The K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek is a challenging expedition that unveils a mesmerizing landscape of glaciers and towering peaks leading to the legendary Concordia. Experience over 40 peaks soaring above 6500 meters, including the mighty K2, and conquer the Gondogoro La at 5700 meters for unparalleled vistas. Every day unveils new natural wonders, making this trek a unique and unforgettable adventure into the heart of Pakistan's wilderness. The K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek is a breathtaking adventure through the Karakoram Range.

Trek Highlights:

• • Uncover the heart of the Karakoram Mountain Range with the K2 and Gondogoro La Trek.
  • Discover the breathtaking mountain view on the flight to Skardu.
  • Witness the majestic beauty of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums from Gondogoro La.
  • Explore Concordia, Gilkey Memorial, and the Baltoro Glacier on foot on this walking holiday.
  • Ranked among the world's top 5 trekking adventures.
  • Immerse yourself in the scenic wonders of the Hushe Valley in Pakistan.
  • Traverse through the ancient Himalayan Kingdom of the Baltistan Valley.

Weather Conditions:

• • Extreme weather conditions prevail, ranging from freezing to well below freezing, particularly at higher altitudes.
  • Rapid weather changes and occasional snowfall can occur even during the summer months.

Best Time to Visit:

• • Late June to early September is optimal for the K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek.
  • During these months, temperatures at lower elevations are relatively milder, creating a more comfortable trekking environment.

Accessibility:

• • The summer months offer better accessibility to trekking routes.
  • Winter conditions may lead to closures and increased difficulty in navigating the paths.

Gondogoro Pass:

Standing at an elevation of 5,700 meters is a formidable mountain pass that forms a critical juncture on the K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek. Towering peaks surround this challenging ascent and offer panoramic views of the Karakoram Range. Trekkers undertaking this adventure must navigate steep, icy terrain, making it a physical and mental challenge. The reward, however, is unparalleled, as reaching the summit unveils a breathtaking spectacle of some of the world's highest peaks, including the majestic K2.

Gondogoro La Trek Difficulty:

The Gondogoro La Trek is a physically demanding adventure at an altitude of over 5,000 meters. It is difficult because it passes through technical sections, such as the challenging Gondogoro La pass, which features steep ascents and descents. You should also prepare for unpredictable weather, which will add to the experience of an unforgettable trekking adventure. The Gondogoro La Trek is a challenging adventure at an altitude of over 5,000 meters.

Gondogoro Glacier:

In Hushe Valley, a marvel in the Karakoram unfolds at the feet of towering peaks. The high mountain pass, Gondogoro La, challenges trekkers at a staggering 5,700 meters, revealing panoramic vistas. This icy traverse leads to the renowned K2 Base Camp, perched at 5,150 meters, a haven for mountaineers. Aspiring adventurers might wonder, "How high is Gondogoro La?"—reaching an impressive altitude. Another query arises, "How much is K2 Base Camp?"—an  elevation that beckons those seeking the thrill of the world's second-highest peak.

Precautions:

• • Trekkers should be equipped with appropriate gear for cold weather, including insulated clothing, sleeping bags, and waterproof gear.
  • Adequate acclimatization is crucial to mitigating the effects of high altitudes and temperature variations.

Altitude Considerations:

• • Trekkers should be aware of altitude-related challenges and acclimatization requirements.
  • Gradual ascents and rest days at specific altitudes are essential for a safer and more enjoyable trek.

Guided Tours:

• • Considering the challenging conditions, guided tours with experienced local guides are recommended for safety and navigation.
  • Guides can provide valuable insights into weather patterns and ensure a well-managed trekking experience.

Tour itinerary:

D-1) ARRIVAL DAY IN ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN

Welcome to Pakistan. Most of the international flights arrive at Islamabad International Airport in the mornings. Our representative will meet and greet you at the airport and transfer you to the group hotel. The rest of the days are free to recover from your journey. Later in the day, when everyone has arrived, we will have a group briefing about the K2 and Gondogoro La trek. Depending on the time available to us, there may be an option to do some sightseeing in Islamabad, A purpose-built City in 1961 as the new capital of Pakistan.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Hotel De Papae or similar
• MEALS
• Dinner.

