Step into a world of raw wilderness and towering giants with the K2 Classic Trek (K2 Trek or K2 Base Camp Trek), ranked among the top ten hikes on Earth. This legendary journey into Pakistan’s rugged Karakoram Range offers a rare opportunity to walk in the shadow of the world’s highest peaks, culminating at the foot of the mighty K2 (8,611m) – the second tallest mountain on the planet.
Beginning in Islamabad, your adventure winds through the historic and breathtaking town of Skardu, through dramatic river valleys and ancient cultures. As you ascend deeper into the mountains, you’ll journey across the vast Baltoro Glacier, one of the largest outside the polar regions. Witness panoramic views of Trango Towers, Masherbrum, Muztagh Tower, and the awe-inspiring amphitheatre of Concordia, famously called the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods".
No technical climbing is required – only a strong spirit, good physical fitness, and a love for high-altitude beauty. Each step immerses you in the hospitality of the Balti people, surreal alpine landscapes, and a sense of wonder that only the high Himalayas can offer. Best from June to August, this trek is a dream for seasoned hikers and bold adventurers alike.
Trek Name: K2 Classic (Baltoro K2 Base Camp)
Trek Code: ATP-TR-01
Trekking Zone: Restricted Zone
Route: Islamabad → Skardu → Askole → Concordia → Broad Peak Base Camp → K2 Base Camp → Concordia → Askole → Skardu → Islamabad
Best time: June to September
Maximum Elevation: 5050 meters
Trek Grade: Strenuous
Trek Duration: 21 days / 20 nights (6 hotel nights & 13 camping nights)
Visa Category: Mountaineering & Trekking
Visa Sub Category: Trekking
Permit Requirement: A trekking permit is required as the trek falls in the restricted zone.
🔝 Concordia – 360° panorama of four 8000m giants
🏔️ K2 Base Camp – Stand beneath the world’s second-highest peak
🧊 Baltoro Glacier – One of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions
🏕️ Camp under stars – Remote wilderness campsites amid towering peaks
🎒 Cultural Encounters – Meet the warm and resilient Balti people
🛕 Islamabad & Skardu Sights – Blend of ancient culture and Himalayan beauty
📸 Iconic Landscapes – Trango Towers, Masherbrum, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum
🌿 Paiju Oasis – Verdant camping spot amidst glacial surroundings
🕊️ Gilkey Memorial – A tribute to fallen mountaineers near K2 Base Camp
Activities: Airport pickup, hotel transfer, and a half-day cultural city tour to explore Pakistan’s vibrant capital.
✈️ Day 2. Fly to Skardu or Drive to ChilasAltitude: 2,250 m
Option 1: Scenic flight to Skardu (1 hour)
Option 2: Drive to Chilas via the Karakoram Highway (10–12 hours)
Settle into your hotel and prepare for the grand journey ahead.
🏔️ Day 3. Explore SkarduAltitude: 2,250 m
If you flew in, enjoy a half-day tour of Kharpocho Fort, Manthal Buddha Rock, and Sadpara Lake. Optional visits to Upper Kachura Lake and Broq or last-minute shopping.
If arriving by road, continue from Chilas to Skardu (7–8 hours).
🚙 Day 4. Drive to Askole – The Gateway to the KarakoramAltitude: 3,100 m ↑
Distance: 130 km / 6 hours
Drive through the majestic Shigar and Braldu Valleys to Askole, the last inhabited village before the trek begins. Camp under the stars.
🥾 Day 5. Trek to JholaAltitude: 3,200 m ↑
Distance: 17.5 km / 5–6 hours
Begin your trek across arid terrain with views of Biafo Glacier and Bakhor Dass Peak (5,809m). Camp at Jhola near the roaring Braldu River.
🏕️ Day 6. Trek to Paiju – The Green OasisAltitude: 3,600 m ↑
Distance: 18.8 km / 7–8 hours
Trek through Bardumal Valley and behold your first sight of Broad Peak (8,051m). Set camp beneath the shadows of Paiju Peak in a verdant grove.
🏔️ Day 7. Trek to Khuburtse – Welcome to the Baltoro GlacierAltitude: 4,000 m ↑
Distance: 13 km / 5 hours
Step onto the mighty Baltoro Glacier, flanked by the legendary Trango Towers (6,251m). A day of surreal landscapes.
