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Hike the Savage K2

Discover the world's second-highest peak - a formidable pyramid of ice and rock that stands as the ultimate challenge in mountaineering, offering breathtaking views of the Karakoram Range and the Baltoro Glacier

Elevation

8,611 m

Location

K2, Baltoro Muztagh, Karakoram Range, Pakistan

K2 from Concordia

K2 Hiking Routes & Experiences

K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 Base Camp Trek

Epic journey to the base of K2 offering spectacular views of the Savage Mountain, Concordia (the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods), and the surrounding Karakoram giants. Perfect for experienced trekkers seeking the ultimate mountain experience.

14–18 days Guided tours available K2 views
Permit required
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Baltoro Glacier Trek

Baltoro Glacier Trek

Challenging route along the world's longest non-polar glacier offering spectacular views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum peaks, and the Karakoram giants. For experienced trekkers seeking to explore the heart of the Karakoram.

16–20 days Strenuous Glacier views
Permit required
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Concordia Viewpoint Trek

Concordia Viewpoint Trek

Panoramic viewpoint trek to Concordia offering stunning 360-degree views of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum peaks, and the entire Karakoram range. Perfect for photographers and those seeking comprehensive mountain vistas.

12–15 days Moderate trek Panoramic views
Permit required
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About K2 & the Karakoram

K2, rising 8,611 meters above sea level, stands as the world's second-highest peak and one of the most challenging mountains to climb. Its distinctive pyramid shape and steep faces have earned it the nickname "Savage Mountain" due to its extreme difficulty and high fatality rate.

The mountain is part of the Karakoram Range, which includes four of the world's fourteen 8,000-meter peaks. The area is home to snow leopards, ibex, and unique high-altitude flora. The challenging terrain, extreme weather, and technical climbing requirements make it a destination for only the most experienced mountaineers.

K2 lies within the Central Karakoram National Park, a protected area that preserves some of Pakistan's most spectacular alpine scenery and the massive Baltoro Glacier system.

Explore Mountain Features
Trekking in Karakoram near K2

Why Visit K2?

Ultimate Mountain Challenge

Experience the Savage Mountain, considered by many to be the most difficult 8,000-meter peak to climb, with its steep faces, unpredictable weather, and technical challenges.

Karakoram Wildlife

Spot snow leopards, ibex, Marco Polo sheep, and unique high-altitude flora adapted to the extreme environment of the Karakoram Range.

Glacial Landscapes

Witness the massive Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest non-polar glaciers in the world, and the dramatic contrast between ice and the granite peaks of the Karakoram.

Photographer's Paradise

Capture the ever-changing light on K2's pyramid faces, dramatic weather patterns, and the pristine Karakoram wilderness from Concordia.

The Story of K2

K2 has been known to local Balti people for centuries, who called it "Chogori" meaning "Great Mountain." The mountain holds deep cultural significance for the people of the Baltistan region and has been a landmark for traders on the ancient Silk Road.

The first recorded European sighting was in 1856 by British surveyor T.G. Montgomerie, who designated it "K2" as the second peak in the Karakoram range. The first successful ascent wasn't achieved until 1954 by Italian climbers Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni.

Now a world-renowned destination for elite mountaineers and trekkers, K2 continues to challenge with its extreme difficulty, unpredictable weather, and stunning beauty, embodying the ultimate test of human endurance in the Karakoram.

Learn more about K2's history

Mountain Features & Highlights

K2 Summit Views

Pyramid Peak

The distinctive pyramid shape of K2 offers one of the most recognizable and challenging mountain profiles in the world, with steep faces that test even the most experienced mountaineers.

Concordia

Concordia

The "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods" offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the world, with K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum peaks surrounding this glacial amphitheater.

Baltoro Glacier

Baltoro Glacier

The massive Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest non-polar glaciers in the world, provides the main approach to K2 and offers stunning views of the surrounding Karakoram giants.

Snow Leopard in Karakoram

Karakoram Wildlife

Watch for snow leopards, ibex, Marco Polo sheep, golden eagles soaring above the peaks - an integral part of the K2 experience in the wild Karakoram.

Planning Your K2 Adventure

Trekkers on K2 Trail

Prepare for your journey with these essential tips:

  • Check the weather – Karakoram weather is extremely unpredictable. Only attempt treks in good conditions with clear visibility.
  • Start early – Allow plenty of time for the long treks, especially during shorter daylight hours in shoulder seasons.
  • Be prepared – Carry proper clothing for all weather conditions, food, water, and emergency gear. The Karakoram environment is challenging.
  • Know your limits – The trails are strenuous and require excellent fitness. Weather can change rapidly and dramatically.
  • Respect the environment – Stay on marked trails and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect this pristine Karakoram landscape.
  • Explore more – Discover the surrounding trails, Skardu, and the rich history of the Central Karakoram National Park beyond the main routes.

Find K2 & Skardu

Address: K2, Baltoro Muztagh, Central Karakoram National Park, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Coordinates: 35.8814°N, 76.5133°E

Located near Skardu in the Central Karakoram National Park, accessible by jeep or helicopter. The main trails start from Askole village.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wear sturdy boots, layered clothing for all weather conditions, and waterproof gear. Karakoram weather is extremely unpredictable and can change rapidly.

Some shorter trails around Skardu are suitable for families. The main K2 trails are strenuous and require excellent fitness. The summit is for experienced mountaineers only.

Permits are required for trekking in the Central Karakoram National Park. You may also need to pay for camping permits and guide services in certain areas.

Absolutely. K2 offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset from Concordia. Please stay on marked trails and respect the fragile Karakoram environment.

June to September offers the best conditions, though weather is always unpredictable. Winter trekking requires mountaineering experience due to snow and extreme conditions.

Some areas around Skardu have accessible paths, but the mountain trails themselves are not wheelchair accessible due to their steep and rocky terrain.

Look for snow leopards, ibex, Marco Polo sheep, golden eagles, and unique high-altitude flora adapted to the extreme environment of the Karakoram Range.