k2 Base camp
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Trekking Route
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
15 to 20 Days (for the full K2 Base Camp trek starting from Askole)
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa is required for Pakistan. A No Objection Certificate (NOC) is specifically required for foreigners to trek in the K2 Base Camp region. Apply well in advance.
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
K2 Base Camp is a very challenging trekking route leading to the base of K2, the world's second-highest mountain. While the actual trek begins from the village of Askole, Skardu serves as the main city for planning, supplies, and information. The location provided (Hassan General Store, Hussaini Chowk) is a central point in Skardu city where trekkers often gather supplies or arrange logistics before heading further into the mountains. This trek is known for its incredible mountain views and demands high physical fitness.
What To Do
- Secure all necessary trekking permits and NOCs from the local administration in Skardu.
- Buy essential trekking gear, food supplies, and equipment from shops in Skardu's main markets.
- Hire experienced local trekking guides and porters for your journey. This is important for safety and navigation.
- Arrange transport from Skardu to Askole village, which is the official starting point of the K2 Base Camp trek.
- Undertake the multi-day K2 Base Camp trek, experiencing high-altitude landscapes and glacier crossings.
What To Buy
- Trekking Gear: Durable hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bags, and backpacks are crucial. Look in Star Market, Skardu. Get Directions
- Local Dry Fruits: Skardu is known for its apricots and almonds. Find them at local grocery stores in Hussaini Chowk. Get Directions
- Balti Handicrafts: Small wooden items, wool shawls, and traditional caps are available in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Gemstones: Skardu is a source of various gemstones. You might find small shops selling them in the main market areas. Get Directions
- Local Honey: Pure mountain honey is often sold by local vendors around Skardu's markets. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Always obtain the necessary trekking permits and NOCs before starting the K2 Base Camp trek.
- Respect local customs and traditions; dress modestly, especially when interacting with local communities.
- Do not litter. Carry out all your trash, including food waste. Follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Photography is generally allowed, but always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
- Stick to designated trekking routes and follow your guide's instructions for safety.
Health & Safety
- The K2 Base Camp trek involves high altitudes. Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
- Maintain a high level of physical fitness before attempting this trek.
- Carry adequate warm clothing, including layers, a good sleeping bag, and proper waterproof gear.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and carry water purification tablets or a filter.
- Be aware of changing weather conditions and potential hazards like rockfall or avalanches on the route.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (April to May): Weather is cool in Skardu, but the high-altitude trek routes might still have snow and be closed. Good for pre-trek preparation in Skardu.
Summer: (June to August): This is the best time for the K2 Base Camp trek. Weather is mildest on the route, and snow has usually cleared. Expect clear skies and comfortable trekking conditions.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy (July to September): Skardu and the mountains receive less heavy monsoon rain compared to other parts of Pakistan. Conditions can still be good for trekking, but always check weather forecasts for mountain regions.
Autumn: (September to October): Good for trekking with clear skies and stable weather, but temperatures start to drop quickly. Days are shorter. Fall colors are visible in the valleys.
Winter: (November to March): Very cold in Skardu and the mountains. Trekking to K2 Base Camp is not recommended due to heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and dangerous conditions. Most routes are closed.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu Airport (KDU). Flights operate from Islamabad. From Skardu Airport, take a taxi or shared jeep to Hassan General Store, Hussaini Chowk.
- By Road: Travel to Skardu via the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and the Skardu Road. This is a long but scenic drive from cities like Islamabad or Rawalpindi. Once in Skardu, local taxis or jeeps can take you to Hassan General Store, Hussaini Chowk.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). From Rawalpindi, you must travel by road or air to Skardu.
- By Public Transport: From Skardu city center, local jeeps, taxis, or rickshaws are available to reach Hassan General Store, Hussaini Chowk. Shared jeeps also run from Skardu to Askole for the trek's starting point.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- K2 Cafe and Restaurant: Naya Bazar Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 450529. Get Directions
- Food Street Skardu: Near Satpara Road, Skardu. No specific phone. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Shangrila Resort Hotel: Lower Kachura Lake, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 450125. Website: shangrilaresorts.com.pk. Get Directions
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Airport Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 452399. Website: serena-hotels.com. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Skardu, Airport Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920038. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Official emergency number in Pakistan)
- Police Station: City Police Station Skardu, Hospital Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920005. Get Directions
