The K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La – Travan

The K2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La

22 Days 23 Nights

Travel Style: Adventure

Preferred Time: June - October

Travel: By air

Description

Embark on a legendary high-altitude journey with the K2 and Gondogoro La Trek, one of the world’s most thrilling adventures through the mighty Karakoram Range. This 22-day expedition blends cultural exploration with awe-inspiring landscapes, beginning in the vibrant city of Lahore and culminating at the base of K2, the world’s second-highest peak.

The journey kicks off with a deep dive into Pakistan’s heritage—visiting Lahore’s Mughal-era sites, exploring ancient Taxila ruins, and creating your own masterpiece in a Truck Art workshop. From Islamabad, travel to Skardu to acclimatize at Deosai National Park, then venture into the wilderness from Askoli Village, trekking along the Baltoro Glacier past iconic peaks like Trango Towers and Masherbrum.

Stand in awe at Concordia, camp beneath towering 8,000-meter giants, and visit K2 Base Camp and the Gilkey Memorial before crossing the dramatic Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m). Descend into the scenic Hushe Valley, where Balti culture welcomes you at the trek’s end.

Expertly managed by Travan Pakistan, this unforgettable adventure promises safety, cultural depth, and Himalayan grandeur—making it the perfect K2 Base Camp trek itinerary for adventurers worldwide.

Highlights

  • Cultural immersion in Lahore: Discover the Walled City, Badshahi Mosque, and Wagah Border Ceremony.
  • UNESCO heritage detours: Visit Jahangir’s Tomb, Hiran Minar, or explore Khewra Salt Mines and Katas Raj Temples.
  • Scenic flight to Skardu: Soar over Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram Range on a stunning aerial journey
  • Acclimatize in Deosai Plains: Explore the high-altitude beauty of Sheosar Lake and spot Himalayan wildlife.
  • Begin the K2 trek: Hike from Askoli to Paiju with views of Trango Towers and Braldu Gorge.
  • Baltoro Glacier to Concordia: Trek past Urdukas and Goro II to reach the legendary Concordia camp.
  • K2 Base Camp visit: Stand beneath K2 and honor fallen climbers at the Gilkey Memorial.
  • Cross Gondogoro La Pass: Summit the 5,585m pass with breathtaking views of K2 and Laila Peak.
  • Descend to Hushe & Khaplu: Walk through lush valleys and unwind at the historic Khaplu Palace.
  • Taxila & Truck Art finale: Explore ancient Buddhist ruins and paint your own souvenir in Rawalpindi.

Arrive in Lahore and receive a warm welcome from Travan Pakistan’s team at the airport. Transfer to your hotel and take time to refresh before stepping into the heart of the city. In the afternoon, stroll through Liberty Market, one of Lahore’s most iconic shopping districts. Wander among stalls offering handmade jewelry, traditional fabrics, and colorful local crafts. Enjoy a taste of the city with a chilled glass of sugarcane juice or a scoop of kulfi falooda. The day ends with a traditional Pakistani dinner, where you’ll be introduced to classic flavors like chicken karahi and seekh kebabs. Unwind back at your hotel and rest for the cultural immersion that awaits the next day.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before exploring Lahore’s historical gems. Visit the majestic Lahore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the splendor of Mughal architecture, including the intricate mirror work of Sheesh Mahal and the elegant Naulakha Pavilion. Next, head to the grand Badshahi Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, reflecting the opulence of the Mughal era. Stroll through the restored Shahi Hammam, a Persian-style bathhouse near Delhi Gate, before heading to the beautifully decorated Wazir Khan Mosque, known for its vibrant frescoes and tilework. In the evening, drive to the Wagah Border for the high-energy Flag-Lowering Ceremony, where synchronized drills and patriotic cheers create an electric atmosphere. Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening.

Depart Lahore after breakfast and begin your scenic drive toward Islamabad. Along the way, choose between two enriching routes. The first includes a stop at Jahangir’s Tomb, resting in tranquil gardens, followed by a visit to Hiran Minar, a unique Mughal-era hunting retreat. Alternatively, explore the glowing chambers of Khewra Salt Mines, the world’s second-largest, and the ancient Hindu temples of Katas Raj, set around a sacred lake. Break for lunch at the Bhera service area before continuing on to Islamabad. Arrive in the capital by evening, where green avenues and modern architecture create a sharp contrast with the day’s heritage sites. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed dinner in the serene atmosphere of Pakistan’s capital.

Begin your day with an early breakfast before transferring to Islamabad Airport for a flight to Skardu. On clear days, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges, with glimpses of Nanga Parbat’s icy slopes. Upon arrival in Skardu, breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Spend the afternoon adjusting to the altitude and visiting the local bazaar for last-minute trekking essentials. Skardu’s energy shifts the tone of the journey as the wilderness grows near. In the evening, meet your trekking crew for a briefing on the days ahead. Rest well—your adventure toward K2 Base Camp is about to begin.

