Throne of the Mountain Gods: The Ultimate K2 Base Camp Expedition

Arrival in Islamabad

Welcome to Pakistan! Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you'll be met by your North Nomads representative and transferred to your premium hotel in the capital city. Take time to rest and recover from your international journey. Evening orientation session where you'll meet your expedition leader and fellow trekkers. Comprehensive briefing covering the itinerary, equipment check, safety protocols, altitude considerations, and what to expect over the next three weeks. Welcome dinner at a quality restaurant featuring traditional Pakistani cuisine including karahi, biryani, and fresh naan bread. This is your final night of urban comfort before the adventure begins. Overnight in Islamabad.

Islamabad to Skardu by Flight

WEATHER DEPENDENT FLIGHT - This is one of the world's most spectacular mountain flights

Early morning transfer to Islamabad Domestic Airport for the legendary flight to Skardu. This 50-minute flight is considered one of the most scenic on Earth, weather permitting. The route passes close to Nanga Parbat (8,126m)—the "Killer Mountain"—offering incredible aerial views of the massive Rupal and Diamir faces. On clear days, you can see five of the world's fourteen 8,000m peaks from the aircraft. The landscape transforms from green Punjabi plains to the stark brown mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan. Land at Skardu Airport, gateway to the Karakoram. Transfer to hotel in Skardu town. Afternoon at leisure to explore Skardu's bustling bazaar, where expedition teams stock up on last-minute supplies. Visit local markets selling dried apricots, walnuts, and traditional Balti handicrafts. Evening stroll along the Indus River with views of Skardu Fort perched on a rocky outcrop. Briefing on tomorrow's jeep journey. Early dinner and rest—tomorrow begins the overland journey.

Skardu to Askole via Shigar Valley

After breakfast, begin the spectacular jeep safari to Askole, the last permanently inhabited village before the mountains. The journey follows the Shigar River through increasingly dramatic gorges. Stop at Shigar town to visit the 400-year-old Shigar Fort, now a restored heritage hotel showcasing traditional Balti architecture. Continue through terraced fields and apricot orchards that seem impossibly green against the barren mountains. The road becomes progressively rougher, following the river through narrow gorges where rock walls tower hundreds of meters overhead. Cross the Braldu River on a modern bridge (the old route required dangerous river crossings). Pass through small settlements where Balti children wave at passing vehicles. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic. Arrive in Askole (3,000m) by late afternoon—this remote village marks the end of the road and the beginning of the trek. The village is the trailhead for all major Baltoro expeditions including K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum climbs. Meet your porter team and watch as loads are organized and distributed. Final equipment check. Overnight in basic but clean local guesthouse or camping. Evening briefing and excitement builds—tomorrow the trek begins.

Askole to Jhola

First day of trekking! After breakfast and final preparations, begin the journey along the Braldu River. The trail leaves Askole through terraced barley fields—the last cultivation you'll see for two weeks. Follow an ancient trade route that connected Baltistan with Yarkand in Chinese Turkestan. The path alternates between riverside trails and sandy sections, passing through occasional groves of willow trees. Cross several tributary streams on wooden bridges. The Braldu River, swollen with glacial meltwater, thunders alongside the trail—turquoise in color from fine glacial silt. The valley gradually narrows and vegetation becomes sparser. Mountains rise ever higher on both sides. This is a relatively easy first day allowing your body to adjust to trekking with altitude and loaded pack. Arrive at Jhola camp, a riverside location with spectacular views up-valley toward the Baltoro. Set up camp, enjoy hot tea, and settle into expedition routine. Camp dining tent provides comfortable space for meals and socializing. First night sleeping in tents under Karakoram stars.

Jhola to Paiju

Waking to mountain views and expedition breakfast. Today's trek continues up the Braldu Valley with increasingly dramatic scenery. The trail crosses the river via suspension bridge and enters the spectacular Paiju gorge—one of the most scenic sections of the approach. Towering rock walls rise thousands of meters on either side. The path climbs gradually through rocky terrain with the river far below. Pass beneath the enormous Paiju Peak (6,610m), a stunning pyramid of rock and ice that dominates the valley head. This is your first close encounter with a major Karakoram peak. Cross glacial streams and navigate rocky sections before emerging onto the green oasis of Paiju—the last place with vegetation and trees before the glacier. Paiju camp sits in a grove of willow trees with crystal-clear streams running through. This has been a traditional rest stop for expeditions since the earliest K2 attempts. Set up camp in this beautiful location. Afternoon at leisure to explore, wash clothes in the stream, or simply rest. Evening briefing—tomorrow is a crucial acclimatization day before stepping onto the Baltoro Glacier.

