MT. K2 MOUNTAINEERING EXPEDITIONS

MT. K2 MOUNTAINEERING EXPEDITIONS Overview

Mount K2 towers high at 8,611 m/ 28,251 ft. It is also known as Mt. Godwin Austen. The Karakoram Mountain ranges with K2 coordinates 35°52′57″ N, and 76°30′48″ E. The Karakoram range extends between Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan and ends close to the Indian border in Kashmir.

The Mt. K2 straddles the borders between China to the north and Pakistan towards the south. The most accessible and straightforward route for the climb is the Abruzzi Spur. The climb leads to Concordia and Baltoro, a massif moraine and glacier.
The route to Mt. K2 base camp is hidden and enclosed by the giant Muztagh Tower 7,284m/ 23,897 feet. Including the Peak of Gasherbrum IV, it is also the base camp of both K2 and Broad Peak.

The trek to the Karakoram Mountain range and Mt. K2 base camp involves a short domestic flight from Islamabad. To reach Skardu a scenic large town en route to Karakoram Mountain ranges. Then on drive to Askole Village to begin the adventurous trekking toward K2 Base Camp.  

The trail follows through lovely meadows with stunning views of towering snow-capped peaks. The trek of a week with rest days for acclimatization before heading towards the higher region of the Karakoram ranges.

THE ROUTE TO BASE CAMP FOR THE ASCENT OF MT. K2:

Mount K2 Expeditions starts with a short internal flight to Skardu city and then heads north by surface to Askole. The last village and human settlement for a month or more. Askole is the starting point for week-long adventurous treks towards Mount K2 Base Camp. The route leads around isolated and remote corners of Pakistan with few temporary shelters for the cattle herders. 
On reaching the mountain wilderness at Base Camp preparations for the exciting climb and ascent of Mount K2. 

The climb to the summit requires time, with several routes and varied technical challenges. The climb leads on the normal Abruzzi Spur or Southeast Ridge.
It is also the most popular and direct route toward the K2 summit. 

The first ascent by Italian Expedition on July 31st, 1954, the 2nd world’s highest peak. It is located on the northern boundary of Pakistan and southwest China.
In past decades, the mountain has become quite popular among hardy mountaineers for the challenging feat.  

AT BASE CAMP PREPARATION FOR THE ASCENT:

K2 Base Camp is about 8 km/ 5 miles from Broad Peak, another 8,000-meter-high peak. The climb to K2 requires a maximum of four camps after base camp for safe and successful ascents. At the Base Camp enjoy the days ferrying the gear
to respective higher camps. Brown Bear has reserved a maximum of 33 days for the final summit bid, with rest days and climbing exercises.
For better support with acclimatization before heading towards the higher camps, for the summit bid. 

Reaching the Mt. K2 Summit requires a maximum of 4 Camps besides the base camp. To make the climb safe and successful, the last Camp IV is at
7,712 m/25,300 ft. Where climbers can have good rest for the last push to the summit of the world’s 2nd highest peak.

From the summit of Mt. K2, enjoy the grand vista, of the Karakoram Mountains ranges. Standing on top and above other 8,000 meters peaks
of Gasherbrum I-II, with Broad Peak and Nanga Parbat towards the east.
It includes an array of snow-capped peaks with stunning views as far across the border in China and Pakistan. 

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive in Islamabad 666 m/ 2,185 ft. Transfer to Hotel.
Day 02: Rest and preparation in Islamabad. 

Day 03: Fly Islamabad to Skardu 2,438 m. an hour flight. Transfer to the Hotel. 

Day 04: Rest day at Skardu for final preparation & Expedition Briefing.
Day 05: Drive to Askole (3,040 m) 6-7 hrs. From here camping till return to Skardu.
Day 06: Trek to Jhula (3,120m).-06 hrs.

Day 07: Trek to Paiyu (3,215m). -07 hrs.

Day 08: Rest day at Paiyu for acclimatization.
Day 09: Trek to Khuburtze (3,930m/ 12,894 ft)-05 hrs.   

Day 10: Trek to Urdukas (4,130m). -05 hrs.

Day 11: Trek to Goro II (4,350m). 06-07 hrs.

Day 12: Trek to Concordia (4,690m). -05 hrs.

Day 13: Trek to K2 Base Camp (5,150m). 02-03 hrs. 

Day 14-46: 33 days of Climbing Period. 

Day 47: Return trek to Goro II (4,250m). 

Day 48: Trek to Khuburtze.

Day 49: Trek to Mundung. 

