Pastore Peak standing at 6209 meters, lies close to Concordia and the Broad Peak Base Camp in Pakistan Karakoram range. This peak is a popular choice for mountaineers looking for an accessible climb with rewarding views. Climbing from…
Pastore Peak standing at 6209 meters, lies close to Concordia and the Broad Peak Base Camp in Pakistan Karakoram range. This peak is a popular choice for mountaineers looking for an accessible climb with rewarding views.
Climbing from base camp to the summit typically takes 10 to 12 hours, depending on the climber fitness level and experience. The route includes a steep 60-degree section, but overall the ascent is considered one of the easier climbs in the region making it suitable for both training and acclimatization.
Pastore Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding giants K2 Broad Peak the Gasherbrums, and the Baltoro Glacier. Because of its proximity, it’s often tackled as a day hike from Concordia, the famous junction where several of the world’s highest mountains meet.
Concordia itself is known as the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”, a title earned due to the incredible scenery and towering peaks that surround it. Many climbers use Pastore Peak as a warm-up before attempting more demanding summits in the Karakoram.
Welcome to Pakistan! When you arrive at Islamabad International Airport, our representative will meet you and transport you to your accommodation. Depending on when you arrive, you may have time to tour the city. Islamabad is one of the world’s greenest capitals, and we can arrange cultural orientation tours to the Faisal Mosque, the Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, and Saidpur village. Later in the afternoon or evening, your guide will provide a full trek briefing on safety, route, gear check and expectations for the adventure ahead.
On a clear day, an early morning scenic flight over the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges would provide breathtaking aerial views of Nanga Parbat, Rakaposhi, and probably even K2. You will be taken to your accommodation after landing in Skardu. The rest of the day is free to relax and explore. You can wander through Skardu Bazaar, see Kharpocho Fort (an optional short trek), or walk along the banks of the Indus River. It’s also an excellent day to do some last-minute shopping for personal necessities or trekking snacks. Note: If the flight gets cancelled due to weather, a two-day overland trip along the Karakoram Highway will be arranged.
We spend a relaxed day in Skardu to help with acclimatization. You may take a short trip to Satpara Lake, visit the beautiful Shigar Fort – a 400-year-old fortress renovated into a heritage hotel or simply relax and breathe in the mountain air. This is also the day that we manage trekking permits, finalize logistics with porters, and prepare for departure. Our experts will double-check your equipment and assist with any last-minute changes.
We spend a relaxed day in Skardu to help with acclimatization. You may take a short trip to Satpara Lake, visit the beautiful Shigar Fort—a 400-year-old fortress renovated into a heritage hotel—or simply relax and breathe in the mountain air. This is also the day that we manage trekking permits, finalize logistics with porters, and prepare for departure. Our experts will double-check your equipment and assist with any last-minute changes.
The first day of trekking brings us down a meandering track along the Braldu River, passing through minor streams and suspension bridges. The terrain is rough, dusty, and exposed to the sun, therefore sun protection is required. We will journey through farms and summer towns, taking in the breathtaking contrast of bleak cliffs and verdant fields. The day’s climb concludes at Jhola, a semi-arid campsite along a glacial stream. After you’ve set up camp, you’ll have time to unwind, sip tea, and enjoy the open sky.
Today’s trek leads us closer to the Baltoro Glacier. We travel down the Braldu River valley, steadily ascending through magnificent terrain. As we approach Paiju, we get our first glimpses of the Trango Towers and Cathedral Peak, two jaw-dropping granite spires that dominate the skyline. Paiju is a spacious campsite with running water that is sheltered by willow trees. After arriving, have hot tea and a warm supper while enjoying the views of the mountains that now surround us.
We have a rest day to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the more difficult glacier trekking ahead. Optional treks surrounding Paiju allow you to explore the nearby slopes and see panoramic views of the Baltoro Glacier. Meanwhile, our porters are prepping for the glacier crossing by baking bread and organizing loads. This is also a good day to go over glacier trekking methods and make sure your gear—particularly your boots and gaiters—is ready.
We take our first formal steps onto the massive Baltoro Glacier, a 60-kilometer-long ice river. The trail alternates between moraines, frozen spots, and rocky outcrops. Trekking through this landscape is an amazing experience, with views of Trango Towers, Uli Biaho, and other granite giants rising spectacularly from the ice. The camp is located on a lateral moraine at Khoburtse, surrounded by rocky peaks. The mood is raw and exhilarating, reminiscent of the Karakoram wilderness.
