Three hours from here, most groups choose to overnight at Khorbutse (3,930m) on the far side of a lateral glacier flowing into Baltoro – a spot with excellent views of Uli Biaho, a soaring 6,000m+ pinnacle of stone. Alternatively, the next campsite is a 3-4 hour trek to Urdukas (4,050m) crossing 2 glaciers en route before ascending high above to a terraced campground overlooking the icefield – the last campsite not actually on the glacier itself, but offers an excellent vantage point down the Baltoro and up the glacier towards Concordia.
Goro 2 Leaving Urdukas, you head towards Goro or “little rocks” in Balti – an apt name for the glacial debris you must cross as you hike along the Baltoro. In the lead-up to Concordia, the summit of Gasherbrum IV (the world’s 17th tallest mountain) grows on the horizon over successive days. A good way to take reference of where you are is to make use of the mountains to your left and right to identify how far you’ve come along the glacier, with Goro 1 and Goro 2 being the day’s lunch stop and overnight halt; at Goro 2 (4,250m) you’re camping on the glacier, so it’s a struggle to find a comfortable, or even level tent site among the moraine and ice. However, you are rewarded with excellent views of Masherbrum (7,821m), which was once thought to be the highest mountain in the Karakorum range, hence otherwise known as K1. Concordia From here, you are a day’s hike from Concordia (4,650m), following the Baltoro to its confluence with the Godwin-Austen
Glacier, where views open up with the final surprise being soaring K2 (8,611m) peeking out over Marble Peak (6,256m), just before reaching Concordia. After 6-7 days’ hard hiking, you arrive at the “throne of the mountain gods”, with the reward being expansive views of four 8,000ers (Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II and K2), as well as a view down the glacier at all that you have covered. From here, there are a few optional day trips to K2 base camp (5,100m), Gasherbrum base camp (5,050m) or Broad Peak base camp (4,850m).
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On the return trek, there is the option of going over the Gondogoro La pass (5,940m) which brings you around to Hushe (however, there have been periodic restrictions on crossing this pass). Alternatively, you can return the way you came and experience the route back with a different perspective over 3-4 days.
Camp at Urdukas
Panorama from Broad Peak Base Camp View of Baltoro Glacier
Pakistan
Khorbutse/ Urdukas The view from Paju takes in multiple 6,000m+ peaks, while just an hour’s hike brings you to the base of the Baltoro Glacier. Ascending the uneven moraine to one side you will traverse the glacier in a few hours before descending to the opposite valley wall with loose rocks where the glacier has pulled away in recent years. This route brings you to Liligo, an open area that is safe from rock falls, where most groups will stop for lunch.
Things to Note Trekking up to the base of the world’s second highest peak is physically demanding, and it’s best to have previous, high-altitude experience. While the situation in Pakistan has a rough reputation, Baltistan is a surprisingly peaceful corner of the country, with the added advantage of its stunning views of Karakorum and the warm hospitality of the Balti people.
GETTING THERE There are several airlines flying to Islamabad – the fastest connection is via Bangkok, with a flight time of around 10 hours. Visitors to Pakistan need to apply for a tourist visa prior to arrival and would require a letter of invitation from a Pakistani host or tour operator.