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K2 Base Camp Trekking & Gondogoro La via Baltoro Glacier 2026: Ultimate Karakoram Adventure

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Join under 1000 trekkers annually who complete this legendary route to the world’s most dangerous mountain. Join our local Pakistani team for the K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La Trek, a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience led by expert Hunza-based guides to the base of the world’s second-highest peak, K2, in the Karakoram Range.

The K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La Trek represents the ultimate high-altitude adventure in Pakistan’s Karakoram Range. This extraordinary 19-day journey takes you through the heart of the world’s greatest mountain amphitheater, where four peaks exceeding 8,000 meters create the most dramatic mountain scenery on Earth.

Standing at Concordia, dubbed the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”, you’ll witness 360-degree views of K2 (8,611m), Broad Peak (8,051m), Gasherbrum I (8,080m), and Gasherbrum II (8,034m). This K2 trek takes you along the world’s 5th longest non-polar glacier, the legendary 63-kilometer Baltoro Glacier, offering a unique and challenging adventure not found elsewhere. The technical crossing of Gondogoro La pass at 5,585m with fixed rope assistance adds a mountaineering element that sets this trek apart from standard base camp approaches.

Why This Trek is Special: Unlike the crowded Everest region, the Karakoram receives fewer than 1,000 trekkers annually across all routes. The Gondogoro La circuit is attempted by even fewer people per year, making this one of the world’s most revered high-altitude adventures.

Key Highlights

  • Trek to K2 Base Camp, standing in awe of the world’s most formidable mountain.
  • Trek the legendary Baltoro Glacier – follow this 63km glacial highway, the world’s 5th longest non-polar glacier, surrounded by towering 8000m peaks.
  • Experience Concordia – Known as the ‘Throne Room of Mountain Gods,’ this glacial amphitheater at the confluence of Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers offers 360-degree views of four 8000m peaks including K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums.
  • Cross Gondogoro La Pass for stunning vistas and a memorable trekking experience.
  • Explore remote Karakoram valleys and villages, encountering local hospitality along the way.
  • Trek through glaciers, moraines, and alpine meadows, surrounded by awe-inspiring mountain scenery.

 

Overview

Itinerary

What's Included

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Dates Available

  • June 22 – July 10 | $3,600 USD | Available

  • June 29 – July 17 | $3,600 USD | Available

  • July 13 – July 31 | $3,600 USD | Available

 

Starting from

$3600

Aimed at individuals with a high level of basic fitness. Prior experience of mountain environments is preferable, but not necessary. We can teach you what you need to know on this trek.

Country

Pakistan

Duration

19 Days

grade

Challenging

Max Altitude

5600m

Max Altitude

5600m

Daily activity

Approx 5 - 6 hours

Season

Why Choose Our K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La Trek Pakistan?

Your Local Karakoram Experts

Based in Hunza, Pakistan, Moving Mountains is your trusted local partner for Karakoram adventures. Our team of native guides brings decades of combined experience trekking the Baltoro Glacier and crossing Gondogoro La. As a Pakistan-based company, we provide authentic cultural connections, local insights, and the safety that comes from intimate knowledge of these mountains. When you trek with us, you’re supported by guides who call the Karakoram home. Read more on our philosophy of mountain stewardship here.

Unmatched Mountain Views

Stand at the base of K2 (8,611m)—the “Savage Mountain”—and witness the world’s most concentrated collection of giant peaks. From Concordia, experience 360-degree views of four 8,000m peaks within a 15km radius, creating the most dramatic mountain amphitheater on Earth.

Technical Gondogoro La Challenge

Conquer the legendary Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m) with fixed rope assistance—a mountaineering achievement attempted by fewer than 500 people annually. Our trek itinerary is carefully designed to prepare you for this technical crossing, which offers unparalleled views whilst testing your skills in a controlled, guided environment.

Secluded and Remote

Trek through the world’s most pristine high-altitude wilderness, encountering fewer people in 19 days than Everest Base Camp sees in one day. The Karakoram’s remoteness preserves its authentic character and provides true expedition-style adventure.

