Karakoram Range

Mountain Ranges

Strenuous

Difficulty Level

June – September

Seasons

Broad Peak Expedition 2026/2027

Status: Registration Open for Summer 2026 & 2027 Seasons

Date	Peak	Status	Book Now
20 June 2026	Broad Peak	Guaranteed

Elevation: 8,047m (26,401 ft) | Location: Karakoram Range, Pakistan

For the Experienced Alpinist

If you have previous high-altitude experience, Broad Peak presents a technically straightforward but physically demanding ascent for those seeking their next 8,000-meter summit in the Karakoram.

The Challenge: Broad Peak (Falchan Kangri)

Broad Peak (8,047m), the 12th highest mountain in the world, rises above the Baltoro Glacier. Compared to K2, it offers a more accessible route above 8,000 meters, making it a strong option for mountaineers seeking to broaden their experience at this altitude.

Blue Sky Treks & Tours brings over three decades of experience in the Karakoram, offering high-altitude logistics, fixed-line support, and Base Camp infrastructure essential for a successful summit attempt.

Expedition Highlights

Summit Push: Attempt the 8,047m main summit via the West Ridge.
Logistics: Full-board service to Base Camp with experienced high-altitude support available.
Trek past notable features including the Great Trango Towers, Cathedral Peak, and Lobsang Spire.
Camp at Concordia, with views of K2, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II.
The itinerary includes a mountain-view flight from Islamabad to Skardu.

Expedition Overview & Logistics

This is a high-endurance mountaineering expedition, not a trekking holiday. Although Broad Peak is considered one of the safer 8,000m peaks, it requires excellent physical conditioning and prior experience above 6,500m.

The Approach

Your journey begins: The expedition begins at Islamabad International Airport. After a briefing, participants fly to Skardu, the gateway to Baltistan, then travel by jeep through the Shigar and Braldu valleys to Askoli, the last settlement before the mountains.is critical for acclimatization. We follow the legendary route up the Baltoro Glacier, culminating at Concordia—the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods.” From here, Broad Peak Base Camp is a short hike, placing you directly at the foot of the West Face.

The Climb

The standard itinerary provides a 60-65 day window to allow for weather and acclimatization. The route typically includes three high camps. Terrain ranges from rock gullies to snowfields, leading to the col and the final ridge traverse to the summit.

Historical Context

Broad Peak, known locally as Falchan Kangri (immense breadth), was first summited in 1957 by an Austrian team including Hermann Buhl and Kurt Diemberger. They completed the ascent without high-altitude porters or supplemental oxygen.

The mountain continues to challenge alpinists. While new routes were established on the South West Face (2005) and West Face (2008), the classic route is still the main objective for commercial expeditions.

2026 Itinerary: The Road to 8047m

Note: This schedule is subject to weather windows and team acclimatization rates.

Phase 1: Arrival & Approach (Days 1-12)

Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad. Gear check and briefing.
Day 2: Scenic flight to Skardu (2,230m). Views of Nanga Parbat.
Day 3: Final logistics and preparation in Skardu.
Day 4: Jeep safari to Askoli (3,000m).
Day 5-12: Trekking the Baltoro Glacier via Paju, Urdukas, and Goro II to Concordia and Broad Peak Base Camp (5,000m).

Phase 2: The Ascent (Days 13-35)

Days 13-35: Climbing Period. Establishing Camp I, II, and III. Acclimatization rotations and Summit Push.

Phase 3: The Return (Days 36-45)

Day 36: Packing and clearing Base Camp (Leave No Trace).
Day 37-41: Trekking back to Askoli via Gondogoro La (optional) or retracing the Baltoro.
Day 42: Jeep transfer to Skardu.
Day 43: Fly back to Islamabad.
Day 44: Contingency day / Debriefing at Alpine Club of Pakistan.
Day 45: International Departure.

Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad

Touch down in Pakistan. Most international flights arrive in Islamabad early in the morning. Our team will meet you in the arrival hall for a private transfer to the hotel to help you recover from jet lag. Once the full team has gathered, we hold a mandatory expedition briefing to discuss logistics, permit formalities, and the climb ahead.

Overnight: 3/4 Star Hotel
Activity: Gear check, briefing, and optional city tour if time permits.

Day 2: The Skardu Flight (or Karakoram Highway Drive)

We aim for the scenic 45-minute flight to Skardu (2,230m). This flight is weather-dependent but offers world-class views of Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram giants. If the weather holds, we land in Skardu, the logistics hub of Baltistan. If flights are grounded, we embark on the adventurous drive via the Karakoram Highway to Chilas.

