Pastore Peak Expedition

Welcome to Pakistan. Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to the group hotel. The remainder of the day is dedicated to recovery and a group briefing regarding the Pastore Peak, K2, and Gondogoro La expedition. If time permits, optional sightseeing in the purpose-built capital of Islamabad is available.

Transfer to the airport for a spectacular 45-minute flight to Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, offering views of the Himalayas and Karakoram, including Nanga Parbat (8,126m). If weather prevents flying, the journey proceeds via a scenic 8-9 hour drive on the Karakoram Highway to Naran or Chilas. Afternoon activities include visiting local bazaars and the 8th-century Manthal Buddha Rock.

A day to explore the ancient gateway to the high peaks. Activities include a hike to the early 18th-century Kharpocho Fort for panoramic views of the Indus River and a visit to the Organic Village. Optional jeep tours to Satpara Lake are available. Final preparations for the trek are completed here.

A dramatic 8-hour drive along the Indus, Shigar, and Braldu rivers leads to Askole, the final settlement. After meeting the porter team, the trek begins across the snout of the Biafo Glacier to Korofong. The route continues through side valleys and across the Braldu River bridge to reach Johla camp, offering views of Bakhor Das (5,809m) and Paiju Peak.

The first full walking day follows the Braldu River, ascending toward the green oasis of Paiju. The 6-hour trek offers excellent views of Paiju Peak (6,611m) and the first glimpses of the immense Baltoro Glacier and the Trango Towers.

A challenging 7-hour day begins with a walk to the snout of the Baltoro Glacier. The trail climbs onto the glacier's rubble-covered surface, undulating across the moraine toward the southern side. The day concludes at Khoburtse, featuring sensational views of the Cathedral Towers, Uli Biaho, and the Trango Group.

A shorter but strenuous 4-hour ascent along the undulating lateral moraine. The route passes the Great Trango and the 'Nameless Tower' to reach Urdukas, a site perched high above the glacier with rampart-like views of Cathedral Peak and Lobsang.

A dedicated rest day to facilitate the acclimatization process. This is the last organized campsite on grassy slopes, providing facilities for washing and short hikes among alpine flowers. This 'climb high, sleep low' strategy is essential preparation for Pastore Peak.

Follow the moraine edge before climbing back onto the broad back of the Baltoro Glacier. The 6-7 hour trek passes the Yermanandu Glacier and offers views of Muztagh (7,270m) and Gasherbrum IV. The campsite is established directly on the glacier ice.

A 5-hour trek into the heart of the Karakoram. Passing Mustagh Tower, the route leads to the famous glacial junction of Concordia. Here, the full height of K2 is revealed, standing within 24 kilometers of four 8,000-meter peaks and surrounded by giants like Mitre Peak and Chogolisa.

A 4-hour trek through ice fins and moraine ridges leads to the medial moraine of the Godwin Austen glacier. Established at the base of the Broad Peak climbing route, this camp offers one of the most iconic views of K2.

An early morning start for a scenic walk to the Mighty K2 Base Camp, a highlight of the trek. After exploring the actual base of the world's second-highest peak, the team returns to establish Pastore Peak Base Camp.

This window is dedicated to the ascent of Pastore Peak. Following a day of technical training on the Pastore Glacier, the team attempts the summit on Day 15—a challenging 10-12 hour climb led by an experienced high-altitude guide. Logistical support remains stationed at Base Camp throughout. On Day 16, the team returns to Broad Peak Base Camp.

Navigate the Upper Baltoro and the Vigne Glacier toward the base of the Gondogoro La. The 6-hour trek across flatter glacial surfaces leads to Ali Camp. The afternoon includes a technical skills session to practice the use of jumars on fixed lines for the upcoming pass crossing.

An alpine start at 2 a.m. to safely cross the Gondogoro La (5,600m) before the sun increases rockfall risk. A 10-11 hour day involving steep 50-degree snow slopes and fixed ropes. The summit offers views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums, before a descent into the Gondogoro Valley to the oasis of Khuspang.

A buffer day reserved for potential delays or inclement weather. If the pass was crossed successfully on schedule, this day serves as an opportunity for rest or exploration in the Hushe Valley.

A 6-7 hour descent across moraine and ice to reach Dalsangpa and eventually Saicho. This pleasant walk passes yak pastures and the first trees encountered since Paiju, returning to oxygen-rich air at the junction of the Gondogoro and Charakusa valleys.

A final 2-hour walk to the village of Hushe, followed by a 7-hour drive through the lush Khaplu Valley. The journey concludes on paved roads back to Skardu, where the team enjoys a hotel stay and a real bed.

A scenic return flight to Islamabad, once again passing Nanga Parbat. In the event of flight cancellation, a two-day drive begins along the Karakoram Highway to Chilas. The evening in the capital is reserved for a celebratory meal.

A final buffer day to account for travel from Chilas to Islamabad or for sightseeing in the capital if the flight was successful. This ensures all travelers have ample time for international connections.

Following breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your return flight home, marking the conclusion of the Pastore Peak expedition.