Gasherbrum-II Expedition – A Refined Ascent into Himalayan Grandeur
Experience a sophisticated high-altitude journey with expert guidance, premium logistics, and awe-inspiring views across the Karakoram range.
Gasherbrum II; surveyed as K4, is the 13th highest mountain in the world at 8,035 metres above sea level. It is the third-highest peak of the Gasherbrum massif, and is located in the Karakoram, on the border between Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan and Xinjiang, China
The Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan is home to the 13th highest mountain in the world, Gasherbrum II, which is close to Broad Peak and K2. The Gasherbrum II Expedition is regarded as the simplest and safest climb to one of The Karakoram’s 8,000-meter peaks. Mountaineers have the option to climb Gasherbrum i-ii by paying an additional royalty charge. It is a component of the Gasherbrum massif and shares a common base camp.
We run a solo and private climbing adventure to Gasherbrum that lasts 50–60 days. We provide logistics up to and including base camp. Depending on your time constraints, the weather, and your prior climbing experience, the duration may be extended or shortened. You can adhere to our regular Gasherbrum II expedition schedule or have our travel agent create one for you.
Climb GASHABRUM-II with Skardu Expeditions Tracks and Tours:
Avalanches and unpredictably bad weather are risks that mountaineers who love extreme adventures take in order to reach the top of K2. The pyramid-shaped peak, which rises abruptly above the Karakorum Mountain range in Baltistan and is located high on the border between Pakistan and China, provides you with the chance to put your enthusiasm for and expertise in expeditions to the test.
Skardu Expeditions Tracks and Tours can assist you in turning your ambition of climbing K2 into a reality. If, then K2 is reachable:
- Gasherbrum II Expedition to the heart of The Karakoram
- Spectacular views of Nanga Parbat & K2 from the flight to Skardu
- Explore the Ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Baltistan, Pakistan
- Experience the culture and hospitality of the friendly Balti people
- Trek on Baltoro and Godwin-Austen Glaciers
- Witness the sunrise above K2 and Broad Peak from Concordia
- Climb the easiest 8000m of The Karakoram range
- Stunning wild and remote scenery of Baltoro & Karakoram Mountains.
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 Gasherbrum II 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.
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.
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 from Hispar La to Braldu. Experience moraine walking as the snout of the glacier is crossed, then descend to a lunch spot beside the Korofon River.
The route takes us to the confluence of Braldu and Domordo rivers. Cross the river by bridge, then descend to the edge of the Braldu River and follow the riverbank to reach camp at Jhola.
Follow the Braldu Gorge along the bank of the Braldu River. Enjoy astonishing views of Trango Tower and Cathedral Peak. The walking conditions can be very dry and hot, so be prepared with sun protection.
Several glacier streams flow down into the valley and you may need to use river crossing shoes depending on water levels. On a clear day, you can spot the snout of Baltoro Glacier. End the day by climbing away from the river to camp at Paiju, the last place with trees for quite some time.
Rest day for acclimatization. Porters bake bread for the glacier journey ahead. Optional acclimatization walk towards Paiju Peak base camp.
Step onto Baltoro Glacier with continuous moraine walking. Stunning views of Trango Tower and Uli Biaho. Camp at Khoburtse on the glacier edge.
Cross two small glaciers with views of Trango Towers. Camp at Urdukus, 100m above the glacier near the army post.
Walk through the heart of Baltoro Glacier along medial moraine. Views of Masherbrum (7,821m) and Muztagh Tower. First glacier camp at confluence of Baltoro and Younghusband glaciers.
The ultimate reward: first views of K2! Also visible: Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum massif, and Sia Kangri. Concordia is the throne room of the mountain gods.
Hike on upper Baltoro Glacier to base camp area. Views of Chogolisa, Snow Dome, Baltoro Kangri and numerous high peaks. Arrival at Gasherbrum base camp area.
Celebrate your achievement as you retrace steps back to magnificent Concordia. Rest and recovery after the expedition.
Take an alternative route across rugged glacier ice. Watch for crevasses. Team ropes up for safety. Camp at Ali Camp, named after the first local porter to cross Gondogoro La.
Early 2am start! Rope up for challenging ascent to Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m). Fixed ropes and crampons essential. Spectacular 360° views of all four Baltoro eight-thousanders: K2, Gasherbrum I, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum II.
Careful descent with views of stunning Laila Peak (6,096m). Camp at Khuispang junction of Gondogoro and Trinity glaciers.
Descend from glacial terrain into lush green Hushe Valley. Pack climbing equipment as terrain eases. Beautiful valley of rhubarb and grasslands. Stone huts of herders visible.
Final 3-4 hour trek through Hushe Village with traditional two-story homes. Explore village and meet locals. Drive through scenic Hushe Valley, cross suspension bridge over Shyok River. Smooth drive through Khaplu to Skardu. Celebrate with hot showers and excellent meal!
Morning flight to Islamabad with aerial views of the Karakoram (weather permitting). Transfer to hotel for rest. If flight cancelled due to weather, drive to Chilas for overnight (8-10 hours).
Contingency day for flight delays. If no delays, enjoy sightseeing in Islamabad or last-minute shopping and relaxation.
Hotel checkout (12pm). Our team transfers you to Islamabad International Airport according to your flight schedule.
What’s Included & Excluded in Your Trek
What the Trip Covers
Professional expedition management & coordination
Experienced high-altitude guides and support staff
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 & domestic flights
- Personal climbing & trekking gear
- Personal travel & rescue insurance
- Tips for guides, porters & staff
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry, etc.)
- Emergency evacuation & rescue costs
- Visa fees & extra hotel stays
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need prior climbing experience for Gasherbrum-II?
Yes, prior high-altitude mountaineering experience and good physical fitness are required for this expedition.
Q2: What is the best season to climb Gasherbrum-II?
The best season is from June to August, when weather conditions are relatively stable.
Q3: Are climbing permits included in the package?
Yes, the Gasherbrum-II climbing permit is included in the expedition cost.
Q3: Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude climbing and emergency evacuation is mandatory.
Q4: Who will guide the expedition?
The expedition is led by experienced high-altitude guides and professional support staff.
Q5: What happens in case of an emergency?
Basic first aid support is available, while emergency evacuation costs are not included and must be covered by the participant.