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2229

K2 Basecamp Trek – Throne Room of The Mountain Gods

0
  • Group : 2-10 pepole
  • Max Elevation 4500 m / 14760 ft (more)
  • Trip Style: Basecamp / Hard / Trekking
  • Walking Distance: 149 km/92miles
  • Difficulty Level: 9/10 (more)
  • Join in Islamabad
  • Hotel (Nights)06
  • Hiking Mileage
    Camps (Night) 12
  • MealsFull Board
  • Trip Length: 19 days

Highlights - K2 Basecamp Trek

  • Spectacular views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum Laila peak and many more massive peaks
  • Trek past the dramatic towers of Trango, Cathedral and Lobsang
  • Option to trek to the Gilkey Memorial at K2 Basecamp
  • Stunning wild and remote scenery
  • Experience an expedition–style trek
  • Get to know Balti people and Balti culture
  • Accommodation in comfortable tents under a blanket of shining stars
  • Learn about mountaineering history in the Karakoram, particularly in the K2 region
  • Explore the natural beauty, magnificent glacial & alpine landscapes

Description - K2 Basecamp Trek

An exciting 12-day trek to possibly the most spectacular mountain vistas on Earth. Situated at the confluence of the Baltoro and Godwin Austen glaciers, it is an extraordinary place dominated by K2, the world’s second highest mountain. Broad Peak, Gasherbrums, Masherbrum, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa and the Trango Towers from the rest of a great circle of mountain giants called ‘THE THRONE ROOM OF THE GODS’. This stunning trek follows the Braldu gorge to the snout of the Baltoro glacier, which we then follow to Concordia.

 

The town of Skardu is our point of access for the Karakoram Mountains, and from here, we drive in rugged 4WD vehicles to the village of Askole and then on a new section of jeep road to Jhola Camp and our first night under canvas.

 

Nowhere else on Earth can you stand so close to so many of the world’s highest peaks, including Broad Peak (8047m), Gasherbrum (8080m) and the breathtaking south face of K2 (8611m). We have allowed two nights at Concordia, with the option to visit the climbers’ basecamps for Broad Peak and K2. Escorted by a qualified local guide and trek crew drawn from the local Baltistan people, this is adventure trekking at its finest. This universally acclaimed Karakoram trek is well within the capabilities of keen hill-walkers

Photos - K2 Basecamp Trek

Trip Itinerary - K2 Basecamp Trek

Day 1Islamabad Arrival

Our representative will pick up all group members upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport and take them to the group hotel. Most international flights arrive in the early morning, and you may want to rest before lunch. The first group get-together will be at lunch, during which the tour leader will provide a pre-trip briefing. In the afternoon, it may be necessary for the whole group to visit the offices of the Ministry of Tourism to receive an official briefing about visiting restricted areas whilst our agent completes the permit formalities. The trip leader will organize this if it is required. Depending on the time available to us, there may be the option to do some sightseeing in Islamabad, a city purpose-built in 1961 as the new capital of Pakistan. Alternatively, we could visit the Twin City of Rawalpindi, a town from the days of the British Raj. The two cities are very different; the older settlement is rather sprawling with enormous and complicated bazaars where you can quickly get fascinatingly lost. Islamabad, by contrast, is much more open, a modern city with many parks and wide streets arranged on a grid system.

Margalla Islamabad - K2 Basecamp Trek
Islamabad Airport - K2 Basecamp Trek

Islamabad City - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

Accommodation
Hotel

Altitude
540m

Meals Included
Lunch & Dinner

Driving Duration - Beyond The Valley

Driving Duration
40 Minutes

Day 2Islamabad – Skardu

We will take the early morning 1-hour flight from Islamabad to Skardu, skirting breathtakingly past the Rupal and Diamir faces of Nanga Parbat (8126m), the world’s ninth highest peak. Before landing at Skardu, it is possible to catch a fleeting glimpse of K2 and the other high mountains of the Baltoro in the distance. Here, we check in to the group hotel and can spend the afternoon looking around the bazaar, visiting the nearby Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara lake, and Manthal Rock Budha. OR In case of flight cancellation due to weather, drive from Islamabad via Karakoram Highway with short stops at various touristic spots.

 

Skardu Airport - K2 Basecamp Trek
Skardu Mountain - K2 Basecamp Trek

Sadpara Lake - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Hotel

Altitude
2250m / 7380ft

Driving Duration
02 hours

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3Skardu

Today, we will have free time for acclimatization, shopping and local visits. BTV’s team will be busy taking NOCs, food shopping, packing and all other arrangements. Or, if the group arrives overland from Islamabad, they will drive from Chilas to Skardu (7-8 hours) with multiple short stops.

