Gasherbrum II Expedition is a beautiful quest to conquer the breathtaking peaks of the Karakoram Range. Known as the "Shining Wall," Gasherbrum II is the 13th-highest mountain in the world, soaring to an impressive height of 8,035 meters (26,362 feet). This monumental peak offers a formidable challenge for mountaineers and a captivating experience for those seeking the pinnacle of adventure.

Expedition Highlights:

• Gasherbrum II Expedition to the Heart of the Karakoram.
• Breathtaking Aerial Views.
• Discover the Ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Baltistan, Pakistan.
• Warmth and Hospitality of the Balti People.
• Trek on Glacial Giants.
• Sunrise Over K2 and Broad Peak at Concordia.
• Conquer the Easiest 8000m Peak in the Karakoram.
• Wild and Remote Scenery of Baltoro & Karakoram Mountains.
• Beautiful wild and remote scenery of Baltoro & Karakoram Mountains.

Expeditions History:

Gasherbrum II's summit first yielded to human ambition in 1956, conquered by an Austrian expedition led by Moravec. Though glimpsed as early as 1856, the "Hidden Peak" held its secrets close for decades, with a 1929 Swiss reconnaissance reaching only 6250 meters. Subsequent attempts faced blizzards and technical difficulties until the Austrians finally cracked the southwest spur route. Since then, the mountain has witnessed over 900 attempted ascents, with notable feats like Croisot's 1984 ski descent and the Slovenians' 32-hour summit speed record in 1986. However, Gasherbrum II remains a demanding beast, claiming over 80 lives with its unforgiving weather and treacherous terrain. The challenge persists, luring skilled climbers to dance with danger in pursuit of summit glory. ️

Weather:

Gasherbrum II encounters harsh alpine conditions, with bitterly cold winters, slightly milder spring and autumn climates, and a brief, relatively warmer summer window for climbing amidst unpredictable weather patterns and the persistent risk of storms.

Summers (Jun-Sep):

• Relatively warm: Summit temps around freezing (-0°C)
• Frequent storms: Strong winds, snowfall, blizzards

Winters (Oct-May):

• Brutally cold: Summit temps down to -60°C (-76°F)
• Dry conditions: High avalanche risk

Unforgettable Experience:

The Expedition is more than just a mountain climb; it's an expedition to create history and cherish unforgettable moments in Pakistan's mountainous wonderland. Your adventure will lead you through the mesmerizing beauty of the region, encompassing the breathtaking Baltoro Glacier and the formidable Gasherbrum Ice Fall.

Our experienced guides and thoughtfully crafted itinerary ensure a safe and thrilling ascent of this 8000-meter giant, rewarding you with panoramic vistas of Karakoram's most renowned peaks. As you embark on the Gasherbrum II Expedition, you become part of a legacy of explorers who have sought to conquer and admire the splendour of this extraordinary peak, adding your story to the rich tapestry of mountaineering history.

Tour Detail:

D-1) ARRIVAL DAY IN ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN

Welcome to Pakistan. Most of the international flights arrive at Islamabad International Airport in the mornings. Our representative will meet and greet you at the airport and then transfer you to the group hotel in Islamabad. The rest of the days are free to recover from your long journey. Later in the day, when everyone has arrived, we will have a group briefing about the Gasherbrum II Expedition. Depending on the time available to us, there may be an option to do some sightseeing in Islamabad, A purpose-built City in 1961 as the new capital of Pakistan.

• Accommodation
• Hill View Hotel or Similar
• Meals
• Dinner.

D-2) ISLAMABAD TO SKARDU FLIGHT (2,230m)

After spending the night in Islamabad, today we travel to Islamabad Airport to take a spectacular flight (weather permitting) across the mountains to Skardu, the Capital of Baltistan. It’s a 45-minute flight that offers Spectacular Mountains views of the Himalayas & Karakoram mountain range; you can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the world’s 9th highest peak, Nanga Parbat (8,126m) if the weather is clear, then might be able to see K2 and Gondogoro Pass as well.

