The 14 EightThousanders

Gasherbrum I

Gasherbrum I, called K5 and also known as Hidden Peak, is the eleventh highest mountain in the world at 8,080 m above sea level.

Country

Pakistan

Peak name

Mt. Gasherbrum I

Duration

50 days

Route

West spur (Japanese corridor)

Range

11

Coordinates

35°43'27"N 76°41'48"E

Weather reports

Live weather report

Range

Karakoram Range

Trip summary

Gasherbrum I, Also known as K5 or the Hidden Peak, it is the eleventh highest mountain in the world. It is located in the Karakoram range in Pakistan and is part of the Gasherbrum massif, a group of peaks that includes Gasherbrum I, II, III, IV, and V. Gasherbrum I, at 8,080 meters (26,510 feet), is considered a challenging climb due to its steep and icy terrain.

The group forms a semicircle around its own glacier, Gasherbrum South. A French expedition led by H. De Segogne made the first attempt in 1936 but failed to ascend beyond Camp V, at an altitude of 6,797 meters. Gasherbrum I was first climbed on July 5, 1958, by Pete Schoening and Andy Kauffman, of an eight-man American expedition led by Nicholas B. Clinch. Richard K. Irvin, Tom Nevison, Tom McCormack, Bob Swift, and Gil Roberts were also part of the team.

Gasherbrum I is the least popular of the eight-thousanders. It is also one of the peaks with the fewest fatalities, but this is probably because only experienced mountaineers venture onto such a remote and hidden mountain as Gasherbrum I. The peak was also the site of the world’s first ascent of an eight-thousander in pure alpine style. This means that the climb starts from the base of the mountain and all the equipment is carried along the way; if bivouacs are needed, they are found on the route. The most common way to ascend the peak is to attempt it via the west face, and all routes here lead to the “Japanese Couloir,” located at the top of the northwest face.

Seven Summit Treks’ Gasherbrum I expedition will begin the third week of June from Islamabad and continue with a flight to Skardu. The elevation gain from base camp to the summit exceeds 3,000 meters. At this point, we will establish three camps to facilitate your ascent and acclimatization. We will rotate frequently between each camp for optimal acclimatization. Base Camp is normally located at 5,000 m (16,404 ft), Camp I at 6,000 m (19,685 ft), Camp II at 6,400 m (20,997 ft), Camp III at 7,200 m (23,622 ft), and the summit at 8,068 m (26,470 ft).

“WHY CLIMB GASHERBRUM I WITH SEVEN SUMMIT EXCURSIONS?”

  • Highly qualified, professional, friendly, and experienced climbing team: Sherpa guides, kitchen staff, and base camp manager.
  • Well-equipped expedition with top-of-the-line climbing gear and logistical support for base camp and higher camps.
  • Safety is our top priority, and we do everything we can to minimize risks and ensure the well-being of our clients.
  • We offer a variety of itineraries to suit different levels and interests, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
  • Reliable weather forecast, verified from multiple international sources and communication networks throughout the expedition.
  • 1 climbing Sherpa per member (1 member: 1 sherpa)

