Gasherbrum II Expedition 8,035m – Climb One of Pakistan’s Great 8000ers

Gasherbrum II Expedition – 8,035m

The Gasherbrum II Expedition is an extraordinary high-altitude mountaineering adventure in the heart of Pakistan’s Karakoram. Rising to 8,035 meters (26,362 feet), Gasherbrum II is one of the world’s fourteen 8,000-meter peaks and the 13th-highest mountain on Earth.

Known as G2 and historically identified as K4, Gasherbrum II stands near the upper Baltoro Glacier in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The mountain offers a demanding but comparatively straightforward route for experienced high-altitude climbers, making it an important objective for mountaineers seeking to climb an 8,000-meter peak in the Karakoram.

Imagine Karakorum Tours organizes professionally supported Gasherbrum II expeditions in Pakistan, combining experienced local mountain staff, logistics, porters, acclimatization support and expedition planning for international and Pakistani climbers.

The mountain Gasherbrum II/G2, sometimes referred to as K4, is 8,035 meters (26,362 feet) above sea level, making it the thirteenth highest mountain in the world. Situated in the Karakoram range, this mountain is the third-highest peak in the Gasherbrum massif. It marks the border between Xinjiang, China, and Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan. Fritz Moravec, Josef Larch, and Hans Willenpart led an Austrian expedition team that made the first climb of the mountain on July 7, 1956.

Situated in the neighborhood of K2 and Broad Peak in the Karakoram mountain range of Pakistan, Gasherbrum II is the thirteenth tallest mountain on Earth. The Gasherbrum II Expedition is regarded as the simplest and most secure route up The Karakoram’s 8,000-meter peaks. It shares the same base camp and is a component of the Gasherbrum massif. Mountaineers who wish to try Gasherbrum I–II must pay an extra royalty charge.

Gasherbrum II Expedition 2024-25

Our Gasherbrum II Expedition commences from Islamabad, the closest international airport for embarking on an adventure holiday in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountains. Upon arrival, our representative will warmly welcome you at Islamabad International Airport and transport you to the group hotel. Take some well-deserved rest to recover from your long flight, and later in the evening, we’ll convene over dinner to provide you with a detailed briefing about your upcoming Gasherbrum II Expedition. You’ll spend the night in Islamabad.

The following day, you’ll embark on a breathtaking 45-minute mountain-view flight to Skardu, Baltistan. During this flight, you’ll witness stunning sights, including the magnificent Nanga Parbat, K2, and other remarkable Himalayan & Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan. Upon reaching Skardu, check into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for preparations. Skardu serves as the capital of Baltistan and acts as a gateway to prominent peaks like K2, Deosai Plato, Broad Peak, Masherbrum, Gasherbrums, Pastore Peak, among others. Here, trekkers and climbers usually make final purchases for their mountain expeditions.

Why Climb Gasherbrum II?

Gasherbrum II is an exceptional choice for climbers looking for a serious 8000m expedition in Pakistan.

The expedition combines technical high-altitude climbing with one of the most spectacular trekking approaches in the world. The journey begins around Skardu before continuing by road to Askole and then trekking through the legendary Baltoro Glacier toward the Gasherbrum region.

Along the approach, climbers experience some of the greatest mountain scenery in the Karakoram, including dramatic views of the Trango Towers, Cathedral Peaks, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum massif and K2 region.

Gasherbrum II’s base camp is a 5-6 hour walk from Concordia, positioned at the junction of the Godwin Austen glacier and Baltoro glacier. The base camp lies just below the Conway Saddle and serves as the initial route for reaching several major Karakoram peaks. Your climbing journey for Gasherbrum II will begin from here. Throughout your climbing period, you’ll camp at the Gasherbrum base camp, accompanied by our mountain guide, chef, and support staff. Following the climbing phase, you’ll follow the same itinerary back to Islamabad.

As an optional return trip, you may traverse the 5600-meter Gondogoro La and experience the beautiful green Hushe Valley before returning to Skardu. Spend a night in Skardu and, weather permitting, take a flight back to Islamabad. After another night in Islamabad, we’ll arrange your transfer to Islamabad Airport for your return flight home.

Approach for the Expedition

Following is the strategy for expedition / climbing period

1. Gasherbrum Base Camp (5300m) to Icefall to Camp 1 (5900m):

This leg of the journey takes approximately 7 to 8 hours.

2. Camp 1 (5900m) to Camp 2 (6550m):

This segment typically requires 5 to 7 hours to traverse.

3. Camp 2 to Camp 3 (6900m):

The ascent from Camp 2 to Camp 3 usually takes about 6 to 8 hours.

4. Camp 4 (7300m) – Situational:

The duration and necessity of Camp 4 are dependent on various factors and conditions.

5. From either Camp 3 or Camp 4 to G2 Summit (8035m):

Ascending from either Camp 3 or Camp 4 to reach the Gasherbrum II Summit at 8035 meters generally takes more than 10 hours.

6. Return to Camp 2 from the summit and back to Base Camp the next day.

Please note that climbing durations and routes are approximate and can vary based on weather conditions, individual climber pace, and other situational factors. Safety measures and proper acclimatization are crucial during such high-altitude climbs.

Expedition Packages

Additionally, apart from the Gasherbrum 2 expedition, we provide other expedition packages that are less challenging and serve as ideal training grounds for novice climbers seeking experience before tackling more demanding peaks. If you’re interested in exploring our expeditions for peaks below 7000 meters or those exactly at 7000 meters, click the link provided to access detailed information. We are confident that you’ll be delighted with your choice to conquer these remarkable natural wonders.