Despite being a shorter trekking day, this segment is relatively difficult because to the elevation gain. We continue navigating the glacier, obtaining a better feel for the terrain. Urdukas is one of the trek’s most picturesque campsites, perched on a grassy terrace above the glacier and offering direct views of Trango Towers and the Uli Biaho Group. After lunch, you can rest, journal your adventure thus far, or hike around for acclimatisation.
We return to the middle cold passage of the Baltoro Glacier. Today’s journey is strenuous, with crevasses and rough terrain to navigate. As we ascend, temperatures drop and the landscape gets more frigid. We cross under the enormous Gasherbrum IV and arrive at Goro II, a campground located on the glacier. Nights here are chilly yet spectacular, with stars reflecting off the ice and peaks sparkling in the moonlight.
This is one of the most memorable days on the walk. As we travel farther into the Karakoram, the towering peaks of Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, and Gasherbrums emerge in front of us. Then comes the big moment: arrival at Concordia, a natural amphitheatre encircled by four 8000-meter summits, including the massive K2. The sheer magnificence of this region, with glaciers flowing in all directions and snow-capped giants towering overhead, leaves every trekker awestruck.
On this Day GPS Data Return time K2 BC (5,155m) + Gilkey (5,230m)+ Broad Peak (4,844m): 10-12 hours Return time Broad BC (4,844m): 6-7 hoursToday, there is an option to walk up the Godwin-Austen glacier to the Art Gilkey Memorial (an American geologist and mountaineer) immediately before K2 Base Camp. This is a long, yet amazing day. We will leave early in the morning, crossing the glaciers and following the thin track towards K2. As we follow the glacier towards K2, the peak appears to get bigger and greater. Broad Peak rises to our right, and after about three hours, we cross Broad Peak base camp. We normally stop here for lunch before continuing on with K2 towering over us as we approach closer. The Art Gilkey Memorial is located just before base camp, among the boulders and ice strewn landscape. A little scramble takes us to the location where those whose lives K2 claimed are remembered. Plaques and etched tin plates are affixed to a small rocky outcrop at the base of this massive mountain. There are excellent views of K2 immediately above us, and we may even see some climbing excursions. We spent the night in K2’s base camp.
On this day, we retrace our steps back to Concordia and rest for next day’s walk.Reaching K2 Base Camp is a powerful experience. After days of trekking through valleys, glaciers, and rugged trails, you finally stand in front of K2, the world’s second-highest mountain. It rises above you with unbelievable beauty and strength, and in that moment, you feel something truly special.
At 5,150 meters above sea level, this is one of the most famous base camps on Earth. It’s a place where climbers from around the world gather before their attempt to summit the mighty K2. The sense of achievement you feel here is unforgettable—you’ve pushed yourself to your limits and earned every step of the journey.
From the base camp, you’ll see a breathtaking view of the Concordia region, with Broad Peak and many other snow-covered giants all around you. This spot is often called the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods” for a reason.
We’ll take time to enjoy the view, have some snacks, and take a group photo with the climbers at camp. Many of them stay here for weeks or months as they prepare to climb K2. Feel free to chat with them, hear their stories, and enjoy lunch in one of the most stunning places on the planet.
After soaking in the beauty of K2, we’ll begin our return trek to Concordia for the night. From here, your journey will begin to head downhill—but the memories will stay with you forever.
We begin our journey towards Gondogoro La. The track leads southeast onto the Vigne Glacier. It’s a long hike across rough ice and snow. The campsite is basic and situated near a steep slope. Early meal and relaxation are essential as we prepare for our pre-dawn departure for crossing the pass. For those not crossing GGLA, this marks the point of return to Askole via the same route from Concordia. They will reach back to Goro I campsite.
