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Gasherbrum II Expedition Pakistan 2026
Gasherbrum II Expedition registration is now open for 2026. The Gasherbrum II expedition is a magnificent mountaineering journey to climb this 8,035-meter peak in the Karakoram mountain range, Pakistan. Gasherbrum II is an ideal mountain to attempt your first 8,000-meter peak.
Expedition Highlights
- Gasherbrum II Expedition to the heart of the Karakoram
- Spectacular views of Nanga Parbat & K2 from the flight to Skardu
- Explore the Ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Baltistan, Pakistan
- Experience the culture and hospitality of the friendly Balti people
- Trek on Baltoro and Godwin-Austen Glaciers
- Witness the sunrise above K2 and Broad Peak from Concordia
- Climb the easiest 8000m of the Karakoram range
- Stunning wild and remote scenery of Baltoro & Karakoram Mountains.
Expedition Overview
Gasherbrum II is the 13th-highest mountain in the world, located in the neighbourhood of K2 and Broad Peak in the Karakoram mountain range of Pakistan. Gasherbrum II Expedition is considered to be the easiest and safest among the 8,000-meter peaks of the Karakoram. It is part of the Gasherbrum massif and shares the same base camp. Mountaineers can attempt Gasherbrum I-II by paying an additional royalty fee.
For many years, Trango Adventures has been organising Gasherbrum II expeditions for mountaineering enthusiasts. Trango Adventures operates a 45-50-day-long Gasherbrum II expedition to the heart of Karakoram, which is best in terms of safety, acclimatisation and enjoyment.
We offer logistics to our above base camp for private and solo climbing expeditions to Gasherbrum II. The duration may be longer or shorter depending on your available time, weather conditions, and climbing experiences. You can follow our standard Gasherbrum II expedition itinerary, or our travel advisor can customise an itinerary according to your travel needs.
Our Gasherbrum II Expedition starts from Islamabad. Islamabad is the nearest international airport to start the adventure holiday in the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan. Our representative will meet and greet you at Islamabad International Airport and transfer you to the group hotel. Have a rest to recover from your long flight, and we will meet in the evening over dinner to give a detailed briefing about your Gasherbrum II Expedition. Night stay in Islamabad.
The next day, you will catch the spectacular 45-minute-long mountain view flights to Skardu, Baltistan. En route, you will have the first glimpse of the great Nanga Parbat, K2 and the other stunning Himalayan & Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan. Arrive in Skardu and check into your hotel, followed by a free afternoon for preparation in Skardu. Skardu is the Capital of the Baltistan region of Pakistan, and it is the gateway to the mighty K2, Deosai Plateau, Broad Peak, Masherbrum, Gasherbrum, Pastore Peak and many other famous Karakoram Peaks. In Skardu, trekkers and climbers usually do their final purchasing for their onward mountaineering journeys.
After two days in Skardu, you will travel along the Indus, Shigar and the Braldu River to reach Askoli. Askoli is the last village before you enter the wilderness of the Karakorum. Spend your first night in the camp under the starry canvas, and the following morning, the walking session of your Expedition will start. You will walk towards Braldu, the gorge and to the snout of the Baltoro glacier, which you then follow to Concordia. Concordia is considered the heart of the Karakoram, with spectacular views of K2, Broad Peak and other Karakoram giants.
Gasherbrum II base camp is a 5-6 hour walk from Concordia, the junction point of Godwin Austen glacier with Baltoro glacier. The base camp of Gasherbrum Mountain lies directly below the Conway Saddle, and it was the first route used to reach all the major Karakoram peaks. Your climbing session of the Gasherbrum II Expedition will begin from here onwards. We will camp at the Base camp of Gasherbrum during your climbing duration, and our mountain guide, Chef and other staff will stay with you the entire time. After the climbing period, you will follow the same Itinerary back to Islamabad.
(Optional) The return trip could be possible over the 5,600-meter Gondogoro La and the beautiful green Hushe Valley, from which you return to Skardu. One night in Skardu and take a flight back to Islamabad (subject to weather). After spending one night in Islamabad, we will transfer you to Islamabad Airport for your flight home.
We strongly believe that our four decades of expertise and our experienced staff can run your “Gasherbrum II Expedition” smoothly to great success.