Day 50: Trek to Askole.
Day 51: Drive to Skardu and transfer to a hotel.

Day 52: At Skardu, at leisure to collect the gear.

Day 53: Fly back to Islamabad. Transfer to Hotel.

Day 54: Transfer to the airport for departure.

EXPEDITIONS AT A GLANCE: 

Mode of Trek, Climb: Hotels in cities and towns, camping on treks, climbing.
Trekking Grade: From Moderate to Adventurous walks.
Climbing Grade: A Full-Fledged Mountaineering Expedition.
Duration of climb: 32 Nights and 33 Days to and from K2 base camp.
Areas of Trek and Climb: North Pakistan Gilgit-Baltistan.
Trek Climb Duration: 51 Nights and 52 Days Islamabad to Islamabad.
Total duration: 53 Nights and 54 Days from arrival to final departure.

THE BEST SEASONS FOR MT. K2 EXPEDITIONS:

Pakistan like other Asian countries, has four seasons: spring from March to May and summer with monsoon wet months of June to August.
Includes the autumn/fall starts from September to November, and the winter cold months of December to February.

The best seasons for Mt. K2 Mountaineering Expeditions are late spring, and early summer of June to July. Including the autumn/fall, when days are clear for views, treks, and climbs. Spring, from March to May, is a high season and most favorable for pleasant scenic walks and climbs. Days are longer with enough sunshine hours from early 6 a.m. till 6 p.m. It gets overcast with light snowfall, sometimes above 3,000 meters high. It leads to enjoyable walks and climbs, with eye-catching views of the Snowy Mountains throughout the climbing adventure to Mt. K2.

During spring, cold mornings are below -5° to -10° Celsius and in shades, including the nighttime. Most days are fine and clear with strong sunshine and maximum temperatures of + 15° to + 20° Celsius.   

The next best season for Mt. K2 Mountaineering Expeditions and trek is autumn/fall, from September to November. Most days are fine, with crystal clear blue skies for excellent views of the surrounding scenery and snow peaks. Gets dark soon by dusk from 5 p.m. onwards and sunrise by 6 a.m. Cold mornings, late afternoons, and nights with minimum temperatures of minus 10° to –15° Celsius, altitude-wise. Daytime has a maximum of 15° to 20° Celsius, a perfect temperature for the climbing and views.
It can get cloudy with light snowfall sometimes during autumn, late October, and November. Above 3,000 meters, the daytime will be bright with strong UV lights in the spring, summer, and autumn. Good snow goggles, sunglasses, and sunblock creams are essential. Also, wear sun hats and long-sleeved shirts to avoid the strong UV sunlight.

Itinerary Details

Day 01: Arrive in Islamabad 666 m/ 2,185 ft. Transfer to Hotel.

On arrival in Islamabad, Pakistan’s international airport, the group will be received by our counterpart local agents, guides, and staff. Then, transfer to respective hotels and meet all the group members at the hotel for briefing and introductions.

Day 02: Rest and preparation in Islamabad.

At the Islamabad hotel, rest, prepare packing, and check all the gear and logistic support for the expeditions. To obtain the permits and documents for Mt. K2 Mountaineering Expeditions as per the days on the guideline itinerary.
Time permitting, you can enjoy exploring Islamabad to experience the local cultures and customs.

Day 03: Fly Islamabad to Skardu 2,438 m. an hour flight and transfer to Hotel.

According to the scheduled time for the domestic flights to Skardu from Islamabad. The flight heads north towards the mountain, a large town of Skardu, located within a scenic country north of Islamabad. An hour’s flight to land at Skardu 2,438 meters /7,999 feet high, with cool, crisp air in the shadow of rolling hills and mountains. It is also a popular tourist mountain destination in Pakistan and the hub of Gilgit, Baltistan. On arrival, get transferred to the best hotels in the heart of Skardu Town and have time to explore the rich cultures. Experience the mixed society with Balti, Shina, and Wakhi with Burushaki, Khowar, and Domaki hill tribes.

Day 04: Rest day at Skardu for final preparation & briefing.

An ideal place and altitude in Skardu for a free leisure day and checking the expedition’s loads, transported by overland. It takes two days or more to cover
318 km or 198 miles by road from Islamabad to Skardu.
At Skardu, check the gear and preparations for the next day’s drive to Askole on a rough, mountainous road. The rest of the day is for a briefing on the Karakoram Mountain regions and the K2 climb.

Day 05: Drive to Askole (3,040m)-6-7 hrs. From here camping.

