Walking tour in Skardu. K-2 Base Camp / Ghondogoro-La / Peak Trek (22 Days). Guided tour in Skardu,Pakistan

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Travel Agency in Pakistan. Nasir Hussain

Travel Agency in Skardu:
Nasir Hussain
Member Since 2008
Country: Pakistan
City: Skardu
Airport Transfer: NO
Hotel Reservation: NO
Translation Service: NO

Select Nasir Hussain's tours

• Rakaposhi and the Kingdom of Hunza valley
• K-2 Base Camp / Ghondogoro-La / Peak Trek (22 Days)

K-2 Base Camp / Ghondogoro-La / Peak Trek (22 Days)

Walking tour in Skardu

Private Tour Guide in Pakistan: Nasir Hussain
Tour Price : Euro 1889
Duration : 22 days

K-2 Base Camp / Ghondogoro-La / Peak Trek (22 Days)

Day 01
Arrive Islamabad Arrive in Islamabad. A member of the Karakorum Explorer staff will meet you outside the customs and immigration area at the airport. This representative will answer questions, brief you on the immediate arrangements, and escort you to the hotel in Islamabad. Discover the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Rawalpindi is an old British -era settlement and Islamabad is the capital city and administrative center built some time after the partition of India in elevation in 1947. The cities are Located at about 1,500 feet in elevation in the hot and steamy plains of Pakistan’s upper Punjab. You may wish to explore Rawalpindi by wandering among its many and varied bazaars, or visit the imposing Shah Fail Mosque superbly situated at the foot of the Margalla Hills. This mosque is one of the largest in the world, with room for 15,000 worshippers inside and 85,000 in the courtyard. This day we will attend a briefing at the Ministry of Tourism. Overnight at Hotel Regency Islamabad.

Day 02
Travel to Skardu. Transfer to the airport and fly to Skardu, (2200-M), the starting point for some of the world’s best mountaineering. If weather conditions warrant or if there are flight delays, we may have to make a two-day drive to Skardu via chilas on the Karakorum Highway. If we do make this drive. We will overnight at Shangrila Midway House, in Chilas.

Day 03
Free day in Skardu, or Arrive Skardu The capital of Baltistan if flown. Tradition says that the town was once called Iskandaria and that it was one of the cities Founded by Alexander the Great. We’ll explore its narrow bazaars and Turquoise blue Sadpara Lake about four miles south of the town. (If we are Travelling by road, we will drive through the narrow gorge of the Indus River to Skardu.) Overnight at Mashabrum Hotel, in Skardu.

Day 04
Drive to Askole (3000m) approx 8 hrs We will travel by jeep with our crew and supplies along the Shigar and Braldu valleys to Askole. Village in Shigar have changed little in over five hundred years; farms with fields of barley, wheat and vegetables surrounded by stone walls and stands of poplar, willow and apricot trees. The apricot is a very important crop in the north, having a multitude of uses to the Balti and Hunzakut people. Villagers greet us as we pass through on the rugged dirt and stone road that leads to Baltoro. As we approach, the landscapes become desert like and once within the sheer valley of the Braldu, it is necessary to cross the river several times by suspension bridges. At various points the road may have collapsed due to erosion and we will transfer the gear across on foot to a vehicle on the other side. The journey may take anywhere from six to twelve hours, With patience, we will arrive at our first camp of the trek. In Askole the villagers grow their own cereals, vegetables and fruit and own large herds of sheep, goats and dzos. Overnight in tents.

Day 05
Trek to Jhola (3200m) approx 6 hrs After considerable organisation of equipment, supplies and porter loads for the journey ahead, we commence trekking towards Jhola. The valley opens out to reveal the Biafo Glacier flowing for more than fifty kilometres from the Hispar La pass to the Braldu. We have our first taste of moraine walking as we cross the snout of the glacier and descend to our lunch spot beside the river at Korofon. We also experience the harsh, stark environment that forms the base of these great mountains. Our route takes us to the confluence of the Braldu and Dumordo Rivers where the infamous flying fox or 'jola' is located. It is still there, however a footbridge has now been built making thepassage much easier by every perspective. (Consider individual passage of 50 to 70 people with loads, compared with walking straight across a steel bridge!). In past years it was necessary to make a high traverse across a rocky face and descend steeply to the riverside of the Dumordo to gain the flying fox. There is now a safe and pleasant pathway above the river. It is this valley, fed by the Panmah Glacier, that was once a passage between Baltistan and Yarkhand across the West Mustagh Pass (5370m) into China. Once across, we descend beside the river to the Braldu and then follow along it's banks to ourcamp at Jhola. Overnight in tents.