Manthal Rock - K2 Basecamp Trek
Upper Kachura Lake - K2 Basecamp Trek

Kharpocho - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Hotel

Altitude
2250m / 7380ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Driving Duration
Local Visits

Day 4Skardu – Jhola

Making a reasonably early start, we leave Skardu by jeep for the long drive to the beginning of our trek. The road mainly surfaces as we pass through the relatively fertile Shigar Valley but deteriorates after 3 hours as we turn eastwards to follow the Braldu River. By mid-afternoon, we reach Askole, a single street of wood and mud-brick houses backed by irrigated fields of corn and potatoes and groves of apricot trees. Leaving this, the highest village in the valley, we continue our drive through a wild landscape, crossing the Braldu twice as we pass the snout of the mighty Biafo Glacier. We cross this tributary on a suspension bridge and set up our camp a little way beyond the bridge at the place known as Jhola Camp (3100m).

Shigar Road - K2 Basecamp Trek
Askole Road - K2 Basecamp Trek

Askole - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full Service Camping

Altitude
3100m / 10170ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Driving Duration
06 Hours

Day 5Jhola – Paiju

We make an early start today for our first proper day of hiking and trekking. The trail takes us out of the tributary Panama Valley with your hiking poles and hiking sticks and turns east to follow the Braldu River once again. We continue on a good path of mountain trekking, passing a couple of old camping places with the best walking poles at Chowblok and Bardomal which are now rarely used as much of the level ground has been eroded by the shifting river. Beyond these old camping places, the path runs for a while at the very edge of the river, before climbing with your hiking packs and hiking sticks to higher ground and allowing us excellent views of the impressive Paiju Peak. We have to negotiate a couple of streams today and depending on the melting of the glaciers above, we may have to ford these (sports sandals or old trainers useful) on these rocky mountains. At our high point today we have views ahead to the snout of the Baltoro Glacier and the granite peaks of the Trango and Cathedral groups. On a clear day, it is even possible to see K2 best treks in Pakistan, which is partially obscured by the shark’s fin of the Lobsang Spire. After dropping down to the main Braldu River again, we reach the expedition staging camp at Paiju (3420m).

Towards Paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek
jhola to paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek

jhola - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
3420m / 11220ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Driving Duration
07 Hours

Hiking Mileage
21 km / 13 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
580 m / 1900 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
260 m / 850 ft

Day 6Paiju

Paiju is the traditional stopping point for all groups headed for Concordia, located at a widening of the Braldu Valley and within sight of the snout of the mighty Baltoro Glacier. This is a key staging point for climbing expeditions and trekking groups due to spring water and a sparse population of trees originally used for cooking fires. Today there are several leveled pitches for tents, and the site is equipped with ‘long-drop’ toilets and wash basins – a ‘bathroom’ with one of the best views in the world! We spend a whole day at Paiju, which is good for our acclimatization and a good time for our porters to bake as much bread as they can for the trek before we climb onto the glacier. For those with energy to spare, there is the opportunity to hike up the hill above camp for extensive views of the granite towers of Trango and Cathedral peaks and potentially another glimpse of K2, still many miles distant. We spend a second night at Paiju.

paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek
Camp Food- K2 Basecamp Trek

paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
3420m / 11220ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7Paiju – Khoburtse

Another early start today. After about an hour’s walk, we will enter the Baltoro Glacier. After viewing the outpouring of meltwater from the ice, we now climb up onto the back of this great beast. The trail undulates as we climb over the swells of the flowing glacier, and it is fascinating to think that the stones underfoot could have come from the summit of Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, or K2. Gradually we work our way across the glacier to its south side, where we can use a path along the lateral moraine. At this point, it may be possible to continue more or less directly by climbing up onto the glacier. Or, if the glacier is not easily accessible, we will turn off into the valley for approximately half an hour to reach a point where we can cross the meltwater stream (sandals or old trainers are required). Finally, reaching the camping place at Khoburtse (3795m), we have sensational views of the Cathedral Towers, the Trango Group and the striking rock tower of Uli Biaho. A great day of trekking over rugged and mixed terrain.

Urdukas to khoburtse - K2 Basecamp Trek
Baltoro Glacier - K2 Basecamp Trek

Baltoro - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
3795m / 12450ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
15 km / 9.3 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
640 m / 2100 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
265 m / 870 ft

Activity Duration
7-8 hours

Day 8Khoburtse – Urdukas

We have a shorter day today, mindful of the need to increase our sleeping altitude slowly. We continue east beside the Baltoro Glacier either along the lateral moraine or sometimes on the glacier itself, passing the ship-like prow of Great Trango and the isolated pillar of the ‘Nameless Tower’ to our next camp at Urdukas (3900m). This campsite is perched a hundred meters above the glacier on terraces hacked initially out of the hillside by the Duke of Abruzzi’s K2 expedition of 1909. It has sensational views of the Trango Towers to the west and directly opposite. Almost a mile away across the valley, the vast rock walls of Cathedral Peak and Lobsang rise like ramparts above the glacier. We should reach here in time for a late lunch, and the rest of the afternoon is free to tend to camp chores or to soak up the extraordinary landscape.

urdukas - K2 Basecamp Trek
urdukas - K2 Basecamp Trek

urdukas campsite - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service Camping