Morning is an exciting and scenic drive to cover 126 km/79 miles from Skardu to Askole. The exciting journey begins in the comfort of a 4WD Jeep or similar to reach the last permanent village of Askole. Taking nearly 7 hours on a winding road amidst picturesque scenery heading closer to our destinations.

After a long drive of more than 6 hours to reach Askole for the first overnight in tented camping. Set by our advanced camping crews from Nepal and some native Pakistani tribes of the Karakoram region.

Askole is also spelled as Askoli or Askoly, a small mountain town at 3,040 m/
9,970 feet high. Located in the Shigar of Gilgit and Baltistan regions, the last town en route is Mount K2 Base Camp.

Day 06: Trek to Jhula (3,120m).- 06 hrs.

Enjoying first overnight in a tented camp with an excellent dinner and hearty breakfast served and cooked by our Nepali or local chef. The walk begins from Skole heading further north following the rocky trail with winding ups.
Then walk towards Karakoram National Park entrance at 3057m/10,030 ft.
Where all trekkers and mountaineers have to register before heading further,
as the trail follows a moderate gradual path to Jhula. Covering a distance of about 20 km/12.5 miles taking more than 5-6 hours, of pleasant and scenic hikes.
The camp is set on the best available grassy field or around the meadow, with few shelters for the cattle herders.

Day 07: Trek to Paiju (3,215 m). 6-7 hrs.

The morning following the dirt trail with beautiful views of Paiju Peak stands near the Trango Towers. It is also a group of rock towers that stand around Gilgit Baltistan. It is located north of the Baltoro Glacier, and part of the Baltoro Muztagh, a sub-range of the Karakoram mountain range. On reaching Paigu,
the area is covered with plenty of water and high-altitude shrubs and bushes.
The campsite is set on the best available ground after walking from Jhulu to Paiju, of about 20 km/12.5 miles.
Day 08: Rest day at Paiju for acclimatization.
At Paiju, enjoy a free day to scout the camps en route to K2 Base Camp.
As the course of the glaciers and rivers changes every season, the trekking changes also. The day to enjoy short hiking exploring the scenic views, or relax and marvel at the glorious scenery.

Day 09: Trek to Khuburtze 3,930m/ 12,894 feet-05 hrs.

The adventure walks from Paiju to Khoburtse, on the route of the Baltoro Glacier which changes every year. Due to the movement of the glacier which constantly collapses, the trail might change. It is quite a tough day walking over the rocky moraines of the Baltoro Glacier. For every hard effort rewards with grand views of the Paiyu Peak and the Trango Towers. Covering 14 k.m. distance, with more than
5 hours to Khuburtze for overnight camping. Situated in front of the Trango high ridge, a rocky castle of rocks.

Day 10: Trek to Urdukas (4,130m). -05 hrs.

Trek to Urdukas follows with distant views of the Broad Peak and the Gasherbrum. Compared to the previous day the distance is about 7 km, and takes more than 4 hours. The trail follows through rocky areas of huge boulders and streams to cross. Then reach Urdukas campsite, on a grassy slope, above the Baltoro and commands. It is one of the most exciting views of the rocky mountain, dominated by the nameless rock Tower. It is regarded as the world’s tallest granite wall. The overnight camp is on flat ground with amazing surrounding scenery.

Day 11: Trek to Goro II (4,350 m). 6-7 hrs.

After a short moderate walk and climb to Urdukas, today’s trek is about
12 km. It takes more than 6 or 7 hours, due to rough terrains and rise in altitude. The trek starts entering the heart of the Concordia area, with ice from the Baltoro glaciers. The route follows up to Concordia through the Golden Throne and Mitre Peak. Then enter an exciting and dramatic zone surrounded by the 8,000 meters Peaks, with Broad Peak 8,047m/ 26,401 feet. Includes Gasherbrum and finally the towering peaks of K2, a sheer mountain wilderness for overnight camp at Goro II.

Day 12: Trek to Concordia (4,690m). -05 hrs.

After the camp at Goro II around Baltoro glacier, the morning climb leads towards Concordia. The trail offers grand views of the Gondogoro La, as the walk continues, leading towards the mighty Baltoro. The trail is enclosed by high Muztagh Tower 7,284m/ 23,897 feet and Gasherbrum IV. The walk leads slightly behind the Gasherbrum-I (8,080m/ 26,509 feet). Hence it is called the “Hidden Peak”. The walk follows higher up on Baltoro. The Peak of K2 remains hidden until the day trek ends on reaching Concordia. Overlooking, a breathtaking scenery amidst a wide glaciated area. Enclosed within the 4 eight-Thousander meters mountains. The camp is set right at Concordia on the moraine. Walking distances of 12 km with 4-5 hours of exciting adventurous trekking.