History and Technicality of Gasherbrum II
Gasherbrum in the local Balti language means “Shining Wall”. There are six peaks in the cluster Gasherbrum: Gasherbrum II (8,035 meters), with a summit pyramid, is the second-highest peak among the Gasherbrum Peaks. Gasherbrum II (also known as K4) is the 13th highest mountain on Earth, located in the upper Baltoro region bordering China, and the north face is accessible from China. Gasherbrum II is the third-highest peak of the Gasherbrum massif. Climbers have described it as an impressive but achievable peak, much like Cho Oyu, but with a gradual walk up the Baltoro Glacier to its BC, which is said to be the best trek in the world.
Gasherbrum II stands in the majestic neighbourhood of Karakoram giants like K2 in a close line-up of the world’s highest peaks in the surroundings of Concordia that has no parallel in the world. In 1889-1929, an international Gasherbrum II Expedition headed by the Swiss G.O. Dyhrenfurth studied possible ways to the top of the Gasherbrum II and reached 6250m on the south flank.
On July 8 1956, the first ascent via the southwest spur was made by an Austrian Expedition headed by F. Moravec. Fritz Moravec with Josef Larch and Hans Willenpart from a bivouac at 7700m via the east spur to the summit on the 7th. The snow of the South West Ridge presents considerable difficulties on ice and snow-mixed faces, ridges, once you are above the most complex glacial plateau after negotiating the heavily crevassed Gasherbrum Glacier. It is a steep way up in some sections as we continue climbing on a series of ridges and reach a platform where Camp 2 is generally placed, around 6,400m.
From here, we climb a couple of icy pitches and then up the face, going steeper before you reach the site of C3 at 7490m. After three easy pitches from there, get to a diagonal way across the face, from where a traverse leads to the base of the summit pyramid on the East Ridge. Climbing from there is straight on a wide-open, snowy face with glorious surroundings, but a few steep sections before you reach the narrow summit ridge.
Gasherbrum II has the reputation of being one of the easier 8,000-meter peaks. Its larger namesake, however, is far more technically challenging. Base Camp is at 5,200 meters. Camp 1 is at 5,900 meters after crossing the treacherous Gasherbrum Ice Fall. Camp 2 is at the Gasherbrum La, about 6,400 meters. Camp 3 is about 7,200 meters above a steep couloir, although the location is highly variable since it is cut from the steep snow slopes. From the summit, you will see the entire Karakoram, including Broad Peak, Masherbrum, Mustagh Tower, Chogolisa, and K2.
We strongly believe that with our 40 years of experience, we can run your “Gherbrum II expedition” smoothly and professionally to success.
BRIEF EXPEDITION ITINERARY
D-1
ARRIVAL DAY IN ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN:
D-2
SPECTACULAR FLIGHT TO SKARDU (2,228m):
D-3
SIGHT SEEING & PREPARATION DAY IN SKARDU:
D-4
DRIVE TO ASKOLI (3,075m) 7 HOURS DRIVE:
D-5
TREK TO JOHLA (3,100m) 6 HOURS WALK:
D-6
TREAK TO PAIJU (3,380m) 5 HOURS WALK:
D-7
TREAK TO KHOBURSTE (3,500m) 6 HOURS WALK:
D-8
TREK TO URDUKAS (4,130m) 4 HOURS WALK
D-9
ACCLIMATISING DAY
D-10
TREK TO GORO II (4,250m) 7 HOURS WALK
D-11
TREK TO CONCORDIA (4,600m) 5 HOURS WALK
D-12
TREK TO GASHERBRUM BASE CAMP (5,000m) 4 HOURS WALK
13-37
CLIMBING & ACCLIMATISING PERIOD
D-38
TREK BACK TO KHOBURTSE (3,560m) 7 HOURS WALK
D-39
TREK BACK TO PAIJU (3,380m) 6 HOURS
D-40
TREK BACK TO JHOLA (3,170m) 7 HOURS WALK
D-41
TREK BACK TO ASKOLI (3,050m) 4 HOURS
D-42
DRIVE BACK TO SKARDU, 7 HOURS DRIVE
D-43
FLY BACK TO ISLAMABAD
D-44
CONTINGENCY DAY IN CASE OF DELAYS
D-45
DEPARTURE DAY - FLY BACK HOME
Additional information
| Holiday Type | Mountaineering & Climbing |
|---|---|
| Duration | 45 Days |
Map and Itinerary of Gasherbrum II Expedition in Pakistan.
