The Great Karakorum Traverse
- The Great Karakorum Traverse (Hispar-Hushe)
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
- Duration: 34 Days
- Mountain Range: Karakorum
- Season: June to September
- Maximum Elevation: 5600 meters (Gondogoro La Pass)
- Trek Grade: Difficult to Extreme (D(E))
OVERVIEW & ITINERARY
Details
The Great Karakorum Traverse is one of the most remote and challenging treks in the Karakorum Mountains. This legendary journey links the Hispar and Hushe valleys by crossing vast glaciers, high mountain passes, and some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. The trek passes through Hispar, Biafo, Baltoro, Vigne, and Gondogoro glaciers, connecting Snow Lake, Concordia, and the K2 region.
This expedition is designed for experienced trekkers seeking extreme wilderness, long glacier walks, and high-altitude adventure. From the icy silence of Snow Lake to the iconic amphitheater of Concordia and the dramatic crossing of Gondogoro La, this trek is considered one of the greatest long treks in the world.
ITINERARY – The Great Karakorum Traverse (Hispar–Hushe) – 34 Days
Arrive in Islamabad, meet with the team at the Alpine Club of Pakistan for a briefing about the expedition and overnight stay at the hotel.
Fly or drive to Besham. Overnight stay.
Drive to Gilgit along the Karakoram Highway. Overnight at PTDC Motel.
Fly or drive to Besham. Overnight stay.
Drive to Karimabad (Hunza). Rest and acclimatization at hotel.
Trek to Dachigan (4050m). Enter high-altitude wilderness.
Trek to Red Star Camp (4150m) across glacier terrain.
Trek to Red Star Camp (4150m) across glacier terrain.
Trek to Yutmaru Camp (4330m) on the Hispar Glacier.
Trek to Khanibasa Camp (4580m). Increasing altitude and glacier travel.
Optional climb of Hispar Peak (5650m) or acclimatization day.
Optional climb of Hispar Peak (5650m) or acclimatization day.
Descend to Naqpo Goro Camp (4400m).
Descend to Naqpo Goro Camp (4400m).
Trek to Mango Camp (3650m). Gradual descent.
Trek to Korofon Camp (3050m).
Trek to Korofon Camp (3050m).
Trek to Jula Camp (3100m).
Trek to Paiyo Camp (3350m), gateway to Baltoro Glacier.
Trek to Khobursay Camp (3800m).
Trek to Urdukas Camp (4150m) with panoramic mountain views.
Trek to Goro Camp (4500m) on Baltoro Glacier.
Rest day at Concordia. Surrounded by K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrums.
Trek to K2 Base Camp (5000m). Overnight near the world’s second-highest peak.
Trek back to Concordia.
Trek back to Ali Camp.
Cross Gondogoro La Pass (5600m) and descend to Khiyuspan Camp.
Trek to Dalsampa Camp (4100m) in Hushe Valley.
Trek to Siascho Camp (3350m).
Trek to Hushe Village (3050m). End of trekking.
Trek to Hushe Village (3050m). End of trekking.
Jeep drive to Skardu. Hotel stay.
Free day in Islamabad or drive via Besham.
Departure for onward destination.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Great Karakorum Traverse (Hispar-Hushe)
Traverse from Hispar to Hushe, one of the world’s greatest long treks
Walk across Snow Lake, one of the largest glacial basins outside polar regions
Cross Hispar Pass (5151m) and Gondogoro La (5600m)
Experience Concordia, the throne room of the mountain gods
Optional visit to K2 Base Camp
Continuous glacier trekking on Hispar, Biafo, Baltoro, and Vigne glaciers
Remote wilderness with no villages for many days
Epic views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum massif, and surrounding giants
Prices & Other Options – The Great Karakorum Traverse (Hispar-Hushe)
| Trekking Options in Shimshal | Price (USD) | Deposit | Min Pax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Treks | |||
| K 2 Expedition Tour (12 days) | US$1,560 | US$450 | 4 pax |
| Shimshal Pass Trek (10 days) | US$1,200 | US$350 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Medium & Hard Treks | |||
| Trango Base Camp Trek (14 days) | US$1,890 | US$500 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Climb Trekking Peaks | |||
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
Map/Route – The Great Karakorum Traverse (Hispar-Hushe)
GALLERY
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
- Duration: 34 Days
- Mountain Range: Karakorum
- Season: June to September
- Maximum Elevation: 5600 meters (Gondogoro La Pass)
- Trek Grade: Difficult to Extreme (D(E))
Frequently asked questions
June to September is the best season due to stable weather and open passes.
No. This trek is only for experienced high-altitude trekkers.
Gondogoro La at 5600 meters.
Basic glacier travel experience is required. Ropes are used on Gondogoro Pass.
Yes, a side trip to K2 Base Camp is included.
Camping throughout the trek, hotels in cities.
Very demanding due to long days, altitude, and continuous glacier travel.
Yes, experienced porters and guides accompany the expedition