Day 06
To Paiju (3450m) approx 7 - 8 hrs The route is mainly at riverside throughout the day, switching up and down somewhat according to the level of erosion and water levels of the Braldu. The Masherbrum Group may be glimpsed to our right via the Xiangang Valley. The range is a vast array of peaks that extend almost the full length of the southern side of Baltoro. Walking conditions are hot and dry and care must be taken to prevent sunburn, As we approach camp several small glacially fed rivulets flow down from the north and the first peaks of the Trango and Uli Biaho group appear on the distant ridgeline. The vast snout of the Baltoro glacier, the fourth longest in Pakistan, is also visible but it's hard to gather a sense of scale from here. Overnight in tents at Paiju.

Day 07
Paiju – rest day An important preparatory stage for our crew and porters. Our goats are slaughtered and roti (breads) baked throughout the day for the journey ahead on the glacier. It is a welcome opportunity for us to relax, read and take photos. Perhaps do some washing and simply enjoy being in the mountains.

Day 08
To Khoburtse (3930m) approx 7-8hrs Making the short approach to the glacier, the great expanse of ice stretching across the Braldu comes into perspective when we see the many porters forming an ant-like trail across it. Ice cliffs tower more than sixty metres above the turbulent waters at the origin of the Braldu River. As a result of its continually changing nature, the glacial moraine may be difficult to trek upon at this stage and our route varies somewhat each time. One should be prepared for a hard day of walking and carry plenty of fluid. Once at the other side, the trail will hug the side and occasionally necessitate a glacier or river crossing. There are now uninterrupted views of Paiju Peak (6610m), Uli Biaho group, Trango Group and Cathedral Group - a majestic, spired collection of mountains that the Karakoram are so well known for. Behind us the steep grassy slopes make high grazing pastures for ibex and the rocks are home to mouse hares (Pikas) and colourful hoopoe birds which forage for food scraps. Overnight in tents.

Day 09
To Urdukus (4050m) approx 3-4 hrs An easier day's walk, following a good trail at the side of the Baltoro with two feeding glaciers to cross enroute. It is Great Trango (5844m), facing eastwards, that is considered the greatest cliff face in the world and the point from which two Australians made a world record base jump in 1992. On the trail, pony trains carrying supplies to army camps are often passed and occasional helicopters overhead provide a reminder of our proximity to the disputed territory of Kashmir nearby. The grassy camp of Urdukas is well located before the mountains and is our last before continuing glacial camps. If the weather is clear at the head of the valley we may see Broad Peak (8050m) and Gasherbrum IV (7930m), two of the most prominent peaks of the region.

Day 10
To Goro II (4350m) approx 7-8 hrs Trek to Goro II. Across the Baltoro glacier we have exciting views of Paiju Peak (6600m), Choricho (6756m), Uli Biaho, Trango Towers, Cathedrals, and Biale (6750m).) .After crossing the green pastures of Urdukas (approximately 4250m, we cross the side crevasses, then walk on the medial moraine of the Baltoro to Biango campsite. Biango, at 4350m., is part of the yermanadu Glacier flowing down from Masherbrum Pass (5360m). From here we have a spectacular view of the snowy triangle of Masherbrum (7821m.), the 24th highest peak in the world. After lunch here we walk another two hours to reach our campsite at Goro II (4350m). Seven to eight hours hiking.

Day 11
To the incredible sanctuary of Concordia (4650m). 4-5 hrs As we make our approach, Gasherbrum IV(7925m) stand guard in the east, with Gasherbrum II (8035m) peering from its right shoulder, More extraordinary mountain views await us at Concordia, where we see K2 (8611m), Broad Peak (8047m), Golden Throne (7300m),Mitre Peak (6017m), and a vast array of other peaks. Overnight in tents.

Day 12
Day excursion to K2 Base Camp (5100m). 10 – 12 hrs K-2 Base Camp. Day hike to K2 Base Camp, as strenuous, 10-12 hours round-trip hike over snow , rock and ice. As we start hiking from Concordia, we cross the crevasses of the Baltoro Glacier, then walk on the Medial moraine of the Godwin-Austin Glacier to Broad Peak base camp. When we look back towards Concordia, we can see the zebra -striped Glaciers sweeping around the corner and disappearing into the Baltoro Glacier K-2 Base Camp normally accommodates five to six mountaineering expeditions during the climbing season. Return to Concordia camp for overnight.

Day 13
To Ali Camp (5020m). 5-6 hrs Ali Camp. The first two hours of the trek are difficult as we leave Concordia and traverse the Baltoro Glacier and its crevasses. One on the Vigne Glacier. It’s a comparatively easy and gradual walk over snow and ice, Mighty Chogolisa (25,110 ft.) stand s guard in the south. Camp overnight at Ali Camp (16,600 ft.), a combination of small rocky platforms between the cliff Face and crevasse. We turn in early, as we have a midnight wake-up call For the departure over the Gondogoro La. Five to six hours hiking.