Introduction
We have been organising the Gasherbrum II Expedition in Pakistan for many years. We have had groups successfully climb Gasherbrum II on many previous occasions. We designed our itinerary based on over 40 years of experience, which is the best in terms of acclimatisation, safety and enjoyment. We plan to keep to the day-by-day itinerary detailed below, but there might be some flexibility due to local conditions or other factors beyond our control. If this is the case, the mountain guide will do everything possible to work out the changes to the itinerary to minimise your inconvenience.
Adventure travel requires an open and flexible attitude. You may experience extreme conditions, unpredictable weather, and last-minute changes to the itinerary that are beyond our control. The ability to work in a team is an important aspect of all of our trips.
Detailed Expedition Itinerary.
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 which offers Spectacular mountain 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 you might be able to see K2 and Gondogoro Pass as well.
Check in to the group Hotel in Skardu, and 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 cancelled, 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 the early 1700s), which overlooks the town and has a great view of the Indus River. If you are into photography, then 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
Following day, you will drive along the Mighty Indus, Shigar and Braldu River to reach Askoli. Askoli is the last village before entering the heart of Karakoram. We will spend our first night under the Stars in Askoli, which is 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
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-5
TREK TO JOHLA (3,100m) 4 HOURS WALK
After organising all the equipment and supplies, our porters load up for the journey ahead towards Johla. 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 that 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 snout of the glacier and descend to the green spot beside the river at Korofon. Will have a lunch break at Korgong, then continue hiking towards Johla camp.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-6
TREK TO PAIJU (3,380m) 6 HOURS WALK
Today, we will have an early start from Johla. 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, and depending on the melting of the glaciers above, we may have to ford these (sports sandals or old trainers are 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 granite peaks of the Trango and Cathedral groups, and if the weather is clear, then we might see a glimpse of K2.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-7
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 up onto the back of this great beast. At this point, the ice of the glacier is completely covered by rubble and rocks, and although we are following a trail used by many expeditions, going here can be quite tough.
The trail undulated as we climbed 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 terminal 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 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 chosen). Finally reaching 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-8
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-9
ACCLIMATISING DAY AT URDUKAS
From many years of experience, we have learnt 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 the acclimatisation process and has proved to be 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 the acclimatisation process.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-10
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 now and camping 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. The campsite is on the glacier where ledges have been levelled out for the tents.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-11
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, whilst at some points on today’s walk, we can also see Gasherbrum II (8,035m), which peeks out to the right of Gasherbrum IV. 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 the very moment we reach Concordia, when suddenly its full height is revealed in sweeping lines that climb almost 4,000 metres from the valley floor to the summit – a sight that 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 kilometres of no fewer than four eight-thousanders and ten of the world’s thirty highest peaks! We make our camp at approximately 4,500 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.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-12
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.
13-37
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-38
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, 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 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. 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.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-39
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 for 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, with the result that the churning forces have made 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-40
TREK BACK TO JHOLA (3,170m) 7 HOURS WALK
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 also be necessary 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 Panma River, where we turn north-east to reach a camping place beside the toll bridge at the place known as Jhola.
- Accommodation
- Full-service camping
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-41
TREK BACK TO ASKOLI (3,050m) 4 HOURS WALK
Today will be our last day of walking and our return to civilisation after two weeks in the wilderness of the Karakoram Mountains. Soon we will follow a pleasant trail which 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 which 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 once again up onto a shallow plateau. We cross several small side valleys and begin to see various 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 of our porters are from Askole and will be pleased to be home. To reach 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 Gasherbrum II Expedition with the porters and 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-42
DRIVE BACK TO SKARDU, 7 HOURS:
Our vehicles will already be waiting for us in Askole so we make an early start for the return drive to Skardu. 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 this is the case, we will retain some of our porters to transfer the bags while we walk across any landslide areas. Once we have climbed up 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. Now we have a faster, smoother journey on a paved road following the great Indus River into Skardu. Arriving in the town, we will check into 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.
- Accommodation
- Summit Hotel or similar
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-43
FLY BACK TO ISLAMABAD
If the weather is clear, then we will take the flight to 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 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, 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 Guide will advise you on the possibilities for sightseeing. Shopping for hand-made Iranian & Afghan rugs is a popular option. This evening we come together again 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
- Hill View Hotel or similar
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-44
CONTINGENCY DAY IN CASE OF DELAYS - ISLAMABAD
If driving down the Karakoram Highway, we will arrive in Islamabad late afternoon. If we manage to fly the day before, then we will 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 a 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 fly 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
- Hill View Hotel or similar
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
D-45
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.
