 70 countries along the way. 

Over the last 10 years, Chris has logged more than 7000 trail miles across five continents and climbed multiple 6000 + 7000 meter peaks in Pakistan and Nepal.

A few years back, a distant dream and a deep passion for the mountains and the people of Pakistan led Chris to co-found Epic Expeditions at a time when foreign adventure tourism in Pakistan was almost nonexistent. Since then, Chris has guided more than 20 expeditions to various parts of Northern Pakistan.

Chris believes in using photography and powerful adventure experiences to dismantle negative stereotypes regarding what mainstream media considers “dangerous” countries while facilitating unique and meaningful memories in the mountains for countless people from around the globe. 

For him, an ideal start to the day begins with a steaming cup of good coffee, the beam of a headlamp, alpine boots, and a camera in hand.

He lives in Madeira Island when not leading expeditions in far-flung lands. 

Chris also works as a writer and photographer on his blog Off the Atlas  –  an adventure travel blog all about Pakistan.   

Read this interview our staff did with Chris to learn more about him!

Chris believes in Pakistan and its people, and he believes in the value of journeys shared with others and family cultivated on the road. Honesty and integrity are at the heart of what he does, and this really shines through in his work as a guide. He also makes great coffee – whether at 5am in an empty guesthouse or half way up a Himalayan peak.”

– Will De Villers

Pakistan is a magical country!  Had 3 of the best weeks of my life thanks to Epic Backpacking Tours with owner, and one of our awesome guides, Chris. From detailed itinerary, preparation with an equipment list, and visa assistance. To amazing food, great porters, helpful guides, and great accommodations. Epic really hit home run after home run. […]

Their desire for adventure and amazing trip is just as high as yours. Bring a good pound of coffee for the trip. French press coffee every morning and no average tin coffee, plus you’ll be in your guides good books.

– Clark Tyler

K2 BASE CAMP TREK

An all-inclusive Trekking holiday to explore K2 base camp, Baltoro region, and Concordia in The Karakoram mountains of Pakistan.

• Map & Itinerary
• Dates & Prices
• Holiday Info
• Book the tour
• Domestic Airfare included
• Guaranteed departures
• Smal groups
• Small Deposit

K2 Base Camp Trek 2024-25

The ultimate karakoram glacier trek to the base camp of the world’s second-highest mountain, k2 (8611 meters). the exceptional k2 base camp trek provides a taste of pakistan’s native culture and a visit to the outstanding concordia, baltoro and godwin-austen glaciers and broad peak base camp in the karakoram mountains. k2 base camp trek is an adventure holiday through the countryside and native villages by plane, road, and trekking, uncovering local life, compelling native pakistani culture, and rugged landscapes of the central karakoram national park along the way to k2 base camp., trek highlights.

• K2 base camp trek  to the heart of The Karakoram Mountains
• Explore the green city of Islamabad
• Mountain View flight to Skardu
• Discover the ancient Pakistani culture
• Drive along the mighty Indus and Braldu River
• Experience Concordia, Broad Peak, Trango Towers, Gilkey Memorial and K2 Base Camp
• Trek on Baltoro and Godwin-Austin glaciers to the base camp of K2.

TREK OVERVIEW

K2 base camp trek  is in the Karakoram mountain range of Gilgit Baltistan,  Pakistan . The Karakoram Mountain range runs along the borders of China, India, and Pakistan, offering a natural barrier that is as unique as it is spectacular. Trekking to the  base camp of K2  on the Baltoro and Godwin-Austin glaciers is one of the world’s best treks that takes you to the top of the world where heaven and earth meet. Immense, untamed, and beautiful,  K2  is the world’s second-highest and greatest mountain that needs to be experienced to believe.

During the  K2 Base Camp Trek , you will explore the ancient Himalayan kingdom of  Baltistan  and trek through the gorgeous areas of Skardu, Askole and central Karakoram Park to reach the base camp of K2. It is one of the world’s most remote areas and a true destination for adventurers. Trekking to the K2 base camp offers splendid views of the local area and the Pakistani wilderness.

Trango Adventure is a licensed company, and we have been offering  K2 base camp trek  and other adventure holidays in Pakistan for over 40 years, specialists in trekking and climbing  Expeditions . We can also customise this base camp trek to suit your tastes and interests so you can have a tailor-made  K2   base camp trek.

The  K2 Base Camp Trek  takes up to 20 days to complete due to individuals needing to acclimatise to the elevation. Although, fit trekkers can complete the trip in a short period. We recommend that adventurers spend a reasonable time in the mountains for acclimatisation reasons. It is also the best way to enjoy the trek and see the glorious views of The Karakoram mountains.

Islamabad International Airport is the nearest International to start the trekking holidays in the Karakoram mountains. So, the K2 Base Camp Trek journey begins in Islamabad, where the Trango Adventure representative welcomes you at the ISB national airport and transfers you to your group hotel in Islamabad. The rest of the day is free to relax or do self-guided sightseeing. We will meet again over dinner, and our staff will give a detailed briefing about the K2 base camp trek .

The next day you will fly to Skardu, spectacular mountain views of  Nanga Parbat , Gondogoro La, and other Himalayan  peaks . In  Skardu , you will meet fellow hikers and the mountain guide who will take you on the trip of a lifetime. Skardu is the capital city of the Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is also the getaway to K2, Broad Peak, Gondogoro La, and Snow Lake. Known as Little Tibet, visiting Skardu is an adventure because of its unique culture, architecture, and people. You can do a self-guided sightseeing tour of Skardu during your stay in the city.

After spending two days in Skardu, you will travel to Johla via Askole along the Indus and Braldu rivers. The small village of Askole is the last human settlement you will see en route to K2. Spend your first evening at Johla in your sleeping bag in the tent under the stars. From there, the  trekking  begins as you trek to Paiju.  K2 Base Camp distance  is 80 kilometres from Johla. The distance to the  K2 basecamp  may not sound much, but hiking with packs at that elevation is difficult. It is a chance to test your mettle and adventure attitude.

As the elevation increases, you will experience incredible views of Paiju Peak, Trango Towers, Masherbrum, Muztagh Tower, and Gasherbrum, offering the best trekking experience in the world. The weather conditions and the sun can be harsh as you trek up to  K2 basecamp  on Baltoro, so have protective clothing and sun cream to prevent sunburns.

Each day you will trek for several hours, covering 10-12 kilometres of elevation as you reach closer to  K2 Base Camp . You and your group will Trek on  Baltoro Glacier  and pass through areas such as Urdukas, Khoburtse, and Goro. On day 12 of your trekking adventure, you will finally reach  K2 Base Camp . Here you will stand 5,150 meters above sea level, surrounded by panoramic views of Broad Peak and Gasherbrum Peaks.

After visiting Broad Peak base camp, Gilkey memorial and K2 base camp, your return trek is to retrace your steps back to  Concordia,  where you will enjoy a good sleep in your tent. Wake up to a spectacular sunrise view over Broad Peak and the Karakoram giants, and pack your gear for the return journey towards Islamabad.

You will follow the same travel itinerary back to Islamabad by retracing your steps. The adventure is not over as you begin your descent and see  K2  from a different angle on the return trek. Once back in Johla, you will celebrate the success of your K2 Trek trip with your fellow team of hikers, guides, and porters. Most of your porters and trekking crew are from Askole, so farewell to your new friends and drive back to Skardu along the mighty Indus River. Night stay in Skardu and take a mountain view flight back to Islamabad to  complete  the trekking holiday in Pakistan.

K2 Base Camp Trek  is one of the most exciting treks on earth. Exploring the second-highest mountain and experiencing the wonders of  Pakistan  is a one-of-a-kind way to spend a month of your life. After completing this magnificent base camp trek, extend your holiday and visit southern Pakistan to experience the rich culture, traditions and historical landscapes. 

The second video was captured by our team members from our  K2 and Gondogoro La Trek .

At a glance

Grade:  Challenging.

Duration:  20 days.

On trek:  12 days trek.

Max Altitude:  5,150 m/16896ft, K2 base camp.

Guaranteed 28 departures.

Max group size: Small groups .

Joining City:  Islamabad/Skardu

Accommodation type : Hotel and Camping.

Meal arrangements:  Full board.

BRIEF TREK ITI NERARY :         Download a detailed trek Itinerary

Arrival day in islamabad:, islamabad to skardu flight (45 minuets), 2,230 m/7,316ft:, sightseeing & preparation day, skardu:, skardu to johla via askole, (141 km), 3,075 m/10,332ft, 8 hours drive:, trek to paiju, (21 km) 3,420 m/11,220ft, 6 hours trek:, trek to khoburtse, (15 km) 3,795 m/12,450ft, 7 hours trek:, trek to urdukas, (6 km) 3,900 m/12,795ft, 4 hours trek:, acclimatisation & rest day:, trek to goro, (12 km) 4,295 m/14,091ft, 7 hours trek:, trek to concordia, (12 km) 4,500 m/14,763ft, 5 hours trek:, trek to broad peak base camp, (6 km) 4,800 m/15,748ft, 4 hours trek:, trek to k2 base camp & return to concordia, (11 km) 5,150 m/16,896ft, 6 hours trek:, trek back to goro, (12 km) 4,295 m/14,091ft, 6 hours trek:, trek back to khoburtse, (14 km) 3,795 m/12,450ft, 7 hours trek:, trek back to paiju, (15 km) 3,420 m/11,220ft, 5 hours trek:, trek back to jhola, (21 km) 3,150 m/10,334ft, 5 hours trek:, drive back to skardu, (141 km) 2,230 m/7,316ft, 8 hours drive:, fly back to islamabad, (45 minutes):, contingency day in case of delays:, departure day - fly back home:, k2 base camp trek faqs, k2 base camp trek cost..

We are often asked this question, How come your K2 base camp trek costs low?

Trango Adventure is a Skardu-based company in Pakistan. We are a local tour operator, offering guided treks, tours and climbing expeditions for the last 40 years. Being a local travel company, we have our local staff, infrastructure, hotels, and transportation system, so we can afford to offer the trips at a low price without compromising the quality of the service.

We strongly believe that you do not have to break your bank account to enjoy nature and walk in the mountains. Being a local tour operator, we do not hand our clients to another tour operator or a third party as all the International tour operators do because they do not have offices and staff in Pakistan.

Companies based in Europe have high rents and salaries to pay in USD/Euros to keep the business running. They do not have offices or staff in Pakistan, so they take their commission and pass their clients to local tour operators/agents. They act as a middleman between you and the tour operator in Pakistan. These are the reasons International companies are expensive . They send their groups to Pakistan only if they have a certain number of people in a group. They cancel the trek if they do not get a certain number of participants because they lose money. All our trips are guaranteed , even if we have  ONE person  in the group.

We are the people you will talk, see and spend time with from the beginning till the end of your trip. We are not anonymous people on the other end of email/phone in Europe, and most likely, you will never see them.

Trango Adventure has a history of providing top quality service and we do not compromise on the standard of the service. We always prioritize your satisfaction over any cost-cutting measures. By travelling with us, you are paying directly to the local people, and local businesses, strengthening our mission to support sustainable tourism in this region.

Why our K2 Base camp trek costs low :

Local Staff and Fair Pay : Everyone who works with us lives in the local area, known to us for many years, and we pay them fairly in the local currency . Our guides and cooks are from the Shigar region, and earn more wages than those at other companies. Most of our staff have been working with us for over 20 years, they are the true assets of our company.

Our infrastructure: We have been offering trekking holidays in Pakistan for the last 40 years so we are well established. We have our hotels, private transports, and local staff, which keeps the cost down and runs the trips smoothly.

Other reasons to travel with a local company.

Being a Local Company, we have the advantage of local knowledge, contacts, experience, and local staff to support your travel requirements. Our Guides and staff have collectively visited every corner of Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan. They have the passion, knowledge and insight around adventure travel that you can rely on. Our independence means we can be flexible to ensure your needs are satisfied. Our experienced and professional team will do their best to provide you with excellent service, so you can have peace of mind that all your requirements will be met. We are local,

•  We are not an anonymous person on the end of a phone that you will never meet
•  We are the people you talk to when discussing your plans
• We are the people you will meet upon arrival
• We are the people who will look after you when doing the activities
• We are the people you will laugh with
• We are the people you will thank at the end.

Group leaders

Trango Adventure has licensed and experienced mountain guides for all our trips to the K2 base camp. Their responsibilities are to ensure you have an enjoyable, safe and authentic travel experience. All our guides are licensed and regulated by the  Government of Pakistan . They have been working with us for many years, we know them all very well, and they are part of Trango Adventure’s family. We strongly believe in responsible tourism. We use local Guides and porters so that they can share their knowledge of the area with you.