Check in to the group Hotel in Skardu. The rest of the day will be spent visiting the local Bazars, historical forts, and scenic lakes or visiting ancient rock inscriptions, one of which is of 8th-century Manthal Lord Buddha Rock that shows traces of Buddhist monks and pilgrims who influenced the area before Islam.

If canceled, Drive KKH to Chilas, Isb to Chilas, 461km. 8-9 H-Drive.

• Accommodation
• Summit Hotel or Similar
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-3) SIGHTSEEING AND PREPARATION DAY, SKARDU

In the morning, you will walk up to the remains of Kharpocho Fort (built in early 1700), which overlooks the town and has a great view of the Indus River. If you are into photography, this is a perfect location to take photos of Skaradu Town at sunrise or sunset. (we can arrange this for you). We will then walk to a small village called Organic Village, which grows all its crops organically. The afternoon is free to explore. Perhaps you would like to take an optional jeep tour to Satpara Lake or explore the bazaar.

• Accommodation
• Summit Hotel or Similar
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-4) SKARDU TO ASKOLI (3,000m) 7 HOURS

You will drive along the Mighty Indus, Shigar, and Braldu Rivers to reach Askoli the following day. Askoli is the last village before entering into the heart of Karakoram. We will spend our first night under the Stars in Askoli, high above the thundering Braldu River. Askole is a single street of wooden houses backed by irrigated fields of corn, potatoes, and groves of apricot trees.

• Accommodation
• Summit Hotel or Similar
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-5) TREK TO KORFONG (3,100m) 4 HOURS WALK

After organizing all the equipment and supplies, our porters load up for the journey towards Korfong. Today will be our first walking day of the Gasherbrum II Expedition. From your campsite, you wend your way through the lanes and fields of Askole, which will be the last settlement you will encounter on our trek to Concordia. Watching the local people go about their daily business is a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the hardy Balti people. The valley opens out to reveal the Biafo Glaciers; we have our first taste of moraine walking; we cross the glacier snout and descend to the green spot beside the river at Korofon. We will be in camp by lunchtime. We can spend the afternoon relaxing by the river and do a short acclimatization walk if we wish. If the weather is clear, it can be a hot day, so keep your sun creams and lots of water with you.

• Accommodation
• Summit Hotel or Similar
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-6) TREK TO BARDUMAL (3,350m) 6 HOURS WALK

From Korofong, we continue our day by following the path up a side valley to make a detour to cross the fast-flowing river by a footbridge. We then walk for half an hour to reach the Jhola Camp. The views are impressive, with Bakhor Das (5,809m) and Paiju Peak’s needles in the distance. From Jhola, we continue onto Bardumal campsite.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-7) TREK TO PAIJU (3,380m) 6 HOURS WALK

Today, we will have an early start from Bardumal. The path runs for a while at the very edge of the river before climbing to higher ground and allowing us excellent views of the impressive Paiju Peak. We have to negotiate a couple of streams today. Depending on the melting of the glaciers above, we may have to ford these (sports sandals or old trainers useful). Paiju is a green oasis under the shadows of Paiju Peak (6,611m). From this camp, we have the first views of the immense Baltoro Glacier and the granite peaks of the Trango and Cathedral groups. If the weather is clear, we might see a glimpse of K2.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-8) TREK TO KHOBURTSE (3,760m) 7 HOURS WALK

Another early start of our Gasherbrum II Expedition. From our camp at Paiju, a walk of approximately one hour brings us to the snout of the Baltoro Glacier. After viewing the outpouring of meltwater from the ice, we now climb onto the back of this great beast. At this point t, the glacier's ice is completely covered by rubble and rocks. Although we follow a trail many expeditions use, going here can be quite tough. The trail undulated as we climbed over the swells of the flowing glacier; 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 lathe lateral moraine. Heading roughly east, we continue, sometimes on the moraine and sometimes down beside the glacier until we reach a side valley. At this point, it may be possible to continue directly by climbing 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 chosen). Finally getting the camping place at Khorburtse (3,760m), 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 difficult and mixed terrain.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-9) TREK TO URDUKAS (4,130m) 4 HOURS WALK