Altitude
3900m / 12800ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
06 km / 3.7 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
250 m / 820 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
145 m / 475 ft

Activity Duration
4-5 hours

Day 9Urdukas – Goro

Leaving Urdukas behind, we follow the moraine edge eastwards until it is possible to climb up onto the broad back of the glacier. We now cross to the center-ground with hiking poles and trekking poles where the ‘flow’ is generally smoother and soon we come within sight of the spectacular Masherbrum (7821m) on our right-hand side. Ascending and descending the rocky mountains of rubble that are strewn over the ice, we also have glimpses ahead of the peaks which surround Concordia. Especially prominent is the stunning Gasherbrum IV (7925m) at the head of the glacier. There are good views back towards the Trango and Cathedral peaks as we approach our camp tent at the place known as ‘Goro’ (4295m). We are quite high now and camping with all camping essentials on one of the largest pieces of ice outside the polar regions, so we will make sure to wrap up warmly for the cooler nights ahead.

urdukas - K2 Basecamp Trek
Goro - K2 Basecamp Trek

urdukas to goro - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
4295m / 14090ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
12 km / 7.45 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
485 m / 1590 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
90 m / 295 ft

Activity Duration
06 hours

Day 10Goro – Concordia

Our approach to Concordia continues along the heaving swells of the Baltoro Glacier as we pass Mustagh Tower (7284m), an imposing monolith of rock first climbed by Joe Brown and Ian McNaught-Davis in 1956. Ahead of us, Gasherbrum IV (7925m) acts like a beacon drawing us on, whilst at some points on today’s walk; we can also see Gasherbrum ll (8035m), which peeks out to the right of Gasherbrum lV. As we make our way up the Baltoro, the aptly named Broad Peak (8051m) comes into view above the ridge connecting Marble Peak and Crystal Peak on our left. K2 keeps itself hidden until we reach Concordia, whose full face is suddenly revealed in sweeping lines that climb almost 4000 metres from the valley floor to the summit – a sight that will never be forgotten. Concordia is a vast area where glaciers coming down from K2 meet those from the Gasherbrums and Chogolisa. It is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places on the planet, and here you can stand within 24 kilometres of no fewer than four eight-thousanders and ten of the world’s thirty highest peaks! We camp at approximately 4500 metres on a moraine ridge surrounded by jagged peaks, including Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Crystal Peak, Marble Peak, Baltoro Kangri, Broad Peak and K2.

Goro Campsite - K2 Basecamp Trek
goro to concordia - K2 Basecamp Trek

K2 - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
4500m / 14760ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Elevation Loss
85 m / 275 ft

Hiking Elevation Gain
290 m / 950 ft

Activity Duration
05-06 hours

Hiking Mileage
11.7 km / 7.2 miles

Day 11 Concordia – K2 Base Camp – Concordia

Getting an early start, we make our way out of the immediate area of our camp and are soon in a maze of crevasses and meltwater rivers. During the climbing season, this is a trade route for the porters who supply expeditions up at the Broad Peak and K2 basecamps, so there will be an established trail, but a guide is essential here. After negotiating the difficult ground where two glaciers meet, we eventually reach easy terrain and follow the medial moraine of the Godwin Austen Glacier, named after the surveyor who first established the height of K2 in 1860. Coming first to Broad Peak Basecamp after approximately 3 hours of trekking, we can stop and admire the sensational view of K2 in one direction and look back to Concordia framed by Mitre Peak, the bulk of Chogolisa, also known as ‘Bride Peak’. Beyond Broad Peak Basecamp, the going gets a little more challenging as we negotiate the swells of the glacier and more glacial streams. After 3 hours, we reach the moraine ‘island’ known as ‘the strip’, the traditional basecamp area for attempts on the Abruzzi Ridge, the usual route on K2. If time permits, we can also visit the Gilkey Memorial, where the names of those who have died climbing K2 are inscribed on a collection of plaques and plates. For those taking the option to visit K2 Basecamp, this is a strenuous but rewarding day of approximately 10 – 12 hours of walking on rough glacial terrain with at least 600 metres of ascent and descent. Anyone who does not wish to make this excursion can trek to Broad Peak Basecamp and get all of the truly fantastic views back towards Concordia, plus the best views of K2 within a 5 – 6 hour round trip. It is also possible to take today as a rest day if you wish, enjoying the marvellous situation of Concordia.

Mitre Peak - K2 Basecamp Trek
Gilkey Memorial - K2 Basecamp Trek

K2 - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
4500m / 14760ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
17 km / 10.5 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
650 m / 2130 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
650 m / 2130 ft

Activity Duration
10-12 hours

Day 12 Concordia – Shachspong

This morning we can take a last look at K2 before packing the gear and heading back down the Baltoro. In descent, we can make longer stages, and today we go past Goro to a campsite of our approach route at a place known simply as Shachspong (4100m). The word Shachspong is Balti for a big pile of stones which seems ironic considering the landscape through which we are trekking. Still, this is a reasonably elevated part of the stone-covered glacier, making for a perfect viewing platform. Down the valley, the serried ranks of granite towers and spires of the Lobsang, Cathedral, and Trango move into the distance, beyond which lie the peaks of Uli Biaho and Paiju. Directly opposite to the south is the snow-capped red granite spire of Masherbrum. This is an atmospheric place, and now that they are headed for home, our crew may want to have a party. Almost anything can be a musical or percussion instrument and if you have the chance, listening to the voices of the Baltis in full song is quite a fantastic experience.