Safety and Security

The safety and security of our guests and trek staff is our top priority. It begins at the planning stage by designing a well-thought-out itinerary that allows for the necessary time for acclimatisation to the increase in altitude. We regularly check the UK, and USA foreign office travel advice and avoid travelling to areas not recommended by the UK and USA. Your deposit is fully refundable if you can not travel to Pakistan due to changes in the political and security situation.

All our guides are well-trained and highly experienced in leading groups in the Himalayas and the Karakoram. We obtain professional weather forecasts from everestweather.com throughout the trekking seasons in Pakistan.

Safety First: We take the well-being of our guests very seriously. All our guides and staff are well-trained and highly experienced in handling risks. They know the area very well because they are born and bred in this region. We remain in close contact with the local rescue teams in case of emergency or need a helicopter rescue. Safety is extremely important when trekking in such remote areas.

All of our Trekking Holidays in Pakistan are good value for money. We provide an excellent service at competitive prices and do not compromise on the quality of any aspect of the trip. Being a local and independent company, we can afford to provide you with a high-quality holiday in Pakistan at a low cost because we do not use any agents or third parties, unlike most Western companies.

Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

We are dedicated to responsible and sustainable tourism with the aim that future travellers will see the destinations in a similar or better state than we have been able to. Low-volume and low-impact travelling are some of the most effective ways of preserving the fragile areas we visit.

We strongly believe in using local resources and expertise, so all your money goes to the local businesses and local people. All our staff are locals and have been with us for many years. Our staff and field crew are the most valuable assets of our company, so we always ensure that our local staff are paid a fair wage.

Nutritious Meals : Our experienced cooks prepare high-quality and tasty food. Over the last decades, we have learnt what type of grocery items to take with us in the mountains that can last longer and provide all the nutrition you need. Our unique menu is a balance of protein and carbohydrates, better than what you’d find elsewhere. We take live chickens and goats to use as a source of protein during the trekking season. If you choose a more expensive company, you will likely have the same food.

Our Campsites: At Trango Adventure, we understand that after a long day of trekking at high altitude, you deserve a cosy and relaxing camping environment. That’s why we go the extra mile to ensure your comfort. Here’s what we provide to make your campsite experience truly enjoyable:

• Tables and Comfy Chairs: We set up tables and comfortable chairs so that you have a proper place to sit, relax, and enjoy your meals and conversations with fellow trekkers.
• Spacious Dining Tent: Our large dining tents are spacious so everyone can enjoy the meals during the trek. You won’t feel cramped and have a comfortable area to socialize and share stories.
• Well-Equipped Kitchen Tent: Our dedicated kitchen tent is fully equipped to prepare delicious meals. Our experienced cooks work their magic here to ensure you get the best dining experience possible.
• Private Toilet Tent: We understand the importance of privacy, especially toilet facilities. Toilets are available at most campsites in the Baltoro region. Please talk to our advisors if you would like to order a private toilet tent to ensure that you have a personal and comfortable space for your needs near your sleeping tent.
• Charging Generator: Staying connected is necessary, even in the wilderness. We provide a generator/solar panel to charge your mobile phones, cameras and drones so you can capture stunning photos and stay in touch with your loved ones.
• Refreshments: Coffee, Tea, and Cookies: When you arrive at camp, you’ll be greeted with the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and tea. Alongside these warm beverages, we offer a variety of cookies to satisfy your cravings and keep you energized during the entire trip.

We aim to make your trekking experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible. By providing these amenities, we want you to feel at home in the great outdoors, allowing you to focus on soaking in the natural beauty of the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan.

Small Groups for an Authentic Experience: We believe in small groups so that you get a truly authentic travel experience. Small groups are easier to manage, and our staff can pay attention to everyone. We never have more than twelve people in our trekking groups. Other companies regularly take 30-40 people in a group with only one guide who might not speak English well. This can lead to problems and delays, like not having enough porters.

Communication Devices: All our mountain guide carries satellite phones in case of emergencies, even though the local authorities installed a mobile antenna at Concordia two years ago. The local mobile phone network provider S COM provides service in the Baltoro region. You can get an S COM sim in Skardu and use the internet to stay in contact with family and friends while trekking in the mountains.

Pre-trip briefing: Before you leave for the K2 Base Camp Trek, you may request a one-on-one call with us. This helps to do last-minute checks on equipment and prepare for a successful and enjoyable trip. We will answer any questions about the airport transfer and group hotel and arrange additional hotel nights if needed.

The K2 base camp trek is very safe. K2 Base Camp Trek is located in the Baltistan region of Pakistan. The Baltistan region has been hosting foreign tourists for many decades. Crime level has been recorded at ZERO for decades, and people of this area are well-educated and peaceful.

During the trekking session, you will be walking on the dry land from Askoli and a few days on the surface of the glaciers, which do not contain any climbing. You do not need climbing skills and climbing equipment to complete this trek. Trekking across glaciers and through streams deep within the mountains, the K2 Base Camp Trek has a low-risk rating.

At Trango Adventure, the well-being of our guests is our top priority, and that’s why our experienced ground crew always takes essential safety measures. Injury prevention is our top priority, and safety is always our main concern. Our 40 years of experience providing the K2 Base Camp Trek sets us apart from other travel companies. Over the years, we’ve learned how important it is to be ready for any unexpected situation. We recognize the value of preparedness and work hard to acquire the resources necessary to handle any emergency.

We understand the importance of clear communication in an emergency and have invested in satellite phone s. Even though they are expensive to acquire and maintain, we refuse to put profit above safety. Because of this, your mountain guide will bring a means of communicating through satellite. With these tools, we can contact rescue workers from wherever in Pakistan.

We also appreciate individual interaction and have arranged for a satellite phone for guest usage at a fee of $5 per minute (paid in local currency).

The weather is mostly sunny, with a clear sky during K2 Base Camp Trek in the summer. Unlike the Everest base camp trek, we do not have monsoon season in the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan. It does not rain very often, however, the weather in the mountains is unpredictable so be prepared for brief downpours and storms. In addition, the conditions you encounter will vary from location to region.

Islamabad: The capital city of Pakistan is the starting point of the journey, experiencing hot and humid weather between May and September. Rain from the monsoon season could fall at this time as well. Daytime highs average around 42°C (97°F), while overnight lows average around 25°C (75°F).

Skardu: Skardu is the capital of the Baltistan region and is at an elevation of 2,250 meters, so expect higher daytime temperatures and lower humidity as you travel there. Skardu has cooler, more comfortable nights. Dust along the main bazaar route because of the neighbouring Sarfaraga and Katpana cold deserts, and you may experience strong winds and dust storms. Skardu experiences its highest average monthly temperature of 32°C (80.4°F) in July, with lows of 12°C (50°F) at night. The rays from the sun are sharper due to the high altitude, and it could feel hotter than the actual temperature.

We advise you to pack for a wide range of climates, from the hot, humid, and potentially wet climate of Islamabad to the varying temps, dust, and strong winds of Skardu. Take clothes that will keep you warm, dry, and safe on the hike. We will send you a  packing list for the K2 base camp trek closer to departure.

You must be in good physical condition and able to walk for lengthy periods (up to 7 hours) through varied terrain. We will walk between 5-7 hours daily during the K2 trek. You will carry only your day bag with a bottle of water, a camera, hat, sun cream etc. We will have several local porters and mules to transport the gear.

The best time to do the K2 Base Camp trek is in July and August. However, you can also do this trek any time between the middle of June and the middle of September, as the weather is still pleasant. Hiking to the K2 base camp in early June is also possible. It is a bit more challenging because the snow has not yet melted.

A trekking visa is required for the K2 Base Camp trek, the K2 and Gondogoro La trek, or other trekking holiday activities in the Baltoro region. Baltoro is in a restricted zone (Central Karakoram National Park). You are not allowed to enter this zone with a standard tourist visa. The restricted area has an entry fee of around $200, which is included in our K2 base camp trek package.

The Trekking and Mountaineering Visa application must be submitted through the government’s official visa application website. We will send you all the required documents to apply for the trekking visa, including the Letter of Invitation (LOI). Being reputable and one of the oldest tour operators in Pakistan, our clients ‘ visa success rate is 100%.  All our clients get trekking visas on time before their departure dates. Read this in-depth post for information on how to submit an online application for a Pakistan trekking visa.

The K2 Base Camp Trek does not require previous trekking or mountaineering experience. No technical climbing knowledge or ice tools are necessary. This hike is perfect for explorers who wish to experience high-altitude ice glacier trekking. Anyone in generally good health who has hiked long distances before is welcome to sign up.

Most of the time will be spent on solid ground, with only a few days traversing the glacier. Our staff will pitch tents for you to sleep in the evening and take them down in the morning.

The K2 Base Camp Trek is an excellent option for high altitudes and training for future ascents of summits between 6,000 and 7,000 meters.

The food in Pakistan is well-known for being excellent. During the K2 trek your,

• Breakfasts feature omelettes, pancakes, cereals, jam, butter, honey, freshly made local bread, tea and coffee.
• Packed Lunch will have sandwiches, boiled eggs, potatoes, cheese, a chocolate bar, dry fruits and munchies.
• Dinners are beautifully made and feature a range of curries, soups, salads, noodles, pasta, lentils, rice dishes, meats, and desserts. End your meal on a sweet note with a selection from the dessert menu. Fresh mangoes and melons are available during the first week of the hike and are a welcome treat.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets are routinely accommodated.

Islamabad Airport is the nearest international airport to arrive for the K2 base camp trek. It is Pakistan’s capital and a transportation hub. To minimize the effects of jet lag and give yourself extra time in case of flight or itinerary changes, we recommend being there the day before the tour officially begins. We will meet you in the arrival hall and transfer you to the group hotel. We can still arrange an airport pickup for you if you arrive here one to two days early, however, it will cost about $20 more if you arrive more than two days early (same applies for departure).

After spending the night in Islamabad, you take a spectacular mountain view flight from Islamabad to Skardu. Flight from Islamabad to Skardu provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas, the Karakoram, and the Hindukush mountains, including Nanga Parbat and K2. Daily 2-3 flights fly from Islamabad to Skardu in the summer, and it does not get cancelled as often compared to the past since Skardu Airport has been upgraded to an International airport. PIA also runs a direct flight from Dubai To Skardu in the summer, so perhaps it’s worth learning more about this option.

After completing the K2 Base Camp trek , you will fly back to Islamabad from Skardu. Your K2 trek package includes domestic flights and all the domestic airport transfers. If the flight is cancelled due to bad weather, you will drive to Skardu through the world-famous Karakoram Highway. Even though travelling by road will add more time to the trip, you have planned for this possibility. Flights to and from Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore have had a high success rate since Skardu Airport was converted into an International airport.

The K2 Base Camp Trek, like other treks in the Karakoram region, has a standard luggage limit of 17 kg per traveller. Your allowed 17 Kg will be packed in a duffle bag, and our porter will transport your bags between camps. You will only carry your day bag with a bottle of water, sun cream, a hat and a book etc. You have to pay extra if you bring a bag that weighs more than 17 kg. These prices are seasonal and calculated based on demand. Adding 5 kg to your load could add another $130-$140 to your bill. We know that you may need to bring more than the 15 kilograms that are typically allowed by other firms. We have increased the weight limit to 17 kg so you can have more items for the trek. Since the porters will carry all the equipment and supplies, weight limits are in place for their health and safety.

You can leave any unnecessary items at our office in Skardu or your group accommodation before starting the K2 trip.

Please be aware that we strictly follow the weight restriction enforced by the local authorities.

It usually takes twenty days to complete the K2 base camp trek from Islamabad to Islamabad. The hiking portion of the K2 base camp trek is typically fourteen days up and down, beginning from Johla camp, but sometimes starting in Askoli if the road is closed between Askoli and Johla.

Preparation and good planning are essential to complete the K2 Base camp trek holiday. The K2 trek is challenging, so physical training such as Aerobic conditioning, altitude training, and strength endurance will help you enjoy the Karakoram mountains and reach the base camp of K2 successfully. Aerobic activities can teach your body to work hard on less oxygen, and elevation training will build your muscles to manage the elevation rise better.

The trek to the K2 base camp is challenging compared to the Everest trek in Nepal. However, anyone with a moderate fitness level can reach K2 Base Camp and have a fantastic experience in the K2 region with the correct mentality, pace, and preparation.  Find out more about getting ready for a hike to K2 Base Camp.

Age is not a problem as long as you are healthy, moderately fit and used to high altitude and long-distance walking.  If you’re healthy, fit and used to travelling large distances, being in your 60s or 70s won’t be an issue. We often have several European and American clients in their fifties and sixties in each group.

Do you have a contingency plan if I get too tired to continue? Maybe one of the guides can show him back the way we came.