More Information

Base Camp (5000 m/16,404 ft)
Fly to Skardu, travel to Jhola, and trek to base camp, where we will reach an altitude of 5000 m with magnificent views of the Karakoram. After 6 days of trekking, we will arrive at the base camp of Mount Gi. At base camp, our best team of Sherpas will be waiting for us. Seven Summit Treks boasts the best base camp setup. We will spend approximately one month at base camp. Each member will have an individual tent, and dinner will be in shared tents with kitchens, showers, communication, and toilets. Before ascending, we will perform a large ceromancy puja at base camp to wish for good luck and a safe climb.
Camp I (6000 m/19,685 ft)
Once at base camp, our personal climbing Sherpa or team leader will review the basic and advanced training for base camp. For better acclimatization, once the Sherpa team has fixed the rope, you will ascend to Camp I, located at 6,000 m (23,000 ft). This section of the climb involves numerous crevasses and a long, flat route covered in snow. This will take 6 to 7 hours of climbing. We will rotate frequently between Camp I and Base Camp. Up to Camp I, the climbing route is the same as for Camps I and II.
Camp II (6,400 m/20,997 ft)
The climb from Camp I to Camp II consists of flat, snowy sections. In this section, in addition to some crevasses, all climbers will be using the main rope. This section of the climb will take 4 to 5 hours.
Camp III (7200 m/23,622 ft)
The climbing section from Camp II to Camp III is a rocky and icy area. You will climb alongside the “Japanese Couloir.” The climb will take 5 to 6 hours. You will climb with a Sherpa and a fixed rope. It is somewhat risky due to avalanches. During the climb, your personal guide will always be with you. This section will last 5 to 6 hours.
Summit (8080 m/26,510 ft)
The most important day is summit day. It is the main goal of all climbers. It is a day that climbers dream of. The ascent to the summit is not too difficult. It is a dream come true. Therefore, most climbers begin their ascent to the summit at 1:00 AM and hike for approximately 8 to 10 hours, reaching the top around 8:00-10:00 AM. The summit of Mount Gi is breathtaking. You will be captivated by the stunning views of various 8,000-meter peaks and the many beautiful mountains of the Pakistani Himalayas. Later that day, after taking some photos, you will descend to Camp II, or Base Camp, which will take about 6 to 7 hours. The descent from the summit is also a challenging part of this expedition, so safety on the descent is paramount on summit day. Seven Summit Treks will have a climbing Sherpa and a team member accompanying you from Camp IV to summit day and back to Base Camp. The SST guide will carry the oxygen bottles for the team members and themselves. For a safe summit of Mount Gi, SST will always have access to the best weather recommendations, communication, and support from the Base Camp leader. Fixing ropes to reach the summit is the main task of our climbing sherpa, so we greatly admire his ability to fix ropes, open trails and make every effort to get the group to the top of Mount Gi.

Maximum elevation:

8,080m / 26,509ft

Walking per day:

5-7 hours

Accommodation:

Hotel + Shop

Best season:

Spring

Group size:

2 - 10 PEOPLE

Itinerary

Expedition Log

GASHERBRUM I 2026

Arrival in Islamabad and transfer to the hotel by our staff.
Hotel
Flight from Islamabad to Skardu.
Breakfast Hotel
Rest and initial acclimatization day in Skardu.
Breakfast Hotel
Rest day, expedition briefing, and final preparations.
Breakfast Hotel
Jeep journey from Skardu to Askole.
B / L / D Tent
Start of the trek from Askole to Jhola.
B / L / D Tent
Trek from Jhola to Paiyu Camp.
B / L / D Tent
Rest day in Paiyu for acclimatization and organization.
B / L / D Tent
Trek from Paiyu to Urdukas.
B / L / D Tent
Trek from Urdukas to Goro II.
B / L / D Tent
Trek from Goro II to Shagharing.
B / L / D Tent
Final trek to Gasherbrum I Base Camp.
B / L / D Tent
Acclimatization rotations: [Base Camp – C1, C2 and C3 – Base Camp].
Full Board Tent
Summit push: [Base Camp – Gasherbrum I Summit (8,080m) – Base Camp].
Full Board Summit
Camp cleanup and preparation for the descent.
B / L / D Tent
Return trek from Base Camp to Goro II.
B / L / D Tent
Trek from Goro II to Khuburtze.
B / L / D Tent
Trek from Khuburtze to Mundung.
B / L / D Tent
Last day of trekking to reach Askole.
B / L / D Tent
Jeep journey from Askole back to Skardu.
B / L Hotel
Free day and de-briefing at the Ministry.
Breakfast Hotel
Flight from Skardu to Islamabad and transfer to the hotel.
Breakfast Hotel
Transfer to the International Airport for final departure.
Breakfast

Included

Cost Includes

Logistics and Accommodation

  • Transfers: Airport - Hotel - Airport by private vehicle.
  • Islamabad: 3 nights in a 4-star hotel (Twin sharing, Breakfast included).
  • Skardu: 5 nights of hotel accommodation in Skardu (Bed & Breakfast).
  • Cargo Management: Assistance with Pakistan customs (costs subject to duties).
  • Map and Gear: Trekking/climbing map and an official Seven Summit Treks duffle bag.

