Crossing Gondogoro La: What You Need to Know

Mount K2 in all her glory

So you’ve decided to book your K2 Base Camp trek, now the question presents whether to book into a trip that crosses Gondogoro La or returns via the Baltoro to Askole. At Moving Mountains, it is always our recommendation to book into a trip that crosses the la (pass in Balti). Not only does this avoid an unnecessarily long trek back the same way you came, but it also presents you with another challenge while in Pakistan. All our itineraries attempt the crossing - only under extenuating circumstances do we return the way we came. Our goal is always to cross and end the trek in Hushe, showing our guests another side of Pakistan in Baltistan. 

What is Gondogoro La?

Gondogoro La is a high altitude mountain pass located in the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan. It sits at approximately 5,600m connecting two valleys in Baltistan. It is the main pass used by trekkers & climbers leaving K2 Base Camp and is maintained by a group during the summer climbing season to ensure a fixed rope is in place and is safe for all to use. Instead of heading back via Askole, the pass offers up another unique perspective and panorama view of the entire valley. Our groups leave the last camp, Ali Camp around midnight to make it to the top of the pass for sunrise, enabling absolutely INCREDIBLE views on a clear morning. Trust us, this isn’t something you’ll want to miss. 

How Hard is it?

After spending over a week trekking to K2 Base Camp, our bodies are acclimatized and in prime position to complete the crossing. While non technical skills are required, all guests are mandated to wear helmets, harnesses and at a minimum, micro spikes. There are several loose rocks on the route and we must always be mindful to protect ourselves from falling rock hazards. Because this challenge also comes a week into our trek, fatigue in general is likely to have set in and the crossing day is long. We start around midnight to ensure we cross when everything is frozen (less risk of falling debris) and plan to arrive at the top just around sunrise. Once at the top we still have a long way down to our next campsite. The good news is that what awaits at the next campsite is simply put incredible. After a week of rocks and glaciers, we will arrive at Kuisbang camp where there are grassy meadows and beyond beautiful views of Laila Peak and the surrounding mountains. Achieving the crossing is possible for all guests on our trips and if in any doubt, your guide will be there to assist you. 

Choosing a Proper Guide

At Moving Mountains, every single one of our guides have crossed Gondogoro La and many of them have done the rope fixing themselves. Our guides don’t just follow orders, they are the ones leading the pack. While many companies claim that they have experienced guides leading the crossing, Moving Mountains actually does. Look at our guides' resumes, their independent climbing experience speaks for itself. It is our passion to share our mountain home with those from the outside, we are 100% committed to maintaining a safe & fun experience for guests who book with us. We have witnessed first hand both local and foreign operators who claim to have experienced guides, only for clients to show up and find out their guide has never set foot in the Karakoram before. This is not only unacceptable, it puts real lives in danger. Rest assured, we are working to change the culture around this and make sure that all our trips take apprentice guides as well to further expand the pool of qualified guides. 

Final Thoughts on Crossing Gondogoro La

Crossing Gondogoro La is achievable for anyone who can trek to K2 Base Camp, barring unforeseen weather & circumstances. On our itineraries we ensure proper acclimatization, trained guides & expert care to maximize your chances of success. Trust us, our guides don’t want to return back via Askole, they will do everything in their power not to do so. Crossing the pass is a once in a lifetime experience, with proper preparation and gear you can experience the extreme with us here. Ready to book? Get in touch now to secure your spot for this summer.