If you feel unwell, tired or can not continue the trek, our team will bring you back to Skardu. Our staff are fully prepared to take you back to Skardu safely. In Skardu, you can either stay at the group hotel for the duration of the trip and wait for the rest of the members in the group to return or change your return flight back home and depart early.

The safety of our clients is our top priority, and we manage rescue operations very swiftly. Trango Adventures has successfully airlifted several clients from the K2 region in our last 4 decades of operations. Our staff is in constant contact with the helicopter Rescue team, and they promptly dispatch a chopper whenever one of our clients needs to be picked up from the Baltoro area. We need the names and numbers of the insurance companies associated with your policies. You should get an insurance policy that includes your planned activities in Pakistan.

Three years ago, the local government installed a mobile phone antenna at Concordia to support the communication needs of the Baltoro area. The coverage area of mobile networks covers the most area of this region. From the Baltoro region, our customers and employees have been using their mobile phones to keep in touch with loved ones back home. The network that offers mobile phone service also provides mobile data to use the internet. We also bring a satellite phone as a backup.

During the K2 trek, the weather typically features sunshine and clear skies. The weather conditions you’ll encounter during the K2 trek will also depend on the time you choose to go. July and August mark the peak season for hikers, offering the most steady, clear and stable weather.

Although the trekking season generally provides pleasant weather, you should remain prepared for various conditions, particularly in the Karakoram mountainous areas, especially at higher altitudes. Strong winds, rain, and snow are all potential weather scenarios while hiking.

In the mountains, temperatures can fluctuate significantly, ranging from well below freezing at night to warm during the daytime comfortably. Given these potential temperature swings, we suggest bringing multiple layers of clothing that can be easily interchanged. Keep in mind that it gets colder as you ascend into higher elevations. When nearing the glacier, anticipate a substantial drop in temperature, so ensure you pack sufficient warm clothing.

The typical duration of K2 Base Camp Trek is between 20 and 22 days from Islamabad to Islamabad. Although the real-time spent hiking to base camp is closer to 14 days (depending on the weather).

Meeting your group, experiencing the attractions in Islamabad and Skardu, travelling to the journey’s beginning point in Askole, meeting the locals, completing the trek, and returning to Islamabad are all part of the lengthy itinerary. Unexpected road blockades and flight cancellations are part of this adventure holiday, but our staff will do their best to complete your journey as smoothly as possible.

The hike to K2 Base Camp is challenging and time-consuming but with a reward for spectacular mountain scenery. A high degree of physical fitness and general health are required to join the K2 trek.

Your hike through the Baltoro Glacier will be slow and challenging due to the lack of a well-defined track, high altitude and slippery surfaces.

Before attempting this hike, you should have some experience with long-distance trekking.

The K2 base camp trek carries the same level of danger as any other hike of similar height. The K2 base camp is located at around 5,150 meters; therefore, it is essential to acclimate to the higher altitude before continuing the journey.

Take time walking on the glacier and the ice ground to avoid slipping and spraining your ankle. Using crampons or micro spikes is recommended for good balance while walking on the ice glacier.

Are you debating between a trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and a K2 Base Camp trek? To help you determine which of these two classic journeys is best for you, we have laid out some key distinctions between K2 and Everest.

Tens of thousands of people participate in the Everest Base Camp Trek each year. As a result of its widespread use, the paths are always clear and easy to follow but overcrowded. The K2 Base Camp Trek is a popular option for serious trekkers and adventurers lovers, although it has been relatively unexplored.

The K2 Base Camp Trek is likewise less popular and less noisy than the EBC Trek as of today. K2 Base Camp Trek is the route to go if you seek a more alone, natural and far-flung experience. The K2 Base Camp Trek offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding 8000ers and a visit to the magnificent Concordia, where glaciers and rock meet.

Forests, rivers, freezing cliffs, tea houses and alpine terrain are some of the diverse landscapes you’ll encounter on the EBC journey. Meanwhile, the K2 Base Camp hike is dry, camping, sandy and ice glaciers before you reach the mighty Baltoro glacier and Godwin-Austen ice glaciers of the Rocky Mountains.

While both hikes are in the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains, they are very different experiences, so pick the one that appeals to you the most. Perhaps one day you’ll be able to accomplish both!

Additional information

Map & itinerary of k2 base camp trek pakistan, ultimate base camp trek and a trekking holiday to k2 base camp in 2024-25..

Introduction

Trango Adventure  is a fully licensed tour operator by the Government of Pakistan. We have been offering  the K2 Base Camp trek  and other  trekking holidays  in Pakistan for the last forty years with great success. Our staff has travelled extensively throughout the Karakoram Mountains and has plenty of experience with the K2 base camp trek. Based on our 40 years of experience and local knowledge, we have thoughtfully designed a K2 base camp trek itinerary. By following this travel itinerary, you will be fully acclimatised to the high altitude, enjoy the mountains and be back in the capital city for your return flight to your home country.

We intend to follow the day-to-day  K2 Base Camp Trek  itinerary detailed below, although there might be some flexibility due to local conditions and unpredictable weather. Our guide and supporting crew will do their best and change the travel itinerary for minimum inconvenience.

Trekking and other adventure holidays require an open and flexible attitude. You may experience extreme conditions, unpredictable weather, road blockades and last-minute changes to the travel itinerary beyond our control. The ability to work in a team is one of the main aspects of all our adventure holidays.

The  K2 Base Camp Trek is a challenging trek that takes up to 20 days to complete due to individual needs to get used to the high altitude and the elevation. Although fit trekkers can complete this trek in a short duration, we recommend completing it in a slow and recommended time and space. It is also the best way to enjoy the trip and the glorious views of Baltoro and the Karakoram mountains. 

Watch the detailed K2 base camp trek video itinerary on our YouTube channel.

Detailed Trek Itinerary

Arrival day in islamabad, pakistan:.

Welcome to Pakistan. Today, you will arrive at  Islamabad International Airport . Our representative will meet and greet you at the airport and then transfer you to your hotel in Islamabad. You will be served tea/coffee at the hotel as a welcome drink, and use this opportunity to get to know your fellow trekkers. After the drink, have a rest to recover from your long flight. We will meet over dinner to give you a detailed briefing about your  K2 base camp trek .

Accommodation

• Hill View Hotel or similar
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

ISLAMABAD TO SKARDU FLIGHT, (45 minutes) 2,230 m/7,316ft:

Skardu is the Capital and administrative town of the historical Baltistan region. Baltistan was once one of the largest kingdoms of the Himalayas. The inhabitants of Baltistan are called the Balti people, and they are descendants of Tibet and Mongolia. People of Baltistan speak the Balti language, which comes from Sanskrit, and it is very similar to the Tibetan language. Baltistan is also known as Little Tibet because of similarities in culture, traditions and architecture.  

Please note: Flights to and from Skardu only take place if the weather is clear. Skardu Airport is in a narrow valley, and the pilots need a clear view to land the plane. The weather in the mountains mostly stays clear, so flights rarely get cancelled.

Skardu Airport was upgraded to international status and underwent a re-inauguration on December 2, 2021, following extensive enhancements aimed at transforming it into a prominent tourism hub. The airport now facilitates direct flights from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Dubai. Since the upgrades, flight cancellations have significantly decreased, and cancellation chances are now very low. Last summer, we had only one flight cancellation, and our clients had to travel by road on KKH. While we travel on KKH, we avoid travelling through the area, which is not recommended by the UK and US foreign offices.

In case of flight cancellation, you will travel on Karakorum Highway to Naran for a night stay, and the next day continue to Skardu. Islamabad to Naran distance is 281 km, and 9 hour drive. Naran to Skardu is a 10-hour drive on the Karakoram highway along the mighty Gilgit and Indus rivers. Travelling by road on the Karakoram Highway is as spectacular as taking a flight.

• Summit Hotel or similar

SIGHTSEEING & PREPARATION DAY, SKARDU

Skardu lies along the south bank of the Indus River, which separates The Karakorum from the Himalayas. It has a long bazaar with different shops along both sides of the main road. The centre of the town is Yadgar Chowk, a memorial inscribed with the names of those who died fighting for the liberation of Gilgit Baltistan from the Dogra rule in 1947-48.

Kharpocho Fort is one of the main attractions. Visit the historical Kharpocho Fort, built in the late 16th century on the top of a rock overlooking the town. After visiting the Kharpocho fort, head to see the crystal clear blue water Sadpara Lake, which is only a 20-minute drive from town, have lunch at the lake and visit the famous 8th-century Buddha rock on the way back. Buddha Rock is evidence of traces and influences of Buddhism in the area before the arrival of Islam in the 14th century.

From Buddha Rock, you can travel to Kachura village to explore the village life of this mountain valley. Kachura village is famous for its two natural lakes, Upper Kachura Lake and Shangrila Lake. Perhaps, you would like to have a tea break at one of the restaurants along the banks of the upper Kachura Lake. After visiting Kachura village, head back to your hotel for dinner.

Have a good sleep in your bed as from tomorrow you will be sleeping in sleeping bags in tents until you return to Skardu.

Note: If the road is blocked between Askoli and Johla then we will drive to Askoli today and spend the night in Askoli.

DRIVE TO JOHLA VIA ASKOLE, (141 km), 3,075 m/10,332ft, 8 HOURS DRIVE:

The people of this village have been hosting mountaineers for many centuries. They are the most welcoming, friendly, and humble people you will ever meet. They will invite you to their homes for tea and offer snacks to show their hospitality.

As you trek through the village, it is fascinating to see the locals getting on with their daily farming tasks in their corn and barley fields. Enjoy the view of Apricot trees and the greenery as you are about to leave them behind. Sun rays at this altitude are stronger, so keep sun creams, a hat, and a water bottle to avoid sunburn and dehydration.

In 2021, the road from Askole to Johla was extended, so we do not stay in Askole any longer. After a short break in Askole, we will drive to Johla camp for a night stay. Leave Askole behind, and enter into the wilderness of The Karakorum mountains. The drive is gentle as the road is on flat and dry land. Valley will be opening out soon, which will reveal the mighty Biafo Glacier. Have your first experience on the moraine, which will lead you to the old oasis-like camp of Korfong. Korfong camp is the starting point for other famous trekking routes, including the Gondogoro la circuit, Snow Lake and Hispar Lake trek . Snow Lake Glacier offers unique trekking and ski holiday experience. 

After the old Korfong camp, you will continue along the Braldu River to reach the junction of the Panama River. A detour up the mountain valley will take you to cross a bridge that will lead you to Jhola camp. There was an adventurous and exciting pulley system to cross this river before this bridge-building. Jhola camp is one of the first campsites, built by the tourism department with Basins, washing and toilet facilities.

The trekking distance to the K2 base camp is 80 kilometres from Johla. It is possible to complete the K2 base camp trek distance in fewer days if you are a fit trekker and short on time.

Check our  Blog and news  section for more detailed information about  the K2 base camp trek distance.

Pitch up your tent and enjoy your first evening in your sleeping bag under the stars with the spectacular views of Bakhor Das peak (5,809 meters) and the needles of Paiju peaks. Unlike the Everest base camp trek, you will sleep in a tent during the entire K2 trekking session.

Night stay at Johla campsite.

• Full-service Camping

TREK TO PAIJU, (21 km) 3,420 m/11,220ft, 6 HOURS TREK

Start trekking along the Braldu Gorge for a while before you climb higher grounds. Be prepared to cross a few small streams if the water levels are high. Sports sandals and old trainers help cross slippery streams. You will arrive at Paiju campsite after crossing a small stream.

Paiju Camp is on a hillside under the shadow of the Paiju Peak, with good camping facilities, litter bins, washbasins, and toilet cubicles built and maintained by the Tourism department. It is one of the main stops for all trekking and climbing expeditions. Paiju provides an opportunity to meet members from other trekking teams and learn about their experiences. Expect a musical night over a bonfire by the local Balti porters, followed by singing and dancing. From here, you can see the immense Baltoro Glacier and Trango Towers, 

ASCENT  580 meters,  DESCENT  335 meters.

On the 6th day of this base camp trek, you will be introduced to the mighty Baltoro Glacier, the large piece of ice outside the polar region. One-hour walk from the camp will bring you to the snout of  Baltoro Glacier.  Enjoy the sound and the view of the outpouring of water coming out from Baltoro while you are walking on the rubble and rocks that cover the surface of  Baltoro . You do not need an ice axe, ropes and other special climbing equipment to walk on the Baltoro Glacier. Although, trekking on an uneven surface can be tricky for some people. We recommend bringing spikes or crampons that can be helpful for a good balance.

While trekking on the Baltoro Glacier, it is fascinating to imagine that the stones under your feet possibly came from the summit of Broad Peak, Gondogoro La, or the Gasherbrum Mountains.