Trekker - K2 Basecamp Trek
Mitre Goro - K2 Basecamp Trek

Towards Goro - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
4100m / 13450ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
16 km / 10 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
30 m / 100 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
400 m / 1300 ft

Activity Duration
06-07 hours

Day 13 Shachspong – Khoburtse

We continue our descent of the Baltoro Glacier. It is amazing how different everything looks in descent with our constant field of vision now filled with an entirely different view. The drop in altitude starts to become more noticeable as the granite walls and spires lining the glacier, which yesterday looked almost lower than us, now tower to lofty heights above. It is also a little warmer and there is more oxygen in the air. Passing through the campsite of the Duke of Abruzzi at Urdukas we can marvel at the tenacity of those early pioneers who endured untold hardship simply to get to their basecamps. After taking lunch on the Duke’s terrace, with sensational views of Pakistan’s beautiful places across the glacier to Biale Peak which remains hidden except from this vantage point, we continue trekking down this huge valley, sometimes on the glacier and sometimes along the moraine or the valley sides until we reach Khoburtse, our first off-glacier camp for some days. Ahead now we can make out the end of the glacier and the start of the valley of the Braldu. We can even see the patches of green on the lower slopes of Paiju Peak which mark the location of the spring water camp.

Goro - K2 Basecamp Trek
Trango Towers - K2 Basecamp Trek

Way Down - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
3795m / 12450ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
14 km / 8.7 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
470 m / 1540 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
165 m / 540 ft

Activity Duration
06-07 hours

Day 14Khoburtse – Paiju

As on our approach, we must first detour to the south to cross the Liligo Glacier. This glacier defies world trends in that it is steadily growing. Twenty years ago, its snout was half a mile up the valley, and now it has collided with the main Baltoro Glacier, resulting in the churning forces making it impossible to cross without the detour. We have a superb view of Trango’s Nameless Tower (6239m), first climbed by Joe Brown and Mo Anthoine in 1976. To the left of the Tower, a smaller pinnacle is known as ‘The Monk’, and to the right is the graceful prow of Great Trango (6286m), first climbed in 1977 by John Roskelly and Galen Rowell. In August of 1992, two Australians, Nic Feteris and Glenn Singleman, climbed to a ledge on Great Trango at 5955m and then BASE jumped, falling hundreds of metres close to the rock walls before opening their chutes and landing on the glacier. At the time, this was the highest BASE jump on record. Having made the detour and returned to the main Baltoro Glacier, we now cross to its north side, climbing over the huge swells of the glacier towards the ramparts of Uli Biaho. On the other side, we then work our way down to the valley, where we pick up the main trail and pass by the snout, where the underground river, which flows through the length of the glacier, erupts out in a cascade to become the Braldu. The last hour of the day is an easy walk on a good path, although there is a final uphill pull to reach the campsite at Paiju. On our first arrival here, we relished the prospect of a cooler climate ahead.

Towards Paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek
Trekking - K2 Basecamp Trek

khoburtse - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
3420m / 10170ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
15 km / 9.3 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
256 m / 860 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
640m / 2100 ft

Activity Duration
06-07 hours

Day 15Paiju – Jhola

Now we are off the glacier and at a lower elevation it is considerably warmer and we may make an early start to use the cool of the morning. Leaving Paiju we walk on a good trail down the valley. Once again it is surprising how different the experience is compared to our ascent. The trail rises and falls as we cross several alluvial fans. We have to cross some side streams today, mostly using makeshift bridges or stepping stones but it may be necessary also to wade across, especially later in the day. The source of all these streams is meltwater and so they grow bigger as the day gets warmer. At one point the trail passes close to the river beside walls of conglomerate and it is possible to feel its tremendous power. We follow the main Braldu River downstream to its confluence with the Panama River where we turn northeast to reach a camping place beside the toll bridge at the place known as Jhola.

Paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek
jhola Campsite - K2 Basecamp Trek

jhula to paiju - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Full-service camping

Altitude
3100m / 10170ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Hiking Mileage
21 km / 13 miles

Hiking Elevation Gain
450 m / 1475 ft

Hiking Elevation Loss
770 m / 2525 ft

Activity Duration
07 hours

Day 16Jhola – Askole – Skardu

Taking advantage of the recently constructed jeep track above Askole, we set off the long drive back to civilization after almost two weeks in the wilderness. We pass the traditional camping place at Korofon beside the Biafo Glacier, cross the Braldu twice and drive through the level area known locally as the ‘King’s Polo Ground’ to reach the green fields destination, stone walls, and houses of Askole. Continuing, we follow the remarkable jeep road through the Braldu Gorge and then travel down the fertile Shigar Valley to its confluence with the Indus. Arriving in Skardu, we check-in at our hotel and there will be time for a welcome shower and clean up before sitting down to dinner. Tonight we will enjoy the comfort of a real bed!

