Overview
The Pastore Base Camp Trek is an exhilarating adventure that takes trekkers deep into the Karakoram Range, offering close encounters with the spectacular mountains of Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, and K2. The trek follows the Baltoro Glacier before branching off to the hidden and serene Pastore Base Camp, an ideal spot for acclimatization and exploration.
This trek is perfect for those who want to experience the grandeur of the Karakoram without attempting the full K2 Base Camp route. Pastore Base Camp provides stunning views of nearby peaks and glaciers, with less foot traffic compared to the more popular trekking routes, making it a great choice for adventurers seeking tranquility and isolation.
DAYS | ITINERARY | SEE LEVEL | RESIDENCE |
---|---|---|---|
01 | Arrive Islamabad. Depart from your own destination, arriving Islamabad next day and transfer to hotel for few hours’ sleep. After early breakfast return to airport for flight to Skardu with views of Nanga Parbat. Flight may be delayed due to weather. | 512m | HOTEL |
02 | Drive from Islamabad to Chilas (13-14 hrs) by coach via Karakoram Highway or via Babusar Pass (4173m), a famous hairpin mountain pass. | 1265m | HOTEL |
03 | Drive from Chilas to Skardu (10-11 hrs), 275 km. Enroute views of Nanga Parbat and Indus River rapids. | 2467m | HOTEL |
04 | Full day in Skardu for official formalities and expedition preparation. | 2467m | HOTEL |
05 | Drive from Skardu to Askoli by Jeep (about 7 hrs) on rough narrow tracks. | 3000m | CAMP |
06 | Trek from Askoli to Jhula (7-8 hrs) along Braldu River valley crossing Biafo River, camp near glacier moraines. | 3200m | CAMP |
07 | Trek from Jhula to Paju (7-8 hrs), following Braldo River, views of Broad Peak. Camp in managed environment. | 3450m | CAMP |
08 | Acclimatization rest day at Paju. Porters prepare food; optional side excursion with views of Baltoro Glacier. | 3450m | CAMP |
09 | Trek from Paju to Urdukas (6-7 hrs), first distant views of Broad Peak and Gasherbrums, camp on grassy slope overlooking Baltoro Glacier. | 3900m | CAMP |
10 | Trek from Urdukas to Goro II (6-7 hrs), passing Yermanandu Glacier with views of Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower. Camp on glacier. | 4200m | CAMP |
11 | Trek from Goro II to Pastore Base Camp (shorter day). Spend 3 nights with rest and acclimatization; climb Pastore Peak (6209m). | 4780m | CAMP |
12 | Rest day at Pastore Base Camp for acclimatization and preparation. | 4780m | CAMP |
13 | Rest day continues at Pastore Base Camp. | 4780m | CAMP |
14 | Rest day at Pastore Base Camp, final preparation for trek to K2 Base Camp. | 4780m | CAMP |
15 | Trek to K2 Base Camp (5-6 hrs), passing Broad Peak camp en route. | 4850m | CAMP |
16 | Return trek to Ali Camp (6-7 hrs) crossing moraine ridges and Vigne Glacier. | 4800m | CAMP |
17 | Climb Gondogoro La (5685m) early morning with ropes and snow slopes. Spectacular views of ‘big four’ peaks and Hushe valley. 9-10 hrs walking. | 5685m | CAMP |
18 | Descend Gondogoro glacier, pass Dalsan camp, trek through yak pastures and trees to Shaisho and roadhead at Hushe. 7-8 hrs walking. | 3450m | CAMP |
19 | Trek to Hushe village (3-4 hrs), through pastures and along Gondogoro River with views of K6, K7, and Linksar peaks. Overnight in camp. | 3000m | CAMP |
20 | Drive from Hushe to Skardu by jeep (5-6 hrs) along Shyok and Indus Rivers. Afternoon debrief at Ministry of Tourism, overnight hotel. | 2467m | HOTEL |
21 | Skardu debriefing and final farewell dinner. | 2467m | HOTEL |
22 | Transfer to airport for flight to Islamabad if available, otherwise drive to Chilas (9 hrs). Meals and overnight at hotel. | 1265m | HOTEL |
23 | Free day in Islamabad or drive from Chilas to Islamabad (12 hrs). | HOTEL | |
24 | Transfer to Islamabad international airport for onward journey to own destination. | HOME |
Services Included
- Airport transfers and all domestic transportation (private vehicles, jeeps, or flights depending on trek)
- Hotel accommodation in Islamabad, Skardu, or Gilgit before and after the trek
- Twin-sharing tents during the trek (single supplement available on request)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hot drinks)
- Experienced English-speaking guide and local support staff (porters, cooks, assistants)
- National park and trekking permits
- Group climbing/trekking gear (kitchen tent, mess tent, toilet tent, etc.)
- Porterage of personal gear (weight limit varies by trek)
- Emergency first aid kit and communication equipment
- Sightseeing where applicable (cultural sites, valleys, viewpoints)
Services Not Included
- International flights and visa fees
- Travel insurance (must include high-altitude trekking coverage)
- Personal trekking gear (clothing, sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.)
- Tips for guide, porters, and support staff (customary but not mandatory)
- Extra hotel nights beyond itinerary due to delays (weather, road closure, etc.)
- Personal expenses (laundry, snacks, hot showers, internet, satellite calls)
- Any unforeseen costs due to natural disasters, political issues, or itinerary changes
- Optional excursions or activities not included in the original itinerary
- AS REQUIRED - TENTS
- AS REQUIRED - SLEEPING BAGS
- AS REQUIRED - SLEEPING MATS
- AS REQUIRED - KITCHEN GEAR
- AS REQUIRED - DINING SETUP