INTRODUCTION
The K2-Gondogoro La Circuit is an iconic trekking route in the heart of the Karakoram Range, offering adventurers a once-in-a-lifetime experience amidst some of the world’s highest and most spectacular peaks. This challenging yet rewarding journey takes trekkers through remote valleys, rugged terrain, and dramatic landscapes, culminating in breathtaking views of K2, the second-highest peak on Earth. The highlight of the trek is crossing the formidable Gondogoro La pass, a high-altitude adventure that rewards with panoramic vistas of towering peaks and sprawling glaciers. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and physical challenge, the K2-Gondogoro La Circuit is a must-do for avid trekkers seeking an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Facts and Figures:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 21/22 Days |
| Best Time to Trek | Mid-June to Mid-September |
| Start/End Point | Skardu, Pakistan |
| Maximum Altitude | 5,585 meters (18,323 feet) at Gondogoro La Pass |
| Trek Grade | Strenuous |
| Trek Distance | Approximately 190 km (118 miles) |
| Main Highlights | K2 Base Camp, Concordia, Gondogoro La Pass, Broad Peak |
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Permits Required | Trekking Permit, Pakistan Visa |
| Average Daily Walking | 5-7 hours |
| Transport | Domestic flight to Skardu, then Jeep to Askole |
| Temperature Range | -10°C to 20°C (14°F to 68°F) depending on altitude |
| Main Peaks Seen | K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, Masherbrum |
| Key Villages route | Askole, Jhola, Paiju, Urdukus |
| Porters & Guides | Local porters and professional guides are essential |
| Physical Fitness | Requires good physical fitness and acclimatization |
| Health Precautions | Altitude sickness prevention, regular hydration, and fitness |
| Packing Essentials | Warm clothing, trekking boots, sleeping bag, first aid kit |
| Communication | Limited; satellite phones recommended |
| Environmental Concerns | Leave No Trace principles, minimize waste |
Trek Details:
| Group Size | Max. Altitude | Duration | Accommodation | Start/End Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6-12 Members | 5,585 meters (18,323 feet) | Approximately 21 Days (Islamabad to Islamabad) | 5-6 days in hotels, 15-16 days camping | Islamabad, Pakistan |
Dates K2 Gondogoro La Circuit 2024:
| Start Date | End Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| June 15, 2024 | July 5, 2024 | 21 Days |
| June 25, 2024 | July 15, 2024 | 21 Days |
| July 5, 2024 | July 25, 2024 | 21 Days |
| July 15, 2024 | August 4, 2024 | 21 Days |
| July 25, 2024 | August 14, 2024 | 21 Days |
| August 5, 2024 | August 25, 2024 | 21 Days |
| August 15, 2024 | September 4, 2024 | 21 Days |
BRIEF TREK ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Islamabad, the starting
point of your incredible journey.
Day 2: Islamabad to Skardu (Flight) 2286m
Catch an early morning flight to Skardu,
where you’ll be greeted by breath taking views of the Karakoram Range.
Day 3: Skardu – Rest and Sightseeing
Take a well-deserved rest after your journey and use the day
to explore Skardu and make final preparations for your trek.
Visit local markets or historical sites like the Skardu Fort.
Day 4: Skardu to Askole (Drive) 3050m, 8 hours
Embark on a scenic drive from Skardu to Askole,
the last village before entering the wilderness of the Karakoram Mountains.
Day 5: Askole to Jhola (Trek) 3200m, 6-7 hours
Start your trekking adventure as you leave Askole and trek towards Jhola,
passing through stunning landscapes and crossing the Dumardo River.
Day 6: Jhola to Paiju (Trek) 3380m, 7-9 hours
Continue your trekking journey as you make your way to Paiju,
a picturesque campsite situated along the Baltoro Glacier.
Day 7: Rest Day at Paiju
Take a day to acclimatize and rest at Paiju,
soaking in the mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 8: Paiju to Khoburtse (Trek) 3760m, 6-8 hours
Resume your trek as you head towards Khoburtse,
traversing rocky terrain and enjoying panoramic views along the way.
Day 9: Khoburtse to Urdukus (Trek) 3980m, 4-6 hours
Continue trekking towards Urdukus,
where you’ll camp amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Day 10: Urdukus to Goro II (Trek) 4400m, 6-8 hours
Trek to Goro II, a high-altitude campsite offering breathtaking views of
the Baltoro Glacier and surrounding peaks.
Day 11: Goro II to Concordia (Trek) 4600m, 6-8 hours
Reach Concordia, the legendary confluence of the
Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers, with spectacular
views of K2 and other towering peaks.
Day 12: Concordia to K2 Base Camp Memorial (Trek) 5000m, 4-5 hours
Trek to the K2 Base Camp Memorial, where you’ll pay homage to
the climbers who have attempted the mighty K2.
Day 13: Trek back to Concordia, 4 hours
Retrace your steps back to Concordia, soaking in
the awe-inspiring scenery one last time.
Day 14: Concordia to Ali Camp (Trek) 5000m, 6 hours
Continue your descent as you trek back towards Ali Camp,
enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.
Day 15: Ali Camp to Khuispang (Trek) 4680m, 8 hours
Descend (cross the Gondogoro La Pass) further as you make your way to Khuispang,
where you’ll camp amidst tranquil surroundings.
Day 16: Khuispang to Saicho (Trek) 3600m, 7-8 hours
Trek towards Saicho, passing through
beautiful valleys and rugged terrain.
Day 17: Saicho to Hushe and Drive to Skardu
Complete your trek as you reach Hushe and then drive back to Skardu,
where you can relax and celebrate your achievement.
Day 18: Contingency Day in Skardu
Use this day as a contingency in case of any
delays or for further exploration of Skardu.
Day 19: Skardu to Islamabad (Flight)
Catch a flight back to Islamabad, where you can reminisce about your
unforgettable adventure in the Karakoram Mountains.
Day 20: Contingency Day for Flight
Another contingency day in case of any flight cancellations or delays.
Day 21: Departure from Islamabad
Bid farewell to Pakistan as you head back home,
carrying with you memories that will last a lifetime.
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