After walking for four hours, you will arrive at Liligo camp, where you will have a lunch break. Expect to see Himalayan ibex, snow leopards and other wildlife above on the rocks of Liligo camp. After lunch, continue walking on the moraine for a while, then climb a steep hill to arrive at a grassland with alpine meadows, which leads you to Khoburtse campsite.

Khoburtse campsite is on flat land at the side of Baltoro Glacier. This campsite has no washing facilities like the previous camps, but it does offer a sensational view of Uli Biaho and  Trango Tower.

Night stay at Khorburtse campsite.

Ascent  640 meters  descent  220 meters..

Wake up early in the morning with a hot cup of tea and witness an impressive sunrise view over  Trango Tower . Today will be a short but strenuous trekking day as you walk up the undulating moraine while gaining height. Most of the time, you will trek along the lateral moraine and sometimes on the surface of  Baltoro . Pass the Nameless Towers to arrive at Urdukas camp by early afternoon. It is located around 100 meters above the Baltoro glacier.

Urdukas camp is a historical site. It is beautifully located above the Baltoro glacier with a spectacular view of Cathedral Peak. In 1909 the Duke of Abruzzi and his men built this camp on their way to  K2 . It is the last campsite with toilets, basins, and litter bin facilities, so make the most of it.

The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or walk up the slope behind the camp for a spectacular  panorama view  of the mighty Baltoro.

Night stay at Urdukas Camp.

ASCENT  250 meters,  DESCENT  40 meters.

Acclimatisation & rest day at urdukas.

At high altitudes, air pressure decreases (hypobaria), resulting in thinner air—that molecules spread farther apart. We breathe less oxygen when breathing at high altitudes, resulting in less oxygen being absorbed in the lungs and delivered to the body.

A low-oxygen state, whether in ambient air or the body, is called hypoxia. Hypobaric hypoxia causes multiple effects: Heart and respiratory rates increase immediately, improving oxygenation. Muscle fatigue, sleep apnea, changes in metabolism, altered hormone secretion, fluid retention, and swelling of the hands, feet, and face are common.

Other  trekking  groups spend their free day at Paiju, and instead of staying at Paiju, we have been spending our free days at Urdukas to get acclimatised before reaching a higher altitude. Over the last 40 years, we have learnt that spending a free day at Urdukas has proven to be much more effective for safety and acclimatisation. Resting here has worked well for all our K2  Base Camp  and Gondogoro la Trekking groups.

Urdukas is a historic campsite on a grassy place on the side of the Baltoro glacier with cleaning and washing facilities. There are short walks around the camp, so enjoy a short walk and the magnificent panorama view of Gasherbrum and Broad Peak.

TREK TO GORO, (12 km) 4,295 m/14,091ft, 7 HOURS TREK

Continue trekking upwards with a view of Gasherbrum IV, which looks like standing at the head of Baltoro glacier, guiding you to  the K2 base camp  like a beacon. The trekking path continues to be on the uneven rocky surface of  Baltoro,  with many ice dunes to Goro I camp. Lunch, and a short break at Goro I, then trek for a few more hours to reach Goro II campsite by early afternoon for a night stay.

Goro II camp is on the rocky surface of  Baltoro glacier  after an army campsite. The campsite is spread out, giving plenty of room to pitch your tent. Tonight, you will be sleeping on the surface of the Baltoro glacier, so make sure to put many layers of clothes on to keep yourself warm.

ASCENT  330 meters  DESCENT  90 meters.

Trek to concordia, (12 km) 4,500m/14,763ft, 5 hours trek.

Today is one of the top highlights of your  K2 base camp trek . Wake up early and Trek to Concordia.  Concordia  is known as the throne room of the mountain gods.  Concordia  is 4,500 meters above sea level, located at the junction of the upper Baltoro Glacier and Godwin-Austen Glacier. Famous alpinist and explorer Sir Martin Conway gave the name “Concordia to this place.  Concordia  is one of the most spectacular places on earth.

All the Karakoram giants you have been looking at from a faraway are now right in front of you. You are surrounded by the mighty Gasherbrum II (8,035m/26,361ft), III (7,952m/26,089ft) & IV (7,925m/26,000ft), Mitre Peak, Chogolisa (7,665m/25,147ft),  Broad Peak  (8,047m/26,401ft), and visible for the first time, the second-highest mountain on the earth after Everest, the spectacular K2 (8,611m/28,251ft).

Concordia  has a much wider area, so there is plenty of space to set up your tent. This place can be windy in the evening, so wear many layers of clothes to keep yourself warm.

Set up your camp at Concordia and spend a night in your sleeping bag with spectacular views, which you will not find anywhere else.

ASCENT 290 meters, DESCENT 5 meters.

Trek to broad peak base camp, (6 km) 4,800m/15,748ft, 4 hours trek.

Today, our mountain guide will lead you on the Godwin-Austen glacier to the base camp of Broad Peak for a night stay. You will arrive at Broad Peak Basecamp by lunchtime, followed by a free afternoon to enjoy the scenery. Broad Peak base camp provides a spectacular and close-up view of K2. Enjoy a beautiful sunset view over Broad Peak and other Karakoram giants. 

Enjoy your base camp day and spend the evening at Broad Peak Base Camp.

Participants can stay at Concordia or trek to Broad Peak Base Camp and K2 Base Camp.

ASCENT  300 meters,  DESCENT  5 meters.

Trek to k2 base camp & return to concordia, (11 km) 5,150 m/16,896ft, 7 hours trek.

Pack all your gear and trek to the Gilkey Memorial. Gilkey Memorial is  At the bottom of K2,  a testament to those who died while climbing K2. It is named after Art Gilkey, who died during the 1953 American expedition to summit K2.

Visit the Gilkey memorial and trek to the  K2 basecamp , the second-highest mountain in the world.  After starting this epic trek that took nearly a week, you finally arrived at the K2 Base Camp in Pakistan. One of the primary reasons for your visit was to pay your respects at the Gilkey Memorial, a significant landmark near the base camp.

Once you arrive at the base camp, you can not help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer magnificence of your surroundings. Stand in front of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, towering high above you and radiating a sense of grandeur that is impossible to ignore. As you gaze upon the impressive sight, take a deep breath and allow yourself to take in the awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Having journeyed for days to get to this point, you felt a sense of pride and accomplishment that was difficult to put into words. You had pushed your physical limits to their absolute extremes, traversing challenging terrain and battling harsh weather conditions to reach this moment. And now, standing at the base of one of the world’s most significant natural wonders, you could not help but feel an overwhelming sense of appreciation for the journey that brought you there.

K2 Base Camp’s  height is 5,150 meters above sea level. It is the biggest campsite for mountaineers (outside Everest base camp) who want to climb K2. From the base camp, you will have a rare panoramic view.  Enjoy the spectacular view of Concordia, Broad Peak, and other peaks rising from the majestic Baltoro.

We will have some snacks and take a group photo at the base camp with the climbers, who are there to climb K2. Mountain climbers spend nearly two months at the base camp while trying their luck. Use this opportunity to talk to the climbers, enjoy your lunch and the scenery, and then trek back to Concordia for a night’s stay. You have completed the ascending part of the K2 base camp trek, and now the descending journey will begin by retracing your steps back to Islamabad.

Night stay in your tent at Concordia.

Ascent  350 meters,  descent  650 meters..

Down the mountain valley, the serried ranks of granite towers, spires of the Lobsang, Cathedral, and Trango Towers have moved into the close distance. The snow-capped red granite spire of Masherbrum Peak is directly opposite to the south.

You will arrive at the Goro camp early in the afternoon. Goro camp is an atmospheric place, and now that you are heading home, your crew might want to have a party at the campsite to celebrate the success. Anything can be a musical or percussion instrument. Listening to the voices of Balti porters in their full local song will give you a unique experience.

Night stay in your tent at Goro camp.

ASCENT  30 meters,  DESCENT  400 meters.

You will notice that the temperature is warmer, and more oxygen in the air as the altitude drops. Yesterday, the granite spires lining the Baltoro glacier were lower than you, and now they are lofty towers above. 

Passing through the campsite of Urdukas and the Duke of Abruzzi, you can marvel at the tenacity of those early pioneers who endured untold hardship to get to their base camps in these mountains. You will have lunch on the Duke’s terrace with spectacular views across the Baltoro glacier to Biale Peak, which remains hidden except from this point. After lunch, trek down the narrow valley, sometimes on the Baltoro glacier and sometimes along the moraine until you reach Khoburtse campsite. Khoburtse camp is the starting point of the Braldu Valley and almost the end of the Baltoro glacier. You can see the patches of green on the lower slopes of Paiju Peak, which mark the location of the spring water camps.

Night stay in Khoburtse, your first off-glacier camping for some days.

ASCENT  100 meters,  DESCENT  470 meters.

Trek back to paiju, (15 km) 3,420 m/11,220ft, 5 hours trek.

Following your breakfast, you will embark on your trek back to Paiju, with a breathtaking view of the world-renowned Trango Tower as your backdrop. To get there, you will head south and cross the Liligo Glacier.

It is worth noting that two decades ago, the snout of the Liligo Glacier was situated half a mile up the valley. However, over time, the glacier has moved and collided with the main glacier. As a result, the combined churning forces have made crossing the glacier difficult, and it is now considered a dangerous undertaking without a detour.

After the detour and return to the main Baltoro glacier, you now cross its north side, climbing over the huge swells of the glacier towards the ramparts of Uli Biaho. On the other side, you then trek down to the mountain valley, where you pick up the main trail and pass by the snout, where the underground river erupts out in a cascade to become the Braldu River.

The last part of the day is an easy trek on a good path, although there will be a final uphill pull to arrive at the Paiju camp. Night stay in your tent at Paiju.

ASCENT  220 meters,  DESCENT  6400 meters.

Trek back to jhola, (21 km) 3,150 m/10,334ft, 7 hours trek.

You are returning to civilization after two weeks in the wilderness of the Karakorum Mountains. Soon, you will trek on a pleasant trail down to the little ablation area beside the Biafo glacier known as Korofong, surrounded by sparse grasses and tamarack bushes.

After Korofong, you follow the glacial moraine of the Biafo glacier and then trek beside the river that emerges from its snout until you reach a bridge that allows you to cross to its north side. The trail passes through a wide flat area known locally as the King’s Polo Field before climbing through a convenient cleft on the ridge of a big rock. Descending steeply down the other side of this window, you have a pleasant stroll through a boulder-strewn landscape before climbing onto a shallow plateau.

Surprisingly, it is a different experience compared to your ascent to the  base camp of K2 . The trail rises and falls as you cross several alluvial fans. You have to cross some side streams, using makeshift bridges or stepping-stones, but it may be necessary also to wade across, especially later in the day. The source of all these streams is meltwater from the glaciers that grows as the day gets warmer. At one point, the trail passes close to the river beside the walls of the conglomerate, and you may feel its tremendous power. You follow the main Braldu River downstream to its confluence with the Panama River, where you turn northeast to reach a camping place beside the toll bridge at Jhola.

Today, you will celebrate the successful journey to the K2 base camp with the porters and hand out their tips as a token of your appreciation for their hard work. You can also give them any spare kits that are not needed, which is also a way of saying Thank You. You will sleep in your tent for the last time, so enjoy the Night stay in your tent at Johla campsite.

ASCENT  450 meters,  DESCENT  600 meters.

Drive back to skardu (141 km) 2,230 m/7,316ft, 8 hours:.

You will have a short break in Askole to farewell your porters. Most of your porters will be from this village, and they will be happy to be back at home and see their families. Say goodbye to your porters, and continue your journey to Skardu via Shigar Valley. Drive along the Braldu River to reach Shigar, cross the bridge over the Indus River, and follow the Indus River to arrive back in Skardu.

After spending two weeks in the wilderness of the Karakoram mountains, a hot shower and a warm bed await you.

Our staff will meet you at Islamabad Airport and transfer you to the group hotel.

You may feel strange to be back in the city after spending over two weeks in the wilderness of the Karakoram mountains, trekking and camping. It takes time to get used to the hustle and bustle of busy city life again.

After checking into your hotel in Islamabad, you can relax and spend the rest of the afternoon in the hotel or head out for a self-guided sightseeing tour of  Islamabad  city. We can guide you on the possibilities for sightseeing and places to buy souvenirs. Shopping for hand-made Iranian & Afghan rugs is usually a popular option.

You can have dinner in your hotel, or have dinner in a famous food street. Pakistan is known for its delicious cuisine, so make sure to taste  traditional Pakistani dishes  in Pakistan to make your  K2 Base camp trek  trip more memorable.

