24-Day K2 Base Camp and Pastore Peak Trek with Gondogoro La

• Welcome to Pakistan. Most international flights arrive at Islamabad International Airport in the morning.

• Our representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your group hotel in Islamabad.

• The rest of the day is free to recover from your journey.

• In the evening, once all members have arrived, there will be a group briefing about the upcoming Pastore Peak, K2, and Gondogoro La trek.

• If time permits, there will be an option for some sightseeing in Islamabad. The city was purpose-built in 1961 to serve as the new capital of Pakistan.

• Today, you will travel to Islamabad International Airport for a spectacular flight (weather permitting) across the mountains to Skardu, the capital of Baltistan.

• The 45-minute flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the Karakoram mountain range. Keep your eyes peeled for stunning vistas of the world's 9th-highest peak, Nanga Parbat (8,126m). If the weather is clear, you might also catch a glimpse of K2 and Gondogoro Pass.

• Upon arrival in Skardu, check in to your hotel.

• The rest of the day will be spent exploring the local bazaar, historical forts, and scenic lakes.

• Visit ancient rock inscriptions, including the 8th-century Manthal Lord Buddha Rock, which displays traces of Buddhist monks and pilgrims who once influenced the region before the arrival of Islam.

• Skardu, the capital of the ancient Baltistan Kingdom, offers rich history and natural beauty. It is also the gateway to famous treks and climbing expeditions, such as Pastore Peak, K2, and the Gondogoro La Trek.

• In the morning, take a walk up to the remains of Kharpocho Fort, built in the early 1700s. This fort overlooks the town and offers breathtaking views of the Indus River. For photography enthusiasts, this location provides a fantastic opportunity to capture Skardu Town at either sunrise or sunset.

• You can also walk to a small village called Organic Village, which grows all of its crops organically.

• The afternoon is free for exploration. You may opt for a jeep tour to Satpara Lake or wander through the local bazaar to discover local crafts and traditions.

• Note: If the road between Askoli and Johla is closed, then today you will travel to Askoli for an overnight stay.

• On the following day, you will drive along the mighty Indus River, passing through the Shigar and Braldu rivers, heading toward Askoli. Askoli is the last village before entering the heart of the Karakoram range.

• Upon arrival in Askoli, you will spend some time meeting your porters. Askoli is situated high above the thundering Braldu River and consists of a single street of wooden houses backed by irrigated fields of corn, potatoes, and apricot groves.

• After a short break in Askoli, you will proceed through the village lanes and fields, witnessing the daily life of the hardy Balti people. The valley gradually opens up to reveal the Biafo Glacier - your first experience of moraine walking in the Karakoram.

• You will cross the snout of the Biafo Glacier and descend to Korofong, a green spot beside the Braldu River.

• From Korofong, continue your trek towards Johla campsite, part of the Pastore Peak, K2, and Gondogoro La trek. You will follow the road up a side valley, with a detour to cross the fast-flowing Braldu River via a bridge.

• Enjoy impressive views of Bakhor Das (5,809m) and Paiju Peak's dramatic needles in the distance.

• You will arrive at Johla Camp by late afternoon. Take the time to relax by the river or embark on a short acclimatization walk. On sunny days, the sun's rays can be intense, so make sure to apply sun cream and stay hydrated.

Overnight stay at Johla Camp.

• Today marks the first walking day of your Pastore Peak, K2, and Gondogoro La trek. After organizing all the necessary equipment and supplies, your porters will load up for the journey ahead toward Paiju.

• The trail initially runs along the edge of the Braldu River, gradually climbing to higher ground. This will offer you stunning views of the impressive Paiju Peak (6,611m), which stands tall as a green oasis beneath its towering presence.

• Along the way, you will need to cross a few streams. Depending on the melting glaciers above, you may need to ford these streams. Wearing sports sandals or old trainers will be helpful for this part of the journey.

• As you approach Paiju, you will be treated to your first views of the immense Baltoro Glacier and the towering granite peaks of the Trango and Cathedral groups. If the weather is clear, you might even catch a glimpse of the iconic K2, the world's second-highest peak.

