K2 base camp trek

Photo: Svy123, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

K2 base camp trek is a multi-day hike generally based from Skardu, Pakistan. It takes about 10 to 16 days and involves a distance of about 180 km return. The hike occurs within the Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP).

K2, at 8,611 m (28,251 ft) above sea level, is the second-highest mountain on Earth, only about 250 m less than Mount Everest. Mountaineers consider it a more difficult and dangerous climb than Everest, partly because it is considerably farther north so poor weather is more common.

For general information on the mountains of the region, see Himalayas. K2 is in the Karakoram range, not in the Himalaya proper.

UnderstandThe best time to hike is July and August, though the trail can be done as early as June to as late as September; otherwise winter conditions will be present.

Get inThere are generally daily direct flights from Islamabad to Skardu with Pakistan International Airlines that take about an hour of flight time. There are also flight to Skardu from Karachi.

ItineraryThe initial part of the trip is generally by Jeep from Skardu at 2,226m to the village of Askole. This takes about 6 hours; though is variable.

MapA map of the route with campsites marked.

Stay safeIt is estimated that around 25% of foreigners need rescue either by horse or by helicopter due to sickness or injury. Rescue by horse costs about US$300–600 depending on your bargaining skills.

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Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "K2 base camp trek" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Svy123, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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