Skip to content
Pakistan Mountaineering Club logo

Karakoram, Gilgit-Baltistan

K2 Expedition Pakistan

K2 (8,611 m) is the second-highest and most serious of the 8,000-metre peaks. We provide full Pakistan-side logistics: permits, base camp, high-altitude porters and support for your summit attempt via the Abruzzi Spur.

K2 summit pyramid seen from base camp in the Karakoram, Pakistan
Duration
50 to 60 days
Difficulty
Extreme (8,000 m)
Max altitude
8,611 m (summit)
Best season
June to August
Group size
By arrangement
Start / end
Islamabad → Skardu → Baltoro base camp

Trip overview

K2 is a commitment measured in weeks, not days. This is a full expedition for experienced high-altitude mountaineers, not a guided trek.

Our role is to run the Pakistan side flawlessly: government permits, the Baltoro approach, a well-stocked base camp, liaison officers, weather forecasting and strong high-altitude porter support so you can focus on climbing.

Trip highlights

  • Full-service base camp on the Baltoro side of K2
  • Government permits and liaison officer handled
  • Strong high-altitude porter and Sherpa-style support
  • Weather forecasting and fixed-line logistics
  • The Abruzzi Spur, the classic route

Day-by-day itinerary

  1. Week 1

    Islamabad, Skardu and approach

    Permits, briefings, transfer to Skardu and the Baltoro trek to base camp.

  2. Weeks 2 to 7

    Acclimatisation and rotations

    Establish camps, rotations on the Abruzzi Spur and rest cycles at base camp.

  3. Weeks 7 to 8

    Summit window

    Wait for and use a stable weather window for the summit push.

  4. Week 8+

    Descent and return

    Clear camps, trek out and return to Islamabad.

What is included

  • K2 climbing permit and government fees
  • Liaison officer and all base camp logistics
  • Baltoro approach with full trek support
  • Base camp tents, dining, kitchen and staff
  • High-altitude porter support (by package)
  • Weather forecasting during the summit period

Not included

  • International flights and Pakistan visa/LOI fees
  • Personal climbing equipment and oxygen (by package)
  • Comprehensive high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
  • Summit bonuses and tips

Accommodation

Hotels in Islamabad and Skardu, and a fully supported base camp with individual tents and a heated dining and communications setup.

Food on trek

Hotel and trek meals on approach, and a well-stocked base camp kitchen with a dedicated expedition cook.

Difficulty & fitness

For experienced 8,000-metre mountaineers only. Prior success on high peaks and technical alpine competence are required. We assess every climber's background before confirming.

Visa, permits & LOI

We arrange the K2 climbing permit, liaison officer and all park and trekking permits. You need a Pakistan visa with our Letter of Invitation.

What to pack

  • Full 8,000 m climbing system and down suit
  • Boots, crampons, harness and technical hardware
  • Personal oxygen system (or by package)
  • Sleeping systems rated for extreme cold

Safety & emergency support

Our expedition logistics include weather forecasting, base camp medical support, oxygen and coordination for high-altitude rescue. Summit decisions rest with the climbing team and conditions.

Read our altitude and safety guide and is Pakistan safe for foreign trekkers.

Frequently asked questions

Who can climb K2?

K2 is for experienced high-altitude mountaineers with prior 8,000 m or serious technical climbing experience. We review each applicant's record before confirming a place.

What route does the K2 expedition use?

The classic Abruzzi Spur on the Pakistan side, approached via the Baltoro Glacier and a base camp at around 5,150 m.

When is K2 climbed?

The main season is June to August, with most summit windows in July. It is a short, weather-dependent window at extreme altitude.

How much does a K2 expedition cost?

It depends heavily on oxygen and support level. Pakistan-side logistics packages generally start from around USD 18,000 and rise with full guided support.

What logistics do you provide?

Permits, liaison officer, the Baltoro approach, a stocked base camp, high-altitude porters, weather forecasting and rescue coordination.

Related trips you might like

All expeditions
Broad Peak rising above Concordia base camp in the Karakoram
40 to 50 days Extreme (8,000 m)

Broad Peak Expedition

Broad Peak (8,051 m) shares Concordia and a base camp with K2. It is often chosen as a first 8,000-metre peak, with full logistics provided by our team.

From $12,000View trip
K2 rising above Concordia on the K2 Base Camp trek in Pakistan
18 to 21 days (14 days trekking) Strenuous

K2 Base Camp Trek Pakistan

The K2 Base Camp trek walks the length of the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia and the foot of K2 (8,611 m). It is the classic Karakoram adventure and the trip most foreign trekkers ask us about first.

From $2,900View trip