Permits and Visas

  • Expedition Permit: Government of Pakistan royalty and fees for climbing Mt. G-1.
  • Liaison Officer: 1 Government Liaison Officer (equipment, salary, and stay included).
  • Waste Management: Garbage deposit and waste transfer fees.
  • Certificate: Summit Certificate issued by the Alpine Club of Pakistan after the ascent.

Transport and Flights

  • Domestic Flights: Islamabad - Skardu - Islamabad flight (guide included).
  • Ground Transport: Skardu - Askole - Skardu by Jeep. Bus/Jeep transport for staff.
  • Expedition Cargo: Nepal - Pakistan (Air) and Islamabad - Base Camp (Truck/Mules) transport.
  • Personal Baggage: Up to 60 kg per member carried by porters or mules during the trek.

Base Camp Services

  • Meals: 3 daily meals, snacks, and hot drinks. Includes fresh meat and fruits.
  • Kitchen Staff: 1 highly skilled Nepali cook and 1 Pakistani cook plus assistants.
  • BC Tents: Individual "Box" tent per member with foam mattress and pillow.
  • Infrastructure: Dining, kitchen, communication, toilet, shower, and staff tents.
  • Power: Solar panels and generator for charging laptops and electronic devices.

Mountain Support

  • Personal Sherpa: 1 licensed veteran Sherpa per member (1:1 ratio) throughout the climb.
  • Route Fixing: Experienced Sherpa team will fix the route to the summit at no extra cost.
  • Training: Oxygen use, regulators, and ice wall technique training by an IFMGA/UIAGM guide.
  • Salaries: Wages, equipment, food, and insurance for all Nepali and Pakistani staff.

Oxygen and Technical Gear

  • Oxygen Bottles: 3 bottles (4L) per member + 2 bottles for each High Altitude Sherpa.
  • Oxygen System: 1 set of professional "Summit" mask and regulator per person.
  • Backup: Extra oxygen available at base camp (subject to usage charges).
  • High Altitude Logistics: Shared high-altitude tents (2:1), EPI gas, stoves, and high-altitude food.

Safety and Comms.

  • Weather Report: Regular weather forecasts from Meteotest (Bern, Switzerland).
  • Communications: Walkie-Talkie radios (Base to Mountain) and Satellite phone for emergencies.
  • Medical Safety: Comprehensive medical kit for members and expedition staff.

Not Included

Cost Excludes

International Flights

Airfare to and from Islamabad.

Pakistan Visa

Visa fee for 90 days.

City Meals

Lunches and dinners in Islamabad and Skardu.

Extra Nights

Additional stays due to early arrival, late departure, or changes in domestic flights.

Travel Insurance

Mandatory: Medical coverage, high-altitude rescue, and air evacuation.

Personal Gear

Technical clothing, personal climbing equipment, private first-aid kit, and toiletries.

Special Permits

Fees for filming, drones, or professional cameras.

Internet

Internet service during the trek is not included.

Summit Bonus

Climbing Sherpa bonus: Minimum $1,500 USD.

Gratuities (Tips)

Estimated for base and high-altitude staff: Minimum $400 USD.

Dates

CONFIRMED DATES 2027
DURATION
STATUS
GROUP
ACTION
JUN 15 – AUG 03 2027
50 DAYS
Applications Open
15 PAX Max Group Size

Map

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