Paiju Rest & Acclimatization Day

Crucial acclimatization day before entering the high-altitude glacier zone. Rather than complete rest, take short acclimatization hikes gaining altitude before returning to camp—the "climb high, sleep low" principle essential for proper acclimatization. Morning optional hike to viewpoints above camp for spectacular views of Paiju Peak and the Baltoro snout. Afternoon at leisure to rest, read, write journals, or interact with porters and staff. This is an excellent day for cultural exchange—the Balti porters are experienced mountaineers with fascinating stories of expeditions, peak attempts, and life in the mountains. Many have summited major peaks or supported international climbing teams. Share tea, learn about Balti culture and traditions, and gain insights into the porter's perspective on mountain life. Camp cook prepares special meals—fresh vegetables are still available here, the last fresh produce until returning. Gear check, tape problem areas on feet to prevent blisters, reorganize packs. Evening briefing on glacier travel—tomorrow you step onto the Baltoro, one of the world's great glaciers. Early dinner and sleep to prepare for bigger days ahead.

Paiju to Khoburtse (Korophon)

Historic day—you step onto the Baltoro Glacier for the first time. After breakfast, leave the green oasis of Paiju and begin the trek across the glacier snout. The initial crossing involves navigating loose moraine—unstable rocks and boulders of all sizes deposited by the glacier. This is physically demanding terrain requiring concentration. Once on the glacier proper, the walking becomes somewhat easier on relatively flat ice highways between moraine ridges. The Baltoro is a "dry glacier" covered in rock debris, not the blue ice often imagined. It's a constantly shifting landscape of ice towers (seracs), meltwater channels, and rocky debris. Navigate through this alien terrain following cairns and the trail. The dramatic granite towers of the Trango group begin to dominate the skyline—vertical walls rising over 1,000 meters directly from the glacier. Cathedral Ridge and Trango Towers are considered among the world's greatest big walls. Arrive at Khoburtse (also called Korophon), a campsite on the glacier's lateral moraine. Camp with spectacular views of the Trangos. This is proper glacier camping now—no vegetation, just rock and ice. Temperature drops noticeably at night.

Khoburtse to Urdukas

One of the most spectacular trekking days anywhere on Earth. The route continues up the Baltoro with ever more dramatic scenery. Trango Towers dominate the northern skyline—Great Trango (6,286m), Nameless Tower (6,239m), and Cathedral Ridge form an incredible wall of granite. These are considered the ultimate big wall climbs, with routes like the Norwegian Buttress attracting the world's best climbers. Across the glacier, Uli Biaho (6,417m) rises like a massive tooth. The scale is overwhelming—mountains that would be famous attractions anywhere else are merely supporting cast here. Gradually ascend the glacier following the established trail. The walking is tiring on uneven moraine but the scenery provides constant motivation. After several hours, begin the climb up to Urdukas—the only major ascent of the day. Switchback up rock and scree slopes rising from the glacier to reach Urdukas (3,900m), a remarkable green terrace perched on the mountainside. This is the last grass you'll see until returning. The campsite at Urdukas is legendary—a flat grassy area with running water and spectacular sunset views. Evening views are sublime as alpenglow lights the surrounding peaks including Gasherbrum IV's perfect pyramid.

Urdukas to Goro II

Depart the green paradise of Urdukas after breakfast and descend back onto the Baltoro Glacier. Today involves long hours of glacier trekking gaining significant altitude. The Baltoro widens here—at its broadest point, it's over 2km wide. Navigate the constantly changing surface, weaving between ice pinnacles and meltwater channels. The peaks become increasingly massive as you penetrate deeper into the Karakoram. Masherbrum (7,821m), one of the world's most beautiful mountains, dominates views to the south. The walking is tiring—uneven surfaces, altitude beginning to affect energy levels, and long distances. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and maintain steady pace. Pass through Goro I and continue to Goro II, campsites established on the glacier itself or its edge. These are basic camps with no facilities beyond what the expedition provides. The altitude is now significant—4,295m is higher than any point in the Alps. Many people begin to feel effects of altitude: shortness of breath, decreased appetite, headaches. This is normal and part of acclimatization. Camp early afternoon with time to rest before dinner. Views include Muztagh Tower and the upper Baltoro stretching toward Concordia.

