Broad Peak Expedition – An Exclusive Karakoram Summit Experience
Ascend with distinction on a world-class expedition offering expert leadership, refined services, and panoramic views across the majestic Karakoram.
Baltistan is the geographical area of Gilgit-Baltistan in the Kashmir region, which is controlled by Pakistan, in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. Baltistan is located on the high Ladakh Plateau and is drained by the Indus River and its tributaries, including the Shyok River. It is home to the tallest peaks of the Karakoram Range, including K2 (Mount Godwin Austen), which is 28,251 feet (8,611 metres) above sea level, Gasherbrum I (26,470 feet (8,068 metres), and Broad Peak I. (26,401 feet [8,047 metres]). Baltistan has a severe climate, with barely 6 inches of precipitation on average per year (150 mm). Several glaciers can be found there, including the Siachen Glacier, which is the scene of sporadic clashes between Indian and Pakistani forces over the control of Kashmir.
Climb BROAD PEAK with Skardu Expeditions Tracks and Tours:
We have a highly dedicated and professional team of expert climbers, mountaineering instructors, high altitude guides, professional cooks, and high altitude porters. We can even provide our expert opinions on things whenever you may need any. And we also go way out to ensure that you get home safely, so we take care of your comfortable and safe return to Islamabad and then see you off home with memories to share with your loved ones.
Our team will receive you at Islamabad International Airport with Skardu Expedition Treks and Tours placards. You will be transferred to our partner hotel for rest and recovery from your long journey.
On this day we will have briefing from the Department of Tourism regarding the Broad Peak Expedition in Islamabad before travelling to Skardu.
After briefing we will spend time exploring Islamabad and experience traditional Pakistani cuisine.
This morning, take the spectacular flight from Islamabad Airport to Skardu Airport. Weather permitting, you will see Nanga Parbat from the aircraft. After arrival in Skardu, the day is free for rest and acclimatization. Explore Skardu town and shop around in the peaceful valley.
After breakfast, visit the historic Kharpocho Fort located on a mountain overlooking Skardu. The fort provides splendid views of the Indus River and Skardu Valley. Optional tour to Sadpara Lake followed by shopping time in Skardu Bazaar.
During sightseeing, our staff will handle further government documentation required in Skardu. This can sometimes take two days. We have contingency days built into the itinerary for any delays.
The Broad Peak Expedition officially begins as we make our way to the Baltoro Region. Begin the jeep safari towards Askole through the beautiful Shigar Valley. The journey follows alongside the Braldu River which extends to Askole. Askole is the last village on our route, where the trek begins. Overall, it takes between six to eight hours to cover the distance. Sometimes walking may begin before Askole depending on road conditions.
After finalizing supplies and equipment, porters load up for the trek to Jhola. The valley is the gateway to Biafo Glacier which flows over fifty kilometers. Experience moraine walking as the snout of the glacier is crossed. Descend to lunch spot beside Korofon River, then continue to the confluence of Braldu and Domordo rivers. Cross bridge and follow riverbank to camp at Jhola.
Follow the dramatic Braldu Gorge with astonishing views of Trango Tower and Cathedral Peak. Conditions can be very dry and hot, so sun protection is essential. Several glacier streams flow down, requiring river crossing shoes depending on water levels. Spot the snout of Baltoro Glacier on clear days. End the day by climbing to Paiju, the last camp with trees.
Rest day for acclimatization. Porters bake bread for the glacier journey ahead. Optional acclimatization walk towards Paiju Peak base camp to help bodies adjust before the Broad Peak Expedition.
Step onto Baltoro Glacier with challenging continuous up and down climbs on glacial moraine. Trail is safe but requires caution at all times. Stunning views of Trango Tower and Uli Biaho. Cross the glacier to Liligo, then follow rocky trail to Khoburtse.
See Trango Towers after crossing two small glaciers. Camp at Urdukus near the army post, 100m above the glacier.
Walk through the heart of Baltoro Glacier along medial moraine. Views of Masherbrum (7,821m) to the south. First glacier camp at the confluence of Baltoro and Younghusband glaciers. Temperature may drop dramatically. Views of Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower.
