K2 BC Gondogoro La Pass Trek
$0 per person
TREK GONDOGORO LA / K2 BC
22 days, 14 days very strenuous hiking at high elevation (maximum 5,600m) – 14 nights camping & 6 nights hotels
“The world’s greatest museum of shape and form” is how Italian mountaineer/author Fosco Maraini described Concordia in his book, Karakoram. In Concordia, six peaks over 7,925 meters rise to touch the heavens, including K2 (8,611 m) the 2nd highest mountain on earth. After visiting Islamabad, we fly to Skardu and then drive to the trailhead and meet our colorful expedition porters, sturdy mountain men. As we trek up to this other-worldly place we enter a remarkable wilderness of ice, rock, and sky. By the time we reach Paiju Camp at the foot of the Baltoro Glacier, we begin to feel the pulse of creation: the ice melts the rocks roll, and the glacier creaks and groans, rearranging its icy rivers. When we reach Concordia we are rewarded with the most incredible mountain views in the world, virtually surrounded by
K2 , Broad Peak (8,051 m), Gasherbrum IV (7,925 m), and razor-edged Mitre Peak. Our return trek is by way of the Gondogoro La (5,600 m) , a challenging hike skirting the Gondogoro Glacier, and down to the green irrigated fields
of the Hushe Valley. This is an exciting, challenging trek, geared for hikers with previous high-altitude mountain trekking experience.
For more information on the Trek K2 BC Gondogoro La Pass and the treks that we run there, contact us via:
WhatsApp: +92 347 4598096 | +92 345 4354348
Email: info@rockvalleytours.com
22 Days
-
Destination
From Our Gallery
1
Day 1
Departure for Pakistan
Departure For Pakistan.
2
Day 2
Arrive in Islamabad
Spend the day in Islamabad finalizing permit details with the Ministry of Tourism. Evening free. Overnight at the hotel.
3
Day 3
Travel To Skardu
In the morning you will be transferred to Islamabad airport for the flight to Skardu (2272m). This flight is subject to clear weather. Alternately, we take a two-day drive to Skardu, along the Karakorum Highway, sometimes referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. We stay overnight at Chilas on the banks of the Indus, the lion river.
4
Day 4
Explore Skardu
Free day at Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, sometimes called little Tibet due to its geographic location and historic links with Tibet and Ladakh. Stroll down the narrow bazaar, climb up the cliff to visit the historic Kharpocho fort, visit the turquoise blue Satpara Lake which is just a few kilometers from the town. Meals and overnight at Motel/Resort.
5
Day 5
Towards Trek Head Jeep from Skardu to Askoli
We leave Skardu on the metal road heading east, drive over a small pass and enter Shigar, a valley of orchards. Arrive at Thongol, and leave the jeeps for a short walk to the camping site. Meals and overnight at camp. 6-7 hour jeep ride.
6
Day 6
Start The Trek: Askoli – Jhula Nala
As the staff distributes 25kg each among the porters, we start our trek in the soft morning light. Walking along the Braldu river we arrive at Askole, the last permanent settlement along the trek, often mentioned by early explorers as the last human inhabitation of the Indian subcontinent. Another three hours’ walk across barren wasteland brings us to Biafo glacier, a tortured sea of ice and rocks two kilometers wide at this point. It takes around two hours to cross the glacier on an established trail, walking most of the time on morraine and occasionally on ice. Once across the glacier, it is twenty minutes to Korofan (10,200`). 6-7 hours.
7
Day 7
The wooden bridge Jhula – Bardumal
A tough day’s walk along a cliff face to arrive at the cable bridge to cross the Dumordo River. We may have to wait here for some time for our turn to cross the river over the newly built wooden bridge which replaced a swinging pulley. The last two hours are a comparatively easy walk beside the river. This section of the trek can be unexpectedly hot and dry, so protect yourself well from the sun. Our campsite Khrobrak (4242m) is a small stretch of land just by the Braldu river, which will provide natural music all the time. 7-8hrs trek.
