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.

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