Masherbrum, also known as K1 and called the "Queen of Karakoram", is a majestic peak in the Karakoram Range, standing as the 22nd highest mountain in the world and the 9th highest in Pakistan. It is the highest peak of the Masherbrum Mountains sub-range and dominates the skyline of Baltistan. The mountain is often overshadowed by the eight-thousanders like K2 but remains one of the most formidable and beautiful peaks in the Karakoram. Masherbrum is known for its steep faces, unpredictable weather, and avalanches. The southwest face and southeast ridge are the most commonly attempted routes, both requiring high technical skills.
Expedition Name: Masherbrum 7821m
Expedition Code: ATP-XP-18
Expedition Zone: Restricted Zone
Approach route: Islamabad-Skardu-Askole-Masherbrum BC
Expedition Grade: Extremely Hard
Duration: 45 Days
Average Daily walk: 6-7 hours
Trekking days (in & out): 12
Days at base camp & above: 41
Hotel Nights: 08
Best Time: June to August
Visa Category: Mountaineering & Trekking
Visa Sub Category: Mountaineering
Permit Requirement: A mountaineering permit is required as the expedition falls in the restricted zone.
You’ll land in Islamabad and be whisked to your hotel for rest. A serene evening city briefing sets the tone, introducing you to your expedition team and outline. (Elevation: ~500 m)
Depending on weather and plans, fly into Skardu (~1 hour) for aerial views of Nanga Parbat, or drive via Chilas (~10–12 hours), traversing dramatic mountain highways. (Elevation: ~2,250 m)
With flexibility built in, use this day either to complete the journey from Chilas to Skardu (~7–8 hours) or rest and prepare if already in Skardu. (Elevation: ~2,300 m)
Today is about gear checks, last-minute errands, and final briefings in the mountainous setting of Skardu. (Elevation: ~2,300 m)
Embark on an all‑terrain jeep journey from Skardu to Askole — your gateway to the Karakoram wilderness. (Elevation: ~3,048 m)
Begin the trekking portion, hiking from Askole to Jhola (5–6 hours). The landscapes shift into alpine grandeur. (Elevation: ~3,200 m)
Continue trekking to Paiju over 6–7 hours. A crucial acclimatisation day awaits. (Elevation: ~3,600 m)
A rest day at Paiju helps your body adjust to altitude. Stay active on light hikes or enjoy the tranquil setting among the Karakoram peaks. (Elevation: ~3,600 m)
Hike through dramatic valleys to reach Urdukas in a long, rewarding day (9–10 hours), where vistas grow even more breathtaking. (Elevation: ~4,240 m)
You’ll push to the high-altitude Base Camp at ~5,000 m, setting up your staging point for summit attempts. (Elevation: ~5,000 m)
Over the next 21 days, engage in technical climbs, camp shuttles, acclimatisation, and summit attempts. Your support team remains with you throughout.
Following the summit efforts, begin the descent back to Urdukas—hectic and reflective, this trek eases your body off altitude. (Elevation: ~4,240 m)
Return trek: Jhola awaits, where stories of the summit can be shared around the campfire. (Elevation: ~3,200 m)
Reach Askole, then transfer by jeep back to Skardu for showers, rest, and recovery. (Elevation: ~2,300 m)
Fly back to Islamabad—or drive via Chilas depending on logistics—and relax in the comforts of the city. (Elevation: ~500 m)
Enjoy a free day. Consider visiting the iconic Faisal Mosque or exploring Islamabad’s cultural spots before departure.
After an epic journey, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home. Safe travels!
The option of taking a flight to Skardu after arrival in Islamabad on day 1 is possible depending upon the arrival time of international flight.
If the flight operates for Skardu on day 2, drive to Askole on day-4 is possible to gain an extra day for climbing/acclimatisation.