Note. The Skardu to Islamabad flight is weather-dependent. Should the flight be cancelled due to bad weather, the journey to Islamabad will continue by road to Astore/Naran in a Land Cruiser via Deosai Plains/kkh. Night stay in Astore/Naran.

After a full day of sightseeing, have your last dinner in Pakistan at the Magnificent Food Streets to treat your taste buds to a local Pakistani curry, a taste sensation to remember your trip to the  K2 base camp.

Should the flight be cancelled due to the bad weather, you will continue your journey to Islamabad by road from Astore. Travel with a spectacular view of  Nanga Parbat (8,126 meters)  (the 9th highest mountain in the world) in the backdrop. Follow the Karakoram Highway for a while, then cut through Babusar Pass (4,067 meters) and Kaghan Valley to Mansehra City. From Mansehra, you will rejoin the Karakoram Highway  and pass through culturally rich and historical Abbottabad city, Hassan Abdal, and Taxila to Islamabad. You will arrive late in the afternoon.

After breakfast, we will transfer you to Islamabad Airport for your flight back to your home country. The “ K2 base camp trek ” is now officially over.

In conclusion, completing the K2 Base Camp trek is an unforgettable experience that leaves you with a profound sense of accomplishment and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of Pakistan. The journey requires strength, resilience, and determination, but the reward of standing at the base of K2, one of the world’s most magnificent peaks, is well worth the effort. With memories of the stunning landscape and challenging terrain and welcoming locals, you leave Pakistan with a newfound respect for the power and beauty of nature and a sense of awe that will stay with you for a lifetime.

K2 Base Camp Trek Cost and Dates 2024-25

Private groups – choose your dates., k2 base camp treks start and finish in islamabad, k2 trek only (skardu to skardu option available).

The best time to do the  K2 Base Camp Trek  is from June through September when the weather is warmer in the northern hemisphere. It is the time of year when the country experiences summer. We have over twenty fixed departure treks to K2 during June, July and August. In September, October, November and December, we have nine departures, a total of twenty-nine in 2024. The limited number of treks makes K2 an even more desirable adventure destination.

The above trek cost and dates are exclusively for  K2 Base Camp Trek Solo departures. All our solo treks are limited to a maximum of 12 persons per group. Smaller groups are easy to maintain, and we can give you a real authentic travel experience of Gilgit Baltistan. The K2 solo trek  is the recommended way for solo travellers. Enjoy this unique base camp trek with like-minded people. Do the  K2 Base Camp Trek Solo , but never alone. AnnuallyWe welcome hundreds of solo travellers on our  K2 Trek  and other  Pakistan holidays .  Our fixed departure trekking holidays are reserved exclusively for solo travellers.

On this trekking holiday, we have included a Tea/Coffee reception in the hotel hosted by our representative on the arrival day — ideal for getting to know everyone — and throughout. Our representative will be on hand to make sure everyone in the group gets the best of their  Pakistan holiday . If you want to travel solo but do not want to share the hotel and tents, you have the  single supplement option  for minimum extra charges. We aim to keep the single supplement as low as possible.

Trango Adventure also hosts private groups, allowing parties to choose a date that suits them best. Private Groups, please choose a date and contact us for a quotation. Discounts are available for families, groups, and couples, so contact us before booking. All our  trekking holidays  are fully inclusive, including domestic flights.

K2 base camp trek cost  and dates are for the itinerary starting and finishing in Islamabad.  You can also join our group in Skardu and finish the trip in Skardu. Contact us for more information before booking.  Our all-inclusive K2 base camp trek is a fantastic way to travel with a team of like-minded people. Share the trip’s memorable moments with your friends or family. Plus, have the peace of mind that everything is taken care of, from the itinerary details to the airport transfers.

Please be aware there are often only a limited number of seats available at the advertised price for the  K2 Base Camp Trek Solo  departures. We recommend you book as early as possible, especially during peak times.  Secure your place with a deposit of $170 and pay the remaining amount when you arrive in Pakistan. The deposit amount is fully refundable* if you or we cancel the trip due to the COVID-19 situation, security or political unrest in Pakistan or your home country.

Experience Unparalleled Travel Flexibility

Seamless and Stress-Free: Change your travel dates, alter your adventure plans, or adjust your payments at your convenience without any extra cost. Book the breathtaking beauty of K2 while enjoying ultimate trip flexibility.

Flexible Payments

Embarking on an adventure holiday is an exciting prospect, and we’re thrilled to offer you flexible payment options to make your dream adventure a reality. At Trango Adventures, we understand that budgeting for a vacation can be challenging, so we’ve designed a convenient four-installment payment plan to ease the financial burden.

Payment in Four Installments : We’ve made it easy for you to spread out the cost of your adventure holiday. Once you’ve confirmed your itinerary, our travel advisors will help you set up a payment plan with four instalments. You can choose the dates that work best for you, ensuring a stress-free payment process.

Consult with Our Travel Advisors : Reach out to our experienced travel advisors who are eager to assist you every step of the way. They will help you customize your trip, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the payment process.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE — NO SURCHARGE GUARANTEE:

K2 Base Camp Trek Cost  can change depending on a variety of factors, but unlike some other tour operators, Trango Adventures has undertaken to  guarantee  the price of your holiday will not change after you have Booked. The amount when you book is the amount you will pay. Whether booking the trek for this year or next year. Book early to avoid Trek price increases, get the best flight prices, and take advantage of our  ‘No Surcharge Guarantee.”  

Trango Adventure is licensed and regulated by The  Government of Pakistan .  At Trango Adventure, we pride ourselves on being a licensed and regulated tourism provider under the auspices of the Government of Pakistan. We understand the importance of following the strict rules and regulations set by the Tourism Department and strive to comply with them. As a responsible and reputable travel company, we believe that following these regulations not only ensures the safety and security of our clients but also helps to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Pakistan for generations to come.

Secure your place in one of our fixed departure  K2 Base Camp Trek  with a small deposit and pay the remaining amount when you arrive in the country.

We accept cash on arrival, Bank Transfers, PayPal and all major Credit & debit Cards.

K2 base camp trek information 2024-25, what is included.

• Internal flights and associated airport transfers
• CKNP and permit fees ($200 per person)
• All land transports involved in the itinerary (Private Vehicle with a driver)
• Accommodation as described (3* Hotel and Camping)
• All meals (3 times a day)
• All trekking permit fees, toll tax, parking fees, etc.
• All camping ground fees, Mess tents, sleeping tents, Kitchen tents with chairs, tables and lights
• All kitchen equipment, including cutlery, crockery, fuel, and other related equipment
• English-speaking, experienced, and Government licensed Mountain Guide
• All Wages and basic kits of a guide, sirdar, Porter, cook and assistant(s)
• Insurance of porters, Guide and other crew (except helicopter rescue)
• Sleeping tents, Mess tents, toilet tents
• Satellite phone for emergencies
• Generator/Solar panels for light and charging electronic devices
• First aid medicine kit (basic)
• Domestic flights

What is not included

• Travel Insurance
• International Flights and Visa fee
• Tips for local guides and support staff
• Miscellaneous expenses souvenirs, ed. Additional hotel costs, food, mineral water, room service, etc
• Airport charges for extra luggage.
• Sightseeing tour in Islamabad and Skardu.

Meal during the Trek

We include everything in our Base Camp Trek   so you can sit back and enjoy your trekking holiday. All meals are included in this package., Pakistani, continental, and vegetarian cuisines throughout the trip. Meals during the trek are excellent, and thoughtfully designed to stimulate your appetite and keep you going despite frequent altitude-induced loss of appetite. During the Trek, you will have chicken, lamb and beef as a source of protein. 

While trekking, you will have cereal, eggs and bread or chapattis with jam and honey for breakfast. For lunch, we serve sandwiches, dry fruit and nuts. The evening meals can start with soups (often with a healthy dose of garlic to aid acclimatization) accompanied by samosas and other local starters. The main meal varies from local Pakistani cuisine (Rice, Curry, lentils, etc.) to Western or Chinese foods. Desserts are equally appealing and can include cakes custard, etc.

We also cater for vegans and vegetarians regularly. Contact us before booking and inform our travel consultants about any need and requirement you have.

During the  K2 Base Camp Trek , you will stay in good international tourist standard hotels (3-4 stars) in Islamabad and Skardu. Hotels in Islamabad and Skardu are centrally located. Accommodation at each of these hotels is twin-sharing with en-suite facilities. If you are alone, you stay with another client of the same sex. You can also hire a single room and single sleeping tents for an additional cost. For hotel room prices and single supplement costs, contact us in advance.

Accommodation Preferences

You have the option to book extra hotel nights before or following your primary travel dates. Feel free to get in touch with us to explore the available choices and receive a price estimate. Once your selection is finalised, the expenses will be included in your bill.

You are also welcome to arrive in Pakistan earlier if you would like to get acclimatised in Skardu or Deosai. Please contact our travel adviser, they will be happy to send you the details and options.

Internal flights

Skardu flight.

Skardu Valley is a place where tall mountains surround it. This makes it so that aeroplanes can only land there when the weather is clear and easy to see. Usually, planes can fly to Skardu Valley without any problems. But sometimes, the flights can get cancelled. If this happens, you need to travel by road on Karakorum Highway instead.

However, there is some good news! Skardu Airport has upgraded to an international airport with GPS technology. This means that the chances of flights getting cancelled are much lower now.

Skardu Airport was upgraded to international status and underwent a re-inauguration on December 2, 2021, following extensive enhancements aimed at transforming it into a prominent tourism hub. The airport now facilitates direct flights from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Dubai. Since the upgrades, flight cancellations have significantly decreased, and cancellation chances are now very low. Last summer, we had only one flight cancellation, and our clients had to travel by road on KKH. While we travel on KKH, we avoid travelling through the areas not recommended by the UK and US foreign offices.

Health & vaccination

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you specifically require any vaccinations or other preventive measures. You must have your routine courses and boosters as recommended in your home country. Diphtheria, tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria does exist in the area around Islamabad and Rawalpindi. However, incidences of urban transmission of malaria are extremely low. In Gilgit Baltistan and the mountains, there is no malaria risk.

We recommend having a dental check-up as you will spend most of your time in remote areas.

Travel Health Pro is an online resource to find more detailed information. Dengue fever is a known risk in Rawalpindi. Dengue is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available. Therefore, the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. We recommend you take precautions to avoid getting  mosquito bites .

For your K2 Base Camp Trek with Trango Adventure, it is highly recommended that you have adequate travel insurance. We understand that many options are available in the insurance market, and choosing the right one can be complex. However, it is essential to have a policy that covers unexpected medical expenses while abroad.

Before purchasing a policy, it is necessary to inform the insurance company of your base camp trek itinerary to ensure that they can cover the activities you will be undertaking.

While travel insurance is not mandatory for joining the trek, we strongly advise that you have an insurance policy that covers the activities you will be doing during the Base Camp Trek.

Travel insurance providers

Expedition and treks.

• HCC Medical Insurance Services LLC  Tel: 1-800 605 2282
• Austrian Alpine Club , UK Tel: 44 (0) 1929 556870
• Snowcard,  UK, Tel: +44 (0) 1295 660836
• The B.M.C .  UK, Tel: 44 (0) 161 445 6111
• Travelex Insurance Services , PH: 1-800 228 9792
• True Traveler Insurance , UK, PH: 0044 (0) 333 999 3140 for treks including over 4,500 Meters
• Dogtag  Tel: 0800 036 4824 (UK residents only)
• World Nomads  (up to 6,000 m)
• Insure for Less  (Australian citizens only).
• Global Rescue Insurance  USA, +1 (617) 459-4200

Treks & tours only

• Campbell Irvine  UK, Ph: +44 (0) 207 938 1737
• J S Insurance , UK, Ph: +44 (0) 844 848 1500
• Rothwell & Towler , UK, PH: +44 (0) 845 908 0161.

Mountain Guide and supporting staff

K2 Base Camp Trek  group is led by an experienced, licensed, good English speaking and highly professional Mountain guide accompanied by porters, chefs and other supporting crews. All our guides are from the local area, and they know the places and routes inside and out.

K2 Base Camp Trek is an ultimate trekking holiday, which takes you to high-altitude areas. You will be above 3,500 meters for 4-6 days during the trek. You should not worry too much about it because the human body can adopt a wide range of altitudes. However, we recommend you have some advice on Tours and treks at high altitudes before joining this trek.  Medex  is one of the websites with detailed information about high altitudes and free booklets to download.

During the summer months in Pakistan, temperatures can get high. In The Gilgit Baltistan Region, you can expect to experience temperatures around 30°C from mid-June to August. Meanwhile, in Baltoro and Concordia, the average temperature during this season ranges from 5°C to 15°C. At night, temperatures drop to below 5°C in these areas. Overall, the weather in summer is usually good, with clear skies and minimal rainfall or snow. However, it is worth noting that the weather in mountainous regions can be unpredictable, and sudden storms can occur at any time.

