Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition: 50 Day Karakoram Climb

Expedition Type

Full Board

Expedition Difficulty

Extremely Challenging

Best Time

June to August

Duration

50 Days

Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition Overview

Karakoram Treks’ Gasherbrum I climbing expedition takes you on a 50-day adventure of climbing one of the most magnificient mountains in the world, Gasherbrum I, also known as the Hidden Peak. The expedition offers experienced mountaineers the ultimate high-altitude adventure, combining technical climbing, glacier navigation, and remote wilderness. Starting from Skardu, the journey passes through Askoli, the Baltoro Glacier, Concordia, and Gasherbrum Base Camp, culminating in a summit attempt that requires skill, endurance, and careful acclimatization. Guided by seasoned local mountaineers, our Gasherbrum I climbing expedition is designed for climbers seeking a true Himalayan challenge.

The Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition takes you to the summit of the 11th highest mountain in the world. Known as “Hidden Peak” due to its remote location behind the Gasherbrum massif, G1 is one of the most prestigious 8,000-meter objectives in the Karakoram.

Unlike its neighbor Gasherbrum II, the Gasherbrum I climbing expedition is widely regarded as a more technical and serious undertaking. The route involves navigating the complex Gasherbrum Icefall and ascending the famous Japanese Couloir on the Northwest Face. Our 2026 expedition provides a comprehensive support structure, including fixed ropes, high-altitude camps, and veteran Balti and Sherpa guides, ensuring you have the best possible chance of standing on the “Shining Wall.”

  • Peak Name: Gasherbrum I (K5 / Hidden Peak)
  • Standard Route: Northwest Face / Japanese Couloir
  • Expedition Window: June – August 2026
  • Success Rate: High with our expert logistics and weather forecasting

Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition Highlights

The Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition takes you to the summit of the 11th highest mountain in the world. Known as “Hidden Peak” due to its remote location behind the Gasherbrum massif, G1 is one of the most prestigious 8,000-meter objectives in the Karakoram.

Unlike its neighbor Gasherbrum II, the Gasherbrum I climbing expedition is widely regarded as a more technical and serious undertaking. The route involves navigating the complex Gasherbrum Icefall and ascending the famous Japanese Couloir on the Northwest Face. Our 2026 expedition provides a comprehensive support structure, including fixed ropes, high-altitude camps, and veteran Balti and Sherpa guides, ensuring you have the best possible chance of standing on the “Shining Wall.”

  • Peak Name: Gasherbrum I (K5 / Hidden Peak)
  • Standard Route: Northwest Face / Japanese Couloir
  • Expedition Window: June – August 2026
  • Success Rate: High with our expert logistics and weather forecasting

Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition Difficulty and Altitude

How difficult is Gasherbrum I? The Gasherbrum I climbing expedition is graded as Technical/Extremely Challenging. While G2 is often considered the most “accessible” 8,000m peak in Pakistan, G1 requires superior technical skills on ice and mixed rock.

Climbing Terrain

The initial approach involves navigating a heavily crevassed glacier to reach Camp 1 (5,900m). The core challenge lies between Camp 2 and Camp 3, where climbers must navigate steep ice pitches and the technical couloir.

Altitude Profile

  • Base Camp: 5,150m
  • Camp 1: 5,950m
  • Camp 2: 6,400m
  • Camp 3: 7,300m
  • Summit: 8,080m

Our Gasherbrum I climbing expedition itinerary is built around a rigorous acclimatization schedule, involving multiple rotations to higher camps to ensure your body is prepared for the “Death Zone.”

Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition Inclusions/Exclusions

InclusionsExclusions
Domestic flights within Pakistan (20 kg check-in + 7 kg hand carry)International flights, visas & personal insurance
All ground transportation & airport transfersPersonal climbing gear & high-altitude clothing
Hotel stays in Islamabad & Skardu (twin-sharing)Summit / porter bonuses & rescue deposits (if applicable)
Government climbing permits & liaison officer feesEmergency helicopter evacuation & medical rescue
Expedition camping (Base Camp & high camps) with full logisticsExcess baggage & additional hotel nights
All meals during expedition (including high-altitude rations)Meals not mentioned in itinerary
Licensed mountain guide, cook, support staff & high-altitude portersTips & gratuities
Fixed ropes on normal routes (where applicable)Personal expenses & gear rental
CKNP waste management fee & secure baggage storageEarly departure or expedition withdrawal costs
Satellite phone (emergency use) & basic medical kitForce majeure expenses (weather, route changes, delays)

