K7 Peak Expedition
K-7, also known as Saraska Peak, is a prominent mountain located in the Baltistan Region of Northern Pakistan. Situated within the Saltoro and Masherbrum ranges of the Karakoram, this awe-inspiring peak stands at an elevation of 6935 meters above sea level. It gained initial attention when it was first examined by the Harvard Mountaineering Club in 1955.
Location:
K-7 Expedition to K-7 typically commences from Hushe Valley, situated in the southern region of the Baltoro Glaciers. The Hushe Valley serves as a gateway to the southern faces of the Karakoram Peaks and Mountains, an immense mountain range spanning Pakistan and China. This range includes some of the world's highest peaks such as K2, Gasherbrum, and Nanga Parbat, extending over 500 kilometers in length and 200 kilometers in width, connecting with the Hindukush and Himalaya Mountains at certain points.
Historical Expedition :
In 2011, K-7 achieved a significant milestone when it was successfully conquered for the first time by a team consisting of Slovenian climber Urban Novak and two Americans, Kyle Dempster. Their expedition pursued a new route from the east face of K-7, despite unfavorable weather conditions, and remarkably reached the summit without incident. The first successful ascent of K-7 was accomplished by the Japan Ski Club Expedition, where three members reached the peak initially, followed by two more on the second day. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in the mountaineering history of K-7. Over the years, numerous expeditions from different parts of the world have attempted to conquer K-7. Notably, members of the Harvard Mountaineering Club explored K-7 in 1955, and various Japanese expeditions in the late 1970s and 1980s made several attempts but initially fell short. It was the Japan Ski Alpine Club Expedition in 1984 that successfully reached the summit.
Surrounding Peaks:
K-7 is just one of several remarkable peaks in the region, including K6, Kapura Peak, Niza Peak, and Drifika Peak. There are potential routes to explore, leading through Tagas, Kaberi, and Dumsum Glaciers from Khapulu in the Baltistan region.
Charakusa Valley:
Nestled at the head of the Hushe Valley, Charakusa Valley, also known as K7 Valley, offers access to marvelous rock and ice climbing peaks. The valley is surrounded by jagged spire mountains, including K6, K7, Mingling Sar, Drifika, and Kapura Peak, making it an ideal destination for alpine climbing enthusiasts.
Altitude and Routes:
K-7 is situated in the Saltoro and Masherbrum ranges, with nearby glaciers including Kaberi and Charakusa. Possible routes to the peak include the one from Khapulo in Baltistan through Tagas, Dumsum, and Kaberi glaciers. There is some discrepancy in the recorded altitude of K-7, with some sources indicating 6,934 meters and others 6,935 meters.