Rich Cultural Immersion

Experience authentic Balti culture in villages like Askole and Hushe, where centuries-old traditions persist unchanged. Learn about local farming techniques adapted to extreme altitude and enjoy hospitality that reflects the region’s Buddhist and Islamic heritage.

This K2 Base Camp trek is designed for experienced trekkers seeking an extraordinary challenge.

Book Your K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La Trek Today!

Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the most remarkable trekking routes in the world. Secure your spot now for an epic adventure to K2 Base Camp, Gondogoro La, and across the challenging Gondogoro Pass. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or looking for a once-in-a-lifetime challenge, this trek is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

 

2026 K2 Gondogoro La Trek Fixed Departures & Pricing

Our $3,600 investment includes everything you need for a successful K2 Base Camp expedition.​ Read more about what guides our pricing here. Compare this to basic packages that charge extra for flights, permits, full-board meals, and quality equipment. Our all-inclusive approach means no surprise costs or compromised safety standards.

 

Complete 19-Day K2 Base Camp Trek Itinerary

  • Arrival: Today is day 1 of the tour. We will start with a group meeting at 5pm and then enjoy a group dinner together before an early morning departure for Skardu the next day.

  • Activities: Rest and adjust to the time zone. If time allows, explore Islamabad before our group meeting & dinner.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad.

 

  • Morning: Early morning flight from Islamabad to Skardu (weather permitting).

  • Arrival: Check into your hotel in Skardu.

  • Activities: Rest day to adjust to the altitude. Visit local sights such as Skardu Bazaar, Shangrila Resort, or the Skardu Fort.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Skardu.

 

  • Today the team will make final preparations gathering food, finalizing permits & organizing group gear before we depart early tomorrow.

  • Activities: Rest day to adjust to the altitude. Visit local sights such as Skardu Bazaar, Shangrila Resort, or the Skardu Fort.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Skardu.

 

  • Morning: Drive from Skardu to Askole (6-8 hours).

  • Arrival: Arrive in Askole, the last village accessible by road, and camp.

  • Activities: Organize gear and prepare for the trek ahead.

  • Overnight: Camp in Askole.

 

  • Trek Distance: 21 km

  • Elevation Gain: 430 m (3,150 m)

  • Trek Details: Start trekking towards Jhula, crossing the Braldu River and passing through rocky terrain.

  • Overnight: Camp at Jhula.

 

  • Trek Distance: 20 km

  • Elevation Gain: 630 m (3,400 m)

  • Trek Details: Continue trekking towards Paiju, crossing several small streams and enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Overnight: Camp at Paiju.

 

  • Trek Distance: 14 km

  • Elevation Gain: 750 m (3,830 m)

  • Trek Details: Follow the Braldu River, gradually ascending and moving towards Khoburtse.

  • Overnight: Camp at Khoburtse.

 

  • Trek Distance: 6 km

  • Elevation Gain: 400 m (4,050 m)

  • Trek Details: A relatively easy day, finishing early at Urdukas.

  • Overnight: Camp at Urdukas.

 

  • Morning: Drive from Skardu to Askole (6-8 hours).

  • Arrival: Arrive in Askole, the last village accessible by road, and camp.

  • Activities: Organize gear and prepare for the trek ahead.

  • Overnight: Camp in Askole.

 

  • Trek Distance: 14 km

  • Elevation Gain: 600 m (4,600 m)

  • Trek Details: Trek towards the iconic Concordia campsites at the end of the Baltoro Glacier, one of the most scenic spots in the Karakoram. At Concordia, you are surrounded by towering peaks like K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum IV.

  • Overnight: Camp at Concordia.

 

  • Trek Distance: 12 km

  • Elevation Gain: 500 m (5,000 m)

  • Trek Details: Trek to K2 Base Camp, passing by Broad Peak BC on the way. This is a tough but rewarding day, as you are surrounded by some of the most majestic peaks in the world.

  • Overnight: Camp at K2 Base Camp.

 

  • Trek Distance: 12 km

  • Elevation Loss: 500 m (4,600 m)

  • Trek Details: Descend back to Concordia, where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

  • Overnight: Camp at Concordia.

