Concordia — K2 trekking junction
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Trekking Route
Location
Skardu, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 Hours (for shopping and information gathering)
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Accessible
Description
This specific location, Hassan General Store in Skardu's Star Market, acts as a key starting point and supply hub for the famous Concordia — K2 trekking route. Many trekkers come here to gather essential gear, organize their expeditions, and get local information before heading towards the high mountains. Skardu city is the gateway to the Karakoram range, and this market area is a central spot for trek preparations. It is where your K2 trek journey often begins with logistics.
What To Do
- Buy trekking supplies like clothes, boots, and camping gear at local shops.
- Talk to local guides and porters about the K2 trekking route.
- Arrange for transport to Askole, the last village before the trek starts.
- Enjoy local food and tea at nearby restaurants and cafes.
- Explore the lively Star Market for other local items.
What To Buy
- Trekking Gear: Find boots, jackets, backpacks, and tents at shops around Star Market. Get Directions
- Dried Fruits: Buy local apricots, walnuts, and almonds. Get Directions
- Local Handicrafts: Look for traditional woolen caps, rugs, and carved wooden items. Get Directions
- Herbal Medicines: Local remedies and herbs are available in some shops. Get Directions
- Local Spices: Get fresh and unique spices for cooking. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Dress modestly, especially when interacting with locals.
- Ask for permission before taking pictures of people.
- Bargaining is common in markets, so feel free to negotiate prices.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
Health & Safety
- Ensure you have all necessary trekking permits if heading to K2 Base Camp.
- Get travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
- Drink plenty of clean water to stay hydrated.
- Consult with local guides about trail conditions before starting a trek.
- Pack appropriate warm clothing and gear, even in summer, as mountain weather can change fast.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is cool and pleasant (April-May). Good time for initial trek planning and city visits before the main trekking season.
Summer: Best time for trekking (June-August). Clear skies and stable weather make high-altitude trekking possible. This is the main season for K2 expeditions.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Light rains in Skardu (July-August) can occur, but less than other parts of Pakistan. Trekking in higher areas is still active but some roads can be tricky.
Autumn: Beautiful colors and crisp air (September-October). Less crowded for city visits and lower altitude treks. High-altitude treks wind down.
Winter: Very cold and snowy (November-March). Roads can be blocked. Not suitable for trekking, but good for seeing snow in Skardu valley.
How to Reach
- By Air: Skardu International Airport (KDU) is the nearest active airport, located about 30 minutes drive from Hassan General Store.
- By Road: The store is in Skardu city, easily reached via the Skardu-Jaglot Road (N-35) which connects Skardu to the Karakoram Highway.
- By Train: The nearest active major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station, located in Rawalpindi/Islamabad, about a 20-hour drive from Skardu.
- By Public Transport: Local taxis, rickshaws, and shared vans are available throughout Skardu city to reach Hassan General Store in Star Market.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Concordia Restaurant: Gamba Skardu, Skardu. Contact: +92 355 5815049. Get Directions
- Mountain Inn Restaurant: Main Airport Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 345 5283300. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Shangrila Resort Hotel Skardu: Lower Kachura Lake, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 454316. Website: shangrilaresorts.com.pk. Get Directions
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Khasar, Skardu. Contact: +92 5811 454215. Website: serenahotels.com. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- District Headquarters Hospital Skardu, Skardu Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 920066. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Pakistan's official emergency number)
- Police Station: City Police Station Skardu, Hospital Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 920046. Get Directions