The Four 8000m Peaks Base Camps and Gondogoro La Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of the Karakoram, one of the most dramatic mountain landscapes on the planet.
This ultimate 25-day high-altitude adventure takes you to the base camps of K2 (8,611m), Broad Peak (8,051m), Gasherbrum I (8,080m), and Gasherbrum II (8,035m), all within the iconic Concordia region.
The trek begins in Islamabad and passes through Skardu and Askole before entering the wild Baltoro Glacier.
As you trek deeper into the Central Karakoram National Park, each day reveals increasingly awe-inspiring vistas, from the soaring Trango Towers to the icy walls of K2. This expedition is a true dream for experienced trekkers and mountaineering enthusiasts alike.
Unlike standard K2 base camp treks, this route pushes further into the Gasherbrum Base Camp, then culminates in a daring crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m), offering panoramic views of all five of Pakistan’s 8,000m giants.
It’s a challenging but rewarding circuit that combines glacial exploration, rugged mountain trails, and cultural immersion in Baltistan.
Islamabad International Airport
Early Morning at 6 AM
Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you’ll meet your trek leader for a detailed expedition briefing, route overview, and gear check. If time permits, explore the cultural sites or relax at the hotel. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Take a spectacular mountain flight to Skardu, a gateway town nestled in the heart of Baltistan. On clear days, enjoy aerial views of Nanga Parbat and the Indus Valley. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for rest. If flights are delayed, an alternate overland journey via the Karakoram Highway will be arranged (a stunning but longer drive).
Today is a free day for acclimatization and exploration. Skardu sits at 2,228 meters and helps your body begin the altitude adjustment process. Optional sightseeing includes visits to Shigar Fort, Skardu Bazaar, or the peaceful Satpara Lake. It’s also a day to finalize equipment, shop for supplies, and rest before the expedition begins.
Start your journey into the wilderness with a jeep drive along the Braldu River to Askole (3,000m), the last inhabited village before entering the high Karakoram. The bumpy ride offers incredible views of rocky gorges, hanging glaciers, and remote mountain settlements. Overnight in tents at Askole.
Your trekking adventure begins! Follow the trail past the snout of the mighty Biafo Glacier, crossing rivers and bridges, and passing through narrow gorges. Reach Jhola camp (3,180m), located beside the Braldu River with views of Bakhordas Peak. Expect 6–7 hours of walking.
Continue trekking alongside the Braldu River, passing through sandy paths and scree slopes. Towering cliffs and distant views of the Trango Towers begin to appear. Reach Paiju (3,420m), the last campsite before entering the glacier terrain. This is one of the most beautiful camps on the trek.
A rest and acclimatization day at Paiju is vital for adapting to altitude. Optional short hikes to nearby ridges offer stunning views of Paiju Peak and the beginning of the Baltoro Glacier. Porters prepare food for the coming glacier days, and trekkers can refresh, wash, and reorganize gear.
Start the day by walking on the Baltoro Glacier, navigating across rocky moraine and icy patches. Pass the dramatic Trango Towers and Uli Biaho Spire. Arrive at Khoburtse (3,930m), located on a lateral moraine. A tough but rewarding day, typically 6–7 hours of walking.
Today’s trail continues over glacial rubble and side streams, with breathtaking views of Cathedral Towers and Lobsang Spire. Reach Urdukus (4,050m), a grassy campsite perched above the glacier – one of the few spots with vegetation. This area is often referred to as the “amphitheater of rock towers.”
Cross the upper Baltoro Glacier, navigating a mix of hard ice, rock, and debris. Goro II (4,280m) lies at the junction of the Younghusband and Baltoro glaciers. The camp sits on ice and requires full glacier travel gear. Expect colder temperatures and the surreal surroundings of Masherbrum and Gasherbrum IV.
One of the most rewarding days of the trek! Hike to Concordia (4,600m) – the meeting point of five glaciers and one of the greatest mountain viewpoints on Earth. Surrounding you are K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, and many other giants. Camp beneath towering ice walls at this legendary site.
Make an optional excursion to K2 Base Camp (5,150m), stopping en route at Broad Peak Base Camp and the Gilkey Memorial, which honors fallen climbers. This is the emotional and spiritual heart of the Karakoram. Return to Concordia for the night. This day is long (8–10 hours) and demanding.
After returning from the K2 Base Camp and Gilkey Memorial, this is a well-earned rest day at Concordia. Take time to relax, reflect, photograph the majestic peaks, or take a short acclimatization hike for those heading toward Gondogoro La.
Begin the less-traveled route into the Gasherbrum Valley, leaving the more frequented K2 route. Trek to Shahring Camp (4,500m), a stunning campsite tucked beneath the towering walls of the Gasherbrums. The trail involves glacier crossings and rugged terrain, offering complete solitude and raw wilderness.
Today is a highlight for mountaineering enthusiasts – reaching the base camps of Gasherbrum I and II, two of the most formidable 8000ers. Spend time exploring the camps, watching expedition teams, and soaking in rarely seen angles of these icy giants before returning to Shahring or camping near the base.
Retrace your steps back to Concordia, once again passing through crevassed glacier terrain. It’s a long but rewarding return to the center of the Karakoram. Relax in the evening under the towering shadows of giants.
Begin your approach to Gondogoro La with a trek to Ali Camp (5,000m), the last high camp before the pass. The trail crosses crevassed ice and moraine fields. Early sleep is advised to prepare for the early morning pass crossing. Final gear checks for safety equipment are done here.
Start pre-dawn (1–3 AM) for the ascent of Gondogoro La (5,585m). Use ropes, crampons, and harnesses as needed to ascend the steep, icy slopes. From the top, witness one of the best panoramic views on Earth: K2, Broad Peak, Laila Peak, Gasherbrums, and more. Carefully descend to Khuispang Camp (4,600m) on the Hushe side.
Continue trekking down from Khuispang through the lush, green valley of Hushe. Reach Saicho (3,350m), a peaceful meadow surrounded by wildflowers, streams, and cliffs. After the glacier days, this lush terrain brings a refreshing change.
Today marks the end of the trekking journey. Walk to Hushe village, the gateway to the Gondogoro La side. Meet jeeps and drive back to Skardu town, where a hot shower, soft bed, and celebratory dinner await.
Built-in buffer day in case of delays due to weather, fatigue, or health. If unused, it’s a perfect time to explore local culture, visit ancient forts, or simply relax and enjoy Baltistan’s hospitality.
Take a morning flight back to Islamabad (weather permitting). On arrival, transfer to your hotel. Free time in the capital for shopping, rest, or city tours. If flights are canceled, overland travel via Karakoram Highway will be arranged.
Another buffer day in Islamabad in case of rescheduled flights from Skardu. If not needed, enjoy optional tours to Taxila Museum, Saidpur Village, or the Pakistan Monument for cultural insight.
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight back home. End of services. Depart with unforgettable memories, new friends, and stories from one of the most dramatic mountain treks in the world.