Gasherbrum II Expedition cost and dates 2026.
Private Groups – Choose Your Dates
Expedition starts and finishes in Islamabad – Domestic Flight Included
Services
Base Camp Service
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| BASE CAMP SERVICE ONLY | All the logistics from Islamabad – Base Camp – Islamabad |
| PERMIT | Yes |
| HOTEL | 3-star Hotel |
| TRANSPORT | Included |
| HEATER | At Mess Tent |
| HOT WATER | Yes |
| SOLAR / GENERATOR / LIGHT | Yes |
| SPECIAL TENT | Individual Tent |
| GUIDE | Yes, up to base camp |
| ONE-TO-ONE GUIDE | No |
| SUMMIT BONUS | No |
| ROYALTY FEES | No |
| HIGH ALTITUDE PORTERS | No |
| LIAISON OFFICER FEES | No |
| ABOVE BASE CAMP SERVICES | No |
| DOMESTIC FLIGHT | Yes |
| AIRPORT TRANSFERS | Yes |
| VISA DOCUMENTS | Yes |
| SATELLITE PHONE | Yes, only for emergencies |
Full Board Service
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| OXYGEN | 3 Oxygen (extra on demand) |
| OXYGEN FOR GUIDE | 2 |
| SUMMIT BONUS | No |
| HOTEL | 4 Star Hotel |
| TRANSPORT | Included |
| HEATER | Yes |
| HOT WATER | Yes |
| SOLAR / GENERATOR / LIGHT | Yes |
| SPECIAL TENT | Individual Tent |
| AIRPORT TRANSFERS | Yes |
| SATELLITE PHONE | Yes, only for emergencies |
| ROYALTY FEES | Yes |
| HIGH ALTITUDE PORTERS | Yes |
| LIAISON OFFICER FEES | Yes |
| ABOVE BASE CAMP SERVICES | Yes |
| DOMESTIC FLIGHT | Yes |
| VISA DOCUMENTS | Yes |
Introduction
Royalty Fees, Liaison officer fees and High Altitude climbers’ Fees are included in our Full board service. However, these fees and services are not included if you are taking our Basecamp service only. Royalty fees and liaison officer fees are mandatory and set by the local authorities, so they will be added to the total cost. Liaison officer fees are approximately USD 4,000 for the entire expedition group. It means this fee will be divided among the members. Please check our Pakistan royalty fees page for the mountain royalty fees information. Royalty Fees need to be paid to the government of Pakistan in advance to secure a climbing permit.
High Altitude climbers/Sherpas are not mandatory. We can provide High-altitude climbers if you need them. High Altitude climber salaries will depend on their experience and the number of mountains they climb. The approximate cost of an experienced high altitude porter is USD 5,000.
Prices are for the itinerary based on Islamabad to Islamabad. International flights from most cities arrive in Islamabad in the morning, and the return flights will depart from Islamabad International Airport on the last day of the itinerary.
Our staff will meet you at the International Airport, stay with you throughout the Journey and see you off at Islamabad Airport at the end of the Gasherbrum II Expedition. Please be aware that several pieces of documentation are to be completed to get the permits to climb a mountain in Pakistan. We recommend that you secure your place as early as possible, especially during peak times. Please note that we may ask you to pay the Royalty fees in advance to obtain the climbing permits before you arrive in Pakistan.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE – NO SURCHARGE GUARANTEE
The price of our holidays can change depending on many factors. However, unlike some other tour operators, Trango Adventure has undertaken to guarantee that the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked.
The price shown on our website when you book the holiday is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases. Trango Adventure is a government-licensed Company, and we are bound to follow the strict Regulations set up by the Tourism Department of Pakistan.
We accept Cash on Arrival, Bank Transfers, PayPal and all major Credit & debit Cards.
Gasherbrum II Expedition Pakistan information 2026
Climbing A Mountain In Pakistan
Pakistan occupies about 880,000 square kilometres of land and stretches from the Arabian Sea to the high mountains of Central Asia. Pakistan is a country of contrasts: expansive dusty plains to the high snowy peaks of the Karakoram and the Himalayas in Gilgit Baltistan. Here, the world’s three mightiest mountain ranges meet: the mighty Karakoram, Hindukush and the Himalayas. This region is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking mountains.
