Duration: 60 Days | Region: Baltoro Glacier, Karakoram | Grade: Technical / High-Altitude Climb | Best Time: June – August
Organized by PakJourney – Premier Expedition Services in the Karakoram
Overview
Rising to 7,952 meters (26,089 ft), Gasherbrum III lies silently between its taller siblings, Gasherbrum II and IV, in the heart of the Karakoram Range. For many years, it held the title of the highest unclimbed peak in the world—until it was summited in 1975 by a Polish expedition led by Wanda Rutkiewicz, one of the most celebrated female mountaineers in history.
Despite being the 15th highest mountain in Pakistan, Gasherbrum III remains less visited, making it a true hidden gem for elite climbers who seek technical challenge and exploratory mountaineering without crowds.
The route involves glacier travel, technical snow and ice, and ridge climbing—ideal for climbers with 7000m+ experience who are preparing for major 8000m climbs like K2 or Everest.
Why Climb Gasherbrum III?
- Technically rewarding and rarely attempted
- Offers remote alpine climbing experience
- Part of the legendary Gasherbrum massif
- Stunning views of G-I, G-II, G-IV, and Broad Peak
- Follow in the footsteps of Wanda Rutkiewicz and pioneering climbers
Historical Significance
In 1975, the Polish expedition, led by Wanda Rutkiewicz, and including climbers Alison Chadwick, Janusz Onyszkiewicz, and Krzysztof Zdzitowiecki, successfully summited the mountain. Though often cited as an “all-ladies expedition,” the team included male climbers in support roles. The ascent was a milestone in women’s high-altitude mountaineering.
Expedition Itinerary
Days 1–4: Arrival and Briefing
- Day 1: Arrive in Islamabad – transfer to hotel
- Day 2: Fly to Skardu or drive to Chilas (weather dependent)
- Day 3: Drive from Chilas to Skardu
- Day 4: Free day in Skardu – permit check and briefing
Days 5–12: Trek to Base Camp
- Day 5: Jeep to Askoli
- 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 – world’s greatest mountain amphitheater
- Day 12: Trek to Gasherbrum III Base Camp
Days 13–48: Climbing Period
- Load ferrying, high camp establishment (C1, C2, possibly C3)
- Acclimatization rotations and summit push (weather dependent)
- Climb technical ridges and alpine ice sections
- Base camp services, guides, and porters fully supported
Days 49–60: Return and Departure
- Days 49–52: Trek back to Askoli
- Day 53: Jeep to Skardu
- Day 54: Free day in Skardu or buffer
- Day 55: Drive to Chilas
- Day 56: Drive to Islamabad
- Day 57: Debriefing at Ministry of Tourism
- Day 58: Fly home – end of services
What’s Included
- Domestic flights or road transport
- All hotel accommodation (Islamabad, Skardu, Chilas)
- Trekking and expedition permits
- Liaison officer and government processing
- Meals (B/L/D), camping equipment, kitchen crew
- Porters and climbing staff
- Base camp communication and safety setup
Who Should Join This Expedition?
- Experienced 6000m+ climbers seeking a 7000m technical peak
- High-altitude climbers preparing for 8000m summits
- Alpine climbing teams aiming for rare objectives
- Expedition teams interested in historic routes with low footfall
Join PakJourney and be among the few elite mountaineers to stand atop Gasherbrum III, where history meets challenge in the breathtaking heart of the Karakoram.
