OVERVIEW
Gasherbrum II, standing at 8,035 meters (26,362 feet), is the 13th highest mountain in the world and a prominent peak in the Karakoram range. Situated on the border between Pakistan and China, it is part of the Gasherbrum massif near the Baltoro Glacier in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan.
Renowned for its striking beauty and challenging climbing conditions, Gasherbrum II is often called the “Shining Wall” due to its radiant appearance when sunlight reflects off its snowy slopes. The name “Gasherbrum” originates from Balti, meaning “beautiful mountain.”
The peak was first ascended in 1956 by an Austrian expedition led by Fritz Moravec, Josef Larch, and Hans Willenpart. Today, it is considered one of the more accessible 8,000-meter peaks for experienced climbers, but it still poses significant challenges due to its harsh weather, high altitude, and crevassed terrain.
Gasherbrum II attracts mountaineers from around the world and contributes to the region’s reputation as a global hub for high-altitude climbing. The area’s pristine environment, coupled with the cultural richness of local Balti communities, makes it a destination of both natural and cultural significance. Preservation and responsible tourism are vital to maintaining its ecological integrity.
DAYS ITINERARY
Gasherbrum II Expedition(8,035 M) Itinerary
Expand AllDay 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan. Expedition briefing, gear check, and preparation for the trek.
Day 2: Islamabad to Skardu
Fly from Islamabad to Skardu (weather permitting). If flights are delayed, take the scenic drive via the Karakoram Highway. Overnight stay in Skardu.
Day 3–4: Rest and Final Preparations in Skardu
Rest day for acclimatization and preparation. Final gear check and purchase any necessary supplies.
Day 5: Skardu to Askole
Drive by jeep to Askole (the trek's starting point). Begin the trek the following day.
Day 6: Trek from Askole to Jhula
Start the trek from Askole, passing through the rugged terrain to reach Jhula. Overnight camping.
Day 7: Trek from Jhula to Paiyu
Continue trekking to Paiyu, a scenic campsite with views of nearby peaks. Overnight camp at Paiyu.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Paiyu
Rest and acclimatization day at Paiyu. Short hikes to higher altitudes to help with acclimatization.
Day 9: Trek from Paiyu to Urdukas
Trek to Urdukas, passing through lush valleys and rugged terrain. Overnight camping with views of the Trango Towers.
Day 10: Trek from Urdukas to Goro II
Continue the trek to Goro II along the Baltoro Glacier. Set up camp for the night.
Day 11: Trek from Goro II to Concordia
Trek to Concordia, known as the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods," offering views of several 8,000-meter peaks. Overnight camp at Concordia.
Day 12: Trek from Concordia to Gasherbrum II Base Camp
Trek to Gasherbrum II Base Camp (5,000m), the staging point for summit attempts. Set up camp at Base Camp.
Day 13–15: Acclimatization and Preparation at Base Camp
Rest and acclimatization at Base Camp. Review gear, finalize plans for the summit push, and allow time for body acclimatization.
Day 16–18: Climbing Rotations to Camp 1
Begin climbing rotations to higher camps. Establish and acclimatize at Camp 1 (6,400m). Return to Base Camp for rest after each rotation.
Day 19–22: Camp 2 and Camp 3 Setup
Continue rotations to Camp 2 (7,000m) and Camp 3 (7,400m), acclimatizing and ferrying supplies. Each rotation allows time for rest and adjustment to higher altitudes.
Day 23–28: Summit Push
Begin the final summit push from Camp 3. Climb to the summit of Gasherbrum II (8,035m) depending on weather and physical condition. Return to Camp 3 or Base Camp after summit success.
Day 29–31: Descent to Base Camp
Descend back to Base Camp after the summit attempt. Rest and recuperate at Base Camp.
Day 32–35: Return Trek from Base Camp to Concordia
Begin the trek back to Concordia from Base Camp. Overnight stays along the Baltoro Glacier, retracing the route.
Day 36–38: Trek from Concordia to Urdukas
Continue the descent, reaching Urdukas for an overnight stay.
Day 39–41: Trek from Urdukas to Paiyu
Continue down the Baltoro Glacier, retracing your route to Paiyu. Set up camp at Paiyu for the night.
Day 42–43: Trek from Paiyu to Askole
Complete the final leg of the trek back to Askole.
Day 44: Drive from Askole to Skardu
Drive back to Skardu by jeep.
Day 45: Skardu to Islamabad
Fly or drive back to Islamabad. Final debriefing with authorities and preparation for departure.
Day 46–50: Buffer Days
Allow for potential delays, bad weather, or extra acclimatization days. Return to Islamabad and prepare for your departure.
HIGHLIGHT
Gasherbrum II Expedition(8,035 M) Highlights
Expedition Highlights for Gasherbrum II
- Summit an 8,000-meter Peak:
- Conquer the 13th highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,035 meters (26,362 feet).
- Scenic Journey:
- Experience breathtaking landscapes of the Karakoram range, including the Baltoro Glacier and surrounding peaks.
- Challenging Yet Accessible
- : Gasherbrum II is considered one of the less technical 8,000-meter peaks, making it ideal for experienced climbers seeking high-altitude achievements.
- Cultural Encounters:
- Interact with the Balti people, renowned for their hospitality and mountaineering heritage.
- Stunning Views:
- Witness panoramic vistas of iconic peaks like K2, Broad Peak, and other Gasherbrum mountains.
- Adventure on the Baltoro Glacier:
- Trek along one of the world’s longest and most spectacular glaciers.
- Team Spirit and Camaraderie:
- Build lifelong bonds with fellow climbers, guides, and porters in a shared quest for the summit.
- Eco-conscious Climbing:
- Participate in an expedition that emphasizes environmental sustainability and responsible mountaineering practices.
- Test of Endurance:
- Push your physical and mental limits in one of the most challenging and rewarding climbing environments.
- Unforgettable Memories:
- Achieve a monumental goal, creating experiences and stories to cherish forever.
SERVICES
Services Included For Gasherbrum II Expedition(8,035 M)
- Climbing Permits:
- Necessary permissions from relevant authorities for Gasherbrum II expeditions.
- Transportation:
- Airport transfers.
- Domestic flights (e.g., Islamabad to Skardu) or overland travel.
- Ground transportation to the trek’s starting point.
- Accommodation:
- Hotel stays in Islamabad and Skardu.
- Full-service camping arrangements at base camp and along the route.
- Meals:
- Freshly prepared meals at base camp.
- High-energy snacks and dehydrated meals for higher camps.
- Professional Guidance:
- Expert high-altitude climbing guides.
- Expedition leader with extensive experience in the Karakoram.
- Support Staff:
- Local porters for carrying gear to the base camp.
- High-altitude porters for camp setup and load ferrying.
- Trained cooks and kitchen helpers.
- Climbing Equipment:
- Ropes, ladders, and other essential climbing aids for safety.
- Personal and group gear storage at base camp.
- Medical Support:
- First-aid kits and basic medical supplies.
- Oxygen cylinders and masks for emergencies.
- Communication and Safety Gear:
- Satellite phones for emergency communication.
- Radios for team coordination.
- Sustainability Measures:
- Waste management to preserve the environment.
- Use of eco-friendly materials and practices.
- Insurance and Rescue:
- Comprehensive expedition insurance covering medical evacuation.
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