Day 14
Trek over Gondogoro La (5600m) to Khuispan. 9-10 hrs We leave camp at about 1:00 a.m.to climb the Gondogoro La (5600m). For the first two hours we walk on the lateral moraine to avoid crevasses. As we get closer to the pass we shift on snow until the base of the pass. The final ascent involves a steep walk on snow and, depending on conditions, the use of fixed ropes as well as crampons and ice axe. The views from the top of the pass are unparalleled, with K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I to IV, Masherbrum , and many other mountains appearing at our level. The descent on the Hushe side is steeper, requiring god balance on the rocks. Camp at Khuispan (4700m.), a level green spot that has wildflowers in July and August. Overnight in tents. Nine to then hours hiking.

Day 15
Ghondogoro Peak Climb (5700m). 9-10 hrs Starting in the small hours, attempt the summit of Gondogoro Peak. We leave the base camp (4726 mts.)and climb over rocky ground to ascend the headwall of the Gondogoro valley. the snow field which leads to the summit (5650 mts,) progresses in a series of steep steps which may require ropes to safeguard the ascent. From the summit there are incredible views to Masherbrum and Laila peaks (6614m) to the est and Chogolisa and Hidden peak to the west and east. For those wanting an easier day there is a gentle walk to a nearby side-valley complete with spring water, grass and juniper trees. camp.

Day 16
Rest day at Khiuspan We have a spare day to either enable a second attempt on the peak or relax at Dalzampa, after having 2 long days. Overnight in tents.

Day 17
To Saitcho (3400m). 7-8 hrs Dalsampa. As we leave Khuispan, we make a long traverse of the Gondogoro Glacier, first encountering small crevasses, then hiking over the soft ice of the Glacier. The last half hour is a pleasant stroll though wildflowers, with Commanding views of the Gondogoro Glacier, Yermanadu Kangri (7160m) Masherbrum South (7810m), and the Masherbrum La. As we continue, we gradually leave the icy landscapes and descend to the meadow and pastureland at Saistcho (3400m),. Although we’ve left the icy wilds, we still have tremendous views of the mountains, including (6400m) and Defokhar 6540m. Continuing along the lateral moraine we descend to Shaitcho, a picturesque campsite nestled amongst tamarisks, wild roses and junipers set beside the river. There are views up to the Charakusa Valley towards K7 (6934m). Tonight there is the chance for song and dance as the porters are relaxed and happy with a successful crossing of the Gondogoro La behind them. Overnight in tents.

Day 18
To Hushe (3150m) 4-5 hrsDescend to the Gondogoro River, enjoying spectacular views of K6 (23,881 ft.), K7 (22,744 ft.) and Link Sar (23,094 ft.),. We continue to descend, passing through small summer settlements en route to the green irrigated fields at Hushe. Four to five hours hiking. Overnight in tents.

Day 19
By Jeep to Skardu. Meet with jeeps and drive six to eight hours to Skardu, passing through man y picturesque villages perched on vertical rocks. This part of Baltistan appears greener and more prosperous than on our drive to Thongol. Overnight at Mashabrum Hotel.

Day 20
Return to Islamabad. Fly from Skardu to Islamabad, weather permitting, if flight cancelled drive to Besham on the Karakorum Highway . Transfer to hotel.

Day 21
Explore Islamabad or Arrive Islamabad. A free day in Islamabad follows a short debriefing at the Ministry of Tourism . Optional excursion to Taxila, an archaeological site located about 20 miles from Islamabad . Here lie the remains of three great cities and many Buddhist onasteries dating from 600 BC to 600 AD. Taxila was situated at the juncture of trade routes linking China, India, Central Asia and the West and thus became the cultural cross-roads of the ancient world. If by road today we arrive Islamabad from Besham, hote.

Day 22
Transfer to airport for flight to home. Transfer to airport and fly home from Islamabad.


Short Information about Walking tour 'K-2 Base Camp / Ghondogoro-La / Peak Trek (22 Days)' in Skardu, Pakistan :
Tour Price:	Euro 1889
Duration:	22 days
Tour package includes:
Airport Transfer :	NO
Hotel pick-up:	YES
Drop-off :	YES
Tour Transportation (car, van, limo, boat, etc…):	NO
Food and Drinks :	NO
Other services (fees apply):
Attraction tickets (concerts, theater, museum, circus...) :	NO
Translation services :	NO
Reservations (hotels, restaurants, airline) :	NO
Visa support :	NO
Additional information:
This tour must be booked at least 7 days in advance of your travel date :	YES
Tour groups must include a minimum of 2 passengers :	YES
Tour prices are flexible and based on your requirements :	NO