19 Days Trek to K2 Base Camp – A Journey to the Heart of the Karakoram
Deep in the mighty Karakoram mountain range of Northern Pakistan lies an unforgettable adventure—one that leads you to the base of the world’s second-highest mountain, K2, and across some of the wildest landscapes on Earth.
This trek isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about the entire journey. You’ll travel through the stunning Central Karakoram National Park, hike alongside the vast Baltoro Glacier, and cross the high-altitude Gondogoro La Pass (5,650 meters / 18,536 feet). Along the way, you’ll walk under the shadows of four 8000-meter giants, including K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum I & II, and pass by countless dramatic 6000 and 7000-meter peaks.
The path will take you by plane to Skardu, then by jeep into the remote valleys, and finally on foot through icy trails and rugged terrain. It’s a journey that will challenge you, reward you, and leave you with stories you’ll never forget.
Expect to meet climbers from around the world, camp under clear starry skies, and experience the raw beauty and silence of high mountains. This trek is tough, but it’s also one of the most breathtaking things you’ll ever do.
We’ve guided hundreds of adventurers on this once-in-a-lifetime journey, and it remains our most loved and talked-about trek. If you’re looking for real adventure, unmatched mountain views, and an experience that connects you with nature in its purest form—this is the one.
TREK FACTS:
Check out our detailed itinerary for the K2 Base Camp and Godogoro La Trek below.
Welcome to Pakistan! Most international flights arrive at Islamabad International Airport in the morning. Our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free to rest and recover from your journey. Once all group members have arrived, we will hold a group briefing covering the trek to Pastore Peak, K2 Base Camp, and Gondogoro La Pass.
Depending on arrival times, there may be an option for light sightseeing in Islamabad—a purpose-built city established in 1961 as Pakistan’s capital.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad
Today, we transfer to Islamabad Airport for a spectacular flight to Skardu (weather permitting). This 45-minute flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Karakoram, including Nanga Parbat (8,126 m). On very clear days, glimpses of K2 and Gondogoro La are possible.
Upon arrival in Skardu, transfer to the hotel. The afternoon is free to explore the local bazaar, visit historic forts, scenic lakes, or see ancient rock carvings, including the famous 8th-century Manthal Buddha Rock.
If the flight is cancelled due to weather:
We will drive via the Karakoram Highway to Chilas or Naran.
Overnight: Hotel in Skardu / Chilas / Naran
Skardu, the capital of ancient Baltistan, is the gateway to major Karakoram treks and expeditions.
Optional activities include:
Walk to Kharpocho Fort for sunrise or sunset views
Visit Organic Village
Optional jeep trip to Satpara Lake
Explore Skardu Bazaar
This day also acts as a buffer in case of road travel delays.
Note: If the road between Jhola and Askoli is open, we may drive to Askoli today.
Overnight: Hotel in Skardu / Askoli (if applicable)
We drive along the Indus, Shigar, and Braldu Rivers into Askoli, the last village before entering the Karakoram wilderness.
Meet the porters and prepare loads. Askoli is a traditional Balti village with wooden houses, cultivated fields, and apricot groves.
We continue walking through fields and valleys, cross the snout of the Biafo Glacier, and reach Korofong, then proceed toward Jhola Camp.
Overnight: Camp at Jhola
Our first full trekking day begins along the Braldu River before climbing to higher ground with impressive views of Paiju Peak (6,611 m).
We cross glacial streams (sandals recommended). Paiju is a green oasis and offers the first views of the Baltoro Glacier, Trango Towers, and Cathedral peaks.
Overnight: Camp at Paiju
We reach the snout of the Baltoro Glacier and begin trekking over its rocky, undulating surface. The trail alternates between moraine and ice.
Spectacular views include Trango Towers, Uli Biaho, and Cathedral peaks.
Overnight: Camp at Khoburtse (3,760 m)
A short but demanding day with continuous altitude gain. Trek beside the Baltoro Glacier past Great Trango and the Nameless Tower.
Urdukas offers one of the most dramatic campsites in the Karakoram.
Overnight: Camp at Urdukas
A vital rest and acclimatization day. Optional acclimatization walks through alpine meadows.
Urdukas is the last grassy campsite before Concordia and offers washing facilities.
Overnight: Camp at Urdukas
We move deeper into the Baltoro Glacier, passing views of Masherbrum (7,800 m), Gasherbrum IV, and Muztagh Tower.
Camping is on glacial ice—temperatures drop significantly at night.
Overnight: Camp at Goro II
One of the most spectacular trekking days on Earth. As we approach Concordia, peaks appear one by one—Broad Peak, Gasherbrum II, and finally K2 rising nearly 4,000 meters above the valley floor.
Concordia is surrounded by four 8000-meter peaks.
Overnight: Camp at Concordia (4,500 m)
Early morning trek to K2 Base Camp. Spend time at the iconic site used by climbers.
Return to Concordia in the afternoon.
Overnight: Camp at Concordia
We leave the main Baltoro route and follow the Upper Baltoro / Vigne Glacier toward Gondogoro La.
Arrive at Ali Camp (4,800 m). Practice rope and jumar techniques in preparation for the pass.
Overnight: Camp at Ali Camp
Early start around 2:00 AM. Roped glacier travel, fixed ropes, and crampons are used.
From the summit, enjoy views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, and Laila Peak.
Descend carefully to Khuspang.
A professional rescue team from Hushe assists with the crossing (included in price).
Overnight: Camp at Khuspang
Reserved for weather delays or an additional crossing attempt. If unused, this becomes a rest or exploration day.
Descend through glaciers, flower-filled meadows, and yak pastures. Views of Masherbrum dominate the landscape.
