Overview
Paju Peak, a splendid gem within the Karakorum mountain range, stands out for its unique allure. While it may be considered relatively easier to ascend compared to some of its towering neighbors, only a handful of expedition teams have ventured to conquer its heights. The base camp of this remarkable peak is conveniently situated near a campsite known as Paju.
The name "Paju" originates from the Balti word for "Salt," reflecting the saltiness of the land. This connection to the Paju campsite lends its name to the peak itself. During the peak summer season, Paju campsite bustles with activity, serving as a vital resting point for climbers on their journey up and down. Paju Peak Expedition offers a distinct advantage in terms of accessibility and cost-efficiency, especially when compared to the towering 8,000-meter peaks in the vicinity.
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ELEVATION | RESIDENCE |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrive Islamabad, transfer to hotel for rest. Early breakfast and flight to Skardu (weather permitting). Views of Nanga Parbat. Possible wait if flight cancelled. | 512m | Hotel |
| 02 | If flight cancelled, drive (13-14 hrs) Islamabad to Chilas via Karakoram Highway or Babusar Pass (4173m), famous hairpin road. | 1265m | Hotel |
| 03 | Drive Chilas to Skardu (10-11 hrs). Scenic views of Nanga Parbat and Indus River rapids. | 2467m | Hotel |
| 04 | Full day in Skardu for formalities and expedition preparation. | 2467m | Hotel |
| 05 | Drive Skardu to Askoli (7 hrs) on rough jeep track. Last village before K2. | 3000m | Camp |
| 06 | Trek Askoli to Jhula (7-8 hrs) along Braldu River, crossing Biafo River, camping near glacier moraines. | 3200m | Camp |
| 07 | Trek Jhula to Paju (7-8 hrs) up Braldu River valley with first views of Broad Peak. | 3450m | Camp |
| 08–22 | Climbing period on K2 (15 days) | Camp | |
| 23 | Return trek from Paju to Jhula. | 3200m | Camp |
| 24 | Return trek from Jhula to Askoli. | 3000m | Camp |
| 25 | Drive Askoli to Skardu. | 2467m | Hotel |
| 26 | Skardu debriefing and final farewell dinner. | 2467m | Hotel |
| 27 | Transfer to airport for flight to Islamabad if available, else drive to Chilas (9 hrs). Overnight at hotel. | 1265m | Hotel |
| 28 | Free day in Islamabad or drive from Chilas to Islamabad (12 hrs). | 512m | Hotel |
| 29 | Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for departure. | Flight |
Services Included
- Comprehensive airport pickup and drop-off services.
- Round-trip airfare between Islamabad and Skardu.
- Transportation, including briefings, debriefings, and sightseeing.
- Transportation between Skardu, Askoli, Hushe, and Skardu.
- Three nights of accommodation in Islamabad, featuring twin-bed rooms with bed and breakfast provided.
- Three nights of full board accommodation in a Skardu hotel.
- Two nights of full board accommodation in a Chilas hotel.
- Coverage for local staff, encompassing wages, insurance, food, and equipment.
- Support from low porters to transport expedition and trekking equipment, as well as food supplies.
- Allowance for 75 kg of equipment per climbing member on the ascent.
- Allowance for 50 kg of equipment per climbing member on the descent.
- Provision of all trekking and base camp meals.
- Supply of comfortable member tents, mess tents, kitchen tents, storage tents, office tents, shower tents, toilet tents, tables, chairs, and kitchen utensils.
- Assistance with reconfirming international flight tickets.
- Coverage of all camping fees, road taxes, and bridge crossing fees.
- Supply of low porters' equipment.
- Documentation and climbing permit.
- Management fees for CKNP West.
- Royalty fees and additional member fees.
- Kit allowance, food, and flight fare for the liaison officer.
- Availability of an electric generator/solar system at the base camp.
- Heating system at the base camp.
Services Not Included
- International flight tickets for members.
- Helicopter emergency rescue fees (refundable if not used, currently at US$15,000).
- Climbing gear for members.
- Personal insurance for members.
- High-altitude tents.
- High-altitude food.
- High-altitude porters.
- Sleeping bags and personal expenses such as telephone calls, fax, email charges, liquor, soft drinks, room service, gratuities for personal services, and items of a purely personal nature.
- Charges for custom clearing (import and export of equipment).
- EPI gas and oxygen cylinders.
- Any unforeseen expenses, including roadblocks and additional hotel stays if members stay more days at the Base Camp. Extra expenses will be charged according to the number of additional days.
- Trekking members and climbing members will remain together. If any member splits during the trip, extra expenses will be charged at the normal price.
