The K2 Base Camp and Concordia trek is a challenging but rewarding experience that takes you to the heart of the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan. The trek culminates at Concordia, a stunning confluence of glaciers surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountains, including K2, the second-highest peak on Earth (8,611 meters).
The trek typically takes around 18-22 days, starting in Skardu, Pakistan. From there, you’ll drive to Askole, the last village on the route, before embarking on a multi-day trek along the Baltoro Glacier. The trek is well-known for its stunning scenery, with towering mountains, glaciers, and crystal-clear glacial lakes.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the trek:
- Duration: 18-22 days
- Distance: Approximately 180 kilometers (round trip)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrums, Concordia, Baltoro Glacier
Many trekking companies offer guided tours to K2 Base Camp and Concordia. These tours typically include transportation, food, camping, and permits. Be sure to be in good physical condition before attempting this trek, as it reaches high altitudes and requires a good level of fitness.
K2 Base Camp and Concordia Trek Facts and Figures
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Distance | 160 km (round trip) |
| Days | 14 days camping, 5 days hotel |
| Total Ascent | 10,000+ meters |
| Highest Altitude | K2 Base Camp – 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) |
| Region | Karakoram Mountains, Pakistan |
| Highlights | K2 (second highest mountain in the world), Concordia (meeting point of five glaciers), Broad Peak, Gasherbrum peaks |
Dates for K2 Base Camp and Concordia Trek
| Start Date | End Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| June 20 | July 10 | 21 days |
| June 27 | July 17 | 21 days |
| July 4 | July 24 | 21 days |
| July 11 | July 31 | 21 days |
| July 18 | August 7 | 21 days |
| July 25 | August 14 | 21 days |
| August 1 | August 21 | 21 days |
| August 8 | August 28 | 21 days |
| August 15 | September 4 | 21 days |
| August 22 | September 11 | 21 days |
| August 29 | September 18 | 21 days |
| September 5 | September 25 | 21 days |
| September 12 | October 2 | 21 days |
| September 19 | October 9 | 21 days |
| September 26 | October 16 | 21 days |
| October 3 | October 23 | 21 days |
| October 10 | October 30 | 21 days |
K2 Base Camp and Concordia Trek Itinerary (21 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
- Arrive at Islamabad International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
- Relax or explore the city at your own pace.
- In the evening, enjoy a briefing about the trek with your guide.
Day 2: Fly to Skardu
- Take an early morning flight to Skardu, enjoying stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Meet your fellow trekkers and mountain guide in Skardu.
- Spend the day exploring Skardu or relaxing to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Day 3: Rest and Preparation Day in Skardu
- Finalize preparations for the trek, purchasing any last-minute supplies or equipment.
- Relax and acclimatize to the higher altitude of Skardu (2,500 meters).
Day 4: Drive to Askole
- Embark on a scenic jeep ride to Askole (3,000 meters), the starting point of the trek.
- The journey follows the Indus River valley and offers glimpses of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5: Trek Askole to Jhola
- Begin your trek with a moderate hike to Jhola Camp (3,100 meters).
- The trail follows the Biafo Glacier and offers views of surrounding peaks.
Day 6: Trek Jhola to Paiju
- Continue trekking along the Biafo Glacier to Paiju Camp (3,420 meters).
- The landscape becomes more rugged, with towering rock faces and glacial formations.
Day 7: Trek Paiju to Khoburtse
- The trail ascends through the Baltoro Glacier moraine to Khoburtse Camp (3,833 meters).
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Paiju Peak and Trango Towers.
Day 8: Trek Khoburtse to Urdukas
- The route follows the Baltoro Glacier, passing through an area known as the “Green Oasis.”
- Reach Urdukas Camp (4,053 meters) surrounded by towering mountains.
Day 9: Trek Urdukas to Goro II
- The trail continues along the Baltoro Glacier, with views of Gasherbrum I and Broad Peak.
- Arrive at Goro II Camp (4,250 meters) for the night.
Day 10: Trek Goro II to Concordia
- Enjoy a spectacular day hike to Concordia (4,600 meters), the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods.”
- Witness breathtaking views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I-IV, and other majestic peaks.
Day 11: Concordia to K2 Base Camp and Memorial
- Hike to K2 Base Camp (5,150 meters), the closest point you can safely get to K2.
- Pay homage at the Gilkey Memorial, dedicated to fallen climbers.
- Return to Concordia for the night.
Day 12: Concordia – Rest Day
- Spend a full day acclimatizing at Concordia, enjoying the incredible scenery.
- You can explore the surrounding areas or relax in preparation for the return journey.
Day 13: Trek Concordia back to Goro II
- Retrace your steps along the Baltoro Glacier, returning to Goro II Camp for the night.
Day 14: Trek Goro II back to Urdukas
- Descend to Urdukas Camp, enjoying the change in scenery as you return to lower altitudes.
Day 15: Trek Urdukas back to Khoburtse
- Continue your descent through the Baltoro Glacier moraine, reaching Khoburtse Camp.
Day 16: Trek Khoburtse back to Paiju
- The trail leads you back along the Baltoro Glacier to Paiju Camp.
Day 17: Trek Paiju back to Jhola
- Descend further, retracing your steps along the Biafo Glacier to Jhola Camp.
Day 18: Trek Jhola back to Askole
- Enjoy the final leg of the trek, returning to Askole, the starting point.
Day 19: Drive Askole to Skardu
- Take a scenic jeep ride back to Skardu, celebrating the completion of your trek.
Day 20: Skardu to Islamabad
- At morning fly to Islamabad according to flight time table
Day 21: Islamabad to fly back home🙂