Pastore Peak (6,209m) is a less-technical trekking peak located near Gasherbrum Base Camp in the Baltoro Glacier region of the Karakoram, Pakistan. It is an ideal peak for climbers looking to gain high-altitude experience before attempting 8,000m summits like Gasherbrum I & II.
Though not highly technical, the peak requires glacier travel, ropework, and basic mountaineering skills. It is climbed mainly for acclimatisation or as a standalone 6,000m+ expedition.
Expedition Name: Pastore Peak
Expedition Code: ATP-XP-18
Expedition Zone: Restricted Zone
Approach route: Islamabad-Skardu-Askole-Concordia-Pastore Base Camp
Expedition Grade: Hard
Duration: 29 Days
Average Daily walk: 6-7 hours
Trekking days (in & out): 12
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.
Upon arrival in Islamabad, you'll be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. This evening, amidst the calm of the green capital, you'll gear up and receive briefing on logistics, safety protocols, and mountaineering expectations—laying the groundwork for your high-altitude journey ahead.
Begin your climb prep with a swift, scenic flight to Skardu or an adventurous drive through the Karakoram Highway to Chilas. Both options lead to arrival around 2,250 m. Depending on timing, enjoy brief acclimatization and orientation before settling into your hotel.
Use this day as a buffer—either travel from Chilas to Skardu by road (7–8 hours at 2,300 m) or take a rest day in Skardu for acclimatization, gear checks, and last-minute preparations in the mountain air.
This is your critical prep day. Rest, double-check, and fine-tune equipment. Go over mountaineering techniques, confirm logistics, and prepare your mindset—ready for the rugged climb ahead.
Venture off-road in a 4×4 jeep to Askole (3,048 m), the last village before the heights. Absorb the stark beauty of the Karakoram as you reach your first high-camp under the stars—your gateway to glacier country.
Start trekking: a 5–6 hour ascent to Jhola (approx. 3,200 m). Traverse rugged terrain through the Karakoram National Park; each step brings you closer to remote, glaciated landscapes.
Combat altitude fatigue with a steady 6–7 hour trek to Paiju (approx. 3,600 m). Trekking slows to acclimatize, helping your body adapt to thinner air. Camp surrounded by rugged beauty.
Rest, hydrate, and acclimatize at Paiju (3,600 m). It’s a vital pause—let your body adjust, practice skills, and prepare mentally for the challenging glacier terrain ahead.
A long but rewarding 9–10 hour trek to Urdukas (4,240 m). Cross rocky moraines and trek through expansive glacial corridors. Your altitude build-up gains momentum.
Another day of upward trekking: 7–8 hours to Goro II (approx. 4,500 m). Your body is now experiencing real high-altitude conditions as you cross more glacial terrain.
Trek 5–6 hours to Concordia (4,687 m)—the legendary “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods.” Surrounded by the world’s tallest peaks, this is the ultimate alpine amphitheater, the perfect place to absorb your mountain surroundings.
A 5–6 hour trek carries you to K2 Base Camp (5,050 m). Feel the heightened atmosphere where climbers of the world’s second-highest peak prepare. Stand in awe at raw glacial landscapes and colossal faces.
Descend to Pastore Base Camp (4,800 m) in 5–6 hours. Your climbing summit push begins here—camping near glacier slopes, you’ll soon practice technical climbing skills.
Four dedicated days of climb and summit attempts on Pastore Peak from 4,800 m upward. Traverse crevassed glaciers, navigate rope fields, and push for the summit—rewarded by sweeping panoramas of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums.
Descend safely from your summit efforts back to the warm refuge of Pastore Base Camp. Unwind, reflect, and prepare for the return journey.
Retrace your route 5–6 hours back to Concordia (approx. 4,600 m). The light, the scenery, and the memory of your ascent will follow you as you descend.
A restorative rest day at Concordia (4,600 m). A moment to acclimatize, soak in the landscape, and ready yourself for the high pass ahead.
Trek 7–8 hours to Ali Camp (approx. 5,000 m). Each step climbs deeper into the high glacier world—essential preparation for Gondogoro La.
A demanding but glorious day—cross Gondogoro La (5,585 m) in 7–8 hours. Use ropes and ice gear as you summit the pass, then descend into Hushe Valley via Khuispang.
Descend 6–7 hours to Saicho (3,350 m). The terrain softens as you drop in elevation, with each step bringing you closer to lower valleys.
Enjoy a shorter 5–6 hour trek to Hushe (approx. 3,050 m), then transfer by vehicle (4–5 hours) back to Skardu. A welcome return to comfort and civilization.
Depart Skardu by flight (weather dependent) or drive to Chilas. Reflect on your climb amidst descending terrain before settling into a hotel.
Continue easing out of the mountains with the final day of road travel from Chilas to Islamabad (500 m). 8–9 hours of road travel from Chilas to your Islamabad hotel. A day for patience and rest. Relax, reminisce, and prepare for your journey home.
Conclude your high-altitude saga with airport transfer from your hotel in Islamabad. Depart for home, carrying stories of summits, glaciers, and distant giants.
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.