The 14 EightThousanders

Gasherbrum II

Gasherbrum II, at 8,035 m (21,000 ft), is located in the Karakoram range on the border between Pakistan and China. It is the thirteenth highest peak in the world and is known for its breathtaking beauty and demanding climbing conditions. First summited in 1956 by a team led by American climbers, Gasherbrum II is often considered one of the more accessible eight-thousanders, but it still presents significant challenges due to its steep slopes, high altitude, and unpredictable weather.

Country

Pakistan

Peak name

Mt. Gasherbrum II

Duration

50 days

Route

Espolón oeste (corredor japonés)

Range

11

Coordinates

35°43'27"N 76°41'48"E

Weather reports

Live weather report

Range

Karakoram Range

Trip summary

Gasherbrum II, The thirteenth highest peak in the world, Gasherbrum II forms an important part of the majestic Gasherbrum massif in the Karakoram range. This group includes six prominent peaks, with Gasherbrum I and II rising above 8,000 meters, earning them a prominent place among the world’s highest summits. Known for its relatively more accessible route compared to its neighboring giants, Gasherbrum II is often considered a preferred choice for those aspiring to climb the elite eight-thousanders. However, its beauty and technical challenges ensure that it remains an achievement reserved for the well-prepared and determined.

Historically, Gasherbrum II was first explored in 1909 by an Italian expedition led by Prince Luigi Amedeo, Duke of the Abruzzi, a legendary figure in the early explorations of the Himalayas and the Karakoram. His journey marked the beginning of humanity’s connection with this imposing pyramid of snow.

Gasherbrum II Expedition – Summer 2026.
14 Peaks Expedition is pleased to organize the Gasherbrum II Expedition for the 2026 summer climbing season. The adventure will begin on June 10, 2026. Led by our expert Sherpas, with industry-leading logistics and a focus on safety and success, we offer climbers the opportunity to reach one of the most fascinating peaks in the Karakoram.

Enter the world of high-altitude legends: take on Gasherbrum II with 14 Peaks Expedition and take your mountaineering journey to the next level.

More Information

Base Camp (5000 m / 16,404 ft)
Flight to Skardu, transfer to Jhola, and trek to the base camp, reaching an altitude of 5000 m with magnificent views of the Karakoram. After 6 days of trekking, we will arrive at the GI Base Camp. At base camp, our best team of Sherpas will be waiting for us. Seven Summit Treks offers the best base camp setup. We will spend approximately one month at base camp. Each member will have an individual tent and dine in shared tents with kitchen, showers, communication, and bathroom facilities. Before ascending, we will hold a grand Puja ceremony at base camp to wish for good luck and a safe climb.
Camp I (6000 m / 19,685 ft)
Once at base camp, your personal climbing Sherpa or team leader will review basic and advanced training at base camp. For optimal acclimatization, once the Sherpa team has fixed the ropes, you will ascend to Camp I, located at 6000 m altitude. In this climbing section, you will encounter numerous crevasses and a long, flat snow route. This will take approximately 6 to 7 hours of climbing. Frequent rotations will be made between Camp I and base camp. Up to Camp I, the climbing route is the same as in Camps GI and GII.
Camp II (6400 m / 20,997 ft)
The climb from Camp I to Camp II consists of flat snow sections. In this section, in addition to some crevasses, all climbers will ascend using the main rope. This climbing section will take approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Camp III (7200 m / 23,622 ft)
The climb from Camp II to Camp III is a rocky and icy zone. You will climb along 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 take 5 to 6 hours.
Summit (8080 m / 26,510 ft)
The most important day is the summit day. It is the main goal for all climbers. It is a day that climbers dream about. The ascent to the summit is not overly difficult—it is a dream day. Therefore, most climbers start their summit push at 1:00 a.m. and trek for approximately 8 to 10 hours, reaching the summit around 8–10 a.m. The summit of GI is breathtaking. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful views of various 8000 m peaks and many stunning mountains of the Pakistani Himalaya. On the same day, after taking some photos, you will descend to Camp II or base camp, which will take approximately 6 to 7 hours. The descent from the summit is also a challenging part of this expedition, so safe descent is critical on summit day. Seven Summit Treks will provide a climbing Sherpa for each member from Camp IV to summit day and back to base camp. The SST guide will carry the oxygen bottles for the members and themselves. For a safe ascent of Mount GI, SST always follows the best weather forecasts, communication protocols, and support from the base camp leader. Fixing ropes to reach the summit is the main task of our climbing Sherpa, and we greatly admire their ability to fix ropes, open routes, and make every effort to ensure the group reaches the summit of Mount GI.