8
Day 8
G 4 Greets You Near Paiju
The trek starts in easy fashion with an occasional scramble over rock. Three hours’ walk brings us to the point where waters from the Paiju peak divide themselves into four rushing streams, that can be crossed by jumping over the stones and then walking through the meltwater. In the east dominating, the horizon is the towering summits of Gashabrum 4, Cathedral Towers and Broad Peak. After negotiating scree and sand, we walk along the river, arrive at Paiju (3560m), a refreshing campsite situated in a grove of willows and poplars through which flows a stream of fresh water. 4-5 hours trek.
9
Day 9
On Baltoro Urdukas
We begin our day’s trek with a walk for about an hour across gradually ascending barren territory to arrive at the snout of the Baltoro Glacier, a vast, turbulent sea of rocks and ice more than two miles wide and nearly forty miles long. The first stretch of the walk on the undulating glacier can be a little challenging as we dodge small crevasses. The view is magnificent with the Cathedral and Trango Towers, rising to 6000metre -plus on our left. We begin to feel the pulse of creation: the melting ice, the shifting rocks, and the groans of the glacier as it rearranges its icy rivers. As we walk across boulder-strewn ice, we gradually gain height over three hours to the south side of the glacier. We arrive at a flat, sandy area of lateral moraine, our campsite Khobursay at 4000m. 5-6hrs trek.
10
Day 10
Biango/ Goro 02
We walk on the lateral moraine of the glacier for the first two hours. After arriving at the green pastures of Urdukas, we cross crevasses and then walk on the medial moraine of the glacier. The middle part of the glacier has its own surprises for us, small streams of water rushing over clear blue ice, and huge mushroom-like ice towers erupting from the glacier. As we proceed Gasherbrum 2 (8035m), the 14th highest peak in the world) peeps from the right shoulder of G-4 in the east. Biango, at 4030m, is our campsite, dominated by a stunning view of Mashabrum (7900m) due south. As we are camping on a thin layer of moraine over glacial ice the night can be cold. 7-8hrs trek.
11
Day 11
To Concordia
Finally Yes Concordia! Start your trek walking on the medial moraine of the glacier to the incredible sanctuary of Concordia. As we make our approach, Gashabrum - 4 stands guard in the east. On our left, we have magnificent views of Muztagh Tower (7200m) on the border between Pakistan and China. Excitement mounts and paces quicken as we arrive at Concordia, lured by the classic views of K2 (8612m), The second highest mountain in the world. Concordia - the meeting place of five glaciers, is named after “Place de la Concorde” in Paris. Within a radius of 15km are 41 peaks above 6500 meters, almost half of them still virgin and unnamed. Also visible from Concordia, clockwise from K-2 are Broad Peak (8068m), Gasherbrum 4 (7900m), Baltoro Kangri (7245m), Kondus (7000m), Mitre (6000m), Paiju (6610m), Crystal (6300m), Marble (6200m) and Angel Peak (6800m). 4-5 hour trek.
12
Day 12
K2 Base Camp
Full day excursion to the base camp of K2. A strenuous 10-hour round-trip trek over snow, rock, and ice. As we start our trek, we cross crevasses of the Baltoro Glacier, then walk on the lateral moraine of the Godwin Austin glacier to the base camp of Broad Peak. Chogolisa (7586m) now appears on the scene, standing guard in the south and hinting at the new crossing from Concordia to the Hushe valley. As we proceed towards base camp, we walk on the moraine of Godwin Austin glacier. Walking here is much easier than the first two hours’ stretch on rocks. When we arrive at K2 base camp at 5000m, which is normally occupied by five mountaineering expeditions during the climbing season each year, we are overwhelmed by the sheer size of K2. Return to Concordia for overnight.
13
Day 13
To Ali Camp
The first two hours of the trek are difficult as we leave Concordia and traverse the Baltoro Glacier and its crevasses. Once on the Vigne Glacier, it is a comparatively easy and gradual walk over snow and ice. Mighty Chogolisa (7600m) stands guard in the south. Camp overnight at Ali Camp (5030m), a combination of small rocky platforms between the cliff face and crevasse. We turn in early, as we have a midnight wake-up call for the departure over the Gondogoro La. 5-6hrs hiking.