D-2) SPECTACULAR FLIGHT TO SKARDU (2,230m)

Today, you will travel to Islamabad International Airport to take a spectacular flight (weather permitting) across the mountains to Skardu, the Capital of Baltistan. It’s a 45-minute flight which offers Spectacular Mountains views of the Himalayas & Karakoram mountain range and breathtaking views of the world’s 9th highest peak, Nanga Parbat (8,126m), if the weather is clear, we might be able to see K2 and Gondogoro Pass as well. Check in to the Hotel, and the rest of the day will be spent visiting the local Bazar, historical forts, and scenic lakes or visiting ancient rock inscriptions, one of which is of 8th-century Manthal Lord Buddha Rock that shows traces of Buddhist monks and pilgrims who influenced the area before Islam.

Please note: Flights to and from Skardu only fly 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.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Summit Hotel or similar, Skardu
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-3) SIGHTSEEING & PREPARATION DAY, SKARDU

Skardu is the Capital of the ancient Baltistan Kingdom so there is so much to see and explore. It is the getaway of many famous treks and Climbing expeditions, including K2 and Gondogoro La Trek. In the morning, you will walk up to the remains of Kharpocho Fort (built early 1700), which overlooks the town and has a great view of the Indus River. If you are into photography, this is a perfect location to take photos of Skaradu Town at sunrise or sunset. (we can arrange this for you). We will then walk to a small village called Organic Village, which grows all its crops organically. The afternoon is free to explore the mountain town, take an optional jeep ride to Satpara Lake or explore the bazaar.

Night stay in Skardu.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Summit Hotel or similar, Skardu
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-4) DRIVE TO JOHLA VIA ASKOLI (3,100 m) 8 HOURS

Following day you will drive along the Mighty Indus, Shigar, then Braldu River to Shigar Valley towards Askoli. Askoli is the last village before entering the heart of Karakoram. You will spend some time in Askole to meet your porters. Askoli is high above the thundering Braldu River. Askole is a single street of wooden houses backed by irrigated fields of corn, potatoes and groves of apricot trees.

After a short break in Askole, you will wend your way through the lanes and fields of Askole, the last settlement you will encounter on our trek to Concordia. Watching the local people go about their daily business is a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the hardy Balti people. The valley opens up to reveal the Biafo Glaciers and your first taste of moraine walking. Cross the snout of the Glacier and descend to the green spot beside the Braldu River at Korofon.

From Korfong, you will continue your K2 and Gondogoro La trek towards Johla campsite. Continue your day by following the road up a side valley, and do a detour to cross the fast-flowing Braldu River by a bridge. The views are impressive with Bakhor Das (5,809m) and Paiju Peak’s needles in the distance.

We will be in the Johla camp by late afternoon. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the river, or do a short acclimatisation walk if we wish. On a sunny day, the sun’s rays can be hot, so remember to keep sun creams and lots of water with you.

Night Stay at Johla Camp.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Summit Hotel or similar, Skardu
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-5) TREK TO PAJU (3,380m) 6 HOURS WALKING

Today will be your first walking day of K2 and Gondogoro La trek. After organising all the equipment and supplies our porters load up for the journey ahead towards Paju.

The path runs for a while at the very edge of the Braldu river, before climbing to higher ground and allowing us excellent views of the impressive Paiju Peak. You have to negotiate a couple of streams, depending on the melting of the glaciers above, you may have to ford these (sports sandals or old trainers useful). Paiju is a green oasis under the shadows of Paiju Peak (6,611m). From this camp, you have the first views of the immense Baltoro Glacier and granite peaks of the Trango and Cathedral groups, and in the weather, we may get a glimpse of K2.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-6) TREK TO KHOBURTSE (3,760m) 7 HOURS WALKING

Another early start today. From your camp at Paiju, a walk of approximately one hour brings you to the snout of the Baltoro Glacier. After viewing the outpouring of melt water from the ice we now climb up onto the back of this great beast. At this point, the ice of the glacier is completely covered by rubble and rocks, and although we are following a trail used by many expeditions, going here can be quite tough. The trail undulated as we climb over the swells of the flowing glacier and it is fascinating to think that the stones underfoot could have come from the summit of Broad Peak, Gasherbrum or K2. Gradually we work our way across the glacier to its south side where we can use a path along the lateral moraine. Heading roughly east we continue, sometimes on the moraine and sometimes down beside the glacier until we reach a side valley. At this point, it may be possible to continue more or less directly by climbing up onto the glacier. Or, if the glacier is not easily accessible, we will turn off into the valley for approximately half an hour to reach a point where we can cross the meltwater stream (sandals or old trainers are required). Finally reaching the camping place at Khorburtse (3,760m) we have sensational views of the Cathedral Towers, the Trango Group and the striking rock tower of Uli Biaho. A great day of trekking over difficult and mixed terrain.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-7) TREAK TO URDUKAS (4,130m) 4 HOUR WALKING

