Tour overview

An exhilarating high-altitude adventure across glaciers and rugged mountain passes, the Gondogoro La Trek offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Karakoram, with majestic views of K2 and surrounding peaks.

Tour Highlights:

  • Breathtaking views of four 8,000m+ peaks
  • Scenic campsites along Baltoro Glacier
  • Technical pass crossing with rope support
  • Cultural immersion in Balti villages

The Gondogoro La Trek is one of the most dramatic and rewarding trekking experiences in the world. Located in the Karakoram Range of northern Pakistan, this route combines the awe-inspiring grandeur of K2 Base Camp with the thrill of crossing a high mountain pass at 5,585 meters (18,323 feet).

The trek begins in the remote village of Askole in the Shigar Valley, then travels along the mighty Baltoro Glacier — one of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions. Trekkers pass through iconic campsites such as Paiju, Urdukas, Goro II, and Concordia, the latter being a legendary confluence of glaciers with panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2 (8,611m), Broad Peak (8,047m), Gasherbrum I (8,080m), and Gasherbrum II (8,035m).

The real challenge — and highlight — comes with the ascent of Gondogoro La, a steep and technically demanding pass that requires crampons, ropes, and proper acclimatization. From the top of the pass, trekkers are rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Karakoram giants in all directions.

After the pass, the trail descends into the pristine Hushe Valley, home to warm Balti communities and lush landscapes that contrast sharply with the stark glacier terrain. The trek ends in Hushe village, from where trekkers drive back to Skardu.

This trek is for experienced and physically fit trekkers who are looking for a true expedition-style adventure. With proper preparation and professional support, the Gondogoro La Trek is a life-changing journey through some of the most powerful landscapes on Earth.

Best Time: June to August
Duration: 18–20 Days
Trek Difficulty: Strenuous
Max Altitude: 5,585 meters (Gondogoro La)

Included

  • All domestic transport (Skardu–Askole–Hushe–Skardu)
  • Tents, meals, and camping equipment
  • Permits and fees (including Gondogoro La Pass permit)
  • Experienced guides, porters, and support staff
  • Safety equipment and emergency backup

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa costs
  • Personal insurance
  • Tips and personal gear

Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad

- Arrival at Islamabad International Airport

- Transfer to hotel, rest and briefing by trek leader

- Overnight stay in Islamabad

Day 2: Fly or Drive to Skardu

- Option 1: Scenic flight to Skardu (subject to weather)

- Option 2: Drive to Chilas via Naran or Besham (if flight cancelled)

- Overnight in Skardu or Chilas

Day 3: Rest or Continue Drive to Skardu

- If flight was cancelled: Continue road journey to Skardu

- If already in Skardu: Day for rest, sightseeing, and permit formalities

- Overnight stay in Skardu

Day 4: Drive to Askole (3,000m)

- 6–8 hour 4x4 jeep drive via Shigar Valley

- Final settlement before trek begins

- Overnight camping in Askole

Day 5: Trek to Jhola (3,180m)

- Approx. 6–7 hours of trekking

- Follow Braldu River

- Overnight camping at Jhola

Day 6: Trek to Paiju (3,420m)

- 7–8 hours of walking along stunning rock walls

- Paiju offers stunning views of Paiju Peak and Baltoro Glacier

- Overnight at Paiju

Day 7: Acclimatization & Rest Day at Paiju

- Acclimatization hike and glacier briefing

- Final preparation for glacier trekking ahead

- Overnight at Paiju

Day 8: Trek to Khoburtse (3,800m)

- 6–7 hour trek along Baltoro Glacier

- Cross multiple glacial streams

- Overnight camping

Day 9: Trek to Urdukas (4,050m)

- Short but tough climb with scenic views

- Urdukas offers stunning views of Trango Towers

- Overnight camping

Day 10: Trek to Goro II (4,280m)

- Full day walking entirely on glacier

- Camp on glacier near Masherbrum and Gasherbrum IV views

- Overnight at Goro II

Day 11: Trek to Concordia (4,600m)

- 5–6 hours trek to the legendary Concordia

- Breathtaking views of K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrums

- Overnight at Concordia

Day 12: K2 Base Camp Excursion (5,150m)

- Day trip to K2 Base Camp and back to Concordia

- Optional visit to Gilkey Memorial

- Overnight at Concordia

Day 13: Trek to Ali Camp (5,010m)

- 6–7 hours of walking over crevassed terrain

- Prepare for next day’s early pass crossing

- Overnight at Ali Camp

Day 14: Cross Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m) – Descend to Khuspang (4,600m)

- Early morning alpine start

- Roped ascent to the top of Gondogoro La

- Spectacular 360° views from the pass

- Steep descent to Khuspang

- Overnight camping

Day 15: Trek to Dalsampa (4,150m)

- 6–7 hour trek along lush alpine terrain

- Gradual recovery from pass descent

- Overnight camping

Day 16: Trek to Saicho (3,350m)

- Descend into green Hushe Valley

- Reconnect with civilization

- Overnight camping in Saicho

Day 17: Trek to Hushe – Drive to Skardu

- Final 2–3 hour easy trek

- Jeep transfer to Skardu (~6–7 hours)

- Hot shower and hotel stay

Day 18: Buffer Day in Skardu (weather or rest day)

- Contingency for delays or poor weather

- Optional sightseeing (Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara Lake)

- Overnight in Skardu

Day 19: Fly or Drive to Islamabad

- Option 1: Flight to Islamabad (weather dependent)

- Option 2: Two-day drive via Chilas

- Overnight in Islamabad or Chilas

Day 20: Departure from Islamabad

- Airport transfer for international departure