Askole - K2 Basecamp Trek
Askole - K2 Basecamp Trek

Askole Road - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Hotel

Altitude
2250m / 7380ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Driving Duration
06 hours

Day 17Skardu – Islamabad

Skardu airport is a 40-minute drive from the hotel along a good road lined with poplar trees. Boarding our plane we have an exciting flight out of the valley, once again passing by Nanga Parbat rocky mountains before turning south for Islamabad. Arriving in the Pakistani capital after a period in the mountains is always a strange experience and it takes a little time to get used to the hustle and bustle and especially the traffic. Our private bus will be waiting at the airport to transfer us to the group hotel and once we have settled in it will be time to take lunch (unless we have experienced unusual flight delays). After lunch, the rest of the day is free for independent sightseeing or to relax at the hotel. Your trip leader guided tours will advise you on the possibilities for sightseeing. Shopping for hand-made rugs is a usually popular option. This evening we come together again for a celebratory meal at the hotel or in a local restaurant.

Skardu Mountain - K2 Basecamp Trek
Skardu Airport - K2 Basecamp Trek

Skardu Departure - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Hotel

Altitude
540m

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Driving Duration
02 Hours

Day 18Contingency day in case of delays.

Skardu is a ‘weather dependent’ airport which means the planes will only fly here if the visibility allows line of sight to the runway by the pilot on the approach. Fortunately, the weather is mostly clear in the Karakoram but local weather conditions can bring clouds and rain from time to time. If we cannot fly we will travel down to Islamabad by road along the spectacular Karakoram Highway. If we flew up to Skardu this will be an added bonus as it is a fantastic travel experience in its own right. The drive down the Indus River to Islamabad takes two days so this is an important contingency day to allow for this. If we have flown to Islamabad this will be a further day for sightseeing in the capital and your climbing leader will advise the group on the options available for today.

Taxilla - K2 Basecamp Trek
Islamabad Mall - K2 Basecamp Trek

Pakistan monument - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Accommodation
Hotel

Altitude
540m / 1770ft

Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 19Departure day

Transfer to Islamabad Airport after breakfast.

Islamabad Road - K2 Basecamp Trek
Airport Departure - K2 Basecamp Trek

Airport Longuet - K2 Basecamp Trek

 

 

Altitude
540m / 1770ft

Meals Included
Breakfast

Map - K2 Basecamp Trek

Holiday Information - K2 Basecamp Trek

What is included in the tour package of K2 Basecamp Trek?

Tour package for the holiday of K2 Basecamp Trek includes:

 

  • Airport transfers (on the first day and last day in Islamabad)
  • The itinerary includes all overland transportation
  • Internal flights and associated airport transfers
  • All hotel accommodations (twin sharing)
  • All meals throughout the holiday
  • Licensed professional local guide
  • Sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary
  • Implementation of all sustainable tourism protocols
  • NOC/National Park permit fees
  • All entry tickets (forts, parks)
  • Up to 15 kgs of porter services per person
  • Access to the group satellite communication

What is not included in the K2 Basecamp Tour Package?

The package for the holiday of the K2 Basecamp Tour does not include the following:

 

  • Travel Insurance
  • Pakistan Visa (supporting documents will be offered)
  • International airfare
  • Personal equipment (clothes, boots, etc.)
  • Miscellaneous expenses (drinks, tips, souvenirs, etc.)

Will I be picked up from Islamabad Airport on the first day of the tour and transferred back to the airport on the final day?

Yes, the trip leader will meet all clients arriving on day one at Islamabad airport and arrange transfers to the group hotel. Similarly, transfers will be arranged for clients back to Islamabad Airport on the last day of the holiday.

Are meals included in the holiday package?

Yes, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included in the holiday package of K2 Basecamp Trek from arrival on day one to departure on the last day, so you will not need to pay for any meals during the tour

What kind of food and water will be served during the K2 Basecamp Trek?

The food will be a mixture of local/traditional and Pakistani cuisines available in the area. Depending on the itinerary and location, you may have some input into meal choices. Trail mix and snacks will be provided. While clean drinking water will be provided. We do not encourage the purchasing of single-use plastic bottles.

 

We use spring water on trekking wherever possible, but on some days, we have no choice except to use glacial melt, which may contain silt. Conventional filters do not work well with glacial silt, and in camp, the kitchen uses a large water barrel that allows the silt to settle away. You should bring a little bicarbonate of soda if you find the taste of iodine unpalatable.

 

What kind of breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be included on the K2 trek?