Today is a short day but quite hard work as we walk up the undulating moraine and gaining height all the way. We continue east beside the Baltoro Glacier either along the lateral moraine or sometimes on the glacier itself, passing the ship-like prow of Great Trango and the isolated pillar of the ‘Nameless Tower’ to our next camp at Urdukas. It has sensational views of the Trango Towers to the west and directly opposite, and almost a mile away across the valley, the vast rock walls of Cathedral Peak and Lobsang rise like ramparts above the glacier. This is an incredible place. We should reach here in time for a late lunch, and the rest of the afternoon is free to camp, relax and soak up our fabulous Mountain vistas.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-8) ACCLIMATISING DAY AT URDUKAS (4,130m)

 From many years of k2 and Gondogoro La trek experience, we have learnt that taking a rest day at Urdukas has worked well, the advantages of spending an extra night here are helpful. It helps the acclimatization process and has proved more effective than a rest day at Paiju.

This is the last campsite on grassy slopes off the main glacier, it also has facilities for washing and cleaning. There is a pleasant walk behind the campsite through grassy slopes full of alpine flowers. Climbing high & sleeping low is the best way to help the acclimatisation process.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-9) TREAK TO GORO II (4,250m) 6 to 7 HOURS WALKING

 Leaving Urdukas behind, you will follow the moraine edge eastwards until it is possible to climb up onto the broad back of the glacier. The trail on the Baltoro goes past the Yermanandu glacier, which flows from Masherbrum, and there are views of Muztagh (7,270m), Masherbrum (7,800m) and Gasherbrum IV at the head of the Baltoro and Concordia. We are quite high now and camping on one of the largest pieces of ice outside the polar regions, so wrap up warmly for the cooler nights ahead. The campsite is on the glacier where ledges have been levelled out for the tents.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-10) TREAK TO CONCORDIA (4,600m) 5 HOURS WALKING

Today you will Trek to Concordia through what must arguably be the most spectacular mountain scenery anywhere in the world! Our approach to Concordia continues along the heaving swells of the Baltoro Glacier as we pass Mustagh Tower (7284m). Ahead of us, Gasherbrum IV (7925m) acts like a beacon drawing us on, whilst at some points on today’s walk, we can also see Gasherbrum ll (8035m), which peeks out to the right of Gasherbrum lV. As we make our way up the Baltoro, the aptly named Broad Peak (8051m) comes into view above the ridge connecting Marble Peak and Crystal Peak on our left. K2 keeps itself hidden until the very moment we reach Concordia when suddenly its height is revealed in sweeping lines that climb almost 4000 metres from the valley floor to the summit – a sight that will never be forgotten. Concordia is a wide and spread area where glaciers coming down from K2 meet those from the Gasherbrums and Chogolisa. It is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places on the planet, and here you can stand within 24 kilometres of no fewer than four eight-thousanders and ten of the world’s thirty highest peaks! We set up our camp at approximately 4,500 metres on a moraine ridge surrounded by jagged peaks, including Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Crystal Peak, Marble Peak, Baltoro Kangri, Broad Peak and K2.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-11) TREAK TO BROAD PEAK BASE CAMP (5,000m) 4 HOURS WALKING

Most of the trekkers Camp at Concordia which gives them a very long walk to K2 Base Camp. Our Experience has taught us that camping at the base camp of Broad Peak will give a better view of K2. From Concordia, the route passes through some jumbled ice fins and moraine ridges before gaining the medial moraine of the Godwin Austen glacier. Broad Peak Base Camp is located on this moraine near the base of the climbing route on Broad Peak. One of the best views of K2 is from Broad Peak Base Camp. Enjoy the marvellous situation of Karakoram.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-12) TREAK TO K2 BASE CAMP & BACK TO CONCORDIA (5,150m) 7 HOURS WALKING

Rise and shine early to witness a fantastic sunrise view over K2 and Broad Peak. Today, start early for a beautiful walk up to the Mighty K2 Base Camp. For many people, a visit to the actual base camp used by climbers on K2 will certainly be a highlight of their Trek. We can stop and admire the sensational view of K2 in one direction, and the other looks back to Concordia framed by Mitre Peak and the bulk of Chogolisa, also known as ‘Broad Peak‘. On the return, you pass through Broad Peak Base Camp and continue down to Concordia. From Concordia, we will descend Baltoro.

