Introduction

The K2 Winter Summit Expedition is the hardest and most prestigious climb in the world. Rising to 8,611 m (28,251 ft), K2 is the second-highest mountain on Earth and is located in Pakistan’s Karakoram Range. Nicknamed the “Savage Mountain”, K2 has a fearsome reputation even in summer. In winter, conditions become almost impossible: –60°C temperatures, hurricane-force winds, avalanches, and near-zero weather windows. For decades, K2 remained the last 8,000 m peak unclimbed in winter, until a Nepali team achieved the historic first winter ascent in January 2021.

Quick Facts

• Region: Baltoro Glacier, Karakoram, Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan
• Height: 8,611 m (28,251 ft)
• Duration: 55–70 Days (Islamabad → Islamabad)
• Standard Route: Abruzzi Spur (most attempted in winter)
• Difficulty: Extreme (technical, exposed, deadly cold)
• Best Season: Winter (December–February)
• First Winter Ascent: January 16, 2021, Nepali team led by Nirmal Purja & Mingma G.

Safety & Difficulty

• K2 is nicknamed the Savage Mountain because of its deadly difficulty.
• Winter adds extreme cold, avalanches, hurricane winds, and zero rescue options.
• Fatality rates on K2 remain among the highest of all 8,000 m peaks.
• Attempted only by the world’s strongest climbers.

FAQs about K2 Winter Summit Expedition

1. Why is K2 called the “Savage Mountain”?

2. How long does the winter expedition take?

3. Who made the first winter ascent of K2?

4. Is K2 harder than Everest?