Day 13: Trek to K2 Base Camp (5,150m). 2-3 hrs.

From the camp at Concordia, an early start heading towards crevasses and small rivers created by melting ice. Following the glacier named after Godwin Austin who first declared the height of K2’s. After more than 2-3 hours reaching close to Broad Peak base camp. From here a short climb leads towards the base camp of K2, a mere distance from the Broad Peak. The camp is set in advance by the camping and trekking staff.

Day 14-46: 33 days of Climbing Period. O/N Camp.

Brown Bear Trail allocated 33 days for the climbing to the summit of the
world’s 2nd highest Mt. K2. The climb needs time to consider, as there are several routes with varied technical challenges. The plan is to climb leads on the main route to K2 Summit, it is called Abruzzi Spur or Southeast Ridge.
It is also the most popular and direct way to reach the top of the K2 summit, unlike other different routes.

The first ascent by Italian Expedition on July 31st, 1954, the 2nd world’s highest peak. It is located on the northern boundary of Pakistan and south-west China.
In past decades, the mountain has become quite popular among hardy mountaineers for the challenging feat.

K2 or Godwin Austin, the world’s 2nd tallest peak at 8,611 m/28,250 feet high.

K2 was first climbed by the Italian Expeditions on July 31st, 1954 by A. Compagnoni and L. Lacedelli. Most expeditions for the summit bid, set four camps besides the base camp. This camps on the Southeast ridge at Abruzzi Spur, most mountaineer’s sets four camps before the summit bid. Being well acclimatized, with exercise after an exciting trek for days. The climb leads towards the last camp by passing Camps I, II, and III. Reaches above 6,065 m/ 19,900 ft. 6,700 m/21,980 ft. and 7,254 m/ 23,800 ft. Then set the last Camp at 7,712 m/ 25,300 feet high, after a long haul from High or Camp-I. Offers an incredible panorama of the surrounding Karakoram peaks with views of Southwest China across the border.

Big Day! for the adventure, although being well experienced.

The inclement weather conditions sometimes make the climb much better than in the bad weather. Encountering a few obstacles, before stepping on the K2 summit. The Bottleneck, is one of the most dangerous sections to negotiate, as it is prone to sudden avalanches. The breaking of the Great Serac of ice and snow can slide crashing down to the gully and funnel the Bottleneck.
After precautionary measures, and being equipped with the right tools and support of the fixed ropes. After hours of vigorous climbing reach the top of the world’s 2nd tallest peak of the K2 summit. Breathtaking views of the giant snow mountains surround the top, after an overwhelming experience.
Then descend to Camp II for rest and enjoy the victory with warm refreshing drinks and snacks.

Head down towards the base camp of K2, on Days 30-31, all members should be at the base camp. Checking all the climbing gears, packing on mules or to be carried by porters. Then take a rest, and prepare for the long journey to Islamabad. Reserved two days to regain the strength and energy after the big climb of 5 world’s highest peaks. The contingency days allow climbers to check and record the details of the climb. Then get busy packing, cleaning the base camp, and carrying the garbage to respective dumping sites.

Day 47 to 51: Return trek to Skardu, via Goro II via Khuburtze, Mundung and Askole. Taking 5 days to reach Skardu trek and drive.

Retrace the long journey back to Skardu, after a victorious climb of K2, the walk follows the same routes. Walking down with ups to reach Askole and overland journey by 4WD Jeep to Skardu. Then enjoy the comfort of good hotels or guest houses, with a day at Skardu to collect and check all the expeditions’ gear before heading to Islamabad.
Day 52: At Skardu – Expedition De-briefing
A free day to receive all the gears carried by mules, porters, and on trucks or four-wheel drives. At Skardu for last-minute briefing regarding the climb and health of all the climbers and staff.

Day 53: Fly back to Islamabad. Transfer to Hotel.

As the time for an hour flight to Islamabad from Skardu small airport.
Transfer to the air terminal, bid farewell to trekking and camping staff,
board the plane. Enjoy the short scenic flight, as it lands at Islamabad Airport, and transfer to your hotels.

Day 54: Transfer to the airport for departure.

Departure from the country of the high Karakoram Mountain ranges, after a wonderful experience. Fond memories of K2 Expeditions, our counterpart agents from Pakistan, transfer you to the airport on time. Enjoying, an exciting and wonderful adventure to Mt. K2, the world’s 2nd highest peak.