• Ascent 450m, Descent 500m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-13) TREAK TO ALI CAMP (5,000m) 6 HOURS WALKING

Today you will leave the main trekking trail behind you, striking out on a far less travelled route which will take you along the Upper Baltoro, one of the glaciers coming down from Chogolisa that feed the huge glacial junction of Concordia. From Concordia, there are several moraine ridges to scramble over to reach the Vigne Glacier, which is flatter with fewer crevasses. After 5 – 7 hours of trekking along the Upper Baltoro towards the enormous bulk of Chogolisa at the head of the valley, you eventually reach the confluence of this glacier with the West Vigne Glacier, which sweeps down from the base of the Gondogoro La. On the moraine beside the junction, we make our home for the night at ‘Ali Camp’ (4,800m).

We would reach Ali camp around mid-day or the early afternoon, and after settling in, your trip leader will offer a skills session to practice the simple techniques of using a jumar to safeguard moving on fixed lines.

• Night stay at Paiju camp.
• Ascent 330m, Descent 160m
• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-14) CROSS GONDOGORO LA TO KHUSPANG (5,600m) 10-11 HOURS WALKING

Today you will have an early start before the lights break in the morning. Probably around 2 a.m., we will start climbing Gondogoro La to minimise the risk of rockfall on the descent down the Hushe side of the pass.

After fuelling up in the dining tent with breakfast, you will do crampons and harnesses and set off roped together onto the West Vigne Glacier. In the black, star-studded cold night air, you will make your way slowly over the sparkling glacier illuminated in pools of light from your head torches.

This is a tough day, but the views from the top of Gondogoro Pass make it worthwhile. All four 8,000 are visible in one direction, and the other way looks down the Hushe Valley with the beautiful Laila Peak.

Depending on the snow conditions, it may be necessary to rope up to cross the glacier before getting to the base of the pass. There are several sections with fixed ropes in place which can be used as a handrail. It is also best practice to clip a carabiner and sling onto the rope for safety.

If the snow conditions are good and the trail has already been broken, then the pass can be ascended quite quickly (in about 4-5 hours). After approximately 4 hours of climbing from the West Vigne Glacier, with views opening up behind us, we reach the summit of the pass, an incredible and exhilarating feeling. The view from the top is breathtaking, with 4 eight thousand metre peaks on view and close at hand, namely K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II. The top of the Gondogoro Pass is a broad shoulder, and on the far side the ground drops precipitously away, and we find ourselves looking down into the Gondogoro Valley. Directly opposite are the faces of the Trinity peaks, but all eyes will be drawn to the beautiful spire of Laila Peak (6,096), and then further down, following the curve of the glacier, we can see the perfect cone of Masherbrum II.

The Hushe side of the Gondogoro Pass can be a tricky descent, although fixed ropes are in place at the top. The slope starts at a sustained 50 degrees on snow and finishes on loose scree towards the bottom. On reaching the green oasis of Khuspang, you can put your feet up and relax, remembering the excitement and spectacular views of the day.

A rescue team from Hush Village will be based at Ali camp to help and assist you in crossing the Gondogoro pass. They have been running this operation successfully for the last few years for a fee of $70-80 USD per international tourist, which we ( Trango Adventure) Pay. This is included in the holiday package.

Important note: the crossing of the Gondogoro La depends on good weather and conditions on the approach to the Pass. If we can not ascend the Pass safely, the group will walk back down the Baltoro glacier to Askole.

We believe our itinerary maximises our chances of crossing the pass because:

Everyone should be well acclimatised due to the gradual ascent on the trek and also from the careful monitoring of everyone’s acclimatisation by using the pulse odometer. We have two nights at Concordia and one at Broad Peak Base Camp.