Today is a short day but quite hard work as we walk up the undulating moraine and gain height all the way. 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. It has truly sensational views of the Trango Towers to the west and directly opposite, and almost a mile away across the valley, the vast rock walls of Cathedral Peak and Lobsang rise like ramparts above the glacier. This is a truly awesome place. We should reach here in time for a late lunch, and the rest of the afternoon is free to camp, relax, and soak up our fabulous situation.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-10) ACCLIMATISING DAY AT URDUKAS

We have learned from many years of experience that taking a rest day at Urdukas has worked out quite well; the advantages of spending an extra night here are very helpful. It helps acclimatize and has proved more effective than a rest day at Paiju.

This is the last campsite on grassy slopes off the main glacier; it also has facilities for washing and cleaning. There is a pleasant walk behind the campsite through grassy slopes full of alpine flowers. Climbing high & sleeping low is the best way to help acclimate.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-11) TREK TO GORO II (4,250m) 7 HOURS WALK

Leaving Urdukas behind, we follow the moraine edge eastwards until it is possible to climb up onto the broad back of the glacier. The trail on the Baltoro goes past the Yermanandu Glacier, which flows from Masherbrum, and there are views of Muztagh (7,270m) and Gasherbrum IV at the head of the Baltoro and Concordia. We are quite high and camping on one of the largest pieces of ice outside the polar regions to warm up for the cooler nights ahead. The campsite is on the glacier where ledges have been leveled out for the tents.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-12) TREK TO CONCORDIA (4,600m) 5 HOURS WALK

Today, we will trek to Concordia; it will take us through what must arguably be the most spectacular mountain scenery anywhere in the world. Our approach to Concordia continues along the heaving swells of the Baltoro Glacier as we pass Mustagh Tower (7,284m). Ahead of us, Gasherbrum IV (7,925m) acts like a beacon drawing us on, while at some points on today’s walk, we can also see Gasherbrum ll (8,035m), which peeks out to the right of Gasherbrum lV. As we make our way up the Baltoro, the aptly named Broad Peak (8,051m) comes into view above the ridge connecting Marble Peak and Crystal Peak on our left. K2 keeps itself hidden until we reach Concordia, when its full height is suddenly revealed in sweeping lines that climb almost 4,000 meters from the valley floor to the summit. This sight will never be forgotten. Concordia is a wide 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 kilometers of no fewer than four eight-thousanders and ten of the world’s thirty highest peaks! We camp at approximately 4,500 meters on a moraine ridge surrounded by jagged peaks, including Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Crystal Peak, Marble Peak, Baltoro Kangri, Broad Peak, and K2.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-13) TREK TO GASHERBRUM BASE CAMP (5,000m) 4 HOURS WALK

Today, we will trek to the base camp of Gasherbrum Mountain.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

14-52) CLIMBING & ACCLIMATISING PERIOD

Non-guided climb of the Gasherbrum II Expedition will start from today onwards. During the climbing period, our staff will be at base camp to help and assist you. Our professional Chef will make delicious and nutritious food which we believe plays a great role in climbing mountains.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-53) TREK BACK TO KHOBURTSE (3,560m) 7 HOURS WALK

After the Climbing period of the Gasherbrum II Expedition, you will start descending on 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, with 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 base camps. After taking lunch on the Duke’s terrace, with sensational views 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 Horbose, our first off-glacier camp for some days. 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.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-54) TREK BACK TO PAIJU (3,380m) 6 HOURS WALK

Today, we will continue our Trek on the Baltoro Glacier with spectacular views of the Trango Towers towards Paiju. As on our approach, we have to 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.