Five of the fourteen highest peaks in the world are here: the mountains of the mountain K2 (8,611), the Magnificent Nanga Parbat (8,126), Hidden Peak (8,080 ), Broad Peak (8,047 ), and Gasherbrum II (8,035m). Gilgit Baltistan (northern areas) also has the largest Glaciers outside the polar glaciers, Baltoro and the Hispar. The scope for climbing a Mountain in Pakistan is virtually unlimited.
Climbing Holidays in Pakistan will depend on what type of climbing you would like to do, how much experience you have, which season you would like to go, how many days you have available, etc. Trango Adventure has been organising Expeditions in Pakistan for many years. We have the expertise and infrastructure to assist you in organising your next Climbing Expedition in Pakistan. For the Gasherbrum II Expedition, you will require a mountain climbing permit, which will be organised by Trango Adventure. We advise you to contact us in good time.
Climbing & Trekking Permit
Once you have decided when and which mountain to climb, we can start the preparations and apply for the necessary permits. A climbing permit is required to climb peaks which are above 6,500 meters, and a trekking permit is required for some areas, one of which is the Central Karakoram National Park area(CKNP). We have extensive details of all peaks, permit fees, rules and regulations regarding climbing in Pakistan. We will take care of everything so you can focus on other items of the Expedition.
Mountain Royalty Fees
At the beginning of each year, the Gilgit-Baltistan Council publishes the official royalty fees for the upcoming summer and winter climbing season. This notification is publicly available and makes a distinction in terms of the mountain, trekking and waste disposal fees for various areas and the two seasons. We have to apply for the Permits, that’s why we need a deposit from you. The royalty fees for the permits are paid to the Gilgit-Baltistan Government, and they are not refundable. Please contact us for more details.
Government Clearance
All particulars about your Gasherbrum II expedition, including the details of all members, must be sent to us so that we can get the government clearance for the approval of your climbing permit. Additional members can still be added or changed at a later date if needed, but it is best to send everything well in advance to prevent any delays at the start of your expedition. We currently advise you to apply no later than 2 months in advance, as unfortunately, we have noticed that the time for clearance is taking longer each year.
Helicopter Rescue Bond
You need to have an insurance policy that must cover high altitude rescue and medical costs. Our staff will collect your insurance policy details and the insurance company’s 24/7 emergency contact number at the beginning of the expedition. We will arrange the helicopter rescue if needed in case of an emergency.
Liaison Officer
To all peaks between 6,500 meters to 8,611 meters in the Baltoro region, the Government of Pakistan sends one Liaison officer with all Climbing expeditions. All his expenses, like food, accommodation and transportation, are borne by the expedition team. In addition to the above-mentioned standard kit, the Liaison Officer is paid a daily allowance in Rawalpindi / Islamabad as well as in the mountains for his food. A part of his cost, sharing the cook, insurance, and provision of two porters for his stuff & food while trekking up & one porter while trekking down, is paid by us.
Environment
All expeditions are required to submit an environmental undertaking, which states that they will take their garbage with them after the end of the expedition. The Liaison Officer will have to certify that the team has left the mountain clean; if this has not been done satisfactorily, fines will be imposed. A separate environment waste management fee is charged to each expedition member for maintenance of the mountain environs, which is non-refundable.
Expedition Cargo & Climbing Gear
We will take care of all the formalities to clear your Gasherbrum II expedition cargo & safely store it before your arrival. Any charges incurred at clearance (during export or import) of your equipment will not be paid by us. All non-consumable equipment that you bring in will be duty-free if you take it back with you. You are not allowed to trade in it. The consumable goods are similarly duty-free as long as they are used for the purpose they have been brought in for. The unconsumed materials have to be re-exported. We have a selection of well-maintained climbing materials which we are renting out to expeditions, and items for sale, like different variations of climbing rope and gas canisters.
Base Camp Staff & High Altitude Porters
There will be a complete kitchen team to take care of you and your expedition members at your base camp, and of course, on the trek to and from Base Camp. The number of staff depends on the number of climbers. However, for our normal expeditions ranging from 10-15 members, we provide one head cook, one assistant cook and one or two helpers who take care of base camp services. We can arrange experienced high-altitude porters to assist you during your climb. Kindly inquire well in advance so that we can hire the best Altitude Porters for you.