 

  • Activities: Take a well-deserved rest day at Concordia, the legendary ‘Throne Room of Mountain Gods.’ Spend the day acclimatizing in this glacial amphitheater, exploring the Baltoro-Godwin-Austen glacier confluence, and enjoying 360-degree views of four 8000m peaks: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II. We’ll start preparing for our crossing of GG La on this day.

  • Overnight: Camp at Concordia.

 

  • Trek Distance: 11 km

  • Elevation Gain: 560m (4,900 m)

  • Trek Details: Leave our beautiful Concordia campsite, heading toward Ali Camp, which offers views of K2, Broad Peak, and the surrounding mountains.

  • Overnight: Camp at Ali Camp.

 

  • Trek Distance: 10 km

  • Elevation Gain: 668 m (4,700 m)

  • Trek Details:  Our group will set off in the dark by headlamp around midnight. From Ali Camp, it is 4-5 hours of steady climbing to get to the top of the Gondogoro La pass. Once atop the La, we can enjoy stunning sunrise views of every major peak in the area. The descent from Gondogoro La into the valley below is done with the assistance of a series of fixed ropes. Extreme care needs to be taken on the descent (helmets will be worn) and all guests will be clipped into the rope from their climbing harness. Trekking from the top of the pass to Kuisbang Camp takes 3-5 hours.

  • Overnight: Camp at Kuisbang.

 

  • Trek Distance: 17 km

  • Elevation Loss: 1265 m (3430 m)

  • Trek Details: The first two hours are on glacial moraine before the landscape changes into a green, hilly, easy trail. There are a few small river crossings and several steep, exposed sections as well.

  • Overnight: Camp at Saicho.

 

  • Trek Distance: 11 km

  • Elevation Loss: 250 m (3,180 m)

  • Trek Details: A relatively easy day as you descend further into the lush Hushe Valley. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Masherbrum and the other towering peaks in the region. Once in Hushe head back to Skardu for a proper hotel with hot shower to celebrate our successful trek.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Skardu

 

  • Morning: Fly from Skardu to Islamabad.

  • Arrival: Check into group hotel in Islamabad.

  • Activities: Rest and recuperate after the trek. Take time to savor the experience, explore more or perhaps enjoy a coffee at one of Islamabad’s nice cafes. We’ll have our final group dinner tonight celebrating what we have just accomplished.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad.

 

  • Activities: There are no activities planned for the day. Checkout before noon from the hotel.

  • Departure: Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your departure.

 

Read More

What’s Included:

  • All hotel accommodation in between hiking days

  • Islamabad Airport pick up and drop off

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all days

  • All ground transportation (excluding personal taxis in Islamabad and Skardu)

  • All on-the-ground logistics and trek planning

  • Experienced Guide

  • Trekking Permits/National Park permit fees

  • Letter of Invitation to Pakistan for Trekking & Mountaineering Visa

  • Internal flights within Pakistan to and from Islamabad

  • Up to 20 kgs of porter services per person

  • Group generator for charging electronics

  • Dining table, chairs, and a mess tent

 

What’s Not Included:

  • Flights to Pakistan

  • Visa application fees

  • Any pre-tour or post-tour accommodation

  • All personal gear and equipment

  • Travel insurance (mandatory)

  • Tips for staff

  • Porter services exceeding 20 kgs

 

K2 Base Camp Trek: Frequently Asked Questions

The Gondogoro La crossing at 5,585m is the technical crux of this trek. The ascent involves 4-5 hours of steep climbing, often starting at midnight by headlamp. The descent requires rappelling down fixed ropes for approximately 400 vertical meters. All participants must wear helmets and harnesses, and be comfortable with basic rope work. Our guides provide safety briefings and assistance throughout.

Skardu flights operate weather-dependent from Islamabad. Success rate is approximately 80% during peak season. We always book morning flights for best conditions and include buffer days in our itinerary. If flights are cancelled, we arrange road transport (14-16 hours) at no additional cost.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking (minimum 6,000m), emergency evacuation, and medical expenses is mandatory. Policy must cover helicopter rescue from remote locations. We recommend World Nomads or specialized mountaineering insurance providers.