  • The breakfast includes cereal, muesli or porridge, eggs, bread or chapati, tea, and coffee.
  • Lunches are a picnic from a choice of meats, cheese, pickles, crackers, or chapattis, sometimes accompanied by hot soup and noodles and finished with tea or coffee.
  • For dinner, you will be served a three-course meal in the tent.

Can the tour cater to special diets?

We can cater to vegetarians, albeit sometimes with more limited choices, but we cannot always provide special diets. We customized our menus depending on the group’s preferences. We never use pre-packaged meals, you can expect hearty, delicious meals that will optimally fuel and inspire you during your trip to Northern Pakistan! We also regularly accommodate vegetarian, vegan, non-glute, and other specialty diets.

 

If you have specific dietary requirements, please speak to our sales team.

What accommodations will be provided during the tour, and what are the options in case of flight cancellations?

During the holiday of K2 Basecamp, the group will spend 3 nights in Islamabad at an excellent standard hotel. The group will also spend 3 nights in a tourist-class hotel in Skardu. Accommodation at each of these hotels is twin-sharing with en-suite facilities. Whilst on the trek, 12 nights will be spent camping in a comfy two-person alpine tent. If you are traveling by yourself, you will be paired with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on a trek for an additional cost.

 

Additional hotel nights in Islamabad are also available. In case of flight cancellation, the group will be accommodated in a tourist-class hotel (the best available option) on the way. Rooms will be twin sharing basis, and the single room will be available at a supplementary cost.

What happens if my internal flight is canceled due to weather conditions?

Skardu Airport is weather-dependent. Since high mountains surround the valleys, the planes do fly more than not, but cancellations can occur, and in these circumstances, we will travel by road.

 

Who will be leading the group during the K2 Basecamp Tour?

The group will be led by a certified professional local guide who will serve as the group leader. During the K2 Basecamp Tour, the group will be accompanied by an entire support crew, including a cook and kitchen crew, and porters to carry all equipment and personal trek bags. This crew is drawn from local villagers who depend on working for trekking groups to supplement their subsistence income. Traveling with these friendly and hardy people is a significant part of the experience of Karakoram trekking.

What is the highest altitude we will reach on K2 Basecamp Trek?

K2 Trek involves going to high altitudes. During your trip, you will spend at least one night above 4000 meters and trekking to 5000 meters or above. You should not worry about this; the human body can adapt to a vast range of altitudes, but we follow some simple rules to acclimatize successfully.

What should I know about spending money on the trip?

Approximately USD100 should be enough for miscellaneous expenses, which you can exchange for the local currency (PKR) at the airport or with authorized money changers. Purchasing local currency (PKR) before your trip is unnecessary. Money can be changed reasonably at the Airport or with authorized money changers. Since you will be changing most of your spending money into local currency soon after your arrival, we recommend you take it in cash. US Dollars, Sterling, and Euros can readily be exchanged at the Airport. US Dollars give you more flexibility to exchange in smaller towns or in emergencies.

 

Credit cards can be used to purchase many goods in Islamabad, Skardu, or Hunza and are particularly useful for more expensive items such as carpets. It is possible to withdraw cash (PKR only) from cash machines in Islamabad, Skardu, or Hunza Valley using credit and debit cards.

What is the guidance on tipping for the supporting staff during the trip?

It is usual to tip the supporting staff (guide/drivers) if you are happy with the services provided. We estimate that USD 80 –100 (in local currency equivalent) will cover this tipping aspect. Towards the end of the trek, the trip leader will help the group to determine an appropriate level of tipping for each crew member. Usually, this is done as a group’ thank-you’ ceremony on the final day of trekking.

What should I bring with me on the tour to K2 Basecamp regarding equipment and clothing?

The following checklist should help you with your packing. You do not have to bring everything on the list and should use your experience and judgment, but we ask you to ensure you have the items on the mandatory list. When selecting clothing for the holiday of the K2 Basecamp Trek, please be culturally sensitive. Tight-fitting or revealing clothing is not appropriate.

 

As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. The packed weight of your bag whilst trekking on K2, including your sleeping bag and mattress, should be no more than 15 kg. The limits the porters set is strictly enforced and bags will be weighed before setting off on the trek. Anything not required on the trek can be left at the group hotel in Islamabad and Skardu.

 

You must bring the following items;

 

  1. 1 x backpack (50l+)
  2. Sturdy Hiking boots
  3. Sports sandals or old shoes (for river crossing)
  4. Waterproof over trousers
  5. Fleece jacket or warm jumper
  6. Waterproof jacket
  7. Warm jacket (e.g. down)
  8. Scarf or buff
  9. Sunhat
  10. Warm hat
  11. Sunglasses
  12. Gloves or mittens
  13. Headtorch and spare batteries
  14. Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose, etc.)
  15. Water bottles 1 litter (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single-use plastic)
  16. Sleeping bag (comfort rated -5°C)
  17. Thermarest or similar sleeping mat
  18. Waterproof backpack cover
  19. Sun protection & lip balm
  20. 2x small padlocks (one for left luggage and one for trek bag)
  21. Toothbrush and toothpaste
  22. Antibacterial wipes (biodegradable)
  23. Water purification tablets