14
Day 14
Over Gondogoro La
We leave camp at about 1 am to climb the Gondogoro La (5566m). For the first two hours, we walk on the lateral moraine to avoid crevasses. As we get closer to the pass, we walk on snow to the base of the pass. The final ascent involves a steep walk on the snow and the use of fixed ropes as well as crampons and ice axes. The view from the top of the pass is unparalleled, with K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum 1 to 4, Mashabrum, and many mountains other appearing at our level. The descent on the Hushe side is steeper, requiring good balancing on the rocks. Camp at Khuispan (4629m), a level green spot that has wildflowers in July and August. 9-10hrs treks.
15
Day 15
Khuispan
A rest day after the ascent of the pass. We can take time to explore the area or just relax and admire the view of Laila Peak (6063m), Drangra (6230m, and Tasa Peak (6514m).
16
Day 16
Dalsangpa
As we leave Khuispan, we make a long traverse of the Gondogoro Glacier, first encountering small crevasses, then hiking over the soft ice of the glacier. The last half hour is a pleasant stroll through wild flowers, with commanding views of the Gondogoro Glacier, Yermandu Kangri (7555m), Mashabrum South (7688m), and the Mashabrum La. Camp at 4198m by a small Lake. Three to four hours hiking.
17
Day 17
Saicho
As we continue, we gradually leave the icy landscapes and descend to the meadows and pasture land at Saicho (3727m). Although we’ve left the icy wilds, we still have tremendous views, including Namika Peak (6230m), and Defokhar (6445m). Four to five hours hiking.
18
Day 18
Hushe Valley
Descend to the Gondogoro River, enjoying spectacular views of K-6 (7171m, K-7 (6839m), and Link Sar (6935m). We continue descending, passing through small summer settlements en route to the green irrigated fields at Hushe (3153m). Four to five hours hiking.
19
Day 19
Back To Civilization * Skardu
Enjoy your last breakfast at the camp for this trek, and say Khuda Hafiz to your camping staff who had been pitching tents for you and preparing meals for you during the trek. Board soft top 4x4 jeeps for a bumpy ride through the Karakoram. Arrive at Skardu. Transfer to the motel - and enjoy the hot shower. Meals and overnight at resort/motel. 5/6 hours jeep ride. End of rock Valley Tours Services.
20
Day 20
Towards Pindi * (Pindi/Chilas)
We book the flight to Islamabad, with good luck the flight might operate, enabling us to arrive Pindi in just one hour (miracle of science!). In case of cancellation of flight, we shall drive by road to Islamabad - spending overnight at Chilas KKH.
21
Day 21
Finally Back! * Pindi
Once at Rawalpindi, we shall proceed to the office of Ministry of Tourism for de-briefing of the trek. Day free to explore the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
22
Day 22
Fly Home
Transfer to airport for international departure flight.
Leave a Reply
Services Included
Accommodation: on a twin-sharing basis in the hotels in towns. Camping Equipment: We Provide high-quality equipment to clients making their adventure the most Comfortable and enjoyable even on the harsh and hard part of the world Dome 3 tents during trekking and at the base camp, Mattresses Toilet Tent Kitchen Equipment: Mess Tent with full Kitchen Equipment, Table & chairs, Kitchen utensil Meals: Full board Darning camping and base camp, We provide the Excellent quality food during your adventure when you start your Trek from Skardu to BC and back to Skardu, (fallboard). In Pakistan, RVT is the only expedition outfitter which provides fresh meat and vegetable at the base camps from time to time. Break Fast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea or coffee Our Staff: We would not say our staff is the best one in Pakistan, you would say this after you Experience their punctuality, Experience, good and humorous attitude with you. Any helicopter rescue is not included in the price for staff. Cook helper, porters & Sardar, Their daily allowance, Food, kit & equipment, insurance, accommodation, RVT Traveling Exp, like Islamabad to Skardu and Back to ISB, Transportation: Jeeps etc. with all expedition Luggage. Road head to Trek Head & back. Porterage: Porter from Road to Base Camp and back to trek head, including food. Kitchen. And 12. Kg of member luggage. Are you a Frequent Visitor in Pakistan? If you are coming to Pakistan for Expeditions, Trekking and you wish to keep your equipment in Pakistan, You are more Then welcome to keep your equipment In our store either in Islamabad or you can keep them in Skardu. Like many other climbers, expedition, and trekking organizers you can keep them. This is a free service that only RVT offers to facilitate its clients. OFFICIAL FORMALITIES:- Submission of application for climbing permits and coordination with the Ministry of Tourism in order to update climbers with the progress.