The ultimate reward: reach Concordia and witness your first views of K2, Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum massif, and Sia Kangri. Concordia is truly the throne room of the mountain gods.
Continue towards Broad Peak Base Camp. Trekking will be challenging as the moraine and terrain are very hard. Take it easy and rest upon arrival at Broad Peak Base Camp.
Celebrate your achievement as you retrace steps back to magnificent Concordia. Rest and recovery after the successful Broad Peak Expedition.
Take a slightly different and less explored route. Short detours made to avoid crevasses. Walk on rugged ice rather than slippery ice. In case of snow, team ropes up for safety. Camp at Ali Camp, named after the first local porter to cross Gondogoro La Pass.
Wake up as early as 2am! Rope up and depart for Gondogoro La base after gearing up and breakfast. Support crew will be there to fix ropes and help with gear. Takes about 3 hours to reach the top of Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m). Experience breathtaking views of all four 8,000m peaks in the Baltoro region: K2, Gasherbrum I, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum II.
While descending, fixed ropes utilized extensively, and crampons vital for safety. Views of beautiful sword-shaped Laila Peak (6,096m) and Trinity peaks. Be extra careful descending and watch every step to avoid dislodging stones. Camp at Khuispang (4,600m) at the junction of Gondogoro and Trinity Glaciers.
Continue hiking downwards. This descent is comparatively easier, so climbing equipment (ropes, crampons) will be packed. Mountainous and rocky terrain gives way to lush green landscapes of Hushe Valley. After lunch, continue to the edge of Gondogoro Glacier where a trail leads to the beautiful valley of rhubarb and grass. Trek becomes easy when two trails meet. See stone huts made by herders and local settlers. Camp at Saicho, sandy area with grass along flowing glacier streams.
Trek down for only 3-4 hours through glacier melt-water streams from Charakusa, Ailing, Masherbrum, and Gondogoro Glaciers. Start seeing signs of residences, shelters, fields, and people. Experience the two-story shelters of Hushe village, where ground floor is for cattle and first floor for family living. Explore beautiful Hushe valley and interact with locals. This is the last camping day.
Upon reaching Hushe, depart for Skardu town. The journey offers beautiful scenes of different small villages of Hushe Valley. Cross suspension bridge above Shyok River (flows from Ladakh, India). The suspension bridge replaced traditional goat-skin rafts and was built in the 1990s. After crossing, reach Khaplu. Drive from Khaplu to Skardu becomes smooth along paved road beside Shyok River leading to confluence with Indus River. Reach Skardu in 4 hours. Enjoy facilities absent for two weeks: hot showers and good meals!
On this day, debriefing with the Department of Tourism after completion of the Broad Peak Expedition. After debriefing, rest and enjoy peaceful time around the valley.
Morning flight from Skardu Airport to Islamabad Airport. Relax at the hotel in Islamabad. If flight cancelled due to weather, drive to Chilas for overnight (8-10 hours).
Contingency day for flight delays. If no delays, free day for final paperwork and sightseeing in Islamabad.
Hotel checkout (12pm). Our staff transfers all guests to the airport according to respective departure timings.
What’s Included & Excluded in Your Trek
What the Trip Covers
Professional expedition management & coordination
Experienced high-altitude climbing guides and support staff
Broad Peak climbing permit
Base Camp setup and management services
Group camping equipment (tents, kitchen, dining setup)
All meals during the expedition period
Porters for load carrying during the trek
Planned acclimatization schedule
First aid and basic medical support
What You’ll Need to Arrange
- International and domestic flights
- Personal climbing and trekking gear
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude mountaineering
- Personal medications and medical supplies
- Tips for guides, porters, and support staff
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need prior mountaineering experience for Broad Peak?
Yes, prior high-altitude climbing experience and excellent physical fitness are required for Broad Peak.
Q2: What is the best time to climb Broad Peak?
The best climbing season is from June to August, when weather conditions are most suitable.
Q3: Is the Broad Peak climbing permit included in the cost?
Yes, the Broad Peak climbing permit is included in the expedition package.
Q4: Are meals provided during the expedition?
Yes, all meals are provided during the expedition period at Base Camp and higher camps.
Q5: Is travel insurance mandatory for Broad Peak?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude mountaineering and emergency evacuation is mandatory.