Key Sight: Nanga Parbat (9th 9th-highest mountain) is visible from the right side of the aircraft.
Contingency: Drive to Chilas (461km / 8-9 hours) if the flight is cancelled.

Day 3: Final Preparations in Skardu

A crucial buffer day for finalizing climbing permits with the tourism department. While we handle the paperwork, you are free to explore Skardu’s rich history. Hike up to the 17th-century Kharpocho Fort for panoramic views of the Indus River, or visit the “Organic Village” to see traditional Balti farming.

Acclimatization: Gentle walking around town (2,230m).
Logistics: Final kit check and packing loads for the porters.

Day 4: Jeep Safari to Askole

We load into 4×4 jeeps for a rugged 7-hour drive through the Shigar Valley. The road narrows as we enter the Braldu Gorge, eventually leading to Askole (3,000m). This is the “end of the road” and the last permanent settlement you will see for two months.

Elevation: 3,000m
Drive Time: ~7 Hours
Highlight: The transition from paved roads to the raw Karakoram wilderness.

Day 5: Askole to Jula (The Trek Begins)

The expedition officially starts on foot. We trek out of Askole, leaving the green fields behind for the arid Braldu valley. We cross the snout of the Biafo Glacier and break for lunch at the green oasis of Korofong. The day ends crossing a suspension bridge over the Dumurdo River to reach Jula Camp.

Elevation: 3,100m
Trek Time: 5 Hours
Terrain: Dusty trails, river crossings, and dry heat.

Day 6: Jula to Paiju

We follow the Braldu River upstream. The trail undulates, requiring good footwork. As we approach Paiju (3,380m), the valley widens, revealing the first views of the catastrophic Baltoro Glacier. Paiju is a traditional rest stop with trees and fresh water—the last “green” campsite before hitting the ice.

Elevation: 3,380m
Trek Time: 6 Hours
Key View: First glimpse of the Great Trango Tower and Cathedral peaks.

Day 7: Paiju to Khoburtse (Entering the Glacier)

A tough but rewarding day. We climb onto the snout of the Baltoro Glacier. The terrain shifts to loose rock and glacial moraine. We traverse the glacier to its south side and hike to Khoburtse (3,760m). The views here are iconic: the vertical walls of the Trango Towers and Uli Biaho dominate the skyline.

Elevation: 3,760m
Trek Time: 7 Hours
Terrain: Glacial moraine (rock on ice).

Day 8: Khoburtse to Urdukas

A shorter day gaining altitude along the lateral moraine. We arrive at Urdukas (4,130m) by lunch. This is a spectacular campsite perched on grassy slopes above the glacier. It offers direct views of the Cathedral Group and Trango Towers across the valley.

Elevation: 4,130m
Trek Time: 4 Hours
Significance: The last campsite with soil/grass; everything after this is ice and rock.

Day 9: Acclimatization at Urdukas

Rest is critical here. We spend the day at Urdukas to allow our bodies to adjust to the 4,000m+ altitude. It’s a perfect day for photography, organizing gear, and washing clothes before the push to the high camps.

Day 10: Urdukas to Goro II

We descend back onto the Baltoro Glacier and head east. The landscape turns icy and dramatic as we pass Masherbrum (7,800m) and Muztagh Tower. We camp right on the glacier ice at Goro II (4,250m). Nights become significantly colder from here on.

Elevation: 4,250m
Trek Time: 7 Hours
Conditions: Camping on ice (sleeping pads essential).

Goro II to Concordia (The Throne Room)

Today, we reach one of the most famous locations in mountaineering history: Concordia. This is the confluence of the Baltoro and Godwin Austen glaciers. As you arrive, K2 (8,611m) suddenly reveals itself, rising nearly 4 vertical kilometres from the valley floor. You are surrounded by 8,000m giants: Broad Peak, Gasherbrum IV, and K2.

Elevation: 4,600m
Trek Time: 5 Hours
Highlight: Unobstructed views of K2 and the “Gasherbrum Group.”]

Day 12: Concordia to Broad Peak Base Camp

Rise early to witness one of the planet’s most iconic sunrises, watching the first light hit the sheer face of K2 and the surrounding Karakoram giants. After breakfast, we leave the “Throne Room” of Concordia and step onto the Godwin-Austen Glacier. The route weaves through a stunning landscape of ice fins and glacial ridges before reaching the medial moraine where Broad Peak Base Camp is established. Situated directly at the foot of the route, this camp offers perhaps the most commanding view of K2 in the entire range.