Take a scenic day trip to Deosai National Park, a high-altitude plateau known as the “Land of Giants.” Drive past alpine meadows and rolling hills to reach Sheosar Lake, a mirror-like body of water reflecting the mighty Nanga Parbat on clear days. Walk along its shores and enjoy the calm, wind-swept landscape. Keep an eye out for marmots popping up from the grass and golden eagles soaring overhead. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness, surrounded by wildflowers and distant peaks. This peaceful excursion is designed to help you acclimatize before the trek begins. Return to Skardu in the late afternoon and relax over dinner while taking in views of the Indus Valley.

After breakfast, leave the paved roads behind as your jeeps wind through the remote Braldu Valley. The drive takes you past rugged canyons, roaring rivers, and villages like Shigar and Dassu, where time seems to stand still. Arrive in Askoli, the last village before the wilderness, surrounded by soaring peaks. Meet your team of porters and mule drivers and prepare for the expedition ahead. Spend the afternoon checking gear, soaking in the raw mountain scenery, and easing into the high-altitude rhythm. As night falls, gather around for your first camp dinner under a sky full of stars—an unforgettable welcome to the world of the Karakoram.

Begin your trek along the banks of the Braldu River, where the trail winds through rocky terrain and across wooden suspension bridges. This first day offers a gentle introduction to the days ahead, with wide views of barren cliffs and distant snow peaks. Keep an eye out for marmots sunning on boulders and the occasional goat herd led by a Balti shepherd. The 6–7 hour walk brings you to Jhula, a peaceful riverside campsite where the sound of water echoes through the valley. Enjoy a hot meal as the sun sets behind the mountains, and rest well in your tent for the next leg of the journey.

Today’s trek leads deeper into the Braldu Valley as the landscape grows more dramatic. The path follows the river closely, revealing views of jagged granite towers and swirling clouds above the peaks. As you gain altitude, Paiju Peak appears on the horizon, standing like a sentinel above the valley. Stop for lunch along the trail before continuing toward the green meadows of Paiju. After 6–7 hours of trekking, arrive at camp nestled beneath towering rock faces. The sight of the Baltoro Glacier in the distance signals the gateway to the high mountains. Spend the evening relaxing and soaking in your surroundings beneath a starlit sky.

Spend the day resting and acclimatizing at Paiju, a lush oasis at the edge of the Baltoro Glacier. Begin with a slow morning and a warm breakfast, then take short hikes to nearby ridges for panoramic views of the Trango Towers and Cathedral Peaks. This is also a chance to interact with local porters and hear stories of past expeditions. In the afternoon, organize your gear for the glacier trek ahead, as your guides brief you on the terrain and safety tips. As darkness falls, lie back and marvel at the night sky—the clarity at this altitude makes stargazing a true spectacle.

Today, you step onto the Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest outside the polar regions. The trail climbs over ice and rock, weaving through glacial moraines and echoing with the sounds of creaking ice. Towering above are the famed Trango Towers, their sheer granite faces piercing the sky. Take a break on the glacier for a packed lunch, surrounded by a cathedral of peaks. After 7–8 hours of trekking, reach Urdukas—a campsite perched on a rocky bluff offering sweeping views across the glacier. Enjoy a warm meal and watch the sunset bathe the mountains in hues of orange and gold. Sleep comes easy under the silence of the stars.

Continue your journey across the Baltoro Glacier as the scenery becomes more dramatic with each step. Trekking over rugged ice and moraine, you’ll pass beneath the towering faces of Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IV, and Mustagh Tower, surrounded by silence and snow. The terrain requires careful navigation, but the views are a constant reward. Stop along the way for a packed lunch surrounded by sweeping glacial vistas. After 6–7 hours on the trail, arrive at Goro II—a remote campsite set entirely on ice. As the sun dips, watch the peaks glow gold against the frozen horizon, and settle into your tent for the night under a brilliant, star-filled sky.

Start early for one of the most awe-inspiring sections of the trek. Make your way toward Concordia, a vast confluence of glaciers surrounded by giants like Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, and the Gasherbrum group. As you approach, the towering summit of K2 reveals itself, rising above the valley in all its glory. This 5–6 hour trek offers surreal panoramas in every direction, making each step unforgettable. Set up camp at Concordia, often called the "Throne Room of the Gods" for good reason. Spend the afternoon soaking in the staggering 360-degree views, and enjoy a quiet evening with warm food and stargazing beneath one of the clearest skies on earth.

After breakfast, embark on the demanding but unforgettable journey to K2 Base Camp. The route winds over glacial terrain and moraine ridges, bringing you to the foot of the world’s second-highest mountain. Feel the enormity of K2 as it towers overhead, and reflect on the climbers who have dared to scale its slopes. Visit the nearby Gilkey Memorial, a somber tribute to those lost to the mountain. After taking time to explore and take photographs, begin your return trek to Concordia. Arrive by evening, tired but elated, and share a celebratory meal with your team beneath the gaze of the Karakoram peaks.

