Gasherbrum I, widely known as “The Hidden Mountain,” is situated in the secluded district of Shigar in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. This Eleventh Eight Thousander stands at an elevation of 8,080 meters and is a significant part of the Gasherbrum Massif, aptly named “The Hidden Mountain” due to its remote location. However, the local Balti people have their own ancient name for the mountain, combining “Rgasha,” meaning beautiful, and “Brum,” meaning mountain.
The exploration of the Gasherbrum Massif began in 1934, led by Swiss explorer Guinter Oskar Dyhrenfurth and international expeditions. Despite their efforts, the summits of both Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II remained unconquered. The mountain was eventually first ascended by Pete Schoening and Andy Kauffman on July 5, 1958, as part of an eight-man American Expedition team led by Nicholas B. Clinch. Gasherbrum I was initially discovered by British surveyor Thomas George Montgomerie in 1856 during The Great Trigonometric Survey in India, who named it K5, signifying the fifth peak of the Karakoram region.
Embarking on an expedition to this eighth-thousander offers a lifetime experience with breathtaking views of the Baltoro Glacier, Muztagh Tower, Masherbrum, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum IV, and the formidable K2. Despite being the eleventh highest peak globally, Gasherbrum I demands respect for its unique geographical challenges, with fewer than 200 successful ascents recorded. It is an exceptionally challenging climb, requiring a high level of psychological fortitude and physical fitness to stand triumphantly on its summit.
The best season to undertake the Gasherbrum I expedition is summer, particularly in July and August, the warmest months of the year. These months provide more favorable conditions for ascent compared to winter. Notably, the first winter ascent was accomplished by Polish climbers Adam Bielecki and Janusz Golab on March 9, 2012, without supplementary oxygen, marking a historic achievement in the mountain’s climbing history.
Upon your airport arrival, ensure visa procedures are completed. Our envoy will warmly welcome you and guide you to a conveniently booked hotel in Blue Area. Explore Islamabad's cultural sites like The Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Museum, and Faisal Mosque.
Complete travel permits, documentation, packing, and other necessary formalities. Engage in a comprehensive briefing, acquaint yourself with fellow trekkers, and leisurely prepare for the upcoming journey.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before flying to Skardu, a mesmerizing city in Gilgit-Baltistan at an elevation of 2228 meters. Refresh after the flight and explore the city's vibrant attractions. Prepare with our guides for the expedition ahead.
Travel from Skardu to Askole, a remote town in Shigar valley, marking the starting point before the Karakoram's wild terrains. After a thrilling seven-hour jeep ride, settle in at the destination and prepare for camping
Commence the trek from Askole (2800m) to Jhola (3185m) post-breakfast, avoiding heat by crossing the Biafo Glacier. Ascend 385m to Jhola and prepare for overnight stay.
Embark on the journey to the stunning pinnacles of Paiyu, reaching a total altitude of 3383m. Enjoy a serene campsite for the next two days amidst Paiyu's calm and well-equipped region.
Pause for a day's rest at Paiyu, located in the tranquil Karakoram Region. Witness nature's generosity with a golden sunrise over the majestic peak of Paiyu before heading towards Urdukas.
Challenge yourself on a rocky moraine ascent of Baltoro Glacier to Urdukas (4130m). Marvel at the breathtaking views of Paiyu Peak and Trango, a sight that will leave you spellbound.
Ascend from Urdukas (4130m) to Gora II (4250m) for an easier day. Enjoy the heart of Concordia's ice-covered vistas with magnificent views of Masherbrum, Muztagh Tower, and Gasherbrum IV.
Embark on a captivating trek to Concordia (4550m), a campsite offering a panoramic view of Masherbrum, Gasherbrum, K2, Chogolisa, and Broad Peak. Set up camp and relish the breathtaking sights.
Resume the trek to Gasherbrum Base Camp (5150m) to witness the incredible sight of Gasherbrum. After a six-hour hike, rest for the night at the base camp.
Prepare for the summit attempt with final training in glacial travel and climbing techniques while paying homage to lost climbers.
Initiate the ascent to Camp 1, following high camps 1, 2, and 3, aiming for the summit (8080m). Descend back to base camps, evaluating weather conditions, and rest before descending to lower elevation.
Descend from base camps to Gora II, Khuburtze, Mundung, and return to Askole through the descending route.
Drive back to Skardu, refresh, and prepare for the flight to Islamabad after a seven-hour journey from Askole.
Fly back from Skardu to Islamabad, relishing an aerial view of the capital city. Relax and explore cultural landmarks like The Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Museum, Faisal Mosque, Mragalla Hills, and Daman-e-Koh.
The Gasherbrum Summit journey concludes today. Bid farewell with cherished memories as our representative escorts you to Islamabad Airport for your scheduled flight.
The cost of our expeditions varies based on factors including group size, royalty and permit costs in different seasons, hotel accommodation categories, the number of allocated Sherpas and equipment, type of arrangement, and package customization. We prefer discussing expedition costs with our clients before providing a detailed quote. Please feel free to contact Taktok Brothers Expeditions for any information about your selected package.