Packing checklist:

 

  1. Socks
  2. Trainers for camp use
  3. Spare laces
  4. Trekking trousers
  5. Underwear
  6. Base layer shirts
  7. Shirts or T-shirts
  8. Thermal underwear
  9. Long-sleeve mid-layers
  10. Long-sleeve outer layer
  11. Light down jacket
  12. Waterproof jacket/shell
  13. Neck buff
  14. One pair of thermal gloves
  15. Wash kit including soap
  16. Small towel and small cloth (the latter for wiping out dusty tents)
  17. Antibacterial hand wash
  18. Gaiters
  19. Trekking poles (recommended)
  20. Insect repellant
  21. Wash bags and toiletries
  22. Sleeping bag liner
  23. Travel clothes
  24. Repair kit – (e.g. needle, thread, duct tape)
  25. Dry bags for daypack/kitbag (to ensure they keep dry)
  26. Camera

Travel documents:

 

  1. Passport with a valid visa
  2. Travel insurance (if available)

 

Do I need travel insurance for this trip?

Yes, it is recommended that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment during your trip. When taking out insurance, please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary. IMG Signature travel insurance is the perfect add-on to a Global Rescue membership, providing coverage against a variety of unforeseen expenses while you’re traveling.

What health precautions should I take before traveling to the K2 Basecamp?

It is important to check with your doctor or visit the clinic regarding any necessary vaccinations or medical preparation before your trip to the K2 base camp. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters, including diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, as well as hepatitis A and typhoid. While malaria prophylaxis is optional for this trip, it is recommended to take precautions if you plan to spend time in the area around Islamabad. A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required if traveling from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited for more than 12 hrs through an airport of a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Travelers who intend to visit Pakistan for four weeks or more should note that proof of Polio vaccination will be required upon exiting the country. It would help if you also had a dentist check-up on holidays in more remote areas.

 

Additionally, if you have a severe allergy, please inform our tour operator before traveling to Pakistan and bring your treatment with you, as we cannot guarantee an allergy-free environment on the trip.

Do I need a passport and visa for the holiday at K2 Basecamp?

Yes, for any BTV Adventures holiday including K2 Basecamp Trek, you will need a passport with at least six months of remaining validity after the trip. If you don’t have a passport, apply for one well in advance. You will also need to apply for a Pakistani online visa through the official NADRA website. It’s important to note that there is a special section for trekking and mountaineering visas, which will appear after you click on the tourist/visit visa category link.

 

We provide visa invitation letters and required supporting documents to all clients who book a tour with us.

 

NADRA website: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/

Do I need an adapter for my electrical items during the trip?

We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at:

 

https://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plug-voltage-by-country/

What level of fitness is required for the K2 Basecamp Trek, and how can I prepare for it?

A good level of fitness is essential for trekking to K2 Basecamp. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. For this trip, you need to be aerobically fit and comfortable walking on various terrain, including loose scree and boulders, for between 4 and 7 hours on most days. We suggest you adopt a weekly exercise regime leading up to your trip. Regular hiking in the hill country is the best training but running, tennis, and swimming are also suitable for developing cardiovascular fitness and stamina. Before departure, we suggest you try to fit in several long walks in the hilly country.

What is the climate like during the trekking season in the Karakoram Mountains?

During the trekking season, which runs from mid-June to the end of August, temperatures can reach as high as 30°C at Skardu and 25°C at Askole. Throughout the day, it will remain pleasantly warm (unless there is cloud cover) until we reach Concordia when daytime temperatures are down to a single figure. In June, we may encounter snow on the upper part of the Baltoro Glacier, but this has usually melted by July.

 

However, snow can fall at Concordia even in August. At any time of the season, the night-time temperatures will be considerably lower, usually failing to freeze levels once we are above Paiju. At Concordia, overnight temperatures can drop as low as -10°C. The Karakoram Mountains are sheltered from the monsoon’s full effects, which means summer is the best season for trekking and climbing here, with predominantly clear skies. However, weather in mountainous areas is unpredictable, and short-lived storms can occur at any time of the year.

What are some recommended books to read before Trekking to K2 Basecamp?

We recommend the following books to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the culture and beauty of the region:

 

  • Where the Indus is Young by Dervla Murphy
  • Karakoram by Steve Swenson

How do you safeguard the well-being of participants during a Trek?

The well-being of our guests is the paramount concern at Beyond the Valley. We have meticulously instituted the following measures to ensure their safety:

 

  • Risk Inventory Analysis and Treatment (RIAT) to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
  • An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is designed to respond effectively to any emergencies.
  • Strict Safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to guide actions and behaviors.
  • Comprehensive training for guides and support staff to equip them with the necessary safety and first-aid skills.
  • Sharing of emergency contact details and clear communication of safety measures to all stakeholders.
  • Hygiene SOPs are in place, with training provided to kitchen staff for maintaining food safety.
  • We maintain strong rapport with local communities to foster an environment of mutual support and safety.