- Arrangements of the first meeting with Guide and Ministry Briefing/De-Briefing in the Ministry of Tourism.
- Processing application for satellite permit (if required) Documentation for import and export of mountaineering cargo.
Services Excluded
Following Mentioned services are not included in our price, but some of them can be arranged at your request- Any Meals at the hotel or on the way are not included in the cost. Cost of any soft drinks,
- Any domestic/international airfare, transportation in an airport for pick and drop.
- Personal trekking equipment like the sleeping bag sacks Shoes and all personal expenses such as mineral water, telephone, liquor, etc
- Hotel accommodation in Islamabad, and in towns
- Transportation from ISB to ISB
- Porter from Concordia to BC and back to Concordia, any additional expanse
- Porter for personal Extra luggage on the trek,
- Trekking permit fee US$ 50 per person.
- Horse for the trek.
- Medicines and any expense of personal nature,
- Rescue Helicopter charges 12,000 U$ in case of use for rescue
- Transfers to the airports for participants, Optional excursions, or deviations from the scheduled tour
- Room service, gratuities for personal services, items of a purely personal nature
- Any expense due to forced majors, cancellation of flights, landslides, evacuation or accident, or delay beyond the control of the land operator
- Before your arrival and departure, RVT takes care of your luggage.
- Clearance of Cargo before arrival, Clearance of your Cargo after your departure to your home.
- Storage of your unwanted belongings in Islamabad or Skardu, which you do not need during your adventure.
- Mail delivery at the Base Camp.
- Reconfirmation of international flight tickets.
- The arrangement of high-altitude porters (if required). Rock Valley Tours has the best high-altitude porters in Pakistan.
- The arrangement of high-altitude tents (VE 25 North Face Tents) on payment.
- A farewell dinner will be hosted from RVT in one of the best restaurants or hotels in Rawalpindi/Islamabad with your staff who will be coming back with you from the base camp or your adventure.
- If any member splits from the expedition for his/her own reason, that member will bear all transportation costs on the way back to Rawalpindi.
- In case of damage to the base camp tent or any Equipment, the trek member will be charged the original value of the Equipment.
- 80 % Advance on date block & confirmation of services, minimum 02 months before the commencement of trek nonrefundable.
- 20 % balance payable before one month of trek Start.
- Foreigner clients must share their passport copy, 02 passport size Photograph full detail for trek permission requirement.
- If any member leaves the trek at any stage, the organization will not be liable to refund the payment.
GEAR AND CLOTHING LIST For Trekking
Personal gear & Clothing.
While on an organized trek, it is best to pack all items for your trip in one large piece and one carry-on. The large piece must be a duffle bag (weighing not more than 12.5 Kg.) because duffles are easier for porters to carry. A small day pack is suggested as a carry-on to keep items that you will use while on the trek, bus, or jeep.Luggage
Large duffle bag with a lock. It is not recommended to put your stuff in a backpack as the straps might get damaged while being transferred from bus to jeeps, jeeps to campsites, and during loading and unloading by porters each day. A small padlock that fits through the zipper of your duffle bag is recommended.Day Pack:
Large enough for camera gear, cap, sunglasses, water bottle, jacket, and other items you may like to use while on the trek.Extra carry-on:
For storing city clothes in Skardu.Money Belt:
A small fanny pack, money belt, or around-the-neck passport bag is suggested for keeping safe your passport, travel documents, and money.Packing list for your Duffel:
Sleeping Bag:
As we shall be sleeping for four nights at Concordia at 4,700meters or at Snow Lake and Hispar Pass at 5151meters above sea level, so the bag should be rated for 0 degrees F or -18 degrees C. Ratings are all relative since the amount of insulation needed for a particular person to stay comfortable depends on their rate metabolism. A down bag will be warmer for its weight and pack smaller but does not retain its insulation properties when wet. A waterproof breathable shell or a bivy bag will keep the bag dry. A synthetic bag keeps you warm even when wet and is a less expensive alternative, but will weigh more for a given amount of warmth.Trekking Boots:
