Gasherbrum II Expedition

Highlights of the Trip

Activity

Mountaineering

Best Season

July-August

Max Elevation

8,035 meters

Difficulty

High

Location

Karakoram Region

Transpotation

Flight - Jeep - Trek

Duration

50 Days

Group Size

2-15

Starting Date

None

Accommodation

Hotel - Lodge - Tent

Price

$ 30,000

Food

Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

Overview

Gasherbrum II, the 13th highest mountain in the world at 8,035 meters, is one of the most accessible 8,000-meter peaks in the Karakoram. Often called the “easiest” of the 8000ers, it still presents serious altitude and weather-related challenges. First climbed in 1956 by an Austrian team, it lies close to its sister peak, Gasherbrum I, and shares the same approach through Concordia and the Baltoro Glacier. With its relatively straightforward climbing route and stunning alpine setting, Gasherbrum II is considered an ideal choice for climbers looking to summit their first 8,000-meter peak.

Detailed Itinerary

Outline Itinerary:
• Day 01: Arrival in Islamabad; transfer to hotel.
• Day 02: Expedition briefing and permit formalities.
• Day 03: Fly to Skardu (weather permitting) or drive via Karakoram Highway.
• Day 04: Rest and final expedition preparations in Skardu.
• Day 05: Drive to Askole (last accessible village).
• Day 06–12: Trek to Base Camp via Jhola, Paiyu, Urdukas, Goro II, and Concordia.
• Day 13: Arrive at Gasherbrum Base Camp (approx. 5,000m).
• Day 14–38: Climbing period with establishment of Camp I, Camp II, and Camp III, summit attempt, and acclimatization.
• Day 39: Return to Base Camp.
• Day 40–44: Trek back to Askole via same route.
• Day 45: Drive to Skardu.
• Day 46: Fly or drive to Islamabad.

Day 47: Debriefing and rest in Islamabad.
• Day 48: Final departure.
Note: Flexibility is required due to weather, logistics, and team condition.

Include

Inclusions:
• All airport transfers and domestic flights in Pakistan.
• Hotel accommodation in Islamabad and Skardu with breakfast.
• All permits including climbing and trekking permits.
• Full board (meals) during trek and expedition.
• Tented accommodation at Base Camp and higher camps.
• Experienced high-altitude guides (Sherpa or Pakistani).
• Base Camp support crew and kitchen staff.
• Porters for gear transportation.
• Group climbing gear (fixed ropes, tents, kitchen gear, etc.).
• Backup oxygen cylinder and mask for emergency use.
• Satellite phone for emergency contact.
• Medical and first aid kit.
• Completion certificate.

Exclude

Exclusions:
• Lunch and dinner in Islamabad and Skardu.
• International airfare to and from Pakistan.
• Pakistan visa fees.
• Personal climbing gear and clothing.
• Rescue and evacuation insurance (compulsory).
• Helicopter evacuation (if needed).
• Tips and bonuses for porters and staff.
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, calls, internet, etc.).
• Delays due to weather or unforeseen political or logistical circumstances.

Gear Checklist

Clothing & Equipment Checklist:
Base Layers:
• Moisture-wicking thermal underwear.
Insulation Layers:
• Fleece jacket or down mid-layer.
• High-quality expedition down jacket.
Outer Layers:
• Waterproof shell jacket and pants.
• Down suit for summit days.
Headgear:
• Insulated hat, balaclava.
• Glacier sunglasses or goggles.
Gloves:
• Light liner gloves.
• Warm insulated gloves.
• High-altitude mittens.
Footwear:
• Triple-layer mountaineering boots for 8000m peaks.
• Approach trekking boots.
• Woolen and liner socks.
• Gaiters.
Climbing Gear:
• Harness, helmet.
• Ice axe and crampons.
• Ascenders, carabiners, belay device.
• Personal rope (optional).

Customization:
We offer custom expedition logistics and support for Gasherbrum II, either as a standalone climb or combined with Gasherbrum I. For bespoke expedition planning, contact info@himalayanmountaineering.com.

Emergency Note:
In case of emergencies, helicopter evacuations from Concordia or Askole can be arranged, but all related costs must be covered by the client. Travel and evacuation insurance is mandatory for all participants.

For updated details, logistics support, and exact scheduling, please contact Himalayan Mountaineering Expedition directly.