What happens in case of an emergency?

Our guides are not just experienced but also trained first-aiders, well-equipped to handle emergency situations. At Beyond the Valley, we have an Incident Response Team (IRT) in place, which includes the Guides, Operation Manager, and representatives from Rescue 1122, Tourist Police, District Administration, a dedicated rescue team, and local community organizations. In an emergency, the IRT is activated and it operates according to the set guidelines and SOPs to ensure quick, effective, and coordinated response to manage the situation and safeguard the participants. 

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Max elevation

HYDRATION

There is a correlation between daily fluid intake and successful acclimatization and you must pay particular attention to hydration during trekking at high altitudes. On treks to 3000 meters and above most people will need to drink between 4 and 6 liters each day to achieve suitable hydration levels and you must adopt a responsible approach to achieving this target.

ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

Before embarking on a trek to high altitude it is important that you familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and that you report any illness to your tip leader straight away. See the links at the bottom of this page for further reading on AMS.

DIAMOX

There are a number of untested herbal remedies which claim to prevent mountain sickness. However, only one drug is currently known to have a useful role in preventing AMS and to be safe for this purpose: acetazolamide (Diamox). We recommend that you carry Diamox in your first aid kit for treks where you spend an extended period above 4000m. Diamox can only be obtained from a medical professional on prescription and it is important that you first consult your own doctor so that you know there are no contra indications with other medicines you may be taking and that you do not have an allergy to acetazolamide. Diamox commonly causes some minor side effects, such as tingling fingers and toes, or a metallic taste in the mouth, but more severe reactions are rare. On trek, the decision whether or not and when, you should take Diamox as with any drug, will rest solely with you. If you intend to take Diamox, you must familiarize yourself with the appropriate dosage and regime prior to coming on the trip. The links at the bottom of this page will provide further information on the use of Diamox as an aid to acclimatization.

Travelling to high altitudes is not something you need to be scared of. Every year thousands of people enjoy the most amazing experiences in the world's greatest mountain ranges. Altitude sickness is entirely preventable if you follow very simple rules and procedures. Please make sure you are aware of these before you travel.

SUMMARY OF DIFFICULTY
The hike up to our campsite is a moderate 6 miles and 1400ft of elevation gain. The scramble up to Pyramid Ridge can be steep and difficult, but very adventurous and with just light day packs.Hiking

Distances
6-10 miBackpack Weight
25-35 lbsTerrain
Moderately RuggedMax Daily Elev. Gain
1950 ftHeights Exposure
Moderate

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information. Backpack Weight ratings are estimates that account for Wildland-provided gear, guest clothing, personal items and a share of group food. By packing light it’s often possible to stay on the lower end of the weight range. Pack weights also decrease during the trip.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Hiking uphill or downhill with a 25-35 lb backpack for 5-7 hours
  • Hiking uphill off trail with a 8-12 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
  • Maintaining balance and footing on moderately rugged terrain
  • Hiking with moderate heights exposure

To show the relative difficulty of our adventure holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most challenging. Our simple, colour-coded grade symbol provides an indication of the difficulty of each trip.

Clearly, there are many different factors that contribute to the difficulty of a particular holiday, including, length of day, terrain, type of accommodation, altitude and weather conditions. Since some of these factors are necessarily changeable, any system of grades can only provide a general indication. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the detailed Trip Notes and if you are still unsure, please do not hesitate to contact us

GREEN 1 - 4 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

YELLOW 5 - 7 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

RED 08 - 10 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involve many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness experience is essential.

SUMMARY OF DIFFICULTY
The hike up to our campsite is a moderate 6 miles and 1400ft of elevation gain. The scramble up to Pyramid Ridge can be steep and difficult, but very adventurous and with just light day packs.Hiking

Distances
6-10 miBackpack Weight
25-35 lbsTerrain
Moderately RuggedMax Daily Elev. Gain
1950 ftHeights Exposure
Moderate

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information. Backpack Weight ratings are estimates that account for Wildland-provided gear, guest clothing, personal items and a share of group food. By packing light it’s often possible to stay on the lower end of the weight range. Pack weights also decrease during the trip.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Hiking uphill or downhill with a 25-35 lb backpack for 5-7 hours
  • Hiking uphill off trail with a 8-12 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
  • Maintaining balance and footing on moderately rugged terrain
  • Hiking with moderate heights exposure
DIFFICULTY LEVEL

To show the relative difficulty of our adventure holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most challenging. Our simple, colour-coded grade symbol provides an indication of the difficulty of each trip.

Clearly, there are many different factors that contribute to the difficulty of a particular holiday, including, length of day, terrain, type of accommodation, altitude and weather conditions. Since some of these factors are necessarily changeable, any system of grades can only provide a general indication. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the detailed Trip Notes and if you are still unsure, please do not hesitate to contact us

GREEN 1 - 4 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

YELLOW 5 - 7 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

RED 08 - 10 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involve many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness experience is essential.