K2 BC & Gandogoro La Trek

Overview

Trekking in the Karakoram Mountains is a truly magnificent experience, and among the finest treks globally, the K2 Gondogoro La Trek or K2 Base Camp Trek stands out. It’s a classic trek designed for seasoned hikers who possess robust endurance, well‑conditioned legs, and thorough preparation. This trek provides unforgettable experiences that will be cherished for a lifetime. Concordia, often described as the “throne room of the mountain gods” by Galen Rowell, is a key highlight. Baltoro, the home to numerous peaks, also boasts four 8000‑meter giants.

Plan Your Journey

DayDestinationResidence
1Arrival in Islamabad Hotel
2Flight to Skardu or drive to Chilas (12-13 hrs) Hotel
3Drive to Skardu (if coming from Chilas) or rest day in Skardu Hotel
4Drive to Askoli (6-7 hrs by Jeep) Camp
5Trek from Askoli to Jhola (5-6 hrs) Camp
6Trek to Paiju (6-7 hrs) Camp
7Rest and acclimatization day at Paiju Camp
8Trek to Khoburtse (5-6 hrs) Camp
9Trek to Urdukas (4-5 hrs) Camp
10Trek to Goro II (6-7 hrs, stunning views of Masherbrum) Camp
11Trek to Concordia (4-5 hrs, views of K2, Broad Peak) Camp
12Trek to K2 Base Camp (5-6 hrs), return to Concordia Camp
13Trek to Ali Camp (6-7 hrs) Camp
14Cross Gondogoro La (5585m) to Khuspang (10-11 hrs) Camp
15Rest Day at Saicho Camp
16Trek to Saicho Camp
17Trek to Hushe (4-5 hrs), drive to Skardu Hotel
18Fly to Islamabad (or drive to Chilas) Hotel
19Drive to Islamabad (if coming from Chilas) Hotel
20Debriefing and onward journey Fly Out
Transportation.

✓ Airport transfers (Islamabad and Skardu).
✓ Air-conditioned minibuses for Ministry of Tourism briefings and sightseeing.
✓ Domestic flights (Islamabad to Skardu, PK 451).
✓ 4×4 jeeps for members and Toyota Loader for equipment (Skardu to Jhola and Hushe to Skardu).

Accommodation.

✓ 2 nights at Grand Hotel Islamabad (or similar) on bed and breakfast basis.
✓ 2 nights at Shangri-La Midway or Panorama Inn, Skardu (full board).
✓ 3 nights at Blue Sky Hotel, Masherbrum Inn, Dewan-e-Khans, or K 2 Motel, Skardu (full board).
✓ Note: Alternative accommodations will be provided if mentioned hotels are unavailable.

Additional Services.

✓ Low-altitude porters for luggage and equipment transport.
✓ Porter Sirdar for way up and down.
✓ Experienced English-speaking guide, cook, and assistant cook.
✓ Fuel generator, dining tent, sleeping tents, and kitchen equipment.
✓ Trekking and base camp foods (Chinese, Pakistani, Continental, and Italian cuisine).
✓ Fresh fruits, soft drinks, and beverages.

Equipment Provided.

✓ Sleeping tents with foam underlay and mattresses.
✓ Dining tent with inner and underlay.
✓ Kitchen tent, mess tent, shower tent, and toilet tent.
✓ Kitchen crockery, lamps, and cooking stoves.
✓ Bamboo sticks for high camps.
✓ Wooden boxes and plastic containers for food packing.

 

Taxes and Fees.

✓ Trekking permit fee.
✓ CKNP management fee.
✓ Camping fees during trek.
✓ Guide daily wages, kit, and equipment.
✓ Bridge crossing fees.
✓ $1000 pollution fee guarantee.
✓ Documentation with Gilgit-Baltistan Council.
✓ International air ticket reconfirmation.
✓ Visa support letters.

Baggage Allowance.

✓ 25kg per member (extra luggage will incur a $140 porter charge).
✓ Karakoram Travels & Tours reserves the right to adjust services due to unforeseen circumstances.
✓ Extra days’ accommodation will incur a $150 charge per night.
Note: Flight cancellations due to weather conditions may affect confirmed reservations.

Exclusions

✓ International air ticket and airport taxes.
✓ Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance.
✓ Cargo fee and custom charges for import/export.
✓ Extra wages for personnel beyond our service packages.
✓ Sleeping bags, personal clothing, and climbing gear.
✓ Tips for drivers, local staff, and high‑altitude porters.
✓ Phone Thuraya satellite calls.
✓ Walky‑talky for above base camp service.
✓ Soft drinks.
✓ Laundry.

Travel Insurance.

✓ Cancellation.
✓ Accidents.
✓ Health.
✓ Emergency evacuation.
✓ Companies like Global Rescue Travel Insurance offer suitable policies.

Cancellation Policy.

✓ 50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
✓ Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure.
✓ 25% cancellation charge if cancelled less than 15 days prior to arrival.
✓ No refund if cancelled after arrival or during the trip.

 

Additional Costs.Call

✓ Road blocks or unforeseen events may incur extra costs.
✓ Clients splitting from the group will incur additional charges.
✓ Extra hotel nights will be charged to group members.
✓ Government fees or new conditions may incur additional costs.

 

Reservations and Payment.

✓ 50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
✓ Balance payment due upon arrival in Pakistan.

 

Refund Policy.

✓ Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure.
✓ 25% cancellation charge if cancelled less than 15 days prior to arrival.
✓ No refund if cancelled after arrival or during the trip.

Environmental Responsibility.

✓ Organic waste: dispose on‑site.
✓ Non‑organic waste: take off‑site.

 

Visa Requirements.

✓ Valid passport required.
✓ Pakistani visa obtainable with invitation letter from Karakoram Travels & Tours.

 

Booking Advice.

✓ Book your trip at least 3‑4 months prior to arrival in Pakistan to ensure smooth preparations.

 

Important Safety Advice.

✓ For your safety and well‑being, Karakoram Travels & Tours recommends.
✓ Purchasing personal travel and health insurance.
✓ Obtaining membership with a reputable emergency response organization.
✓ We suggest Global Rescue Service, which provides.
✓ Helicopter evacuation.
✓ Medical assistance.
✓ Travel support.

✓ Having this membership will ensure prompt assistance in case of emergencies.

Note: Karakoram Travels& Tours will not be responsible for evacuation costs or medical expenses.

Stay safe and prepared!

Enjoy the Freedom!