Goro II to Concordia

The most anticipated day of the entire expedition—arrival at Concordia

Early start for the trek to Concordia. Energy and excitement override altitude fatigue as you know what awaits. The Baltoro Glacier continues upward, now with 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks visible in multiple directions. Masherbrum, Muztagh Tower, and the Gasherbrum peaks create a stunning backdrop. The glacier surface remains challenging—rocky moraine, ice formations, meltwater streams—but anticipation makes the effort worthwhile. Gradually the valley opens up and suddenly, there it is: K2. The moment you first see K2 is unforgettable—a perfect pyramid of rock and ice rising 3,600m above the glacier, utterly dominating the skyline. The "Savage Mountain" lives up to its reputation—steep, dramatic, terrifying in its beauty. Arrive at Concordia (4,500m) by midday—the junction of the Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers. This is the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods." The 360-degree panorama includes: K2 (8,611m) to the north, Broad Peak (8,051m) to the east, Gasherbrum IV (7,925m)—perhaps the most beautiful mountain on Earth—to the east, Mitre Peak, Marble Peak, Crystal Peak, and countless others. Set up camp in this extraordinary amphitheater. Afternoon at leisure to absorb the views, photograph endlessly, or simply sit in awe. This is why you came—to stand in one of Earth's most spectacular natural locations. Evening sunset on K2 is transcendent as the pyramid glows gold then pink.

Excursion to K2 Base Camp & Broad Peak Base Camp

Summit day—well, base camp day, but equally challenging and rewarding

Alpine start at 5:00-6:00 AM with quick breakfast. Depart Concordia following the Godwin-Austen Glacier toward K2. The route heads northeast up-glacier beneath the incredible south face of K2. This face is over 3,000m of rock, ice, and avalanche debris—one of the most dangerous walls in mountaineering. The glacier is heavily crevassed in sections, requiring careful navigation. K2 grows larger and more imposing with every step. After 3-4 hours, arrive at K2 Base Camp (5,150m)—the staging point for all K2 summit attempts. During climbing season (July-August), you may see international expedition camps with their colorful tents, communication equipment, and climbers preparing for summit bids. K2 has one of the lowest summit success rates and highest fatality rates of all 8,000m peaks. Standing here, looking up at the Abruzzi Spur or Česen Route, you understand why. Take time to absorb the magnitude of this place—the history, the tragedy, the courage of those who attempt this mountain. After exploration and photographs, begin the return toward Concordia. En route, take a detour to Broad Peak Base Camp, just south of the Godwin-Austen Glacier. This is the world's 12th highest mountain and shares the glacial amphitheater with K2. The base camp views are equally spectacular. Return to Concordia by afternoon, exhausted but fulfilled. Total day involves 6-8 hours of high-altitude trekking and gains 650m—a huge effort at this altitude. Evening celebration of this incredible achievement. You've stood at the foot of K2!

Concordia to Goro II

Begin the return journey, retracing your steps down the Baltoro Glacier. Morning final views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Concordia amphitheater—take time for last photographs and mental snapshots. Leaving this place is bittersweet—you could stay forever, but the body craves lower altitude. Descend the Baltoro Glacier following the now-familiar route. The return journey is psychologically easier knowing each step brings you closer to completion, but physically demanding as tired bodies and worn feet complain. The descent aggravates knees and ankles. Take time, use trekking poles, and maintain concentration—injuries often happen during descent when fatigue and complacency set in. Pass back through the glacier landscape of ice towers, moraine, and meltwater channels. Arrive at Goro II camp by afternoon with time to rest. The altitude drop brings immediate benefits—breathing becomes easier, appetite improves, energy returns. Evening reflection on the past week's incredible experiences.

Goro II to Urdukas

Continue the descent down the Baltoro. The views are different in reverse—peaks show different faces, lighting changes, and you notice details missed during ascent. The long glacier miles pass more quickly now as fitness has peaked and acclimatization is complete. Navigate back through the ice towers and moraine ridges. The green terrace of Urdukas becomes visible ahead—after days on barren glacier, the sight of grass is incredibly appealing. Arrive at Urdukas by early afternoon. The campsite feels luxurious after the harsh glacier camps—running water, soft ground, warmer temperatures. Afternoon at leisure to rest, wash thoroughly in the streams, do laundry, and recuperate. Evening views of the Trangos and Gasherbrum peaks from Urdukas are spectacular with different light than on ascent. Celebrate another successful day bringing you closer to completion.