Maximum elevation:

8,034m / 26,358ft

Walking per day:

5-7 hours

Accommodation:

Hotel + Shop + Accommodation

Best season:

Spring

Group size:

2 - 15 PEOPLE

Itinerary

Expedition Log

GASHERBRUM II 2026

Arrival in Islamabad and transfer to the hotel by our team.
Hotel
Domestic flight from Islamabad to Skardu.
Breakfast Hotel
Rest day for altitude acclimatization in Skardu.
Breakfast Hotel
Rest day in Skardu: briefing and final expedition preparations.
Breakfast Hotel
Road drive from Skardu to the remote village of Askole.
B / L / D Tent
Start of the trek: hike from Askole to Jhola Camp.
B / L / D Tent
Trekking day from Jhola to Paiyu Camp.
B / L / D Tent
Essential rest day in Paiyu for the team’s acclimatization.
B / L / D Tent
Hike from Paiyu to Urdukas, gaining significant altitude.
B / L / D Tent
Hike over glacial terrain from Urdukas to Goro II Camp.
B / L / D Tent
Trekking from Goro II to Shagharing.
B / L / D Tent
Final hike from Shagharing to establish Gasherbrum II (G2) Base Camp.
B / L / D Tent
Technical cycles: [Base Camp – Rotations (Camp I, Camp II, and Camp III) – Base Camp].
Full Board Tent
Summit window: [Base Camp – Gasherbrum II – Return to Base Camp].
Full Board Summit
Dismantling of Base Camp and preparation for the return descent.
B / L / D Tent
Downhill trek from Base Camp to Goro II.
B / L / D Tent
Return trek from Goro II to Khuburtze.
B / L / D Tent
Continuation of the descent toward Mundung.
B / L / D Tent
Final trekking day to reach Askole on the return journey.
B / L / D Tent
Drive from Askole back to Skardu.
B / L Hotel
Leisure day in Skardu and final briefing at the Ministry.
Breakfast Hotel
Flight from Skardu back to Islamabad and transfer to the hotel.
Breakfast Hotel
Transfer to the International Airport for your final departure.
Breakfast

Included

Cost Includes

1. Logistics and Accommodation

  • Transfers: Airport - Hotel - Airport by private vehicle.
  • Islamabad: 2 nights at a 4-star hotel in a single room with breakfast.
  • Welcome Dinner: Dinner at a tourist restaurant with reception staff.
  • Customs Clearance: Assistance at Pakistan customs (clearance costs included).

2. Permits and Fees

  • GII Permit: Government royalties and permit fees for members and sherpas.
  • Liaison Officer: 1 government officer with equipment, salary, and accommodation.
  • Waste Management: Fees for human waste disposal and garbage deposits.
  • Summit Certificate: Issued by the Pakistani Alpine Club after a successful ascent.

3. Transportation and Cargo

  • Domestic Flight: Islamabad – Skardu – Islamabad (round trip).
  • Overland: Jeep Skardu – Askole – Skardu (round trip).
  • Staff Transport: Islamabad – Askole via Skardu by bus/jeep.
  • Group Equipment: Air transport Nepal – Pakistan and truck/jeep to Askole.
  • Base Logistics: Askole – Base transport via porters and mules.

4. Base Camp and Meals

  • Full Board: 3 meals per day with tea and coffee in hotels, lodges, and tents.
  • Supplies: Fresh meat, fruits, vegetables, hygienic juices, and soft drinks.
  • Base Camp Gear: Individual tent per member, sleeping pad, and pillow.
  • Facilities: Dining tents (heated), kitchen, communications, bathroom, and shower.
  • Power: Solar and generator for charging laptops and electronic devices.

5. Mountain Support and Staff

  • Personal Sherpa: 1 licensed Sherpa (1:1) throughout the ascent and rotations.
  • Assistance: Sherpa will help carry equipment to high camps.
  • Kitchen Staff: 1 experienced Nepali and 1 Pakistani cook.
  • Salaries: Wages, gear, food, and insurance for all Nepali and Pakistani staff.
  • Training: Technical training at Base Camp (Oxygen, regulators, ice, and ladders).

6. Safety and High Altitude

  • Oxygen: 3 cylinders (4L) for the member and 2 cylinders for the Sherpa.
  • O2 System: 1 set of “Summit” mask and regulator per person (must be returned).
  • High Camps: Shared tents (2:1), gas, cookware, and food at C1, C2, and C3.
  • Route Fixing: Experienced Sherpa team will fix the rope up to the summit.
  • Safety: Meteotest (Switzerland) forecast and full medical kit.

7. Communications

  • Satellite: Satellite phone (emergencies) and usage permits included.
  • Radios: Walkie-talkies for Base-Mountain communication.
  • Canvas Bag: One official 14 Peaks canvas bag provided.
  • Luggage: Up to 60 kg per member carried by porters/mules.

Not Included

Cost Excludes

International Travel

Round-trip flights to Islamabad and visa fees (90 days).

City Meals

Lunches and dinners in Islamabad and Skardu (or for early return).

Extra Nights

Additional stays due to canceled flights or itinerary changes.

Early Return

Mandatory porter and logistics fees in case of early withdrawal.

Comprehensive Insurance

Mandatory: Medical, high-altitude rescue, trip cancellation, and repatriation.

Personal Expenses

Internet, laundry, hot showers, and alcoholic beverages.

Personal Gear

Technical clothing, personal climbing gear, and toiletries.

Filming

Special permits for professional cameras and drones.

Summit Bonus

Minimum $2,000 USD for the climbing Sherpa.

Tips

Minimum $500 USD for base and high-altitude staff.

Dates

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

Map

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