Introduction: The Grand Traverse of the Karakoram
Welcome to one of the most extraordinary trekking adventures in the world—The Great Karakoram Traverse Trek. This 33-day expedition is not just a hike, it’s a bold journey across glaciers, high mountain passes, and some of the most remote, dramatic, and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.
Combining three legendary treks—Gondogoro La, K2 Base Camp, and the Snow Lake–Hispar La Traverse—this is truly the crown jewel of all Karakoram treks. Beginning from Hushe Valley in Baltistan and ending in Nagar/Hunza, this route showcases the best of Pakistan’s high-altitude wilderness in a continuous loop.
Why the Great Karakoram Traverse is Legendary
- Covers All Major Karakoram Highlights: Gondogoro La (5,850m), Concordia, K2 Base Camp, Biafo Glacier, Snow Lake, Hispar La (5,151m)
- More Than Just Trekking: This is a full-blown expedition requiring careful logistics, endurance, and acclimatization.
- Spectacular Landscapes: From alpine meadows to massive glaciers, high passes, and deep valleys, every day offers a unique scene.
- Glacial Majesty: Trek across two of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions—Baltoro and Biafo.
- Cultural Immersion: Explore life in remote Balti and Hunza mountain villages, learning local traditions and hospitality.
Trek Overview
- Duration: 33 Days
- Camping: 26 Nights
- Hotels: 6 Nights
- Maximum Altitude: 5,850m (Gondogoro La)
- Trek Status: Strenuous
- Region: Karakoram, Northern Pakistan
- Best Season: June to August
- Restricted Zone: Permit required
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1–3: Islamabad to Skardu to Hushe
Arrive in Islamabad, followed by a dramatic flight to Skardu (or 2-day drive). From Skardu, jeeps take you through the wild Shyok Valley to reach Hushe, the starting point of the trek.
Day 4–9: Trek to Gondogoro La via Saitcho and Base Camp
Begin the approach to Gondogoro La with gradual acclimatization. Pass through Saitcho, Dulsung Pa, and Gondogoro Base Camp, reaching High Camp before crossing the mighty pass.
Day 10–11: Concordia and K2 Base Camp
After descending to Ali Camp and joining the Baltoro Glacier, you’ll reach Concordia, the awe-inspiring “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods.” Spend a rest day exploring K2 Base Camp and savoring views of Broad Peak and the Gasherbrums.
Day 12–15: Descent Down Baltoro to Biafo Glacier Snout
From Concordia, trek back through Goro, Urdukas, and Paiju, then reach Karofong, where the transition from Baltoro to Biafo Glacier begins.
Day 16–22: Trek Across Biafo Glacier to Snow Lake
Climb onto the icy expanse of the Biafo Glacier. Move through rugged but majestic camps—Namla, Mango, Baintha, and Napina—until reaching the spectacular Snow Lake (Sim Gang), one of the world’s largest high-altitude glacial basins.
Day 23–24: Cross Hispar La (5,151m) to Jutmal
The climb to Hispar La offers views that are nothing short of mythical. Crossing into the Hispar Glacier, descend to Jutmal for a well-earned rest day.
Day 25–28: Glacier Descent to Hispar Village
Continue down the Hispar Glacier, camping at Bitenmal and Falalingkish, before reaching the charming Hispar Village, nestled at the glacier’s end.
Day 29–32: Drive to Karimabad, Explore Hunza, and Return to Islamabad
Enjoy scenic drives through Nagar and Hunza Valleys, visiting Karimabad, Altit Fort, and Baltit Fort. Then travel to Gilgit and return to Islamabad by flight or road.
Day 33: Departure
Our team will drop you at the airport for your onward journey—ending an epic expedition with stories and memories to last a lifetime.
Physical & Technical Requirements
This is a strenuous expedition-level trek and requires:
- High level of physical fitness and mental endurance
- Comfort with glacier travel, rope use, and steep ascents/descents
- Prior experience at altitudes above 5000m is highly recommended
- Essential gear includes crampons, warm layers, glacier sunglasses, and sturdy boots
But don’t worry—Ahmed, your experienced local guide, will be with you at every step, ensuring safety and support throughout.
Cultural Element: Balti to Hunzai Hospitality
This trek is not just about peaks and passes—it’s also a journey through cultures and traditions. Starting in the Balti Muslim community of Hushe, and ending in the Ismaili Hunza region, the diversity of people, languages, and lifestyles is truly enriching.
Enjoy local food, witness mountain village life, and interact with welcoming hosts in both regions.
Logistics, Permits & Support
This trek lies in a restricted zone, and a permit is mandatory. We at PakJourney.com handle:
- Permits and paperwork
- Tents, kitchen crew, and porters
- Accommodations and transport
- Medical backup and communication
Why Trek With Ahmed from PakJourney.com?
With decades of combined mountain experience, Ahmed and his team are among Pakistan’s most reliable and knowledgeable expedition organizers. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or a group of trekkers, Ahmed ensures safe logistics, deep cultural immersion, and unforgettable mountain moments.
📞 Book Your Expedition Now – Contact Ahmed Directly
Call/WhatsApp: +92 300 5673567
🌍 Visit: www.pakjourney.com
Final Thoughts
The Great Karakoram Traverse is not just a trek—it’s a pilgrimage across the roof of the world. You’ll walk beside ancient glaciers, sleep under starlit skies, and cross some of the planet’s most isolated and beautiful landscapes.
If there’s one trek to do in your lifetime that truly defines “adventure,” this is it.
Join us—and let the Karakoram change you.
Experience Nature. Embrace Challenge. Explore Pakistan.
With PakJourney.com – Guided by Ahmed