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. On our first arrival here, we relished the prospect of a cooler climate ahead. Now, we will welcome its warmth! We will spend our night at the green oasis of Paiju.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-55) TREK BACK TO JHOLA (3,170m) 7 HOURS WALK

Now we are off the glacier, and at a lower elevation, it is considerably warmer; 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 must cross some side streams today, mostly using makeshift bridges or stepping stones. Still, it may be necessary also to wade across, especially later in the day. The source of all these streams is meltwater, so they grow bigger as the day gets warmer. At one point, the trail passes close to the river beside the walls of the conglomerate, and it is possible to feel its tremendous power. We follow the main Braldu River downstream to its confluence with the Panma River, where we turn northeast to reach a camping place beside the toll bridge called Jhola.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-56) TREK BACK TO ASKOLI (3,050m) 4 HOURS WALK

Today will be our last day of walking and our return to civilization after two weeks in the wilderness of the Karakoram Mountains. Soon, we will follow a pleasant trail that leads down to the little ablation area beside the Biafo Glacier known as Korofon, surrounded by sparse grasses and tamarisk bushes. Beyond Korofon, we first follow the glacial moraine of the Biafo and then walk beside the river that emerges from its snout until we reach a bridge that allows us to cross to its north side. The trail passes through a wide flat area known locally as the ‘King’s Polo Ground’ before climbing to pass through a convenient cleft in a ridge of rock, which threatens to bar further progress down the valley. Descending steeply down the other side of this ‘window,’ we have a pleasant stroll through a boulder-strewn landscape before climbing again up onto a shallow plateau. We cross several small side valleys and begin to see signs of habitation before reaching an irrigation channel that brings meltwater to the field of Askole. We follow the channel for a while and can appreciate the tremendous skill of the local people who have harnessed the distant snows to grow their crops in a high-altitude desert. Eventually, we reach green fields and stone walls, which lead us into the village. Most porters are from Askole and will be pleased to be home. To get to our campsite at the road head, we must first walk through the outlying fields and then descend from the little plateau on which the village is located.

Today, we will celebrate our success, the Gasherbrum II Expedition, with the porters. We will hand out their tips as a token of our appreciation for their hard work throughout the trek. Also, we often give them any spare kit that we no longer need which is also a way of saying thank You. Most of our porters are from this village, so later on at the campsite, we will say goodbye to our crew, who are now our friends, and we will perhaps have a final party here.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-57) DRIVE BACK TO SKARDU, 7 HOURS:

Our vehicles will already be waiting for us in Askole, so we start the return drive to Skardu early. Crossing the Braldu on a suspension bridge, we follow the remarkable road built through the Braldu Gorge. It is not uncommon for this road to be blocked by landslides, and we may have to change vehicles if the road is blocked. If so, we will retain some porters to transfer the bags while walking across landslide areas. Once we have climbed out of the gorge at the other end, the road improves as we travel down the fertile Shigar Valley to its confluence with the Indus. We have a faster, smoother journey on a paved road following the great Indus River into Skardu. Arriving in the town, we will check in to our hotel, and there will be time for a welcome shower and clean up before dinner. Tonight, we will enjoy the comfort of a real bed.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-58) FLY BACK TO ISLAMABAD

If the weather is clear, we will fly to Islamabad. Skardu Airport is a 40-minute 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 before turning south for Islamabad. Arriving in the Pakistani capital after a period in the mountains is always a strange experience. It takes a little time to get used to the hustle and bustle, especially the traffic. Our private bus will be waiting at the airport to transfer us to the group hotel. 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 Guide will advise you on the possibilities for sightseeing. Shopping for hand-made Iranian & Afghan rugs is a usually popular option. This evening, we reunite for a celebratory meal at the hotel or in a local restaurant.

In Case of Flight cancellation, we will drive down the Karakoram Highway. We will arrive in Chillas late afternoon.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-59) CONTINGENCY DAY IN CASE OF DELAYS - ISLAMABAD

We will arrive in Islamabad late afternoon if we drive down the Karakoram Highway. If we manage the day before, I'll spend today sightseeing in Islamabad. In the evening, we will have a final group meal.

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. Still, 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 pass up to Skardu, this will be a 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 leader will advise the group on the options available for today.

• Accommodation
• Full-service camping
• Meals
• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

D-60) DEPARTURE DAY - FLY BACK HOME

After Breakfast, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport for the flight back home. Your “Gasherbrum II expedition” will conclude here.