Urdukas to Paiju

Descend from Urdukas down the rocky switchbacks back to the Baltoro Glacier. Continue down-glacier retracing the ascent route past the dramatic Trango Towers—final views of these incredible granite walls. The trek becomes progressively easier as altitude decreases. Navigate the glacier moraine one final time before reaching the glacier snout and solid ground. Cross back onto stable trail and enter the green zone of Paiju. Arriving at Paiju feels like returning to civilization—trees, grass, clear streams, warmer temperatures. Set up camp in the familiar willow grove. Hot wash in the stream feels incredible after a week of limited washing opportunities. Fresh vegetables reappear in meals—the cook has been carrying these, knowing they'd be greatly appreciated on return. Evening relaxation in this beautiful camp. The hardest sections are complete—only valley walking remains.

Paiju to Jhola

Leave Paiju after breakfast, bidding farewell to the last trees before returning. Retrace the approach route down the Braldu Valley through the spectacular gorge beneath Paiju Peak. The walking feels easy now compared to the glacier miles—solid trail, lower altitude, downhill gradient. The body responds positively—energy levels high, breathing easy, appetite strong. Stop at scenic viewpoints for photos and rest breaks. The turquoise Braldu River accompanies the trail, its glacial melt rushing toward the Indus. Arrive at Jhola camp by afternoon with time to rest and reflect. Only one more trekking day remains before reaching Askole. Evening celebration with staff and porters—traditional singing, dancing, and stories around the campfire. Tips are traditionally distributed tomorrow evening in Askole.

Jhola to Askole

Final trekking day! The trail follows the Braldu River downstream through increasingly populated terrain. Pass through summer grazing areas where Balti shepherds tend their goats and sheep. The valley widens and terraced fields begin to appear. Children from Askole often walk out to meet returning trekkers, eager for sweets or pens. Arrive in Askole by midday—the first village you've seen in two weeks. The simple homes and cultivated fields seem almost exotic after the stark high-altitude world. Celebrate completion of the trek! Check into basic guesthouse or camp on the village edge. Afternoon ceremony distributing tips to porters, guides, and support staff. These men have carried heavy loads at high altitude making your adventure possible—generosity is appropriate. Evening celebration with traditional Balti food and music. Tomorrow, vehicles arrive to drive back to Skardu.

Askole to Skardu via Shigar

Morning departure from Askole by jeep. The rough road now seems familiar. Descend through the spectacular Braldu gorges and Shigar Valley. The green terraced fields, fruit orchards, and flowing water seem almost surreal after two weeks of rock and ice. Stop in Shigar town for lunch and perhaps revisit the fort. Continue to Skardu town arriving by late afternoon. Check into comfortable hotel—your first real bed in two weeks! Hot shower with unlimited water is pure luxury. Evening free to explore Skardu bazaar, purchase souvenirs, or simply relax. Celebration dinner at a local restaurant with the team. Tomorrow's flight to Islamabad is weather dependent—flight confirmation usually comes late evening or early morning.

Skardu to Islamabad by Flight (Weather Permitting)

WEATHER DEPENDENT FLIGHT

Morning flight to Islamabad (weather permitting). Transfer to airport and complete the spectacular mountain flight in reverse—final aerial views of Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram. Land in Islamabad and transfer to hotel. Afternoon at leisure—many participants visit Faisal Mosque (one of the world's largest), Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, or explore markets. Evening farewell dinner at a fine restaurant celebrating the successful expedition. Certificate presentation for K2 Base Camp trekkers. Exchange contact details with new friends made on the trek. Overnight in Islamabad.

Note: If flight is cancelled due to weather, contingency day (Day 18) is used, or we drive via Karakoram Highway (20-22 hours).

Contingency Day / Free Day in Islamabad

This day is reserved for flight delays, road closures, or weather contingencies

If no contingency is needed, this is a free day in Islamabad. Options include:

• Visit Taxila archaeological sites (UNESCO World Heritage—ancient Gandhara Buddhist civilization)
• Explore Lok Virsa Museum showcasing Pakistan's diverse cultural heritage
• Shop at Jinnah Super Market or Kohsar Market for handicrafts, carpets, and gemstones
• Visit Pakistan Monument and Museum
• Relaxation and massage to recover from the trek
• Catch up on sleep, emails, and reconnect with the world

Evening at leisure. Final night in Pakistan for most participants.

Departure from Islamabad

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport according to your flight schedule. For those with afternoon or evening flights, final morning for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. North Nomads staff will assist with check-in and departure. Safe travels with memories of an extraordinary adventure—you've stood at the foot of K2, one of Earth's ultimate mountain experiences. Extensions available for those wishing to explore more of Pakistan. We hope to see you again on another adventure!