Night stay at Paiju Camp.

• Begin the day with an early start. From your camp at Paiju, walk for approximately one hour to reach the snout of the Baltoro Glacier.

• Marvel at the outpouring of meltwater from the glacier, then climb onto the glacier's back, where the ice is covered by rubble and rocks. Although the trail is commonly used by many expeditions, it can be tough to navigate.

• Traverse the undulating terrain as you climb over the swells of the glacier, reflecting on the fascinating thought that the stones beneath your feet could have come from the summits of Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, or K2.

• Gradually make your way across the glacier toward its south side, where you will follow a path along the lateral moraine.

• Continue eastward, alternating between the moraine and the glacier's edge, until you reach a side valley.

• Depending on glacier conditions, either climb directly onto the glacier or veer into the valley for approximately half an hour, where you will cross a meltwater stream (sports sandals or old trainers will be necessary).

• Arrive at Khorburtse camp (3,760m) and enjoy sensational views of the Cathedral Towers, the Trango Group, and the striking rock tower of Uli Biaho.

End the day with a rewarding rest at Khorburtse Camp.

• Begin the day with a short but challenging walk as you ascend the undulating moraine, steadily gaining elevation.

• Continue heading east beside the Baltoro Glacier, alternating between walking along the lateral moraine and occasionally crossing the glacier itself.

• Pass the impressive, ship-like prow of Great Trango and the isolated, towering pillar of the 'Nameless Tower' on your way to the next campsite at Urdukas.

• Arrive at Urdukas and be greeted with spectacular views of the Trango Towers to the west, and directly across the valley, the towering rock walls of Cathedral Peak and Lobsang rise dramatically like ramparts above the glacier.

• Take time to appreciate this awe-inspiring location, perfect for relaxation and photography.

• Arrive in time for a late lunch, then spend the afternoon at your leisure, relaxing and soaking in the magnificent surroundings at camp.

• Take a well-deserved rest day at Urdukas Camp. From years of experience with the Pastore Peak trek, we have found that spending an extra night here significantly aids the acclimatization process. This rest day is more effective than one taken at Paiju and helps prepare your body for the higher altitudes ahead.

• Enjoy the peaceful surroundings at the last organized campsite, which is located on grassy slopes off the main glacier. The camp is equipped with facilities for washing and cleaning, adding comfort to your stay.

• Spend some time exploring the area with a pleasant walk up to a higher altitude behind the camp. As you trek through the grassy slopes, you will be surrounded by alpine flowers, offering a serene and beautiful environment.

• The principle of climbing high and sleeping low is key to acclimatization, allowing you to get used to the high altitude before reaching the challenging heights of Pastore Peak.

Night stay at Urdukas Camp to rest and prepare for the next stages of the trek.

• Depart from Urdukas and continue your trek eastwards along the moraine edge. As you progress, the path will eventually allow you to climb up onto the broad back of the Baltoro Glacier, where the landscape opens up with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

• Pass by the Yermanandu Glacier, which originates from Masherbrum, and enjoy incredible views of towering mountains, including Muztagh (7,270m), Masherbrum (7,800m), and Gasherbrum IV at the head of the Baltoro and Concordia.

• The altitude increases as you walk, and you are now camping on one of the largest expanses of ice outside the polar regions, so make sure to bundle up for the cooler nights ahead.

• The Goro II campsite is situated on the glacier itself, with ledges carefully levelled for tents, providing a unique and adventurous camping experience.

Night stay at Goro II Camp, where the stunning ice and rock scenery will leave you in awe.

• Embark on a trek to Concordia, which must surely rank as one of the most awe-inspiring treks in the world. The path continues along the undulating surface of the Baltoro Glacier, offering unforgettable views. As you move forward, you will pass Mustagh Tower (7,284m), a dramatic peak that towers above the landscape.

• In the distance, Gasherbrum IV (7,925m) looms large, guiding your way. At certain points on the trek, you will also catch glimpses of Gasherbrum II (8,035m), which peeks out from behind Gasherbrum IV.

