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.

Hedda Asmussen

What a lovely day out! We did two hours of paddling and Phil was an amazing guide. I hadn't done much paddle boarding before but it was easy to pick up with his instructions and we had a nice relaxing journey down the river. Would definitely recommend even for those that haven't tried it before! The location is also amazing, super quiet and beautiful scenery!

Hedda Asmussen

Ansa

Great adventure on River Arun with my paddle bestie and Phil. Phil's trips are very well planned and organised! He asks your interests. With us it was wildlife and paddling techniques. Phil was very knowledgeable about the local area and wildlife and I can't wait to continue practicing paddle strokes he showed us. Thoroughly enjoyed this experience and felt safe and confident on the water with Phil around. Especially as this was my longest paddle. The area is beautiful and it feels like you are on holiday and not just outside London. Looking forward to joining in on another Cave Active Adventure trip soon!

Ansa

JAMES Howe

I have been on two trips with Phil now. One to Scotland and one to the river Thames. Both were spectacularly special for me. Phil is a caring and considerate guide and will really look after you, he takes his job seriously and goes that extra mile to make the experience memorable.

JAMES Howe

Andy

My wife and I booked a 3 day Thames Tour with Cave Active. We arrived at The Barefoot Campsite, which would be the base for the 2 nights camping. Phil arrived, and we set up camp in a great little area with a fire pit. The first paddle was upstream a 4 mile round trip to The Maybush for dinner, I think this was a chance for Phil to assess the standard of paddling and for the guests to get to know each other. After a great dinner, we paddled back down and settled in for our first night under canvas, whilst Phil got the Kelly Kettle fired up for a brew. Day 2 started with bacon and egg baps and hot tea. We then made our way to the Trout at Buckland Marsh for our launch site. A pleasant 8.5 mile paddle through beautiful tranquil countryside. A great lunch stop at Shifford lock with sandwiches from The Trout. We then continued on back to the campsite via the Rose Revived. That night dinner was cooked by Phil with burgers provided by Linthwaite Farms, which were well worth the wait. The last day started with porridge, and we broke camp. The last paddle was a 9.6 mile paddle finishing in Woolvercote, taking in 4 locks and a great alfresco lunch once at Pinkhill Lock, again prepared by Phil. The whole trip was relaxed and enjoyable but also very informative. I think my paddle stroke definitely improved. Phil also has a lot of knowledge about the areas you paddle through. You can tell Phil doesn't do this for a job. He does it for the passion he has for paddling. He has taken on some big paddles, both solo and in groups, and all the knowledge he has, he is happy to pass on. Everything is planned meticulously, and from the start, client safety is the top priority. I would definitely recommend Cave Active and am seriously considering booking on with Phil for his longer 5 day Loch Shiel Trip. He is definitely a man who knows what he is talking about and someone who gets a genuine pleasure from passing on what he has learned.

Andy

Josie Cohen

Phil gave me and my partner an amazing lesson in wind supping at Pagham beach. He was a great teacher - super lovely and patient and clear with his instructions. He brought all the kit (including helmets and walkie talkies) which was all top notch. Plus he happily went over our allocated time without an issue. Overall, we had a great lesson and it has left us very excited to buy a wing and get wind supping ourselves. Would highly recommend Cave Active Adventures to anyone and everyone!

Josie Cohen

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