The K2 Base Camp Trek is a legendary high-altitude adventure and a fully supported 20-day expedition that begins in Islamabad and journeys deep into the heart of the Karakoram Mountains, home to some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.
This epic trek leads you along the Baltoro Glacier and the Godwin-Austen Glacier to Concordia, the meeting point of giant peaks, before reaching the foot of K2 (8,611m), the second-highest mountain in the world.
Throughout the trek, you will traverse remote valleys, towering rock spires, and glacial terrain surrounded by iconic summits like Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, and the Trango Towers.
For those seeking a greater challenge and panoramic reward, the itinerary can optionally loop out via the dramatic Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m), providing a spectacular circuit with unparalleled views of the Karakoram’s 8,000-meter peaks.
Carefully designed with built-in acclimatization days, expert local guidance, and full expedition support, this trek balances adventure with safety.
You’ll be accompanied by experienced Balti guides, porters, and a professional cook team, while staying in high-quality expedition tents and enjoying full-board meals in the wilderness.
Perfect for fit and determined trekkers with a taste for true adventure, the K2 Base Camp Trek is more than just a journey unforgettable experience of standing in the shadows of the world’s greatest mountains.
Islamabad International Airport
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Arrive in Islamabad early in the morning. After arriving and clearing immigration, you’ll meet your trekking agent at the airport and enjoy breakfast together. Use any spare time to relax before your domestic flight or drive options are arranged
Take a spectacular flight (weather‐dependent) from Islamabad to Skardu, about 2,200–2,500 m elevation. If flights are canceled, overland transport via the Karakoram Highway will be arranged (which takes two days)
Today is for acclimatization and final logistics: equipment checks, permit processing, short hikes around town, and visits to Skardu Fort or the bazaar.
Drive in jeeps (~6–7 hours, ~96 km) through Shigar and Braldu valleys to Askole (approx. 3,000–3,045 m), the final village before the trek into the high Karakoram. Set camp under fruit trees and meet the local team
Begin trekking (~6–7 h) across the Biafo Glacier terminal moraines toward Jhola (around 3,100 m), passing the Korofong area and crossing the Braldu River. Camp at the Pakistani Tourism Development Committee–maintained Jhola site
Continue trekking along the Braldu River (~6–7 h) to Paiju (3,420–3,450 m), your first clear view of the Baltoro Glacier and the looming Paiju Peak (6,610 m). The terrain stays rugged but scenic
Spend the day at Paiju resting and acclimatizing. Short walks around the camp and to nearby streams help your body adjust to the altitude before entering glacier terrain
Enter the Baltoro Glacier and trek (~6–7 h) to Khoburtse (approx. 3,795 m), navigating moraine fields and gaining views of peaks like Uli Biaho and Trango Towers
Continue glacier trekking (~4–5 h, ~6 km) to Urdukas (4,050 m), perched above the glacier. Stunning views of Cathedral Spires, Trango Towers, and Lobsang Spire open up from camp
Trek (~6–7 h, ~12–13 km) along Baltoro Glacier to Goro II (≈ 4,250 m). Expect broad glacier valleys and expansive views of Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower
Trek (~6–7 h, ~12 km) to Concordia (≈ 4,600 m), the confluence of Baltoro and Godwin‑Austen glaciers. Surrounded by four 8,000 m peaks (including K2 and Broad Peak), this site is often called the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”
Morning trek of ~4 h (~6 km) to Broad Peak Base Camp (~4,800–5,000 m), then optionally continue to K2 Base Camp (~5,150 m) and return to Concordia (~8 h round trip, ~16 km total). Witness the iconic south face of K2 and the nearby Gilkey Memorial on Broad Peak route
Begin descent via Baltoro Glacier back to Goro II/Goro I (~4,100 m). Easier terrain but longer day (~7 h) as you retrace your steps and reflect on the journey ahead
Descend further (~7 h, ~14 km) to Khoburtse (~3,795 m), enjoying views of Trango Towers and other rock formations from reverse angles
Continue descent (~5 h, ~15–20 km) to Paiju (~3,420 m), bidding farewell to the glacier as moraines thin and the landscape softens
Trek (~6–7 h, ~16 km) from Paiju to Jhola (~3,200 m), leaving Baltoro Glacier behind and returning to river valleys and dry terrain
Final trek to Askole (~19 km, ~6 h) then transfer by jeep (~6–7 h) back to Skardu (~2,230–2,500 m). Celebrate the successful expedition with your team
Back in Skardu, this day is held for any delays on the trek route (e.g. weather, road blocks). Use this time to rest, shower, or explore Skardu town
Morning flight from Skardu to Islamabad (weather-dependent; otherwise a 1–2 day drive). Arrive midday and enjoy a relaxing afternoon or sightseeing in Islamabad
Reserved for delays in flight service; if flying on Day 19 went smoothly, you can explore Islamabad, itinerary options include visiting Faisal Mosque or local markets
Final departure day—transfer to Islamabad Airport for your international flight home, marking the end of your expedition journey