Cancellation
In case you have to cancel your Gasherbrum II expedition plans or want to postpone your trip, the royalty fee will be forfeited. Mountain Royalty Fees are paid to the Tourism Department of Pakistan, and it is their policy not to refund the Royalty Fee or carry it forward to a future trip or be refunded. The royalty fee is only refunded if the government cancels a permit for some reason. Cost related to our services will be (partially) refunded based on our Terms & Conditions.
What’s Included
- ✔ Arrival & Departure: Pick and drop service – Airport ↔ Hotel ↔ Airport
- ✔ Accommodation: 5 nights’ stay in Islamabad and Skardu (Twin-sharing basis)
- ✔ Meals: All Meals throughout the trip
- ✔ Permits & Fees: Liaison officer fee, Expedition royalty and permit from the Pakistan Government
- ✔ Transportation: All required transportation for staff and members as per the itinerary
- ✔ Domestic Flights: Islamabad to Skardu and Skardu to Islamabad
- ✔ Satellite phone for emergency usage.
- ✔ Porters & Staff Support: Personal porters for each member from Askole to Base Camp. Includes all staff and porters’ wages, equipment, food, clothing, and personal insurance
- ✔ Insurance: insurance for all staff
- ✔ High Altitude Climbing Sherpa: One climbing Sherpa per member
- ✔ Oxygen for Gasherbrum II: O2 cylinder: 2 oxygen (O2) cylinders for each Member and 2 oxygen bottles for each high-altitude Sherpa
- Mask & Regulator: 1 Set of top masks for each member and a high-altitude Sherpa
- ✔ Mask & Regulator: One Set of masks for each member and a high-altitude Sherpa
- ✔ Medical Support: Comprehensive medical kit for members and staff
- ✔ Solar panels/Generator for lights and to charge electronic devices
- ✔ Liaison with the Ministry of Tourism in Islamabad for the climbing permit process, providing measurements of the appointed Liaison officer for his prescribed kit.
- ✔ Process of import/export permit from the Ministry of Tourism.
- ✔ Member Luggage: 60 Kg per member as personal baggage
Note: Royalty Fees, High Altitude Sherpa and Liason Officer costs are not included if you are taking the Base Camp Service option.
What’s Not Included
- ✘ International fights
- ✘ Pakistan visa fee
- ✘ Skardu/Islamabad sightseeing
- ✘ Extra nights in Islamabad and Skardu (if you arrive early, leave late, or return early from the expedition for any reason)
- ✘ Travel insurance, high-altitude insurance, accident, medical, or emergency evacuation coverage
- ✘ Personal expenses like phone calls, internet, laundry, alcoholic drinks, shopping, and personal equipment
- ✘ Tips for Basecamp staff and porters (please plan to give some)
- ✘ Sherpa summit bonus for Gasherbrum II (minimum USD 1200)
- ✘ Full set of personal climbing gear and clothing
- ✘ Emergency rescue evacuation costs, if needed, and any other personal expenses
- ✘ Anything else not listed in the “What’s Included” section.
Meal Plan
Accommodation
During the Gasherbrum II Expedition, you will spend 2-3 nights in Islamabad at a good International tourist standard hotel (3 stars). You will also have two nights in an international tourist standard hotel in Skardu before and after the trek. Accommodation at each of these hotels is twin-sharing with en-suite facilities. Whilst on trek, there will be a share-based camping in 2-person tents. If you are travelling by yourself, you will be paired with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on trek for an additional cost. Please note that single tent hire does not include single rooms in hotels. For the hotel nights, single rooms are available for a supplementary cost. Additional hotel nights in Islamabad are also available. For hotel prices and single supplement costs, please contact our Advisers. Hotel rooms are subject to availability, and prices may vary.
INTERNAL FLIGHT
Skardu Flight
Skardu is a weather-dependent airport. Since the valley is surrounded by high mountains, planes can only land here in good visibility, and this means flights to and from Skardu are never guaranteed. The planes do fly more often than not, but cancellations can and do occur, and in these circumstances, we will travel by road. If we did not do this, groups would risk being stranded in Islamabad, and you should beware of companies that say they will only fly to Skardu as this may mean you have no possibility of trekking. See our ‘Important Note’ about travel on the Karakoram Highway for more details.
Health & Vaccinations
Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, and therefore, the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Insurance
We highly recommend that you have adequate travel insurance for your trip with Trango Adventure Pakistan. We recognise the complexity and variety of choices in the insurance market and know that many of you either have your preferred insurer or have annual multi-trip cover in place already. If this is the case, please ensure that your insurer is aware of your Trango Adventure itinerary and can agree to cover the activities being undertaken.
