Duration: 60 Days | Region: Baltoro, Karakoram | Grade: Technical / Extreme | Best Time: June – August
Organized by PakJourney – Elite High-Altitude Expeditions in Pakistan
Overview
Gasherbrum IV is widely regarded as one of the most stunning and difficult peaks in the Karakoram, standing tall at 7,925 meters (26,000 ft). The name “Gasherbrum” translates to “Beautiful Wall” in Balti, a fitting title for this majestic peak with its 3,000-meter pale limestone face that dominates the landscape from Concordia.
Situated in the heart of the Gasherbrum massif, Gasherbrum IV is the 17th highest mountain on Earth but is considered more technically demanding than some 8000-meter peaks due to its steep ridges, exposed faces, and relentless mixed terrain.
First climbed in 1958 by a legendary Italian team led by Riccardo Cassin, the summit was reached via the north ridge by renowned mountaineers Walter Bonatti and Carlo Mauri, overcoming fierce technical obstacles in true alpine spirit. Their route remains one of the most iconic achievements in the history of mountaineering.
Key Highlights
- Attempt one of the most technically revered 7000m+ peaks in the world
- Experience the grandeur of Concordia and Baltoro Glacier
- Follow in the footsteps of Bonatti, Mauri, and Cassin
- Traverse glacier, rock, and ice over an alpine ridge
- Expedition support from base camp to summit with full logistics
Why Gasherbrum IV?
- Known as the “Shining Wall” for its massive west face
- A serious mountaineering challenge for elite climbers
- A less-crowded alternative to 8000ers but equally demanding
- Great addition for climbers training for K2 or Everest
- Surrounded by iconic giants like Gasherbrum I, II, Broad Peak, and K2
Expedition Itinerary
Days 1–4: Arrival & Approach
- Day 1: Arrive in Islamabad – hotel transfer
- Day 2: Fly to Skardu (or drive to Chilas if no flight)
- Day 3: Continue road trip to Skardu (if by land)
- Day 4: Free day in Skardu – final expedition prep
Days 5–12: Trek to Base Camp
- Day 5: Jeep to Askoli – last village of Baltistan
- Day 6: Trek to Jhola
- Day 7: Trek to Paiyu
- Day 8: Acclimatization and rest at Paiyu
- Day 9: Trek to Urdukas
- Day 10: Trek to Goro
- Day 11: Trek to Concordia – Karakoram’s amphitheater
- Day 12: Trek to Gasherbrum IV Base Camp
Days 13–48: Climbing Period
- Load ferrying, route fixing, and acclimatization
- Establish Camp I, II, and possibly III depending on conditions
- Summit attempts and rest periods
- All logistics including kitchen crew, porters, communication, and safety backup
Days 49–60: Descent and Return
- Days 49–52: Trek back to Askoli
- Day 53: Jeep ride to Skardu
- Day 54: Free day in Skardu or buffer for weather
- Day 55: Drive to Chilas
- Day 56: Drive to Islamabad
- Day 57: Debriefing at the Ministry of Tourism
- Day 58: Fly to next destination – expedition ends
What’s Included
- Hotel accommodations in Islamabad, Chilas, and Skardu
- Domestic flights or road transfers as per itinerary
- Government briefings, climbing permits, liaison officer
- High-altitude porters, base camp services, technical equipment
- Tents, food (B/L/D), kitchen, and mess services during trek & climb
- Communication system and medical/emergency backup
Who Should Join This Expedition?
- Experienced climbers who have summited 6000m–7000m peaks
- Alpinists preparing for K2, Nanga Parbat, or Everest
- High-altitude film or documentary teams
- Teams seeking extreme challenges in isolated alpine terrain
Take on the majestic challenge of Gasherbrum IV, one of the most photogenic and formidable walls in the world, with the trusted support of PakJourney’s professional high-altitude crew.
