Duration: 58 Days | Region: Karakoram Range, Baltistan | Peak: 8,035 meters
Organized by PakJourney – Your Partner in High-Altitude Climbing Expeditions
Overview
Gasherbrum II (G-II), standing at 8,035m, is the 13th highest mountain in the world and one of the most sought-after 8000m+ peaks due to its relatively non-technical route compared to other giants. Located deep within the Karakoram Range at the northeastern edge of the Baltoro Glacier, G-II is part of the Gasherbrum Massif, which includes six spectacular peaks, two of them above 8000 meters: Gasherbrum I (8,068m) and Gasherbrum II (8,035m).
The first ascent of Gasherbrum II was accomplished on July 7, 1956, by an Austrian team led by Fritz Moravec, with Sepp Larcher and Hans Willenpart, via the Southwest Ridge—still the standard route today.
Known for its climbability, breathtaking views over Concordia, and fewer objective hazards than its sister peaks, Gasherbrum II is considered one of the best introductory 8000m summits for seasoned mountaineers.
Why Climb Gasherbrum II with PakJourney?
- Full logistical support from Islamabad to Basecamp
- Experienced guides and high-altitude support team
- Deep Karakoram knowledge, safety-first approach
- Stunning approach trek through Baltoro Glacier & Concordia
- Opportunity to see K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and more
Expedition Itinerary
Phase 1 – Arrival & Approach
- Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
- Day 2: Fly to Skardu (weather permitting) or drive to Chilas via Karakoram Highway
- Day 3: If flight was not possible, drive Chilas to Skardu
- Day 4: Free day in Skardu (equipment check, final prep)
Phase 2 – Trek to Base Camp
- Day 5: Drive by jeep from Skardu to Askoli (3,000m) – Trek start point
- Day 6: Trek to Jhola (3,200m)
- Day 7: Trek to Paiyu (3,450m)
- Day 8: Acclimatization/rest day at Paiyu
- Day 9: Trek to Urdukas (4,050m)
- Day 10: Trek to Goro II (4,250m) – Panoramic views of Masherbrum & Baltoro
- Day 11: Trek to Concordia (4,600m) – One of the world’s greatest alpine amphitheaters
- Day 12: Trek to Gasherbrum Base Camp (5,000m)
Phase 3 – Climbing Period
- Days 13–48:
- Establish Camp 1 (~6,000m), Camp 2 (~6,400m), Camp 3 (~7,200m)
- Final summit push via Southwest Ridge
- Weather and acclimatization dependent
Phase 4 – Return Journey
- Days 49–56: Trek back via Concordia, Goro, Paiyu to Askoli – Drive to Skardu
- Day 57: Drive to Chilas
- Day 58: Drive to Islamabad – End of Expedition
📌 Expedition Details
- Altitude: 8,035m / 26,362ft
- Route: Southwest Ridge (Standard)
- Climbing Grade: Moderate to strenuous (technically less difficult for an 8000m peak)
- Best Season: June – August
- Requirements: Prior experience on 6000m or 7000m peaks, excellent fitness, glacier travel skills
- Weather: Variable. Summit window typically opens late July
What’s Included
✅ All ground transport in Pakistan (Islamabad–Skardu–Askoli round trip)
✅ Domestic flights (Islamabad–Skardu return if available)
✅ Government permits and peak royalty fees
✅ Liaison officer and porters
✅ Full base camp setup with kitchen, mess tent, sleeping tents
✅ Meals, cooks, and logistical support throughout expedition
✅ High-altitude support staff (as per package)
✅ Medical support and oxygen (optional, add-on)
✅ Assistance with travel insurance and visa
Good to Know
- G-II is ideal for climbers attempting their first 8000m peak
- The Southwest Ridge offers low technical difficulty but requires serious acclimatization
- We recommend bringing your own personal gear; group gear will be provided
- Satellite phone, weather updates, and rescue coordination available