Today offers a chance to rest, reflect, and explore at your own pace. Begin with a leisurely breakfast while soaking in Concordia’s unmatched surroundings. Those feeling adventurous can enjoy short hikes to nearby viewpoints, such as the striking spire of Mitre Peak or along the icy ridges nearby. Others may prefer to journal, take photos, or simply sit and admire the grandeur of K2, Broad Peak, and the surrounding giants. The quiet majesty of this place leaves a lasting impression. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon and gather in the evening for dinner, storytelling, and one last stargazing session at this legendary site.

Begin your approach to Gondogoro La with a trek to Ali Camp, the final base before the high pass. The route follows the Vigne Glacier, winding through ice fields and rocky ridges. As you ascend, catch incredible views of Laila Peak’s iconic needle-like summit piercing the sky. The glacier terrain is challenging and the thin air at 5,000 meters demands a steady, measured pace. After 6–7 hours, arrive at Ali Camp, nestled in a stark, icy amphitheater. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the early morning ascent. After a safety briefing with your guides, turn in early—tomorrow’s crossing will be the most thrilling part of your journey yet.

Begin before dawn for the most exhilarating day of the trek. With ropes and headlamps, ascend steep snow and ice slopes toward Gondogoro La. The climb demands stamina and teamwork, but at the summit, you’re rewarded with one of the most spectacular panoramas in the Karakoram K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I-IV, and the iconic Laila Peak piercing the sky. After soaking in the views, begin the technical descent into the Hushe Valley. The dramatic shift in landscape from ice to meadows is striking. After 8–10 hours on the trail, arrive at Khuspang, a quiet campsite surrounded by glacial rivers. Settle in, share a warm meal, and rest after a monumental day.

Ease into a more relaxed pace as you descend through the stunning Hushe Valley. The trail winds along the Gondogoro Glacier’s moraine, offering clear views of Masherbrum and the elegant Laila Peak. The icy wilderness gives way to alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and grazing livestock. Interact with local Balti herders along the way, gaining insight into their rugged mountain life. After 5–6 hours of trekking, reach Saicho, a grassy campsite surrounded by granite spires. Take time to relax and reflect on your journey. Enjoy a hearty dinner at camp as the cool mountain breeze carries the scent of the valley’s fresh streams.

Conclude your trek with a gentle walk to Hushe Village. Pass through terraced fields, stone huts, and clear streams as the village comes into view. Greeted by smiling locals, you'll experience the simple rhythm of life in one of the last settlements of the Karakoram. After exploring the village, drive along the Shyok River toward Khaplu. The journey offers dramatic views of cliffs, canyons, and winding waters. Arrive at the historic Khaplu Palace, a former royal residence restored to its original grandeur. Unwind in its serene courtyards, enjoy a well-earned meal, and rest in comfort after days of rugged adventure.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Skardu. The drive follows the Shyok River, offering breathtaking views of the valley’s rugged terrain and distant peaks. Stop along the way for photos and short walks in local hamlets, where the warmth of the Balti people shines through. Arrive in Skardu by afternoon and check into your lodge. Spend the rest of the day exploring Skardu Bazaar for souvenirs, or simply relax and reflect on your trek. In the evening, gather with your team for a farewell dinner featuring traditional Balti dishes, celebrating your journey through one of the world’s greatest mountain ranges.

Weather permitting, take a scenic flight from Skardu to Islamabad, passing over Nanga Parbat and the western Himalayas. Upon arrival, begin your city tour with a visit to Faisal Mosque, an architectural icon nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills. Continue to Lok Virsa Museum, which highlights the diverse cultural tapestry of Pakistan through traditional art and crafts. End the day with a peaceful stroll around Rawal Lake before heading back to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxed dinner and spend the evening at leisure, reminiscing about your unforgettable adventure in the mountains.

After breakfast in Islamabad, begin your day with a scenic drive to Taxila, one of South Asia’s most important ancient cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Taxila Museum, home to Gandhara-era sculptures, relics, and Buddhist art. Walk through the ruins of Sirkap, the Jaulian Monastery, and the Dharmarajika Stupa, where monks once studied and meditated amid stone-carved stupas.

After lunch at a local eatery, drive to Rawalpindi for a hands-on Truck Art workshop. Guided by local artisans, paint your own colorful keepsake in this iconic Pakistani folk style. Discover the stories and symbols behind the vibrant designs that decorate trucks across the country.

Return to Islamabad in the evening for a heartfelt farewell dinner, reflecting on the extraordinary journey behind you.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning with breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a stroll in the Margalla Hills, a visit to Safa Gold Mall, or some last-minute souvenir shopping. Take in Islamabad’s peaceful greenery and modern charm one last time.

Your professional team from Travan Pakistan will ensure a smooth and timely transfer to Islamabad International Airport. As you bid farewell to the land of majestic mountains, ancient civilizations, and heartfelt hospitality, take with you unforgettable memories of towering peaks, cultural wonders, and the resilience of the landscapes and people that made this 22-day adventure so profound.

Your journey may be ending—but the story will last a lifetime.

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