Gasherbrum II Expedition Cost

Throughout the year, we organize Gasherbrum peak expeditions, providing participants with the flexibility to either join our established departure dates or tailor a customized expedition. Comprehensive information about Gasherbrum expedition packages and the associated costs per person is meticulously presented in the table below.

The listed prices in the table specifically pertain to our fixed departure schedules, ensuring transparency and clarity in our offerings.

Private Groups

If you would like to inquire about our prices for full board or base camp services for individual or group travel related to the Gasherbrum II expedition, the table below contains that information. Please be aware that private parties are the only ones eligible for these pricing.

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Departure

Highlights

1. Enter the heart of the fascinating Karakoram region by setting out on the Gasherbrum II Expedition.

2. On the flight to Skardu, take in breathtaking aerial views of Nanga Parbat and K2, which will set the mood for an incredible journey.

3. Discover the rich history and enchantment of Pakistan’s Baltistan, an ancient Himalayan monarchy.

4. Experience the warmth and culture of the warm-hearted Balti people as you travel between the magnificent Godwin-Austen and Baltoro Glaciers.

5.From the expansive viewpoint of Concordia, watch the captivating dawn illuminate K2 and Broad Peak.

6. Climb Gasherbrum II, the most accessible 8000-meter peak in the Karakoram, which is a demanding but worthwhile ascent.

7. Experience the beautiful, unspoiled scenery of the Karakoram and Baltoro Mountains, which offer breathtaking, far-off views.

K2 Trekking Holidays

Apart from Gasherbrum Expedition we also offer k2 trekking holidays that are given in the table below. You can visit by clicking the package for more details.

Gasherbrum II Expedition Route

The traditional expedition approach starts in Islamabad and continues toward Skardu, the gateway to the high mountains of Baltistan.

From Skardu, the expedition travels by jeep toward Askole, the final major settlement before entering the remote glacier environment.

The trekking route then follows the spectacular Baltoro Glacier toward Concordia before turning toward the Gasherbrum region and the expedition base camp.

Typical Approach

Islamabad → Skardu → Askole → Baltoro Glacier → Concordia → Gasherbrum Base Camp

The approach to Gasherbrum Base Camp generally takes several days of glacier trekking. Depending on route conditions, acclimatization requirements and expedition logistics, the approach can vary.

The journey from Skardu to Gasherbrum Base Camp is itself a major adventure, passing through some of the most impressive mountain scenery in Pakistan.

Gasherbrum II Climbing Route

The Southwest Ridge/Spur is generally described as the standard climbing route for Gasherbrum II.

After establishing Base Camp, climbers make several acclimatization rotations between the higher camps. The exact position of camps can change according to glacier conditions, snow accumulation, route fixing and expedition decisions.

A typical climbing structure includes:

Base Camp

Approximately 5,000–5,150m

Base Camp is the main operational center of the expedition. Climbers rest, recover, monitor weather forecasts and prepare for acclimatization rotations.

Camp 1

Approximately 5,900–6,000m

The first major high-altitude camp is used during acclimatization rotations. Climbers begin adapting to significantly lower oxygen levels and steeper terrain.

Camp 2

Approximately 6,400–6,550m

The route becomes increasingly demanding, with snow, ice, exposed terrain and fixed-line climbing depending on conditions.

Camp 3

Approximately 7,000–7,400m

The upper mountain requires strong acclimatization and careful energy management. Camp locations can vary between seasons and teams.

Summit

8,035m

The final summit push is highly dependent on weather, snow conditions, route safety and the climber’s physical condition.

Published expedition route descriptions similarly place the principal high camps around 6,000m, 6,400–6,550m and above 7,000m before the summit attempt.

How Difficult Is Gasherbrum II?

Although Gasherbrum II is sometimes described as one of the more approachable 8,000-meter peaks, it remains an extremely serious and dangerous mountaineering objective.

Climbers must deal with:

• Extreme altitude
• Very low oxygen levels
• Crevasses
• Snow and ice slopes
• Fixed ropes
• Severe cold
• Strong winds
• Avalanches
• Falling ice and rock
• Rapid weather changes
• Long summit days
• Altitude-related illness
• Physical and mental exhaustion

Gasherbrum II should therefore be attempted only by climbers with appropriate high-altitude mountaineering experience, technical skills, fitness and acclimatization.

The standard route still involves glacier travel, fixed-line climbing and steep snow/ice terrain.

Royalty Fee

Annually, the Gilgit-Baltistan Council releases an official notice detailing the royalty fees applicable for the forthcoming summer and winter climbing seasons. This information is accessible to the public and delineates specific charges for mountain access, trekking, waste disposal, and various regions during both seasons. To obtain the necessary permits, a deposit is required upfront. It’s important to note that the permit fees, once paid to the Gilgit-Baltistan Government, are non-refundable. For further information, please reach out to us.

Hiring Additional Sherpa Assistance

We offer the provision of high-altitude climbers upon request. A high-altitude guide will assist by transporting your equipment on ‘camp moving’ days, allowing you to only carry essential items such as your jacket, water bottle, and necessary daily requirements. This service is favored by individuals who encounter challenges recuperating after carrying substantial loads at high altitudes.

Altitude 

The Gasherbrum II Expedition entails reaching extremely high altitudes. Throughout your journey, you’ll spend at least one night above 6,000 meters and/or trek to 5,000 meters or higher. While this shouldn’t cause undue concern as the human body is adaptable to a wide range of altitudes, adhering to specific guidelines for successful acclimatization is crucial. We strongly recommend reviewing our website’s advice on trekking at high altitude, accessible through the link below, before undertaking this holiday. If you lack prior experience climbing above 4,000 meters, consulting one of our climbing experts before embarking on this expedition is highly recommended.

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