K2 Summit
Duration:
40 days
Next Departure:
June July August 2024
Airport:
Islamabad
Reference:
CH236A
Summary:
K2, the world's second highest mountain. Gasherbrum 4, Broad Peak, Mitre Peak and Chogolisa form the rest of an astounding circle of mountain giants has been called 'the throne room of the Gods'. This stunning trek starts in Askole and follows the Braldu gorge to the snout of the Baltoro glacier, which we then follow Concordia.This climb is one of the toughest in the world and require absolute technical climbing skills. This is one of the world’s most stunning mountain and is wild and remote with a scenery of unmatched grandeur.K2 is a rocky mountain up to 6000 meters, beyond which it becomes an ocean of snow. The K2 peak is situated on the Pakistan and China border in the mighty Karakoram range. The exact height of the peak is 8,611 meters/28,251 ft.
Itinerary:
Day 1: ISLAMABAD
On arrival transfer the group to hotel, in Islamabad . You will meet your guide in the afternoon at the hotel for a trip briefing and gear check.If the flight lands late night the briefing will be held next day.
Day 2: Fly to SKARDU (45 min flight / 10-12 hour drive to Chilas)
a) Weather permitting, we take a spectacular flight to the high mountain region of Baltistan in the north east. On a clear day we should be able to see Nanga Parbat (8,124m) and K2 (8,611m) towering above all other mountains. (It is quite possible adverse weather in Islamabad or Skardu may affect our flight plans and make it necessary to drive by the Karakoram Highway to Skardu, a journey of approx two days).
b) In case of cancellation of flight drive 10-12hrs by air conditioned coach/car to Chilas (480km) on the Karakoram highway. Overnight at Shangrila Indus View Hotel or Panorama hotel.
Day 3: Drive to SKARDU from CHILAS / Rest Day (2,340m / 7,677ft)
a) Overnight Mashabrum Hotel. Preparations for our trek and depending on our time of arrival into Skardu, there may be time to visit the town and possibly an excursion to Kachura Lake situated at the edge of the valley. Skardu is the regional capital of Baltistan, lying at the edge of a broad floodplain that is the confluence of the Shyok, Indus and Basha Rivers.
b) If we are driving the road journey today will be 7-8 hrs to Skardu (275km). On route are spectacular views of Nanga Parbat (8,125m) overnight Hotel.
Day 4: Drive to ASKOLI (3,000m / 9,842ft) Approx 7-8 hrs
Jeep drive. It takes about six hours to drive from Skardu to Askolie or near Askolie. The drive through the Braldu Gorge is guaranteed to knock your socks off Overnight in tents.
Day 5: Trek to JOLA (3,200m / 1,0498m) Approx 6-8 hrs
After considerable organisation of equipment, supplies and porter loads for the journey ahead, we commence trekking towards Jola. The walk from Askoli to Jola is on an easy gentle plain and can be done in 6 to 8 hours. We cross the snout of the Biafo Glacier on the way. The first sight of the pinnacles of the Paiyu Group is stunning. Overnight in tents.
Day 6: Trek to PAIYU (3,450m / 11,318ft) Approx 7-8 hrs
We follow the Braldu and the Biaho rivers to a river’s edge campsite. On the way we have to cross the Domurda River coming out of Choktoi and Panmah Glaciers. This crossing is done on a ‘garari’ or on a bridge upstream. Depending upon the time it takes for the crossing, the walk can take 8 hours or more.The Masherbrum Group may be glimpsed to our right via the Xiangang Valley. The range is a vast array of peaks that extend almost the full length of the southern side of Baltoro. Walking conditions are hot and dry and care must be taken to prevent sunburn.
Day 7: PAIYU – Rest Day (3,450m / 1,1318ft)
Rest day. Wash up, relax, read, climb on a steep ridge behind the camp, sing and dance with the porters! Depending upon the size of the party, goats or a goat will be sacrificed and meat will be distributed to the porters as a form of thanksgiving and to bring us good luck on our next day’s walk on the Baltoro.
Day 8: URDUKUS (4,050m / 13,287ft) Approx 3-4 hrs
Prepare for an 8 hours trek on the rocky moraines and ablation valley of the Baltoro. We will cross couple of icy side glaciers on the way and may have our first sight of Broad Peak and the Gasherbrums. The historical campsite is located on a grassy slope high above the Baltoro and commands one of the most intense mountain views in this world. The campsite was prepared by the Duke of Abruzzi in the beginning of this century.
Day 09: TO GORO II (4,380m / 14,370ft) Approx 6-7 hrs
This is a tough day’s walk on the undulating Baltoro. However, the footing becomes easy as the rocks become smaller and smaller as we move up the Baltoro. It takes about 7 hours to get to Goro II. We walk right smack up the center moraine of the Baltoro. As Masherbrum emerges on the right, it takes our breath away and so does Gasherbrum IV right in front of us. Goro is a cold campsite! It has a great view of the Muztagh Tower.
Day 10: BROAD PEAK BASE CAMP (4900m/16076ft) Approx 4-5 hrs
Continue a challenging 4-5 hour trek through breathtaking terrain, featuring spectacular views of iconic peaks such as Muztagh Tower, Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, and the formidable K-2. Set up camp at Concordia, a name inspired by Martin Conway from the Place De La Concordia in Paris. Enjoy lunch against the stunning backdrop of Concordia. Navigate through crevasses near the Godwin Austin glacier during the trek. Overnight accommodation will be provided in sturdy tents.
Day 11: K2 BASE CAMP
Today we will reach the K2 base camp at an elevation of 5000m located at Godwin Austin Glacier we will set up our camps and prepare for the ascend tomorrow
Days 12-32: THE CLIMB
1st camp at 6000m (Approx.)
2nd camp at 6700m (Approx.)
3rd camp at 7400m (Approx.)
4th camp at 8000m (Approx)
Summit at 8611m
Day 33-36: RETURN TO ASKOLI
Next 4 days we will trek back via same route reaching the village of Askoli.
Day 37: Drive To SKARDU (2,340m / 7,677ft) Approx 5-6 hrs
Making an early start we drive to Skardu through the relatively verdant Shigar Valley. We check into the Hotel and the afternoon is free for sightseeing.
Day 38: Fly ISLAMABAD or Drive to CHILAS
a) Weather permitting we will fly to Islamabad today, on arrival transfer to Hotel.
b) In case of flight cancellation it is necessary to drive to Chilas and overnight at the Hotel and continue journey next day.
Day 39: ISLAMABAD
Extra 'cushion' day!
*Note: Day will be used as a 'cushion' day in case of delays in travel due to weather, route change, health, acclimatization issues during the trek, etc.
Day 40: Trip Concludes in ISLAMABAD
After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight.
Important Information:
The above schedule should be taken as a guide only. Inclement weather may cause delays in our journey, whether we are on foot or travelling by vehicle. Our schedule has been planned to allow for variations and where necessary, spare days will be used to compensate for these changes. Our guide reserves the right to make modifications or alterations to the trip schedule in the best interests and safety of all involved. A flexible approach will allow us to efficiently and effectively achieve trip objectives.