Overnight: Camp at Saitcho (3,350 m)
Easy walk to Hushe Village, then drive through Khaplu Valley back to Skardu.
Hot showers and hotel comfort await.
Overnight: Hotel in Skardu
Fly back to Islamabad (weather permitting). Afternoon free for sightseeing and shopping.
If the flight is cancelled, drive via the Karakoram Highway to Chilas.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad / Chilas
Buffer day for road travel or free sightseeing in Islamabad if already flown.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home.
End of Trip – An unforgettable Karakoram adventure.
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
+92 347 4598096
info@rockvalleytours.com
Accommodation:
Twin-sharing standard hotel rooms in towns.
2-person dome tents during the trek.
Meals:
Half board at hotels (breakfast + dinner).
Full board during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee).
Transportation:
Air-conditioned transport along the Karakoram Highway.
Soft-top 4×4 jeeps to/from the trek head and trek end.
Camping Facilities:
2-person dome tents with mattresses.
Dining tent with folding table & chairs.
Kitchen tent with full kitchenette and staff.
Toilet tent.
Portage:
13 kg per person during the trek.
Other Services:
Tips and portage at airports & hotels.
Entrance fees to sites and museums.
English-speaking mountain guide.
Domestic or international airfare and airport taxes.
Any expenses due to forced measures, flight cancellations, landslides, natural calamities, acts of God, or other events beyond the control of Rock Valley Tours, their staff, and suppliers.
Personal expenses not mentioned under “Included,” such as souvenirs, snacks, phone/internet charges, or laundry.
Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
Optional activities or services not listed in the itinerary.
Travel or health insurance, including evacuation or rescue costs.
Luggage
Large Duffel Bag: Maximum 12.5 kg, with lock. Easier for porters to carry; avoid using a backpack.
Day Pack: For items you need during trekking, jeep rides, or bus travel (camera, jacket, water bottle, etc.).
Extra Carry-On: To store city clothes in the respective city.
Money Belt/Fanny Pack: For passport, travel documents, and cash.
Sleeping & Camping
Sleeping Bag: Rated 0 °F / -18 °C. Down bags are lightweight; synthetic bags perform better when wet. Waterproof shell or bivy recommended.
Camp Shoes: Jogging shoes or Tiva sandals, ideal for streams and campsite strolls.
Mattress/Close-Cell Matrices: We provide, but personal comfort items are optional.
Footwear
Trekking Boots: Medium-weight, fabric or fabric/leather combination. Well broken-in. Compatible with crampons.
Crampons: Required for certain high-altitude treks (e.g., Gondogoro La, Biafo-Hispar, Wartum Peak).
Thermal Socks: Cotton/wool blend for glaciers; synthetic/cotton for warmer sections.
Liner Socks: Thin, wickable material like polypropylene, Capilene, Thermax, or Drylete.
Clothing
Polyester Fleece/Pile Jacket & Pants: Warm, even when wet.
Rain Gear: A waterproof and windproof suit that fits over fleece layers.
Wicking Long Underwear: Tops and bottoms, two sets recommended.
Down Jacket/Parka: Essential for high-altitude or evening cold.
Shalwar Kameez (Women): Comfortable, loose-fitting for warm conditions and culturally appropriate.
Cotton/Wool Shirts & Trousers: Layering for trekking and evenings.
Gloves/Mittens & Ski Hat: Protect against cold and wind.
Brimmed Sun Hat: Protects from low morning sun.
Personal Gear
Sunglasses: High-quality UV protection.
Water Bottle: Durable screw-top recommended.
Headlamp & Extra Batteries/Bulbs
Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Skin Lotion
Toiletries & Laundry Soap
Swiss Army Knife / Multi-Tool
Nylon Cord / Clothesline
Personal Medical Kit
Pocket Sewing Kit
Lighter or Matches
Wristwatch
Optional Items
Extra sleeping mat for comfort.
Stuff sacks for used clothing.
Travel tissues or toilet paper.
Notebook and pen for journaling.
Snacks (energy bars, dried fruits, candy).
Camera, extra batteries, lenses, and cleaning supplies.
Lightweight sports gear (Frisbee, playing cards).
Water purification tablets.
Bathing suit (for rivers/lakes).
Tips
Pack one large duffel and one small day pack for convenience.
Wear durable, comfortable, and easily washable clothes.
Layer clothing to adjust to varying temperatures: warm days, cold nights.
Men can wear shorts after leaving populated areas; women should stick to loose, long clothing.
If you’re traveling to Pakistan, you’ll need a visa. Depending on your nationality, you can get it on arrival or apply online before your trip. You can also go to your local Pakistani embassy for a tourist visa. The length of stay varies: e-visas can be up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months), while visas on arrival are valid for 30 days. Make sure to check visa requirements with the authorities, as they might change.
In Pakistan, what you wear depends on when and where you’re going. In hot areas, wear light, loose clothes like a shirt and trousers. For cold places, bring warm clothes like a jacket and layers. When visiting mosques, cover your head, arms, legs, and shoulders. Dress modestly and avoid shorts. If you’re unsure, it’s best to dress conservatively.
June–September: Monsoon season with unpredictable rains, reaching over 45°C (113°F) in June. Floods can occur.
October/November: Post-monsoon season with decreasing temperatures and rainfall. Days are warm, nights cool.
December–February: Winter months with pleasant daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and colder nights, especially in the northern mountains where it snows.
March–May: Hot and dry season with temperatures in the mid-30s°C (95°F) in low-lying areas, getting hotter towards the north.
Although Pakistan has faced challenges in recent years, it’s now generally safe to visit as long as you stay in busy areas. Some people might worry about coming here, but trust us, there’s a lot to discover beyond what you see in the news. You can be confident that Rock Valley Tours wouldn’t take you anywhere unsafe.
