K2 Trekking Route (Askole Village)

K2 Base Camp Trek – Starting from Askole, Gateway to the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods

The K2 Base Camp Trek is not just a trek — it’s a pilgrimage for mountaineers and adventurers, a journey through one of the most awe-inspiring alpine regions on Earth. Starting from Askole, a rugged Balti village in Shigar Valley, this multi-day trek takes you along the Baltoro Glacier, surrounded by towering peaks like Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, Trango Towers, and finally K2 itself.

It’s physically demanding, logistically complex, and emotionally powerful — not for casual travelers, but absolutely worth it for serious trekkers.

Why Trek to K2 Base Camp via Askole?

Because it’s more than a trek — it’s a spiritual odyssey. You’re not just walking through glaciers, but through one of the world’s last true frontiers. From Askole’s remote culture to the mighty Baltoro Glacier and the silent, majestic K2, this journey will change the way you see nature, strength, and silence.

K2 Trekking Route (Simplified Itinerary)

Day	Location	Altitude
1	Skardu to Askole (Jeep)	~3,000 m
2	Askole to Jhula Camp	~3,200 m
3	Jhula to Paiju Camp	~3,400 m
4	Rest Day at Paiju (Acclimatization)	–
5	Paiju to Khoburtse	~3,800 m
6	Khoburtse to Urdukas	~4,050 m
7	Urdukas to Goro II Camp	~4,300 m
8	Goro II to Concordia	~4,600 m
9	Day trip to K2 Base Camp (~6–7 hrs round)	~5,150 m
10	Return via same route or over Gondogoro La Pass (~5,585 m) to Hushe Valley

⛺ Each day includes glacier walking, river crossings, and full camping. All gear is carried by porters.

Routes to K2 Base Camp Trek

Overview: Trekking Route Details

Key Highlights Along the Route

🌄 Spot	🌟 What Makes It Special
Askole Village	Last inhabited village – gateway to Karakoram
Baltoro Glacier	One of the world’s longest outside polar regions
Trango Towers	Among the steepest granite peaks on Earth
Urdukas	Best panoramic campsite before Concordia
Concordia	The “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods” – 4 8,000ers in one view
K2 Base Camp	Rugged, spiritual destination for climbers & trekkers
Gondogoro La (Optional Exit)	5,585 m high-altitude pass with unforgettable views of K2 & Gasherbrum

Best Time to Visit

Month	What to Expect
June	Snow clearing, lush valleys
July	Peak trekking season – best weather
August	Clear, stable days – return routes open
September	End of season – risk of early snowfall

What You Need to Trek to K2 Base Camp

Permits & Arrangements

Must be arranged through a registered trekking company
Required:
- Trekking Permit (Restricted Area)
- Liaison Officer
- Porters or mules
- Environmental Fee (if crossing Gondogoro La)

Gear Checklist

High-altitude sleeping bag (–10°C to –20°C)
Insulated and waterproof trekking boots
Layered clothing system (base, fleece, down, shell)
Trekking poles, sunglasses, gloves, sunscreen
First aid kit, water purifier, snacks
Personal backpack + day pack

Who Should Do This Trek?

Experienced high-altitude trekkers
Physically fit and well-prepared travelers
Those who want a raw, immersive experience in true wilderness
Not suitable for casual or beginner hikers

Local Food

Try local dishes like:

Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt

Must-know things!

Things to pack for traveling to K2?

Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.

Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.

Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.

Toiletries.

Snacks.

Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.

Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.

Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.

Refillable Water Bottle.

Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.

Trekking Tips

✅ Acclimatize properly – never skip rest days
✅ Drink 3–4L of water daily to avoid altitude sickness
✅ Go with a licensed tour operator — they manage logistics
✅ Be mentally prepared for tough conditions — cold, altitude, rough terrain
✅ Leave no trace — protect this sacred wilderness