Budget $200-400 USD for personal expenses including tips for staff ($150-$200 recommended for guide + additional for porters & kitchen staff), gear purchases in Islamabad/Skardu, and incidental costs. ATMs available in major cities but carry cash for remote areas. Pakistani Rupees preferred for local purchases.

Required permits include: Central Karakoram National Park permit, K2 Base Camp trekking permit, and camping permits for designated sites. We handle all permit applications and fees (included in trek cost). Processing requires 4-6 weeks, with passport copies and detailed itinerary submission.

Our experienced cooks prepare fresh meals daily including Pakistani dishes, pasta, rice, soups, and bread. Breakfast typically includes porridge, eggs, and bread. Lunch features energy-rich foods suitable for high altitude. Dinner includes hot meals with meat/vegetarian options. We accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Our K2 Base Camp groups are limited to 8-12 participants maximum, ensuring personalized attention and minimal environmental impact. This size allows flexibility on technical sections while maintaining safety protocols. Each group includes 2 certified guides plus local support staff.

K2 Gondogoro La Trek Difficulty & Fitness Requirements

The K2 base camp trek difficulty is rated as Grade 5: Challenging. This expedition demands exceptional physical fitness, prior high-altitude experience, and mental resilience for extended periods above 4,000m elevation.

Physical Preparation Requirements

  • Cardiovascular Fitness: Ability to hike 8-10 hours daily with a 10kg pack

  • High-Altitude Experience: Previous trekking above 4,500m is ideal

  • Technical Skills: Basic mountaineering skills for Gondogoro La rope sections

  • Multi-Day Experience: Experience spent multiple days in tents will ensure this expedition goes smoothly and you are prepared

Specific Challenges

  • Gondogoro La Technical Crossing: Fixed rope descent requiring harness and helmet

  • Glacier Travel: Navigation across crevassed Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers

  • Altitude: 11 consecutive nights above 4,000m, reaching 5,565m at Gondogoro La

  • Weather Exposure: Potential storms, temperature swings from -10°C to +25°C

Minimum Fitness Standard: Complete a 6-hour hike with 1,200m elevation gain while carrying 15kg pack. Train consistently for 6 months prior to departure.

6-Month Training Plan Overview

  • Months 1-2: Build base cardiovascular fitness, 3-4 weekly workouts

  • Months 3-4: Add weighted pack training, weekend long hikes

  • Months 5-6: Peak training with back-to-back hiking days, exposure to altitude if possible

Best Time for K2 Base Camp Trek: Weather & Seasonal Guide

The best time for K2 base camp trek spans just 12 weeks annually, from mid-June through early September. Weather patterns in the Karakoram are more severe and unpredictable than other ranges, making timing critical for success.

Monthly Weather Breakdown

  • JUNE – OK Weather: Cool, occasional snow at altitude Pros: Fewer crowds, clear mountain views Cons: Gondogoro La may have snow, colder nights Recommendation: GOOD CHOICE
  • JULY – OPTIMAL Weather: Warmest period, stable weather Pros: Best conditions, warmest temperatures Cons: Peak season crowds, higher demand Recommendation: BEST CHOICE
  • AUGUST – EXCELLENT Weather: Warm days, monsoon influence Pros: Excellent weather, good visibility Cons: Afternoon clouds, occasional rain Recommendation: GOOD CHOICE
  • SEPTEMBER – UNPREDICTABLE Weather: Cooling, early snow possible Pros: Crisp air, stunning clarity Cons: Shorter days, unpredictable weather, unlikely to cross Gondogoro La Recommendation: Experienced trekkers only


Daily Weather Patterns

  • Dawn (5-7 AM): Coldest period, typically clear skies for alpine starts

  • Morning (7-11 AM): Ideal trekking conditions, stable weather

  • Afternoon (12-4 PM): Warmest temperatures, potential cloud buildup

  • Evening (4-8 PM): Weather clearing, dramatic lighting for photography

  • Night: Clear skies, temperature drops rapidly above 4,000m

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