Language and time

Languages: Pakistan’s official language is Urdu. The local language on the K2 Base Camp Trek is Balti. Guides and chefs will speak good English.

Time: GMT+5 No daylight saving time at present.

• Trekking in Pakistan,  Isobel Shaw
• Karakoram Highway, King
• K2  Triumph and Tragedy, Jim Curran
• In the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods, Galen Rowell.

The official currency of Pakistan is the Rupee (PKR). You can find Bank ATMs and currency exchange bureaus in the arrivals hall at the airports, but it is often more convenient to change your money or use an ATM or money changer located within your hotel or in Islamabad. Money changers in local markets typically offer better exchange rates compared to the airport. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for purchases in Islamabad. ATMs are also available in Skardu, which give out up to $300 cash.

Passport & visas

A passport with six months remaining validity at the end of your stay is required to visit Pakistan. Please check your nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate for more information. Please note, that it is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your trekking holiday in Pakistan . Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice. Pakistan has recently started on-arrival and  E-Visa  for over 150 Countries. Please visit the Government’s official visa website to check your eligibility for E-Visa and on-arrival visas. You must have at least two blank pages in your passport and must be valid for at least 6 months for the country you visit.

Pakistan Trekking Visa

All individuals who plan to trek in the Baltoro region of Pakistan, regardless of their nationality, must obtain a trekking visa before their arrival. The restricted zone, which includes K2 and some other mountains in the Baltoro region, requires a trekking visa specifically. It is not possible to trek in this region with a regular tourist visa. The fee for the trekking visa is approximately $80, and the processing time is six to eight weeks. Therefore, we strongly advise our clients to apply for the visa as early as possible.

It is worth noting that the processing time for the trekking visa can take between 7-8 weeks, so we highly recommend that you submit your application well in advance to avoid any delays. For more information regarding visa requirements, you can visit the official website of the Pakistan government at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ .

To obtain a trekking visa, you will need an invitation letter from an approved Pakistan Tour Operator. Trango Adventure is a licensed tour operator that can provide you with the necessary invitation letter and other required documents. You can apply for the visa online or in person at the nearest Pakistani Embassy or Consulate. For additional details on tourist visas, please refer to the Blog & News or Pakistan Visa sections on our website.

Lastly, if you plan to continue your journey to China, Afghanistan, Iran, or India after completing the trek, it is crucial to arrange for the appropriate visas for those countries before departing from your home country to Pakistan.

Previous experiences/fitness

K2 Base Camp Trek  is a challenging trek with spectacular rewards. Must be used to multi-day hill hiking and cope with sustained walking on rough and loose terrain. Have a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the trek. Although much of the time is spent hiking on the Baltoro, crampons and ice axes are not required. There may be one or two occasions where a rope is in place to help you ascend or descend steep slopes on the glacier. Most days involve seven hours of walking plus plenty of rest stops.

Equipment list

As a general rule for a base camp trek, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. The packed weight of your bags whilst trekking should be no more than 17 kg, including the sleeping bag and mattress. This weight limit is by the local authorities, which we enforced, and bags are weighed before setting off on Trek.

Please note that your luggage will be packed into additional communal kit bags at the start of the trek every day.

You are welcome to leave anything not needed during the Trek at our office in Skardu free of charge.

Trango Adventure will send you a list of items closer to your Holiday departure. We also have a detailed packing list published on our website.

Airport transfers

• On arrival: Our staff will meet you at Islamabad International Airport and transfer you to the group hotel.
• On departure: We will take you to Islamabad International Airport for your flight back home.

Islamabad: Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan. It is mainly an administrative city with government offices such as the Parliament House, Supreme Court and Foreign embassies. Notable places in and around Islamabad to visit are Faisal mosque, the Pakistan Monument, Margalla Hills, Saidpur village, Centaurus shopping centre, Murree and Taxila.  

Skardu: Skardu is a mountain town and the capital of the Baltistan region. The main landmarks to visit in Skardu are, Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara Lake, Kachura Lake, the local Bazar

We can arrange the city tours in Skardu and Islamabad. Contact us for more details.

Contact us at [email protected]  for more information regarding Our “K2 Base Camp Trek”.

K2 Base Camp Trek August 2018, Well organised with an experience local crew, and our Guide (Suleman) was excellent. Stunning scenery, arduous glacier trekking on Baltoro Glacier. We had the perfect weather for amazing views of the Karakoram mountains and there are so many of them. I’ve trekked in a number of mountainous regions before but K2 Base Camp Trek was certainly the best for the peaks. As always on these treks you are left humbled by the Balti porters, kitchen staff and guides who work so hard to make your trip not just possible but a memorable experience. Fabulous adventure looking forward to the next!

k2 base camp trek provides an excellent mountain vistas. our staff are our real assets, we are glad to hear that you had good time on k2 trek.

Three friends and myself went to K2 Base camp trek with Trango Adventure. Trango and their friendly team supported us From the beginning to the end of the trip. We had a really friendly and Professional Guide, without him we would not have been complete the K2 Base Camp Trek. K2 Base Camp Trek is no doubt one of the best treks in the world. Thank you trango Adventure for making our dream come true.

Its Wonderfull to do k2 base camp trek with friends and likely minded people. glad to heard you had good time. look forward to see you and your friend on another trek.

We just came back from k2 Base camp trek. Our guide Khadim met us at Islamabad airport and transferred us to the hotel. One night in Islamabad then took a fantastic flight to Skardu. The k2 Base Camp Trek begins in the oasis of Askole, where we set off on the traditional route steeped in mountaineering legend, traversing the imposing Baltoro Glacier to enter a hauntingly beautiful landscape of glacial scars and towering granite peaks. Upon reaching the k2 Base Camp, we had the chance to chat to climbers hoping to make the summit, before heading back through the breathtaking scenery of the Karakoram, into civilisation. All in All, It was a greet Experience and Thank you Trango Adventure for making the K2 Base Camp Trek journey once in a life time Experience for us.

thank you for taking time to write the review, we are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the K2 Base Camp Trek.

Being an active trekker, K2 base camp trek has been in our mind for many years. Finally, last year we decide to do the k2 base camp trek in July 2019. We prepared ourself for the K2 trek by doing daily Hill walks, swimming, hiking and cycling. 
After Many weeks of research we decided to Travel with a local company Trango Adventure because they had good reviews and many years of Experience. Pakistan is a beautiful and safe country, and no doubt Pakistani people are the most Friendly and do not hesitate to show their hospitality. We would like to appreciate Trango Adventure for all their support right from the beginning till the end to make our K2 base camp trek an amazing journey.

Thank you David for Choosing Trango adventure for your K2 Base Camp Trek. It was a pleasure to have you on the epic k2 trek, we look forward to well come you on another adventure holiday in Pakistan.

Trango Adventure delivers where the residual value counts – the memory of K2 and the Karakoram mountains and glaciers from an epic trek of a lifetime.

The best view of K2 is along the trail from Concordia to Broad Peak base camp (BC) and then onward to K2 BC. Doing it in a (very) long day and returning back to Concordia would not only be physically challenging but also won’t give one much time to enjoy the world-class scenery. After all, flying to Pakistan and then Skardu and then riding a 1-day jeep to the trailhead for the K2 BC trek is to fully enjoy what K2 and the Karakoram mountains have to offer, instead of rushing one of the most important days of this multi-week trip.

Not many companies, Western adventure agencies included, offer a standard literary that has a built-in Broad Peak BC overnight day so that clients can have a better K2 experience. One reason is the additional costs for the horses/mules and trekking crew. There is no vegetation for the animals beyond Concordia so camping at Broad Peak BC means carrying extra horse feed all the way from the trailhead, which is not cheap. Typically, porters and horses/horsemen don’t get paid on the “rest days”; this means it costs more to have them carry a load to Broad Peak BC for clients’ one-night stay there and then return with the load to Concordia the next day for another night, vs. just stay at Concordia while clients do the tough walk in a single long day (Concordia to Broad Peak BC / K2 BC and then back to Concordia the same day).

We did a K2 base camp trek with Trango Adventure in August 2021 whose standard literary has a built-in camping day at Broad Peak BC with a price compatible with other companies that do not camp there. The trekking crew was eager to share their love of K2 and the Karakoram, and we had the best view of K2, Broad Peak, and the surrounding mountains up-close while walking on the Godwin Austen Glacier that leads to K2 BC (and beyond).

In addition, the acclimatization day hike of Trango Adventure’s K2BC literary is an ascent to a lookout near the Urdukas campsite, instead of doing acclimatization in Paiju as most of the trekking companies do. The choice of the former allowed us to see three of the world’s 14 eight-thousanders (i.e. Broad Peak, Gasherbrum II and Gasherbrum I), thanks to cooperating weather.

In summary, Trango Adventure delivers where the residual value counts – the memory of K2 and the Karakoram from this epic trek of a lifetime.

We’ve attached 4 photos to share, some of them were taken from the walk of Broad Peak BC / K2 BC as well as from the lookout near Urdukas.

Had an amazing trek to Concordia at the base of K2. Staff were very helpful right from booking the trek to finishing the trip.

I hiked to K2 basecamp with Trango Adventure. The price is mid-level but the experience is excellent. Communication before the trek was easy and Trango very responsive. Airport transfers were perfect. The trek itself was spectacular. Spending time with the porters was a highlight for me. The food delicious. The equipment in very good shape. Their concern for your comfort and the service they provide is 5 star. I consider everyone at Trango Adventure a friend for life.

If your looking for a trusted local trekking company then Trango Adventures is for you. My husband and I did K2 Concordia trek end of September 2021 and were the last trekkers of the year,

This company amazed us. Travelling during Covid-19 was not easy and there were many regulations and rules. We were lucky to have the assistance of Shahid chatting back and fourth through Whatsup with ANY questions or concerns we may have. We felt like we were never alone knowing Shahid was just a text/call away. Trango Adventures treated us like family. With the unpredictability of mountain weather and cancellation of flights, the Trango family was always there to help whether its rebooking tickets, PCR tests/ COVID questions, transportation, or even simply just recommendations on restaurants and places. You will get the experience of travelling independently and having the piece of mind that someone local is willing to help you with any questions you may have.

With that being said, we booked Trango for the K2 Concordia trek but we ended up asking their advice for the whole trip. They did not hesitate to help us even if we chose to stay at a different hotel that was not part of their company.

K2 trek was amazing and Trango was able to provide us with experienced local guides, cook, and porters. We spent 12 days on the mountain and they were able to accommodate us with whatever we need. They even made us Pizza in 4000+m elevation because I had mentioned I craved it at one point. The gear they used is very good quality. The tent alone was the best tent we’ve ever used (North face Summit series). We were provided with comfortable matts as well.

Trango adventures owns the Summit hotel in Skardu where we decided to stay after our trek. We met the owners of the company (Shahid’s father hence Family owned company) who gave us tips on the K2 trek. They are mountain climbers and have met famous climbers all over the world. They are the best people to ask for trekking advice. It was very lovely to meet them and the whole Trango Adventures family. Our trip would not have been the same without these guys. We are very grateful and hopefully will go visit again soon.

The best view of K2 is along the trail from Concordia to Broad Peak base camp (BC) and then onward to K2 BC. Doing it in a (very) long day and returning back to Concordia would not only be physically challenging but also won’t give one much time to enjoy the world-class scenery. After all, flying to Pakistan and then Skardu and then riding 1-day jeep to the trailhead for K2 BC trek is to fully enjoy what K2 and the Karakoram mountains have to offer, instead of rushing one of the most important days of this multi-week trip.

Not many companies, western adventure agencies included, offer a standard literary that has a built-in Broad Peak BC overnight day so that clients can have a better K2 experience. One reason is the additional costs for the horses/mules and trekking crew. There is no vegetation for the animals beyond Concordia so camping at Broad Peak BC means carrying extra horse feed all the way from the trailhead, which is not cheap. And typically, porters and horses/horsemen don’t get paid on the “rest days”; this means it costs more to have them carry a load to Broad Peak BC for clients’ one-night stay there and then return with the load to Concordia the next day for another night, vs. just stay at Concordia while clients do the tough walk in a single long day (Concordia to Broad Peak BC / K2 BC and then back to Concordia the same day).

We did K2 BC trek with Trango Adventure in Aug 2021 whose standard literary has a built-in camping day at Broad Peak BC with a price compatible to other companies that do not camp there. The trekking crew was eager to share their love of K2 and the Karakoram, and we had the best view of K2, Broad Peak, and the surrounding mountains up-close while walking on the Godwin Austen Glacier that leads to K2 BC (and beyond).

