Concordia, K-2 Base Camp Trek
Ranked among the top ten classic hikes in the world, Concordia K-2 Base Camp Trek is a wilderness hike that is a lifetime experience for mountain lovers. Adventure enthusiasts who have already undertaken the trek believe that the beauty of the Karakoram Mountains is unique and beyond description. Starting from Islamabad, we head towards Skardu, the entry point of the mighty Karakorams. Driving by jeeps to Askole, a remote and last dwelling, will be our first camping day. Jhula and Paiju will be following campsites. Paiju, a green oasis under the shadows of Paiju Peak, has the first view of the immense Baltoro Glacier. Urdukas is an impressive campsite with a panoramic view over the Baltoro and the dramatic rock spires on the opposite side of the glacier. The scenic view of these towering giants like Trango Towers, Masherbrum, and Muztagh Tower is all surrounded by the dramatic backdrop of the Karakoram Range. Goro II, at about 4300m, is on the glacier where ledges have been levelled out for the tents; there are views of Muztagh (7,270m), Masherbrum (7,800m) and Gasherbrum IV. We head to Concordia, “the throne room of the mountain gods,” as described by Galen Rowell, a famous climber and writer, to create a surreal 360-degree panorama that captivates all who venture here. It is the junction of Baltoro and Godwin Austin Glaciers with several other tributaries, serving as the base for the giants of Karakorams. This location is the base for exploring some of the world’s highest peaks, including K-2 (8,611 meters, 2ndhighest in the world), Broad Peak (8,047 meters), Gasherbrum IV (7,925 meters), Baltoro Kangri (7,312 meters), and Chogolisa (7,665 meters) etc.
Despite its challenges, the K2 Base Camp Trek does not require technical climbing skills, making it accessible to trekkers with good physical fitness and a spirit of adventure. The terrain primarily consists of rubble and stone paths, with daily trekking distances averaging 14-16 kilometres, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours per day. This gradual ascent allows for proper acclimatization to the increasing altitude. Beyond its natural beauty, the trek offers a profound cultural immersion into the life of the Balti people. Their warm hospitality and rich traditions add a unique dimension to the adventure, enriching the trekking experience. The best time for the K2 Base Camp Trek is from June to August, during the summer months when weather conditions are most favorable, allowing for clear skies and moderate temperatures. The K2 Base Camp Trek is not just a physical challenge but a journey through some of Earth’s most awe-inspiring and remote landscapes. It offers trekkers a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Karakoram Range, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers, making it a must-do for adventure enthusiasts seeking unforgettable experiences in Pakistan’s wilderness.
Trip Facts
Day to Day Itinerary
Trip Name: K-2 Classic Trek (Baltoro K-2 Base Camp Trek)
Trekking Zone: Restricted Zone
Main Visa Category: Mountaineering & Trekking
Sub Visa Category: Trekking
Permit requirement: A trekking permit is required as the trek falls in the restricted zone
PASSPORT AND VISA
Participants of all nationalities are required to have a valid passport with six months remaining validity and a visa for Pakistan. Visas must be applied online at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/
You will need a letter of invitation (LOI) which our office will provide along with the requisite documents including Adventure Tours Pakistan license copy and National Identity Card of the host.
VALIDITY OF VISA
Usually a trekking visa is issued for three months with 30 days validity. Do note that the 30 days’ validity starts on the date of arrival. For example your visa is issued on March 15 and valid for three month but you arrive Pakistan on June 20th, your visa will expire on July 19th. In case your stay is longer than 30 days, an extension is possible after arrival in Pakistan.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND A VALID VISA FOR PAKISTAN.
TREKKING PERMIT
As the K-2 Classic Trek falls in the restricted areas, a trekking permit is required and the security clearance process usually takes 30-45 days. It is high recommended to apply at least 60 days in advance to avoid delays. Your application for visa is linked with the application for the trekking permit.
PERSONAL INSURANCE
As the trip is of strenuous nature, it is a mandatory requirement to have an insurance policy for accidents, medical and helicopter evacuation covering at least $ 30,000. You can choose an insurance company of your choice but SafetyWing Travel Insurance has great benefits and coverage. They provide online services without hassles.
DRESS
In the cities like Islamabad, there is no problem if you are in western dress but in remote regions including Skardu, you will need to have a full dress (covering your body)
LOCAL CREW
The local crew includes a licensed guide, cook, assistant cook, porter’s Sirdar, and porters. Our guides and cooks are well-experienced, strong, supportive and friendly. They performed their duties with full dedication to facilitate our valued clients.
GROUP JOINING INSTRUCTIONS
The tour starts and ends in Islamabad. Adventure Tours Pakistan Pakistan, guide or representative will be at the airport to pick the clients with the welcome signboard of Adventure Tours Pakistan. We can also make reservations for pre and post nights if anyone arriving early or departing late.
HIGH ALTITUDE HIKING
The K-2 Base Camp Trek (the Classic Trek) is rated as a strenuous hike on the rocky, glacial terrain and some exposed section makes a tough trek, but provides some of the most stunning views in the world. All participants must be physically fit and capable of walking for about 6-8 hours a day as the highest point of the trek is above 5150m. However, the itinerary is designed in such a way that provides acclimatization by gaining height gradually, which allows the body to adjust to reduce air pressure at higher altitudes. For more details you can click on the link below.
https://www.backpacker.com/skills/backpacking-fitness/how-to-hike-strong-at-altitude/
PERSONAL GEAR
A list of personal equipment is provided bellow you can make personal kit according to your needs.