Tour Plan

Day 1 Arrival in Islamabad
  • Arrive at Islamabad International Airport and transfer to hotel.
  • Rest and adjust to the time zone.
  • Prepare for upcoming expedition briefings.
Day 2 Rest & Preparation in Islamabad
  • Complete any remaining paperwork and formalities.
  • Organize expedition gear and equipment.
  • Relax or explore the city before departure.
Day 3 Flight to Skardu
  • Board scenic 45-minute flight to Skardu.
  • Transfer to hotel and check-in.
  • Begin acclimatization to higher altitude.
Day 4 Sightseeing & Preparation in Skardu
  • Visit local landmarks and explore the city.
  • Attend pre-expedition briefings.
  • Make final trekking arrangements and rest.
Day 5 Drive to Askoli
  • Depart Skardu and drive approximately 7 hours to Askoli.
  • Pass through scenic valleys and villages.
  • Set up camp and rest for the night.
Day 6 Trek to Johla
  • Begin trekking through forests and streams.
  • Experience moderate elevation gain.
  • Camp overnight at Johla village.
Day 7 Trek to Paiju
  • Trek for approximately 6 hours through rocky terrain.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Karakoram peaks.
  • Set camp at Paiju and rest.
Day 8 Trek to Khoburtse
  • Ascend for about 7 hours through challenging terrain.
  • Witness glaciers and rugged mountain scenery.
  • Camp at Khoburtse and prepare for higher elevations.
Day 9 Trek to Urdukas
  • Trek for 4 hours to reach Urdukas.
  • Set camp near glaciers and acclimatize.
  • Enjoy spectacular Karakoram mountain views.
Day 10 Acclimatization Day at Urdukas
  • Short hikes to help body adjust to altitude.
  • Rest and prepare for more strenuous trekking.
  • Review climbing plans with guides.
Day 11 Trek to Goro II
  • Trek for 7 hours toward the base of glaciers.
  • Observe dramatic Karakoram landscapes.
  • Set camp at Goro II.
Day 12 Trek to Concordia
  • Trek 5 hours to Concordia, the glacier junction.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum I.
  • Camp at Concordia for acclimatization.
Day 13 Trek to Gasherbrum Base Camp
  • Hike 4 hours to Gasherbrum I Base Camp.
  • Prepare for climbing rotations and high-altitude acclimatization.
  • Rest and set up camp for summit attempt.
Days 14–42 Climbing & Acclimatization
  • Rotate through higher camps for acclimatization.
  • Practice technical climbing and glacier navigation.
  • Attempt summit based on weather and conditions.
Day 43 Trek Back to Khoburtse
  • Descend 7 hours through glaciers and rocky terrain.
  • Rest and recover at Khoburtse camp.
  • Celebrate successful summit attempts.
Day 44 Trek Back to Paiju
  • Trek for 6 hours descending through stunning scenery.
  • Observe changes in landscape from ascent.
  • Camp overnight at Paiju.
Day 45 Trek Back to Johla
  • Hike approximately 7 hours through familiar trails.
  • Enjoy views from a new perspective.
  • Set camp at Johla.
Day 46 Trek Back to Askoli
  • Trek 4 hours to reach Askoli village.
  • Complete trekking portion of expedition.
  • Rest and celebrate progress.
Day 47 Drive Back to Skardu via Shigar Valley
  • Drive 7 hours back through scenic Shigar Valley.
  • Check in at hotel and rest.
  • Reflect on the expedition journey.
Day 48 Flight Back to Islamabad
  • Scenic flight back to Islamabad.
  • Check into hotel and relax.
  • Optional sightseeing or shopping in the city.
Day 49 Contingency Day in Islamabad
  • Reserved for delays or weather issues.
  • Relax, explore, or prepare for departure.
  • Final debrief with expedition team.
Day 50 Departure Back Home
  • Fly back home, concluding the Gasherbrum I expedition.
  • Carry memories of one of the world’s highest peaks.
  • End of the 50-day adventure.

1 review for Gasherbrum I Climbing Expedition: 50 Day Karakoram Climb

  1. Isabella Martínez

    Gasherbrum I was a dream come true. The high-altitude trek was tough, but the scenery is beyond words.

Add a review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

From
$7,500.00
Booking Form
Request Form

Choose time

Guests

1

Adults

$7,500.00
Deposit Option 20% Per item
Available:
Total:

Choose time

Guests

1

Adults

$7,500.00

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gasherbrum I climbing expedition cost for 2026?

The Gasherbrum I climbing expedition cost varies based on the level of support. Our Full Board Service (including oxygen and personal Sherpa) starts at $18,000 USD, while Base Camp Support for independent teams starts at $7,500 USD.

Is oxygen provided for the Hidden Peak climb?

Yes, our full-service Gasherbrum I climbing expedition includes top-quality oxygen cylinders (usually 3–4 per climber) and masks. We also provide emergency oxygen at all high camps.

What is the best time to climb Gasherbrum I?

The best time to climb Gasherbrum I is from mid-June to early August. The weather window in the Karakoram is narrow, and our team monitors professional European weather forecasts to time our summit push.

Do I need previous 8,000m experience?

While G1 is often a climber’s second or third 8,000m peak, we recommend having previously summited a 7,000m peak (like Spantik or Muztagh Ata) or having significant technical experience on peaks like Ama Dablam.

Why choose our Gasherbrum I climbing expedition?

We are a locally based company with over 20 years of experience. We provide 1:1 Sherpa/Climber ratios, a dedicated doctor at base camp, and the most reliable porter logistics in Baltistan.