In addition, the acclimatization day hike of Trango Adventure’s K2BC literary is an ascent to a lookout near Urdukas campsite, instead of doing acclimatization in Paiju as most of the trekking companies do. The choice of the former allowed us to see three of the world’s 14 eight-thousanders (i.e. Broad Peak, Gasherbrum II and Gasherbrum I), thanks to cooperating weather.

Nuestro trekking a Concordia fue genial. Trango ofrece el mismo servicio que el resto a un precio más económico. Y en todo momento resolvieron nuestras dudas previas. Sobre todo agradecer a los señores Shabbir y su hermano la gran ayuda que nos ofrecieron en la organización de nuestro viaje por el resto de Pakistán

I’ve done the K2 base camp trek crossing Gondogoro La with Trango and had an amazing time.

Where to start? First of all I highly suggest this trip to everybody, you’ll see magnificent stuff and incredible panoramas, not only that, the whole expedition experience is a once in a lifetime treat.

Trango is a great company to book your hiking trips to the Karakoram with.

From start to finish we’ve been treated in a perfect manner by all the people we have met: -Abbass managed the logistics in Islamabad in a great way -Shabbir, a great mind and a great storyteller (ask for some of his mountain telltales when in Skardu!) – Mehboob fundamental in organizing everything at the start and at the end of the trek -our guide Bashir, a real professional on the field (he gets so much respect from his colleagues!) and a genuine kind person -Ali Abass aka the cook aka the strong man, who could do it all, from setting up camp to making us pizza at 4500m. – Shahid keeping all under control remotely and giving us great communication ever since booking.

Really nothing bad to say about the company or the trip, I sincerely thank everybody involved!

If you are looking for a trusted local trekking company then Trango Adventures is for you. My husband and I did the K2 Concordia trek end of September 2021 and were the last trekkers of the year,

This company amazed us. Travelling during Covid-19 was not easy and there were many regulations and rules. We were lucky to have the assistance of Shahid chatting back and forth through WhatsApp with ANY questions or concerns we may have. We felt like we were never alone knowing Shahid was just a text/call away. Trango Adventures treated us like family. With the unpredictability of mountain weather and cancellation of flights, the Trango family was always there to help whether it’s rebooking tickets, PCR tests/ COVID questions, transportation, or even simply just recommendations on restaurants and places. You will get the experience of travelling independently and having the piece of mind that someone local is willing to help you with any questions you may have.

K2 trek was amazing and Trango was able to provide us with experienced local guides, cooks, and porters. We spent 12 days on the mountain and they were able to accommodate us with whatever we needed. They even made us Pizza at 4000+m elevation because I had mentioned I craved it at one point. The gear they used is very good quality. The tent alone was the best tent we’ve ever used (North Face Summit series). We were provided with comfortable mats as well.

Trango Adventures owns the Summit Hotel in Skardu where we decided to stay after our trek. We met the owners of the company (Shahid’s father hence Family owned company) who gave us tips on the K2 trek. They are mountain climbers and have met famous climbers all over the world. They are the best people to ask for trekking advice. It was very lovely to meet them and the whole Trango Adventures family. Our trip would not have been the same without these guys. We are very grateful and hopefully will go visit again soon.

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Start Planning K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek

conjure up dreams as immense and powerful as the Himalayan Mountains themselves. This trekking tour is your chance to make these dreams come true, to challenge yourself and discover both the majesty of the mountains and your own potential. 

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to K2 Base Camp treks, offering a range of thrilling adventures amidst the breathtaking Karakoram Mountains. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer seeking summit challenges or a nature enthusiast looking for a unique wilderness experience, our carefully crafted trekking packages cater to every adventurer’s dream. From the classic K2 Base Camp trek to expeditions combining K2 with nearby peaks like Nanga Parbat and visits to iconic base camps, we invite you to embark on an unforgettable journey with us. Explore majestic landscapes, witness the stunning Baltoro Glacier, and challenge yourself with options like crossing the formidable Gondogoro Pass. With varying durations, skill levels, and return options, there’s a perfect K2 Base Camp trek for everyone. Join us and discover the magic of the Karakoram like never before!

K2 Base Camp Treks

The K2 Base Camp Trek is an iconic and challenging adventure that takes trekkers through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Pakistan. Named after the legendary K2 mountain, the world’s second-highest peak, this trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Location and Terrain:

Situated in the Karakoram Range of Northern Pakistan, the K2 Base Camp Trek begins in Skardu, a picturesque town surrounded by towering peaks, including the famous K2. Trekkers traverse rugged terrain, including rocky paths, moraines, and icy glaciers, as they make their way towards K2 Base Camp.

Highlights:

• Scenic Beauty: The trek is renowned for its unparalleled beauty, with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and shimmering glacial lakes.
• Cultural Immersion: Along the trek, trekkers encounter the unique culture and hospitality of the Balti people, who inhabit the region.
• K2 Base Camp: The ultimate highlight of the trek is reaching K2 Base Camp, nestled amidst towering peaks and offering a close-up view of the majestic K2.

Difficulty Level:

The K2 Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging expedition, suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness. The trek involves long hours of hiking each day, high altitude, and unpredictable weather conditions. Adequate preparation and acclimatization are essential for a successful and safe trekking experience.

The duration of the K2 Base Camp Trek typically ranges from 14 to 18 days, including travel time to and from Skardu. Trekkers should plan for additional days to allow for acclimatization, rest days, and unexpected delays due to weather or other factors.

Best Time to Trek:

The best time to embark on the K2 Base Camp Trek is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and milder temperatures. However, even during the summer, trekkers should be prepared for cold nights and sudden weather changes in the high-altitude environment.

Why Choose K2 Base Camp Trek:

• Adventure of a Lifetime: The K2 Base Camp Trek offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion that few other treks can match.
• Challenge and Reward: Overcoming the challenges of high altitude and rugged terrain is immensely rewarding, culminating in the breathtaking views of K2 Base Camp.
• Cultural Experience: Interacting with local communities, experiencing their traditions, and learning about the region’s history adds depth to the trekking experience.

Cost of K2 Base Camp Trek: A Complete Breakdown

The K2 Base Camp T

Embarking on the K2 Base Camp Trek is a dream adventure for many outdoor enthusiasts, but understanding the cost breakdown is crucial for proper budgeting and planning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the various expenses involved in the K2 Base Camp Trek to help you estimate your budget accurately.

Permit Fees:

One of the primary costs of the K2 Base Camp Trek is obtaining the necessary permits. Trekkers need permits from the Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism office. The permit fees vary depending on the season and nationality of the trekker. On average, permit fees for foreign trekkers range from $200 , while Pakistani nationals may pay a reduced fee.

Guide and Porter Costs:

Hiring a knowledgeable guide and porters is highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Guide fees vary based on their experience and services provided but typically range from $40 to $70 per day. Porters, who assist with carrying gear and supplies, charge around $25 to $30 per day, including meals and accommodations.

Accommodations:

During the trek, accommodations vary from basic teahouses to tented camps. The cost of accommodations ranges from $20 to $20 per night, depending on the type of lodging chosen. In Skardu or Islamabad, where trekkers typically stay before and after the trek, accommodations in hotels or guesthouses can range from $30 to $100 per night.

Food and Supplies:

Food expenses during the trek can vary based on personal preferences and dietary requirements. Meals at teahouses or campsites cost approximately $5 to $15 per meal. Trekkers should also budget for snacks, water, and other essentials, adding an estimated $10 to $20 per day.

Transportation:

Transportation costs include flights or road travel to reach Skardu, the starting point of the trek. Domestic flights from Islamabad to Skardu range from $100 to $300, depending on availability and booking time. Alternatively, trekkers can opt for a scenic road journey, which may cost around $50 to $100 via public transport or private hire.

Miscellaneous Expenses:

Trekkers should also budget for miscellaneous expenses such as travel insurance, trekking gear and equipment (if not brought from home), tips for guides and porters, and any optional activities or excursions along the way. These additional costs can range from $200 to $500, depending on individual preferences.

Total Estimated Cost:

Considering the above breakdown, the total estimated cost of the K2 Base Camp Trek for foreign trekkers typically ranges from $1500 to $3000 for a 14 to 18-day trek. For Pakistani nationals, the cost may be lower due to reduced permit fees and potential savings on accommodations and transportation.

rek is an iconic and challenging adventure that takes trekkers through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Pakistan. Named after the legendary K2 mountain, the world’s second-highest peak, this trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Altitude and Terrain of K2 Base Camp Trek

The K2 Base Camp Trek is a legendary journey that takes trekkers into the heart of the Karakoram Range, offering a mesmerizing blend of high-altitude challenges and breathtaking natural beauty. Understanding the altitude variations, weather patterns, ground paths, terrain features, and water elements along this trek is crucial for a successful and enjoyable expedition.

Altitude Variations:

Starting Point (Skardu): The trek typically begins in Skardu, located at an altitude of approximately 2,228 meters (7,310 feet) above sea level. Trekkers spend a few days here for acclimatization before venturing into higher altitudes.

K2 Base Camp Altitude: The ultimate destination, K2 Base Camp, is situated at an elevation of around 5,150 meters (16,896 feet). This significant altitude gain poses challenges related to altitude sickness and requires gradual acclimatization.

Weather Conditions:

Summer Months (June to August): During the trekking season, the weather in the region is relatively stable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) at lower altitudes. However, temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher elevations.

Monsoon Influence: The monsoon season brings occasional rain showers and cloud cover, impacting visibility and trekking conditions. Trekkers must be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack appropriate rain gear.

Winter Challenges: Outside the trekking season, winter brings harsh conditions with sub-zero temperatures, heavy snowfall, and increased risks of avalanches. The trek is usually closed during winter due to extreme weather conditions.

Ground Path and Terrain:

Rocky Trails: The trek starts with rocky trails and rugged terrain as trekkers navigate through valleys and ascending slopes. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for stability and protection.

Glacial Moraines: As trekkers approach higher altitudes, they encounter glacial moraines formed by the movement of glaciers. These uneven, rocky surfaces require careful footing and endurance.

Baltoro Glacier: A highlight of the trek is crossing the Baltoro Glacier, one of the world’s longest non-polar glaciers spanning approximately 63 kilometers (39 miles). Trekkers traverse the glacier’s icy surface, often using crampons for traction.

Water Elements:

Glacial Streams: Along the route, trekkers encounter glacial streams fed by melting ice. These pristine water sources are ideal for refilling water bottles but require caution due to cold temperatures.

River Crossings: Some sections of the trek involve crossing rivers, especially during periods of increased water flow from melting glaciers or rainfall. Trekkers must assess water depth and current strength before crossing safely.

Ice Features:

Glacial Ice: The presence of glacial ice formations, including crevasses and seracs, adds a sense of adventure and caution to the trek. Guides and experienced mountaineers lead groups safely through these icy obstacles.

Icefalls: Trekkers may encounter icefalls, where glaciers descend steeply, creating challenging passages. Navigation skills and teamwork are essential for maneuvering through icefall areas safely.

02. Karakoram Adventures

K2 base camp trek packages, ( route variations.

Discover Your Perfect K2 Base Camp Adventure: Our varied trek packages offer different routes, each providing a complete and exciting journey. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, we have options that suit everyone’s preferences, ensuring an unforgettable experience at this iconic destination

Years of experience

• K2 Base Camp Trek
• The classic K2 Base Camp Trek is a lifetime experience, steeped in history and natural beauty. 

K2 Gondogoro La Trek

• The K2 Gondogoro La Trek is a lifetime experience with a superb view of K2 and few other 8000 m peaks from the Gondogoro pass. 

Grand Base Camps Gondogoro La Trek

• The Grand Base Camp trek is one of the most coveted ones, simply because it is at the foot of the incredible 8000 m mountains.

03.   Beautiful

Explore gilgit baltistan for yourself, fairy meadows.

Land of Fairies and meadows, in the lap of Himalaya

Land of wild flowers and wild life

Land of Longevity and silkroad 

Land of wilderness and snow leopard

04. Diverse

Popular places around gilgit baltistan, shigar valley.

The spellbinding tourist attractions in Shigar still looks like a slice of paradise with its gorgeous mountains,widely sprawling fields a popular tourism place. 

Khaplu valley

Khaplu opens doors to its top sightseeing places in the form of well-preserved culture and wildlife reserves where an encounter with a variety of animals and birds can leave you in awe. 

Astore valley

This travel destination is a perfect getaway for those wishing to imbibe the ancient culture and witness the almost impenetrable rainforests on one side and want to pamper themselves with some luxury on the other hand.  

Naltar valley

Naltar is an experience of a lifetime, whether on a solo adventure or on a honeymoon, there is plenty out there for you to witness, savour, and experience. 

