Gasherbrum II Expedition
Photo Credit: “Foto GII papa wiki” by Ferranfp
Expedition Details
Altitude: 8,035m
Location: Pakistan (Karakoram Range)
Estimated Price: $50-70k (Price can be in lower range if combined with K2, Broad Peak and Gasherbrum I)
Number of days: ~50-55
Season: Late Summer
(Late June-August)
A typical Gasherbrum II (G2) expedition itinerary lasts around 50-55 days, starting with arrival and briefing in Islamabad, followed by a flight to Skardu and a jeep ride to Askole to begin the trekking phase. The trek to G2 Base Camp involves several days through the Baltoro Glacier. The climbing period includes acclimatization, rotations to higher camps (Camp I, II, and possibly III), and the summit bid, followed by the return trek to Askole and a final drive to Skardu.
Important Considerations:
Duration: The entire expedition typically lasts around 50-56 days.
Acclimatization: The itinerary incorporates necessary rest days and rotations to help climbers acclimatize to the high altitude.
Flexibility: Weather conditions can cause delays, so contingency days are essential, especially for the flight between Islamabad and Skardu.
Itinerary
Days 1-2:
Arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, and transfer to a hotel. Welcome Dinner.
Attend a briefing at the Ministry of Tourism and complete final preparations.
Days 3-4:
Fly from Islamabad to Skardu. Rest and sightseeing in Skardu.
Day 5:
Drive by jeep from Skardu to the trekking starting point of Askole.
Day 6: Drive by jeep from Skardu to the trekking starting point of Askole.
Day 7: Trek from Jhola to Paiyu.
Day 8: Rest day at Paiyu to rest and bake bread for the trek.
Day 9: Trek to Urdukas.
Day 10: Trek to Goro II.
Day 11: Trek to Shagharing.
Day 12: Trek to G2 Base Camp.
Days 13-41:
This is the primary climbing period. Set up camp and prepare for the climb. Acclimatize and perform rotations to establish camps at higher altitudes (Camp I, Camp II, and possibly Camp III). Execute the summit bid, ascending the Southwest Ridge and returning to base camp.
Day 42: Begin the descent from Base Camp.
Day 43: Trek from Base Camp to Goro II.
Day 44: Trek to Khuburtze.
Day 45: Trek to Mundung.
Day 46: Trek to Askole.
Day 47: Drive from Askole to Skardu.
Day 48: Fly from Skardu back to Islamabad.
Day 49: Leisure day in Islamabad. Farewell dinner.
Day 50: Depart from Pakistan for your international flight home.
Days 37-40: Trek back to Askole, passing through familiar camps like Goro II and Paiyu.
Day 41: Drive from Askole to Skardu.
Day 42: Fly from Skardu to Islamabad. Farewell dinner.
Day 43:
Final departure from Islamabad.