A demanding but rewarding day! We begin before daybreak to safely scale the Gondogoro La. The trail is steep and has roped sections. At the summit, a spectacular 360° panorama shows K2, Gasherbrum I and II, Broad Peak, and Laila Peak. We then carefully descend to Khuspang. Crampons and harnesses are required. Crossing Gondogoro La is one of the most exciting and demanding days of the K2 trek. It’s a real adventurebut the view from the top makes it all worth it. When you reach the pass you’ll be rewarded with something few people in the world ever see: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II all visible at once. And as you turn around, you’ll see the deep Hushe Valley stretching out below, with the beautiful Laila Peak stealing the spotlight. Depending on the weather and snow, we may need to use ropes and safety gear to cross parts of the glacier. In some places fixed ropes are already set up to help you climb safely. If conditions are good, it usually takes 4 to 5 hours to reach the top where the views open up and take your breath away. At the summit the ground is wide and open but just beyond it, the terrain drops fast into the valley below. On this side, you’ll see dramatic rock faces and the elegant Laila Peak standing tall in front of you. Further down the glacier, you might catch a glimpse of the striking Masherbrum II shaped like a perfect cone. Going down the Hushe side of the pass is steep and can be tricky. The top part is snowy and steep and lower down you’ll walk on loose rocks. But once we reach Khuspang, a peaceful green campsite you can finally relax and look back on one of the most thrilling days of the trek. To make sure everyone stays safe a local rescue team from Hushe village will be waiting at Ali Camp. They are trained to assist trekkers across the pass and have years of experience. The cost for their service$120–130USD per person is already included in your trek packageso no extra payment is needed.
Today’s walk is easier than the previous few days. The trek continues along the Gondogoro Glacier, offering vistas of spiky peaks and hanging glaciers. Dalsampa is a lovely, grassy campsite that offers views of Laila Peak. You will feel relieved as you descend into milder settings.
Details: We descend down into the lush Hushe Valley. The trail winds through trees and tiny farms, with Saicho marking the end of the glacier region. This is a popular camping with clean water and beautiful rock towers nearby.
The walk to Shaicho is a refreshing change after days in the high mountains. Along the way we pass quiet pastures and see the first green trees since Paiju reminding us that we’re finally heading back to lower ground.
Shaicho itself is a small peaceful village. As we descend further the air feels warmer and richer, and the landscape slowly comes back to life. The trees grow taller the grass returns and we leave the rocky moraines behind.
We’ll camp at Saitcho (3,350m) a wide sandy area with patches of grass, located beside a river where the Gondogoro and Charakusa valleys meet. After nearly a week above 4,000 meters, this will be our first night back in oxygen-rich air a welcome change that helps us rest better. You’ll fall asleep to the calming sound of the river, surrounded by soft earth and growing life once again.
We hike to Hushe Village, the first proper settlement in days. After a short break, we board jeeps for a scenic return journey to Skardu.After packing up, we’ll begin our journey back with an early departure. Our transport will be waiting to take us through the scenic Khaplu Valley, where lush green fields and mountain villages offer a final glimpse of Baltistan’s natural charm. The road is smooth and paved, making for a quicker and more comfortable ride as we follow the winding path of the Indus River toward Skardu.Check into your hotel, shower, and celebrate the successful crossing of Gondogoro La.
Drop at Skardu Airport from where we will fly to Islamabad International Airport. After returning to Islamabad and settling into your hotel the pace finally slows. You’ve earned some rest and this is the perfect time to enjoy it. Whether you decide to just kick back in your room or head out to discover a bit of the city on your own, the choice is yours.If you’re curious to explore, we’ll happily point you toward local markets, cultural spots, or shops where you can find beautiful handcrafted rugs and keepsakes to take home. Many visitors love picking up something special here as a memory of their journey.
When it comes to food Islamabad won’t disappoint. You can dine at your hotel or head out to one of the buzzing food streets packed with flavor and life. It’s your last chance to taste real Pakistani dishes rich spices, fresh bread grilled meats and sweet desserts. The kind of meal that stays with you long after the trip is over.
Flights from Skardu to Islamabad depend on weather. If the skies don’t cooperate no worries .we’ll take the scenic route back by road in a 4×4 crossing the wild beauty of Deosai Plains or the Karakoram Highway with an overnight stop in Astore or Naran along the way.
Another contingency day. If already in Islamabad, it’s a good time to explore the city’s rich heritage – Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, or take a sunset view from Daman-e-Koh.
Our services end after breakfast. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Depart with memories of a lifetime
Reaching K2 Base Camp and Pastore Peak Expd is more than just finishing a trek it’s an achievement that stays with you forever. The path to get there tests your strength patience and spirit. But every step every challenge, and every breathtaking view makes it all worthwhile.Standing beneath the mighty K2 surrounded by glaciers and sky piercing peaks you feel something hard to describe a mix of pride wonder and deep respect for nature. Along the way the kindness of local people, the raw beauty of the Karakoram and the shared moments with your fellow trekkers become lasting memories.You don’t just leave with photos you leave with a story, a sense of accomplishment, and a piece of the mountains in your heart.