The single most important item on this list. Never take brand new boots on a trek, make sure they are well broken-in before departure. Good trekking boots are hard to get in Pakistan. If you are buying a new pair from abroad, look for medium-weight boots of fabric or a fabric/leather combination. They should provide adequate ankle support. A Vibram or other deep-lug will protect you from rocks and add support. Always use thick socks when trying shoes so that you get the correct size. Short shoes can jam your toes painfully during steep descents. You could also try to get new “Grouted” shoes that provide protection against water and are good while walking in rain or through the snow. Make sure you can fit crampons on your shoes, as it is vital for crossing different passes.Camp Shoes:
Jogging shoes or sneakers to slip in at the end of the day. Tiva sandals are ideal for this trek, as you can use them while crossing streams and also at the campsite for strolls.Crampons:
You may need crampons on certain treks, sometimes only for one day. It helps in having a better grip on hard snow to have crampons fitted to your boots. Look for easy to fix ones. ( Check with us for your specific trek if you need the crampons or not). From our regular trek list, you would need to bring crampons for Gondogoro La, Biafo Hispar, and Wartum PeakThermal socks:
The socks you wear are a critical element. A cotton/wool combination is useful while on the glacier, and for warmer conditions, cotton socks are best. For those who are sensitive to wool synthetic/cotton socks are recommended.Liner Socks:
A thin, wickable material. Polypropylene, Capilene, Thermax, and Drylete all work very well. Silk does not work nearly as effectively as any one of the above. Polyester Fleece/Pile Jacket or Pullover. Stays warm even when wet. Polyester Fleece Pants. Good for afternoon strolls, same as above.Rain Gear:
A rain suit available from the local market is best for rain, doubles as a windbreaker, and fits over pile jacket and pants. Wicking Long Underwear (tops & bottoms). Wick moisture to keep you warm and comfortable and dry quickly. Two suits are a good idea.Ski Hat:
Covers your ears properly, use one with a cotton liner. The woolen cap is also good.Mittens or Gloves:
Woolen gloves are useful when at higher elevations and during windy conditions when the temperature drops quickly.Brimmed Sun Hat:
Very important for this trek, as when we start the trek and till we arrive at Concordia, we are generally walking towards east. This can be annoying in the morning as the sun is low and hits your eyes.Bathing Suit:
Men can take baths by the rivers or occasional lakes in ablation valleys.Toiletries:
Keep everything you normally use. Just remember to bring effective sunscreen, chapstick /lip balm, skin lotion, and laundry soap.CLOTHING
With your knowledge of Pakistani culture, you are well aware of precautions to be taken while traveling through remote areas. Cloths for the trek should be durable, comfortable, and easy to wash and dry. In good weather, you will spend much of your time in a T-shirt or medium shirt and outdoor trousers. You will need warmer clothes for the evening in the camps. Temperature falls rapidly as soon as the sun goes down. Men could wear shorts once they are through populated areas, which means from the third day of the trek. Women are advised to use cotton shalwar kameez (loose long shirts and baggy trousers) the traditional Pakistani dress, as these are comfortable during warm conditions, and also appreciated & respected by the locals.- Check List
- Headgear
- Parka
- Wool shirt & trousers
- Sweater
- Cotton shirt & pants
- Gloves & Mittens
- Rain/wind suit
- Cotton & Wool undergarments
- Socks (Cotton & Wool/synthetic)
- Boots (Trek & Camp)
- Belt!
- Down Jacket
- Shalwar Kameez (Cotton)
- Spare laces for boots
- Miscellaneous Items
- Sunglasses
- Towel
- Washcloth
- Bandanna/Scarf, for covering your mouth while riding in a jeep.
- Water bottle, with a durable screw top.
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp with flashlight + extra batteries and bulb
- Insect repellent
- Swiss Army knife, or a similar one
- Nylon cord for a clothesline
- Personal Medical Kit
- Pocket-size sewing kit
- Lighter or matches for general use
- Wrist Watch
- Optional Items
- We provide closed-cell matrices but you may want to supplement for additional comfort.
- Stuff sacks of various sizes for storing your used clothes.
- Toilet paper or travel pack of tissues.
- An interesting
- Notebook and pen for a journal.
- Snacks: personal choice of dried fruit, candy, energy bars.
- Camera, film, extra batteries, cleaning supplies and extra lenses.
- Sports gear (playing cards/Frisbee)
- Water purification tablets