Ghizer Valley

Adorned with arresting landscape and an unparalleled landlocked and snuggled against the mighty Hindukush, a tourist destination for anyone who is looking forward to a holiday amidst tranquil surroundings.

Kachura Lakes

For that magical experience, there can no better place than the paradisiacal Kachura in the majestic Skardu. Kachura is a holiday tourism destination one dare not miss.

STAYING HEALTHY ON HIGH ALTITUDE

Excited about your upcoming Karakoram trek? Don’t trek the threat of Acute Mountain Sickness dampens the high. While it is quite common to experience AMS at high altitudes if not properly acclimatized, there are a few things that can reduce the chances of your getting sick.

Firstly, what is it? Anything above 8,000 ft. is considered as high altitude. This is the height where at atmospheric pressure begins to drop considerably i.e., oxygen molecules are more dispersed. What does this mean? It means that with every breath you take, there’s less amount of oxygen reaching your lungs. The body adjusts to this by breathing harder. And while climbing, the short breathing leads to a higher amount of carbon dioxide in your blood.

06. Travel with Us

Special offers , womens special trek packages.

A journey of meeting likeminded women, enjoy the benefits of Women’s Special trek packages

Second Tour Discount - Save 5%

Book two treks traveling in the same year and receive 5% off the land portion of your second tour. 

Big Savings for Small Groups

Travel with family and friends and get small groups of 5, 6, or 7 can save 10% per person.

Photography Trek

Learn special photography trek with professionals and equipments to enrich it.

WHY WE ARE THE BEST

We have a unique way of meeting your adventurous expectations!

EXPERIENCES

Route OPtions 

• K2 Base Camp Trek from Skardu
• K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek
• K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek from Skardu
• Grand Base Camp Trek
• Five 8000 m Base Camps  Trek

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Why choose us?

As Pakistan’s leading adventure travel company, we are experts when it comes to helping you to organise your Trekking holidays in Pakistan. We have been organising Solo, private and tailor-made Trekking holidays in Pakistan for decades so you can leave it to us to take care of every detail. We are licence and regulated by the Tourism department of Pakistan, for extra peace of mind. We are bunch of local Adventure travel lovers same like you and we have a very flexible approach to fulfilling your holiday aspirations.

Being a local company we never have to use middlemen, we are the people you will talk to, we are the people you will meet and we are the people who will take care of you during your trekking holiday in Pakistan. We trade directly with the locals, ensuring fair prices for everyone. It’s a no wonder we are able to offer you a high quality Trekking holiday at low cost.

Years of Experience

We’ve been creating Trekking holidays in Pakistan for decades, so you can leave it to us to take care of every detail.

Local Company

We never use middlemen, we’re the people you’ll talk to, we’re the people you’ll meet & we’re the people who will take care of you

Booking directly with a local tour operator , not only are you paying less, but all your money will be staying in the country, funding local salaries.

All Inclusive

We include everything in our holiday packages so you can sit back and enjoy your trekking holiday in Pakistan. All inclusive.

ABout K2 & Baltoro

K2 and Baltoro: The trek of a lifetime

The Karakoram range spans the borders of Pakistan, China, and India, and it is the location of two of the fascinating natural formations in Asia. K2 is the world’s second-highest mountain standing at 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). 

The mountain may be slightly smaller than Mount Everest – the world’s tallest mountain – but its remoteness and lack of climbers make it an even more extreme trek. The Baltoro Glacier can be found, near K2 and it runs 63 kilometers (39mi). The glacier is in the Shigar district of Pakistan in an isolated part of the Asian country.

K2 Mountain

K2 is a glacier and snow-covered mountain. It stands at the top of the Godwin Austen Glacier that is a tributary to the Baltoro Glacier. Col. T.G. Montgomerie discovered K2 in 1856. The name ‘K2’, was given to the mountain as it was the second peak Montgomerie measured in the Karakoram Range. Montgomerie worked for the Survey India company.

The mountain is a regular victim of severe snow and wind storms. The weather that hits K2 makes climbing the mountain difficult and dangerous.

Your Words Not Ours

I have used K2 Base camp treks three times now. 1st to K2 BC, Snow lake trek, and then Shimshal pass trek in Pakistan. For all those treks, I could not have asked for more. The travel advisor, Guides, and field crew were great and very skilled. They were all local and knew the Karakoram mountains very well. My advice to the solo traveler is to come to the Karakoram mountains fully prepared, so you and the rest of the team can enjoy these beautiful mountains.

I Just got back from the k2 and Gondogoro la trek in Pakistan. I enjoyed this trip and thoroughly recommend this authentic travel company. The organization, accommodation, and food were amazing and the guides were extremely friendly and fun. Truly excellent value for money.

This was a memorable trip and I will be using K2 base camp treks (KBT) soon. Thank you for everything.

From planning to Arrangements to actual customer satisfaction all full 5 stars if not more. Cannot recommend them more. If you want an adventure, trust me just go with K2 base camp treks. I was offered to join their Snow lake and hispar la trek. The land scape, mountains, and the friendly and kind people of Pakistan were the highlight of my trip.A

We have just came back from a brilliant trek in the Karakoram mountain of Pakistan, organised by K2 Basecamp Treks (KBT). The area is extremely beautiful with fantastic views of snowy covered peaks, but very little frequented by western tourists. The whole trip was very well organised, with an excellent local mountain Guide and a very helpful crew. We would happily recommend KBT to other travellers.

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K2 base camp trek faqs.

K-2 and the renowned summiteers: 

Tour Northern Pakistan: 10 Bucket-List Worthy Experiences

• Stay at Khaplu Palace, a historic fort turned 3-star hotel in Northern Pakistan that showcases stunning architecture influenced by different regions in Asia.
• Swim in Attabad Lake, a vibrant blue lake in Gilgit-Baltistan province that offers swimming, boating, and other water sports during the summer months.
• Hike to K2 Base Camp, a challenging but rewarding trek close to Nepal, where travelers can experience the second-tallest mountain on Earth and prepare for a scenic and difficult adventure.

There's no lack of amazing things to do in Pakistan, one of the most underrated destinations in Asia and a part of the world often overlooked by backpackers exploring South Asian countries, but it deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. Northern Pakistan, in particular, has lots to offer travelers in terms of outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery.

These incredible experiences in Northern Pakistan, specifically in the province of Gilgit-Baltistan, are worth adding to the bucket list.

Stay At Khaplu Palace

This historic fort from the 1840s is one of the best remaining examples of a royal residence in Pakistan. Today, it not only serves as a beautiful historical site in the north of the country but also offers overnight accommodation to guests as a comfortable 3-star hotel called Serena Khaplu Palace.

The visually stunning architecture of the hotel comes from influences from different regions in Asia, including Tibet, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Central Asia.

• Address: Khaplu Palace, Serena, Chaqchan Rd, Sargiab, Khaplu, 16800

Swim In Attabad Lake

Travelers can add swimming in one of Pakistan’s most beautiful lakes to their bucket list. Attabad Lake, located in Gilgit-Baltistan province, is one of the top attractions in Northern Pakistan; it's a vibrant blue lake suitable for swimming, boating, and other water sports during the summer months.

Pakistan experiences a warm, dry spring from March to May and a hot but wet summer from June to September.

• Address: Gojal, Gilgit−Baltistan, Pakistan

Watch The Sunset In The Safaranga Cold Desert

Located just 20 minutes from Skardu in the province of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Safaranga Cold Desert (also called Skardu Cold Desert) is among the most unique attractions in Pakistan that is bucket-list worthy.

The desert is at an altitude of 7,500 feet above sea level in Shigar. The vast landscape of sand dunes earns the name “cold desert” because of this high altitude, and often the dunes are covered in snow. Witnessing a sunset here is truly magical!

• Address: CP6R+3CP, Shigar, Pakistan

Hike To K2 Base Camp

Most travelers have heard of trekking to Everest Base Camp , but they might not realize that there is an equally challenging and rewarding trek close to Nepal in Northern Pakistan. K2 Mountain is the second-tallest mountain on Earth, after Everest, with a peak of 28,251 feet .

Similar to trekking to Everest Base Camp, travelers can book a guided trek to K2 Base Camp in Pakistan. The journey takes around 14 days from Askhole, and, much like how travelers prepare for the Everest Base Camp trek , it is a scenic but difficult adventure that hikers must ready themselves for well in advance.

• Address: Hussaini Chowk, Star Market, Hassan General Store, Skardu, 16100

Related: From Lukla To Everest Base Camp: A Guide To The Best Routes And Trails

Stay At The Shangri-La Resort Skardu

Travelers might’ve heard of the Shangri-La Resort , but the Skardu hotel is something worth adding to the bucket list. This luxury resort calls itself “Heaven on Earth” and is situated on a heart-shaped lake (as if another sign was needed for how incredible it is).

The rooms available range from cottages to villas to suites, all with scenic views of the idyllic landscapes of Northern Pakistan.

• Address: Kachura, Skardu, Pakistan

Visit The Skardu Fort

The Skardu Fort, also called the Kharpocho, is the “King of Forts” and is a bucket-list-worthy attraction to visit in Pakistan.

The historic fortress sits above Skardu city in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Northern Pakistan. The fort perches on a mountain 40 meters above the city and is situated on the banks of the Indus River.

• Address: Kharpocho Fort, Chumik Rd, Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Hike In Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park in northern Pakistan is situated between the Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan regions. It’s protected by its status as a national park and is dedicated to the conservation of the Himalayan Brown Bear .

The Himalayan Brown Bear is a critically endangered species due to habitat loss, so this expansive protected area where bears can roam safely is an important natural area in Pakistan. Wildlife photographers and trekkers can add this park to their bucket lists.

• Address: XFCC+6P4 Deosai Park Road Astore, 50991

Related: Beyond The Summit: 10 Things You'll Discover On Foot In The Beauty Of Everest Base Camp

Tour Baltit Fort

Visiting the Baltit Fort in the Hunza Valley is one of the best things to do in Northern Pakistan for the bucket list. The historic fort is located in Karimabad, close to the border with China, in a remote part of the country. More than 700 years old, the fort was a former palace of the Mir of Hunza.

Travelers can take a guided tour of the fort or simply visit the exterior to take beautiful photos of its architecture.

• Address: 8MG9+7W2, Hunza, Karimabad, Gilgit-Baltistan

See The Hunza Valley

For outdoor enthusiasts, trekkers, and travel photographers, visiting the Hunza Valley in Northern Pakistan is something to aspire to. The valley is picturesque and surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

Interestingly, people in the Hunza Valley have longer than average lifespans , largely attributed to their strong immune systems, low rates of disease, and consumption of Vitamin B-17 through natural foods.

• Address: Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Related: Why China's Qinghai Province Is An Over Looked Destination Offering A World Few Ever See

Drive The Karakoram Highway

The Karakoram Highway is the Silk Route, a southern part of the famous Silk Roads trading route in Asia. This drive is an important part of the region’s history and is also one of the most scenic road trips in the world .

Today, the N-35 highway connects Pakistan and China along this interesting and storied corridor.

• Address: N-35, Pakistan

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1st Missile Attack Early Warning Division

1-я дивизия предупреждения о ракетном нападении

Military Unit: 26302 (6.77 to 10.98)

Activated 30.3.67 in Solnechnogorsk, Moscow Oblast.

For details see the 3rd independent Missile Attack Early Warning Army of Special Designation .

6.77 renamed 3rd independent Missile Attack Early Warning Army of Special Designation .

Re-activated 6.77 in Lukhovitsy, Moscow Oblast.

Organisation 1977:

• 46th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Michelevka, Irkutsk Oblast)
• 49th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Balkhash, Dzhezkazgan Oblast)
• 57th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Olenegorsk, Murmansk Oblast)
• 129th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Skrunda, Latvian SSR)
• 378th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Pechora, Komi ASSR)
• 423rd independent Radio-Technical Unit (Komsomolsk-na-Amure, Khabarovsk Kray)
• 808th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Sevastopol, Crimean Oblast)
• 1056th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Mukachevo, Zakarpatskaya Oblast)
• 000 independent Radio-Technical Unit (Chernobyl, Kiev Oblast)

Organisation 1990:

• 428th independent Radio-Technical Unit (Gabala, Azerbaizhan SSR)

Disbanded 1.10.98.

Re-activated 1.10.98 in Solnechnogorsk, Moscow Oblast from the 3rd independent Missile Attack Early Warning Army of Special Designation .

• Lukhovitsy, Moscow Oblast, 6.77 - 10.98 [55 03 17N, 38 59 38E]

Subordination:

• 3rd independent Missile Attack Early Warning Army of Special Designation , 6.77 - 10.98