Gasherbrum II Winter Summit Expedition

Gasherbrum II Winter Summit Expedition Overview

Introduction

The Gasherbrum II (G2) Winter Expedition is one of the most challenging climbs in the Karakoram Range of Pakistan. Standing at 8,035 m (26,362 ft), G2 is the 13th highest mountain in the world and often regarded as the least technical of the Karakoram 8000ers. However, in winter, this “easier” peak becomes a brutal test of endurance, survival, and mountaineering skill. The first winter ascent of Gasherbrum II was made in 2011 by Simone Moro, Denis Urubko, and Cory Richards, a landmark achievement in Himalayan climbing. Today, only a handful of climbers dare to face its –40°C temperatures, hurricane-force winds, and short summit windows.

Quick Facts

  • Region: Baltoro Glacier, Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan
  • Height: 8,035 m (26,362 ft)
  • Duration: 40–60 Days (Islamabad → Islamabad)
  • Difficulty: Extremely Hard (winter conditions)
  • First Winter Ascent: 2011 – Moro, Urubko & Richards
  • Best Season: December – February (Winter Climbing)

FAQs about Gasherbrum II Winter Expedition

1. Is Gasherbrum II the easiest 8000er?

In summer, yes, it’s considered the “least technical” in Karakoram. But in winter, it becomes one of the most brutal climbs.

2. How long does the expedition take?

Between 40–60 days, including approach, acclimatization, and summit push.

3. Who first climbed G2 in winter?

Simone Moro, Denis Urubko, and Cory Richards in 2011.

4. Can beginners attempt it?

No. It is only suitable for elite, professional climbers.

Duration

40�60 Days

Difficulty

Extremely Hard

Price

Full Boat Service : $21000
Base Camp Service: $9000



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Trip Dates

Destination Trip Date Extra Information
No trip dates available.

Trip Details

Duration: 40�60 Days

$ Price (per person) :
Full Boat Service : $21000
Base Camp Service: $9000

Difficulty: Extremely Hard

Includes: Guides, Porters, Permits, Camping

Itinerary

Location
Activity
Altitude
Islamabad to Skardu
Flight (1 hr) or 2-day drive via Karakoram Highway. Scenery: Indus Gorge, Skardu city, Shigar Valley. Mountain en route: Nanga Parbat (8,126 m).
540 m to 2,228 m
Skardu
Permits, gear check, acclimatization.
2,228 m
Skardu to Askole
Jeep ride to Askole.
3,050 m
Skardu to Askole
Continue jeep ride to Askole.
3,050 m
Askole to Paiju
Trek along Baltoro Glacier to Paiju.
3,400 m
Paiju to Urdukas
Trek to Urdukas.
4,050 m
Urdukas to Goro II
Trek to Goro II.
4,300 m
Goro II to Concordia
Trek to Concordia. Highlights: Trango Towers, Masherbrum (7,821 m), K2 (8,611 m), Broad Peak (8,051 m).
4,650 m
Concordia to Gasherbrum Base Camp
Trek to Gasherbrum Base Camp.
5,000 m
Gasherbrum Base Camp
Rest and acclimatization.
5,000 m
Gasherbrum Base Camp
Rest and acclimatization.
5,000 m
Base Camp to Camp I
Acclimatization Rotation 1: Establish high camps, fix ropes, stock supplies. Climb to Camp I and return.
5,900 m
Base Camp to Camp II
Acclimatization Rotation 2: Climb to Camp I, then to Camp II and return.
6,400 m
Base Camp to Camp III
Acclimatization Rotation 3: Reach Camp III and return.
7,100 m
Base Camp to Camp I
Summit Push: Climb to Camp I.
5,900 m
Camp I to Camp II
Summit Push: Climb to Camp II.
6,400 m
Camp II to Camp III
Summit Push: Climb to Camp III.
7,100 m
Camp III to Summit
Summit Day: 10–14 hrs of climbing on steep snow/ice slopes and a long exposed ridge, with avalanche and wind risks. Descend to Camp II or Base Camp.
8,035 m
Camp II/Base Camp to Base Camp
Descent to Base Camp.
5,000 m
Base Camp to Askole
Trek back to Askole.
3,050 m
Askole to Skardu
Jeep ride to Skardu.
2,228 m
Skardu to Islamabad
Flight or drive to Islamabad.
540 m

Photo Gallery

Trip Highlights

Summit Strategy

3 acclimatization rotations and 1 four-stage summit push (C1 → C2 → C3 → Summit).

Beautiful Destinations

Skardu Valley (2,228 m), Shigar & Braldu Valleys, Baltoro Glacier trek: Paiju, Urdukas, Concordia, Gasherbrum Base Camp – surrounded by Karakoram giants.

Famous Peaks Seen

Gasherbrum II – 8,035 m, Gasherbrum I – 8,080 m, Gasherbrum IV – 7,925 m, K2 – 8,611 m, Broad Peak – 8,051 m, Masherbrum – 7,821 m, Chogolisa – 7,665 m, Trango Towers – 6,286 m.

Safety & Difficulty

Winter G2 is deadly. Hurricane winds, avalanches, and frostbite risks are constant. Requires high-altitude mountaineering expertise with prior 8000m experience. Extremely limited rescue options due to weather. Attempt only with full expedition logistics and professional support.

Muneeb kiani

This year, I had an opportunity to trek to K2 Basecamp, and I chose to go with Active Adventure. I must say, the entire experience was absolutely outstanding. The owner, Imran Shigri, is one of the most cooperative, humble, and genuinely caring people I’ve met. He made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish. Every aspect of the trek was perfectly organized, from the camps to the food, the guide (Akbar), and the porters. The arrangements were comfortable, well-managed. If you're considering a trip to K2 Basecamp or any adventure in the region, I highly recommend Active AdventurePK. Their professionalism and hospitality truly set them apart. It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m grateful to have shared it with such an amazing team.

Muneeb kiani

AJ

Amazing experience. Imran assembled a great support team for our K2 Basecamp and GGLA trek. The support staff were professionals and knew what they were doing. Besides their knowledge, they were super patient and helpful in every way. I will not hesitate reaching out to Imran Shigri and highly recommend Active Adventure Pk if you are considering K2 Basecamp or any other adventure. Thank you Imran Bhai for your service.

AJ

Ryan Kushner

The best base camp in the Karakoram! We had the best food, tents, accommodations, staff and comfort of any of the Broad Peak and K2 base camps this past summer. Every other climber and trekker that came by commented on how much better our base camp was than any other in the Karakoram. The food was fantastic. After four 8000 meter peaks this was the only one I never lost any weight on because we ate so well! The staff also treated women equally to men something I saw the opposite of with many other companies. I am looking forward to using them again next year on Nanga Parbat. If you want the best in Pakistan contact Imran at ActiveAdventurePK!

Ryan Kushner

M ilyas M ilyas

Zeeshu Travel Agency provided outstanding service in Gilgit Baltistan. Everything was well managed and professional. Highly recommended!

M ilyas M ilyas

Faryal Zafar

Excellent service, professional guides and staff. Very well done!

Faryal Zafar

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