LOCAL TIME
Pakistan falls in one time zone, which is Pakistan Standard Time (PKT). This is UTC+05:00 — that is, five hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time.
ELECTRICITY
The power plugs and sockets in Pakistan are of type C and D. Type C plug has two round pins & the type D plug has three round pins arranged in a triangular pattern. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. It is recommended to bring power plug adapter.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
Major currencies including US Dollars, Euro & GB Pounds can be exchanged in Islamabad and Skardu as well. However, the exchange rate in Skardu is not as good as compared to Islamabad. You can check the foreign currency exchange rate at https://www.nbp.com.pk/RateSheet/index.aspx . The exchange rates in the open market differs from the bank rate.
TIPS
Tip for a guide, cook, assistant cook, Porter’s Sidar and porters are customary. However, it is absolutely at the discretion of clients to decide about the amount of tips.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Airlines offering domestic flights including PIA offer 20 kg (1 piece) on a domestic flight in economy class to/from Skardu. For an extra baggage (1 piece up to 20 kg), they charge PKR 5800 currently which is subject to change.
EQUIPMENT (SHOPPING/RENTAL)
Personal clothing, packing items or bags, personal medical kit, personal trekking gears can be purchased/rented in Skardu. Some of the items may not be available on rent and need to be purchased. Please confirm with us in advance.
DEPARTURE TAXES
No departure taxes are applicable at Pakistan international airports. However, you can check with your concerned international carrier before travelling.
MEALS
3 meals a day will be provided during the hotel stay except for lunches and dinners in Islamabad.
FOOD ON TREKKING
We do cater any special food requirements during trekking if any client has food allergies/intolerances or special dietary needs like vegetarian and vegan etc.
BREAKFAST
Below is the list of major items we provide in the breakfasts with a combination of four or five items a day.
LUNCH
Below is the list of major items we provide at the lunches with a combination of three to four items a day during trekking.
DINNER
You will have a complete dinner with soup, two curries plus rice or Spaghetti or Macaroni & chapatti. There will be a dessert & green tea and coffee etc. as well.
DESERT
Any intolerance or allergies to the food items must be communicated in advance. If you have any personal choices that we can meet will also be provided.
DRINKING WATER
It is highly recommended to use mineral water in the cities and boiled/ filtered or purified water during the trekking. Do not drink running water from the rivers and streams.
WEATHER
The weather in Islamabad is extremely hot during the summer season. You can expect a temperature between 30-40 degrees centigrade. If you travel by road to Skardu, expect the weather to be very hot as well. In Skardu, the temperature in Skardu to lower than Islamabad. However, day time is warm. Expect 25-38 degrees centigrade. During the trekking on sunny days, expect the weather to be warm without any shade. Especially during the trek between Askole/Jhula to Urdukas, the weather will be extremely hot on those days. It is advised to have proper sun protection in the form of an umbrella, a wide-brim hat, and plenty of sunscreens. However, the weather in the nighttime is cooler above 4000 meters, you can even expect the temperature to get down to below zero and experience snowfall.
WHO SHOULD DO THE TREK?
K-2 Base Camp hike is a wilderness trek, with no access to towns/villages and limited inhabitants during the whole duration (two weeks) of the trek. You will hike as high as 5150 meters (K-2 Base Camp) and the trekking route is strenuous with river crossings, uneven terrain, glaciers, and boulders on the way. The trek is recommended for individuals with physical fitness and in good health. And should also know the techniques of using trekking equipment.
BOOKING & DEPOSITS
The trip can be reserved upon as an initial deposit of 30% at the time of booking. The initial deposit shall not be refunded but can be transferred for a future trip.
FINAL PAYMENT
We accept full trip cost at 30 days prior to the commencement of the tour. The payments are only accepted in cash/bank transfers in bank account. We don’t accept payments through credit cards. Please do not accept any invoice which is not generated by Adventure Tours Pakistan and sent through official email ID.
1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Adventure Tours Pakistan or the agent through which the trip is booked. Cancellation charges shall be levied as follows:
2) There shall be no refunds if you leave the trip for any reason whatsoever, either voluntarily or involuntarily, after the trip has begun. No refunds shall be made for any meals, accommodation or services not utilized. In such situations, the client will pay extra accommodation and transportation cost.
WHY BOOK WITH ADVENTURE TOURS PAKISTAN?
Adventure Tours Pakistan is one of the leading Destination Management and adventure Tour Company with over 35 year years’ experience. ATP has a chequered history handling more clients on this trek than any other adventure outfitter in Pakistan. We always strive to focus on the safety, and comfort of our valued clients without any discrimination.
OUR VALUES
We have a designed set of values for our company which guides us to deliver the best travel experience to our clients, these values include:
RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS COMMUNITY
We are aware of our responsibility towards the local communities, their customs, and the environment. Therefore, a part of our income is specifically allocated towards humanitarian activities including student support, skill development programs & micro credit loans to women without interest etc. Details can be provided on request.
We have worked with both local & foreign clients, and are proud to say that Adventure Tours Pakistan has competitive advantage over other service providers. We maintain a balance between cost and quality. Our business philosophy, and the secret to our success, is “LESS PROFIT EQUALS MORE CLIENTS AND MORE CLIENTS EQUALS MORE PROFIT’.