Trango Adventure does not provide any advice on travel insurance, although it is highly recommended that you have travel insurance which covers the activities you are likely to undertake on your holiday.
It is strongly recommended that suitable cancellation insurance be purchased at the time of booking, as all deposits (Royalty Fees) for the Expedition are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Travel insurance providers
Expeditions or Treks
- HCC Medical Insurance Services LLC Tel: +1-800 605 2282
- Travelex Insurance Services Tel: +1-800 228 9792
- True Traveller Insurance Tel: 0333 999 3140 for treks including over 4500m
- Austrian Alpine Club (UK) Tel: +44 (0)1929 556870
- Snowcard Tel: +44 (0)1295 660836
- The B.M.C. Tel: +44 (0)161 445 6111 (please note the BMC cannot cover Mt Damavand)
- Dogtag Tel: 0800 036 4824 (UK residents only)
- World Nomads (up to 6000m)
- Insure for Less (Australians only)
Treks and Tours only
- Campbell Irvine Tel: +44 (0)207 938 1737
- Rothwell & Towler Tel: +44 (0)845 908 0161
- J S Insurance Tel: +44 (0) 844 848 1500
Mountain Guide & Support Staff
The Gasherbrum II Expedition group will be led by an experienced government-licensed Mountain Guide. During the trek, the group will be accompanied by a full support crew, an assistant Guide, a cook and a kitchen crew, as well as porters to carry all equipment and personal trek bags. Our staff will remain at the base camp until the expedition is completed.
Hiring Additional Sherpa Support.
We provide high-altitude climbers if required. High altitude guide will carry your gear on ‘camp moving’ days, so all you have to take is your jacket, water bottle and items required for the day. This option is popular with those who have difficulty recovering after carrying a heavy load at altitude.
Personal Sherpa
This option provides you with the assistance of a very experienced and dedicated Sherpa who will support you above Gasherbrum Base Camp. Your Personal Sherpa will climb with you each day as your climbing partner and generally assist you throughout the expedition to the summit. When on the mountain, you would share a tent with your Personal Sherpa, and he would supervise cooking duties. Our Sherpa guides are highly experienced, with multiple ascents of Gasherbrum I-II and other peaks in the Karakoram region.
Altitude
The Gasherbrum II Expedition involves going to a very high altitude. During your trip, you will be spending at least one night above 6,000 metres and/or trekking to 5,000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but we must follow some simple rules to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday, you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude on our website, which can be viewed via the link below. Unless you have previous experience of climbing above 4,000 metres, you should consult one of our climbing experts before embarking on this holiday.
Climate
From mid-June to August, we can expect to encounter temperatures as high as 30°C at Skardu and 25°C at Hushe and Askole. In June and early July, there will be a good covering of snow on the slopes leading to and from the Gondogoro la and we may also encounter snow on the upper part of the Baltoro. Above 4,000 metres, snow can fall at any time of the year. At any time of the season, the nighttime temperature above 4,000 metres is likely to drop to freezing or below and at our highest camps may reach minus 10 or 15°C. The weather is generally good throughout the summer season, with clear skies and little rain or snow. However, the weather in mountainous areas is difficult to predict, and short-lived storms can occur at any time of the year.
Books
- Trekking in Pakistan. Isobel Shaw.
- Karakoram Highway. King.
- In the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods. Galen Rowell.
- K2 Triumph and Tragedy. Jim Curran.
Passport & Visas
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. Please check the relevant embassy or consulate for other nationalities. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
Pakistan visa
All nationalities require a visa to enter Pakistan. The visa fee is approximately $100, and you must apply for it before departure. To obtain a visa for Pakistan, you will require a letter of introduction from an approved agency, which will be provided by Trango Adventure. For some treks and Expeditions, you will also be required to submit a copy of the group’s ‘Restricted Area’ permit, which will be provided by Trango. Visa applications can be made online or in person at the Pakistan consulate/Embassy in your home country. For more information about Pakistan visas, please visit our Blog and news section.
Visit the Government of Pakistan’s official visa site for detailed information about online visa applications. www.visa.nadra.gov.pk
Equipment List
We will send you a detailed list of items close to your Holiday departure. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. Anything not required on the trip can be left at the group hotel in Islamabad or Skardu.
If you would like to know more about the “Gasherbrum II Expedition”, contact our advisers at info@trangoadventure.com
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