K2 Base Camp Trek

Distance: 160 km
Duration: 12 - 14 days
Country:
The K2 Base Camp Trek takes you through some of the world's most remote and stunning landscapes, right to the foot of the second-highest mountain on Earth. Unlike the crowded trails of Everest, this trek offers a sense of solitude and grandeur, making you feel like a true explorer.

Trekking K2 Base Camp Trek

Distances

  • 12 - 14 days, 160 km, 5,650 m high point
  • daily: 5 - 8 hours, 6 - 20 km, +200 - 300 m gain

Route

  • through hike
  • starting in Askole
  • ending in Hushe

Guide mandatory?

  • no
  • A licensed guided is mandatory for this route.

Pictures from trekking K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 Base Camp Trek itinerary

Optionally spend two nights at base camp, by adding an extra day at base camp.
Day 1

Askole to Jhula (3,150 m)

Distance: 15 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +102 m
Commence your trekking journey from Askole, a quaint village nestled amidst towering mountain peaks. Follow the trail alongside the Braldu River, traversing several bridges, and reach Jhula, a picturesque campsite offering captivating scenic vistas.
Day 2

Jhula to Paiju (3,450 m)

Distance: 20 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +300 m
Continue trekking along the river and pass through Bardumal. Reach Paiju, a beautiful camping site surrounded by lush greenery.
Day 3

Acclimatization Day at Paiju (3,450 m)

Take a rest day at Paiju for acclimatization. Explore the surroundings, and prepare for the challenging days ahead.
Day 4

Paiju to Khoburtse (3,800 m)

Distance: 18 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +350 m
Trek through the rocky Baltoro Glacier and ascend to Khoburtse, a high campsite with stunning glacier views.
Day 5

Khoburtse to Urdukas (4,050 m)

Distance: 6 kmTime trekking / climbing: 4 hoursElevation change: +250 m
Continue your ascent along the Baltoro Glacier, and upon reaching Urdukas, you'll be greeted with a campsite that provides breathtaking panoramic vistas. From this location, you can directly admire the awe-inspiring sights of Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, and Lobsang.
Day 6

Urdukas to Goro II (4,300 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +250 m
This elevated campsite is positioned at the base of Concordia. You can expect breathtaking views as you follow the trail, where you'll have the chance to glimpse the impressive Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IV, and the towering summit of Broad Peak directly from your tent.
Day 7

Goro II to Concordia (4,600 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +300 m
Hike to Concordia, a unique and breathtaking junction where the Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers meet. Witness the majestic K2 up close.
Day 8

K2 Base Camp Excursion (5,050 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +450 m
A day to explore K2 Base Camp and capture stunning photographs of the surrounding peaks. Enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the Karakoram Range.
Day 9

Return to Concordia (4,600 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -450 m
Trek back to Concordia for another chance to admire the grandeur of K2. Spend the night at Concordia.
Day 10

Concordia to Ali Camp (4,950 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +350 m
The trail meanders among moraines and streams fed by glaciers, granting trekkers magnificent, wide-ranging vistas of the encircling peaks, frequently draped in ice and snow. Ali Camp, situated to the south of K2 along the Vigne Glacier, serves as a comforting haven for tired hikers.
Day 11

Ali Camp to Kuisbang via Gondogoro La Pass (4,700 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 9 hoursElevation change: -250 m
This route presents trekkers with a demanding high-altitude path that includes steep ascents and descents, while also providing stunning views of the Karakoram Range. As it winds through rugged landscapes and glaciers, it offers an invigorating and awe-inspiring adventure for thrill-seekers.
Day 12

Kuisbang to Saicho (3,430 m)

Distance: 18 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -1,270 m
The path guides trekkers through a pristine wilderness, leading them along remote mountain trails and lush valleys. With serene alpine landscapes and occasional river crossings, it offers a tranquil and invigorating journey for those seeking natural beauty and solitude.
Day 13

Saicho to Hushe (3,180 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 3 hoursElevation change: -250 m
The trek reaches its remarkable conclusion in Hushe, offering travelers a heartwarming and culturally enriching experience before they commence their return journey to Skardu.

How difficult is K2 Base Camp Trek

The trek is 7 / 10, based on the below factors:

Terrain & route condition 8 / 10

Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.

Altitude / Elevation 9 / 10

Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.

Distance 8 / 10

The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.

Elevation gain 7 / 10

Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.

Technical difficulty 5 / 10

Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.

Access to facilities / Remoteness 8 / 10

Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.

Climate & weather 7 / 10

How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.