• As you progress up the Baltoro, Broad Peak (8,051m) will make its appearance, rising majestically above the ridge connecting Marble Peak and Crystal Peak.

• The grand finale of the trek occurs when you finally reach Concordia, where K2 reveals itself in its full grandeur. Rising almost 4,000 meters from the valley floor to its summit, the sight of K2 will be a moment you will never forget.

• Concordia itself is a spectacular convergence point where glaciers from K2, Gasherbrum, and Chogolisa meet. Surrounded by jagged peaks, including Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Crystal Peak, Marble Peak, Baltoro Kangri, Broad Peak, and K2, this is a truly awe-inspiring place to camp.

• Set up camp at approximately 4,500 meters, in the heart of this glacial wonderland.

Night stay at Concordia, where the sheer majesty of the surroundings will take your breath away.

• Today, you will continue your trek towards Broad Peak Base Camp. From Concordia, the route leads you through a stunning landscape of jumbled ice fins and moraine ridges, gradually ascending towards the medial moraine of the Godwin Austen Glacier.

• Broad Peak Base Camp is situated on this moraine, near the base of the climbing route for Broad Peak. This camp offers one of the best vantage points of K2, allowing you to enjoy a breathtaking view of this iconic mountain.

• Take a moment to appreciate the marvelous Karakoram landscape, with towering peaks and glaciers stretching before you. The grandeur of the mountains here is unlike any other.

Night stay at Broad Peak Base Camp, where the immense tranquility of the surrounding peaks will offer a perfect end to your adventurous day.

• Rise early to catch the stunning sunrise over K2 and Broad Peak, as the first light of day paints the peaks in golden hues. This will be a memorable experience, setting the tone for the day ahead.

• After sunrise, embark on a scenic walk towards the legendary K2 Base Camp. For many trekkers, reaching this iconic site, which serves as the starting point for climbers attempting to summit K2, is the pinnacle of the journey.

• As you approach K2 Base Camp, take time to admire the sensational views of K2 towering above you. In the opposite direction, the view back to Concordia is framed by Mitre Peak and the majestic Chogolisa (also known as Broad Peak), providing another incredible vista.

• After spending some time at K2 Base Camp, begin your return journey back to the Pastore Peak Base Camp. This will be a day of awe-inspiring scenery and unforgettable moments, as you take in some of the highest peaks in the world.

Night stay at Pastore Peak Base Camp, where you can reflect on the day's adventures amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Karakoram range.

• Begin your ascent of Pastore Peak today, a thrilling and challenging phase of the trek. Your expert climbing team will remain at the base camp to provide support and ensure a safe environment for your climbing session.

• The climbing session is designed for those looking to test their mountaineering skills and experience the Karakoram range up close. With the guidance of experienced guides, you will start the climb, navigating the rugged terrain and gaining altitude steadily.

• Throughout the day, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Broad Peak, K2, and other towering peaks that will accompany you as you make your way up.

• The focus will be on safety and acclimatization, with rest periods at strategic points to help you adjust to the high-altitude conditions.

Night stay at a suitable campsite along the ascent route, allowing you to rest and prepare for the challenges ahead. This marks the beginning of your mountaineering experience on Pastore Peak.

• Our high-altitude climbers will begin their work, fixing the ropes and setting up the necessary camps along the route. They will ensure that the climb is safe and efficient for all participants, securing key sections with ropes and anchors to help you tackle the steep and challenging terrain of Pastore Peak.

• Throughout the day, you will have the chance to observe the preparations and gain insights from the experienced climbing team on the logistics of high-altitude expeditions.

• This is a crucial day to ensure all necessary equipment is in place and the route is properly secured. Depending on the weather conditions and the pace of the climbers, you may get an opportunity to do a short acclimatization hike around the base camp, adjusting to the altitude before the major climb begins.

• As the base camp is established at a high elevation, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including K2, Broad Peak, and other towering mountain giants. This location will serve as your launching point for the final ascent of Pastore Peak.