🌄 Day 8. Trek to Urdukas – Glacial MajestyAltitude: 4,240 m ↑
Distance: 8.1 km / 4–5 hours
Enjoy jaw-dropping views of Biale Peak (6,729m) and the Trango Group. Camp on terraces overlooking the glacier.
❄️ Day 9. Trek to Goro-II – Land of IceAltitude: 4,500 m ↑
Distance: 11.6 km / 6 hours
A trek across glacial landscapes with stunning sights of Gasherbrum IV and Masherbrum. Camp on ice at Goro-II.
🏞️ Day 10. Trek to Concordia – Throne Room of the Mountain GodsAltitude: 4,687 m ↑
Distance: 12.9 km / 6 hours
Arrive at Concordia, where four 8,000m peaks converge. Wake up to views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, and Chogolisa.
🌟 Day 11. Rest Day at ConcordiaA well-deserved break surrounded by the titans of the Karakoram. Optional hikes and unforgettable sunrise views.
🏔️ Day 12. Trek to Broad Peak Base CampAltitude: 4,900 m ↑
Distance: 7 km / 3 hours
Short trek to the Broad Peak Base Camp, nestled in a glacial amphitheatre. Enjoy unmatched views of the Karakoram skyline.
🎯 Day 13. K2 Base Camp & Gilkey MemorialAltitude: 5,050 m ↑
Total Distance: 17.2 km (round trip) / 7 hours
Stand at the foot of K2, meet climbers, and pay tribute at the Gilkey Memorial, honouring fallen mountaineers. Return to Concordia.
⛺ Day 14. Trek back to Goro-IAltitude: 4,020 m ↓
Distance: 18.5 km / 7–8 hours
Descend via Goro-II, with final glances at snowbound giants.
🏕️ Day 15. Trek to KhuburtseAltitude: 4,000 m ↓
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Trek back via Urdukas, enjoying the shifting views of the glacier.
🌳 Day 16. Trek to Bardumal – A Hidden GroveAltitude: 3,253 m ↓
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Camp among willow and poplar trees, beside a cool freshwater stream – a contrast to the icy trails above.
🚶♂️ Day 17. Trek to Askole – Farewell to the KarakoramAltitude: 3,100 m ↓
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Last day of trekking. Celebrate with porters and reflect on a journey of a lifetime.
🚙 Day 18. Drive to SkarduAltitude: 2,250 m ↓
Drive Time: 6 hours
Jeep ride back to Skardu. Hot shower, warm bed, and well-deserved rest.
✈️ Day 19. Fly to Islamabad or Drive to ChilasTake in one last aerial view of the Karakoram (weather permitting). Transfer to hotel in Islamabad.
🛍️ Day 20. Leisure Day in IslamabadFree time for shopping or visit to the ancient ruins of Taxila.
👋 Day 21. DepartureTransfer to Islamabad Airport. Farewell and safe travels!
📄 Note: The flight between Islamabad and Skardu is subject to weather conditions.
✈️ Domestic flights (Islamabad–Skardu–Islamabad)
🚐 All ground transport in 4x4 jeeps or private vehicles
🏨 Hotel accommodation in Islamabad & Skardu
🏕️ Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats, dining tents
🍳 All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
🧑🍳 Experienced cook and kitchen crew
🎒 Porter services (carrying group gear & personal baggage up to weight limit)
🗺️ Licensed local mountain guide
🆘 Emergency first aid and communication equipment
🎟️ Entry fees, trekking permits, and conservation charges
🛂 International airfare & Pakistan visa
🍽️ Meals in cities (Islamabad & Skardu) unless specified
🧗 Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
🛍️ Personal gear & equipment (boots, sleeping bags, down jackets)
🧴 Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, souvenirs, laundry)
🚑 Travel, rescue, and personal insurance
🐎 Extra porters for personal items over weight limit
First day of trip: 19-JUN-2025
End of trip: 08-JUL-2025
First day of trip: 12-JUL-2025
End of trip: 31-JUL-2025
First day of trip: 19-JUL-2025
End of trip: 07-AUG-2025
First day of trip: 09-AUG-2025
End of trip: 28-AUG-2025
First day of trip: 16-AUG-2025
End of trip: 04-SEP-2025
First day of trip: 23-AUG-2025
End of trip: 11-SEP-2025
20 Days/19 Nights
Fixed departures are pre-scheduled trips with set itinerary dates. They provide an opportunity for individuals and groups to journey alongside other travellers, sharing a memorable adventure.