We have two buffer days in case of delays or bad weather on Days 17 & 18 of the itinerary.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-15) SPARE TREK DAY IN CASE OF DELAYS

It is like the Gondogoro La Trek journey in that there are possible delays, and it is necessary to build in some time to allow for this. In case of bad weather on Day 14, these days will give us another chance to cross the Gondogoro pass. If we successfully cross the Pass on Day 14, you may enjoy rest or exploration days, or the other option is to continue down to Hushe to spend a night.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-16) KHUSPANG TO SAICHO (3,350m) 6-7 HOURS WALKING

After a couple of minutes of easy walking, you get onto the glacier where you pick your way across the moraine and ice, finally crossing the glacier up to the camping site to reach Dalsangpa which means ‘field of flowers’. There is a spectacular view of Masherbrum and the glacier cascading down from Masherbrum Pass.

It is a beautiful walk to Shaicho as we pass yak pastures and see the first trees since Paiju. Shaicho is a small village. At this point, we have returned to more benign altitudes where things grow, and the trees become bigger than us as we continue the descent of the moraine to the valley bottom. We set up our camp at Saitcho (3,350m), a sandy area of sparse grasses beside the river at the junction of the Gondogoro and Charakusa valleys. This will be the first night in almost a week where we can breathe the oxygen-rich air below 4,000 metres and sleep to the sounds of running water!

• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-17) TREK TO HUSHE 2 HOURS, DRIVE TO SKARDU 7-HOURS

 Today will be our last walking day of K2 and Gondogoro La trek, it will be an easy walk to Hushe village. Hushe is quite large, with a warren of alleys and buildings. Most traditional houses are built from rounded river stones and are 2 storeys high, with space for the animals downstairs and people upstairs. Hushe also has modern houses, a shop, a school, a hotel and a campsite.

Our vehicles will already be waiting for us, so we make an early start for the return drive through the lush green Khapulu Vally. We have a faster, smoother journey on a paved road following the great Indus River into Skardu. Arriving in the town, we will check in to our hotel, and there will be time for a welcome shower and clean up before sitting down to dinner. Tonight, we will enjoy the comfort of a real bed.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-18) FLY BACK TO ISLAMABAD

If the weather is clear, then you will take the flight to Islamabad. Skardu Airport is a 40-minute from the hotel along a good road lined with poplar trees. Boarding our plane, we have an exciting flight out of the valley, once again passing by Nanga Parbat before turning south for Islamabad. Arriving in the Pakistani capital after a period in the mountains is always a strange experience, and it takes a little time to get used to the hustle and bustle, especially the traffic. Our private bus will be waiting at the airport to transfer us to the group hotel, and once we have settled in, it will be time to take lunch (unless we have experienced unusual flight delays). After lunch, the rest of the day is free for independent sightseeing or to relax at the hotel. Your Guide will advise you on the possibilities for sightseeing. Shopping for hand-made Iranian & Afghan rugs is a usually popular option. This evening, we come together for a celebratory meal at the hotel or in a local restaurant.

In Case of Flight cancellation, we will drive down the Karakoram Highway. We will arrive in Chillas late afternoon.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-19) CONTINGENCY DAY IN CASE OF DELAYS - ISLAMABAD

If driving down the Karakoram Highway you will arrive in Islamabad late afternoon. If you managed to fly the day before, you will spend today sightseeing in Islamabad. In the evening, we will have a final group meal.

Skardu is a weather-dependent airport, which means the planes will only fly here if the visibility allows line of sight to the runway by the pilot on the approach. Fortunately, the weather is mostly clear in the Karakoram, but local weather conditions can bring clouds and rain from time to time. If we cannot fly, we will travel down to Islamabad by road along the spectacular Karakoram Highway. If we fly up to Skardu, this will be a bonus as it is a fantastic travel experience in its own right. The drive down the Indus River to Islamabad takes two days, so this is an important contingency day to allow for this. If we have flown to Islamabad, this will be a further day for sightseeing in the capital, and your leader will advise the group on the options available for today.

• ACCOMMODATION
• Full-service Camping
• MEALS
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-20) DEPARTURE DAY-FLY BACK HOME

• After Breakfast, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport for your flight back home. You will leave Pakistan with an amazing trekking experience from “K2 and Gondogoro La trek”. End of trip.