Night stay at Pastore Peak Base Camp, where you will rest and mentally prepare for the challenging days ahead.

Experience

• Requires prior mountaineering experience, especially in high-altitude climbs and technical routes.

• Familiarity with glacier travel, rope techniques, and high-altitude exposure is essential.

Physical Strength

• Demands excellent physical fitness, stamina, and strength for strenuous ascents.

• High-altitude climbs can be physically taxing, so preparation before the expedition is key.

Weather Conditions

• The Karakoram Range's weather can be unpredictable, affecting climbing schedules.

• Harsh conditions, such as snowstorms or high winds, may delay or halt the climb.

• Continuous weather monitoring will help in ensuring safe climbing conditions.

Climbing Team Support

• Your team will have experienced guides and high-altitude experts for support.

• Safety and well-being are prioritized throughout the ascent.

Climbing Pastore Peak will be assessed based on your experience, physical strength, and favorable weather conditions.

• Celebration and rest day.

Morning

• Depart from the Pastore Peak Base Camp, leaving behind the towering peaks and serene landscape.

• Start your trek along the less-travelled route, heading toward the Upper Baltoro Glacier. This path is a unique journey through the immense glaciers coming down from Chogolisa, ultimately leading to the famous glacial junction of Concordia.

• As you trek, admire the breathtaking views of Chogolisa and the surrounding Karakoram peaks.

Afternoon

• After 5-7 hours of trekking, you will reach the confluence of the Upper Baltoro Glacier and the West Vigne Glacier, where they meet at the base of the Gondogoro La.

• Settle in at Ali Camp (4,800 meters), located beside the moraine junction.

• Enjoy a well-deserved break at this stunning, remote location.

• The afternoon will be dedicated to a skills session led by your trip leader, where you will learn essential climbing techniques, including how to safely use a jumar to move along fixed lines.

Evening

• Relax at Ali Camp, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the glaciers around you.

• Enjoy a hearty meal and spend the night at this magnificent campsite, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

Early Morning Start

• Begin your day around 2 a.m., well before sunrise, to minimize the risk of rockfall during the descent of the pass.

• After a light breakfast in the dining tent, check your gear, including your crampons and harnesses, and, after roping up, begin your climb on the West Vigne Glacier.

• The crisp, starry night will illuminate your path as you make your way slowly over the glacier, your headlamps casting pools of light on the sparkling snow.

Climbing the Pass

• The climb up Gondogoro La is challenging, but the views from the summit are more than worth the effort.

• The initial ascent may require crossing the glacier, depending on snow conditions, and there are fixed ropes in place for safety. Be sure to clip a carabiner onto the rope for added security.

• If snow conditions are favorable, the ascent may take approximately 4-5 hours, but it could be slower depending on conditions.

• After about four hours of climbing, you will reach the summit of the pass, where the panoramic views will take your breath away. You will be surrounded by four 8,000-meter peaks, including K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum-I, and Gasherbrum-II, as well as the striking Laila Peak and Masherbrum II on the horizon.

Descent to Hushe Valley

• The descent from the top of Gondogoro Pass to the Hushe Valley is tricky, with the slope starting at a sustained 50-degree angle on snow, eventually transitioning into loose scree.

• Fixed ropes will assist your descent, but caution is required as you carefully navigate this section.

• Upon reaching Khuspang, a green oasis, you will have the opportunity to rest and reflect on the incredible achievement of crossing the Gondogoro Pass.

Support and Safety

• A rescue team from Hushe Village will be stationed at Ali Camp to assist with safely crossing the pass, ensuring your security throughout the journey.

• The fee for this assistance, which is included in the price, is $70-100 USD per international tourist.

• Please note that the crossing of the Gondogoro La is highly dependent on favorable weather and safe conditions. If the pass is not deemed safe for crossing, the group will return to Askole via the Baltoro Glacier.

Contingency for Weather Delays

• As with the Gondogoro La Trek, there is always a possibility of weather delays, which is why extra time has been built into the itinerary. If bad weather prevents the crossing on Day 14, these additional days provide another opportunity to attempt the ascent of Gondogoro Pass.

Successful Crossing

• If you successfully cross the pass on Day 19, you will have the option to enjoy a rest day in the stunning surroundings of the Gondogoro Pass or explore the beautiful Hushe Valley, which is renowned for its peaceful and picturesque setting.

Alternative

• If you prefer, you may choose to continue down to Hushe after crossing the pass to spend the night there. This will allow you to rest and further enjoy the stunning scenery after the challenging yet rewarding trek.

• Walk across the moraine and ice, eventually crossing the glacier to reach the campsite at Dalsangpa, known as the 'field of flowers'. Enjoy spectacular views of Masherbrum and the glacier cascading down from Masherbrum Pass.

• Pass yak pastures and witness the first trees since Paiju on your way to Shaicho, a small village. Return to more forgiving altitudes where vegetation thrives, and trees grow taller as you descend the moraine toward the valley bottom.

• Reach the campsite at Saitcho (3,350m), located in a sandy area with sparse grasses next to the river at the junction of the Gondogoro and Charakusa valleys. This marks your first night in nearly a week where you can breathe oxygen-rich air below 4,000 meters and enjoy the soothing sounds of running water while you sleep.

• Walk to Hushe village, marking the last walking day of the Pastore Peak trek. The walk is easy, offering a chance to relax as you approach the village.

• Explore Hushe, a large village with winding alleys and traditional two-story houses made from rounded river stones. Admire the modern houses, a school, a shop, a hotel, and a trekkers' campsite that give the village a lively atmosphere.

• Meet our vehicles that will already be waiting for us and embark on the return drive through the lush green Khaplu Valley. Travel smoothly along the paved road that follows the mighty Indus River back to Skardu.

• Arrive in Skardu town, check in to our hotel, and enjoy some well-deserved time for a welcome shower and cleanup. Sit down for dinner, relishing the comfort of a real bed after the long trek.

• Fly back to Islamabad if the weather is clear. Skardu Airport, located just 40 minutes from the hotel along a scenic road lined with poplar trees, will be the departure point for your flight.

• Enjoy an exciting flight out of the valley, passing by Nanga Parbat before heading south toward Islamabad. The flight offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Arrive in Islamabad, where the hustle and bustle of the city will feel like a strange contrast after your time in the peaceful mountains. It may take a moment to adjust to the city's energy, especially the traffic.

• Board our private bus at the airport for the transfer to the group hotel. After settling in, enjoy a relaxing lunch (unless there have been any flight delays).

• Relax or explore the city in the afternoon. Your guide will provide recommendations for sightseeing, including a popular option for shopping for handmade Iranian and Afghan rugs.

• Celebrate your successful journey with a special meal at the hotel or in a local restaurant to cap off the adventure.

• In case of flight cancellation, we will drive down the Karakoram Highway, reaching Chilas in the late afternoon.

• Drive down the Karakoram Highway, and you will arrive in Islamabad by late afternoon. If you were able to fly the day before, the day will be spent sightseeing in Islamabad.

• Skardu Airport is weather dependent, meaning flights are only possible if visibility permits line of sight to the runway. Though weather in the Karakoram is mostly clear, local conditions can occasionally bring clouds and rain. If flights are not possible, we will travel by road down the spectacular Karakoram Highway to Islamabad.

• Flying to Skardu is a bonus, as it is a unique travel experience in itself, providing incredible aerial views. However, the drive down the Indus River to Islamabad will take two days, so this is built into the schedule as a contingency day.

• If you fly into Islamabad, the day will be dedicated to sightseeing in the capital. Your leader will guide you on the available options for activities during the day.

• In the evening, whether arriving by road or air, the group will come together for a final meal to celebrate the conclusion of the journey.

• After breakfast, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport for your flight back home.

• Reflect on the incredible adventure you've had, trekking and climbing Pastore Peak, and all the memories and experiences you've gained along the way.

• End of trip.