Elevation: 5,000m (16,404 ft)
Trek Time: 3 – 4 Hours
Highlight: Navigating the spectacular ice fins of the Godwin-Austen Glacier and settling into Base Camp directly beneath the 12th-highest peak on Earth.
Accommodation: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 13 – 42: Climbing Period

For the next 29 days, we engage in the siege tactics required for Broad Peak.

Climbing Strategy & Route Details

Rotations: To prepare for the death zone, the team will complete a series of acclimatization rotations. This process includes moving between Base Camp and higher camps, Camp 1 (approx. 6,000m) and Camp 2 (approx. 6,400m), to adapt to altitude and transport essential gear to the upper mountain.
The Route: We will follow the standard West Ridge. The ascent starts with a steep couloir to Camp 1, then continues through mixed snow and rock sections to Camp 2. Beyond Camp 2, the route crosses snowfields toward Camp 3 (approx. 7,000m), located just below the Col.
The Summit Push: Once a stable weather window is confirmed, we will begin our summit attempt from Camp 3. The ascent includes climbing to the Col (7,800m), followed by a long ridge traverse. Climbers will pass the Rocky Summit (Fore Peak) and continue along the exposed ridge to reach the True Main Summit at 8,047m.
Logistics: Broad Peak Base Camp will serve as our command center. Our staff will provide nutritious meals, real-time satellite weather updates, and continuous communications support to help climbers stay healthy and rested throughout the expedition.

Day 43: Clean Up & Trek to Khoburtse

After the expedition wraps up and the mountain is cleaned of our debris, we begin the long descent. With acclimatized bodies, we cover ground quickly, bypassing Concordia and Goro II to reach Khoburtse or Urdukas in a long push. The oxygen-rich air feels incredible as we drop in altitude.

Target: Khoburtse (3,560m)
Duration: 7-8 Hours (Downhill)

Day 44: Trek to Paiju

We continue down the glacier, navigating the Baltoro moraine. We often have to take a detour around the Liligo Glacier, which is active and surging. We end the day back at the green trees of Paiju.

Elevation: 3,380m
Trek Time: 5 Hours

Day 45: Trek to Jula

Leaving the glacier behind completely, we follow the river valley back to Jula. The temperatures will feel surprisingly warm compared to the summit.

Elevation: 3,170m
Trek Time: 7 Hours

Day 46: Trek to Askole (Celebration Day)

The final walk. We retrace our steps to Askole village. This night is special—we host a “tipping ceremony” and party with our dedicated porters and support staff to celebrate the expedition’s safe return.

Elevation: 3,050m
Trek Time: 3-4 Hours

Day 47: Drive to Skardu

We board the jeeps for the bumpy ride back to civilization. Arriving in Skardu means hot showers, soft beds, and fresh food at the hotel.

Drive Time: 7 Hours

Day 48: Fly to Islamabad

We aim for the morning flight back to the capital. Upon arrival, we transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for carpet shopping or relaxing.

Contingency: If the flight is cancelled, we will begin the road journey via the KKH.

Day 49: Reserve Day / Sightseeing

Used as a buffer for flight cancellations. If we flew yesterday, today is a dedicated sightseeing day in Islamabad (Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh viewpoint), followed by a farewell dinner.

Day 50: International Departure

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport. End of the K2 Expedition. Safe travels!

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Inclusions: Full-Service Expedition Package

Logistics & Transport

Domestic Travel: Round-trip Islamabad–Skardu flights, with road transport via Chilas or Besham if flights are canceled.
Ground Operations: All airport transfers and 4×4 Jeep transport between Skardu and Askole or Hushe.
Luggage Allowance: 75 kg each way inward; 50 kg per person return.

Accommodation & Base Camp Infrastructure

City Stays: Stay 3 nights in Islamabad (air-conditioned rooms) and 3 nights in Skardu (Bed & Breakfast).
Trek & Camp Life: Full-board meals provided during the trek; individual D-4 style tents with mattresses provided at Base Camp.
Camp Facilities: Mess, kitchen, toilet, and shower tents with tables, chairs, and fuel supplied.

Support Crew

Expedition Staff: Wages, insurance, food, and equipment covered for Sirdar, Cook, Assistant Cook, and Porters.
Liaison Officer (LO): LO’s salary, insurance, transport, and equipment are fully covered.

Permits & Administration

Government Fees: Include the official Peak Permit and Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) fees.
Paperwork & Taxes: Assistance and coverage for all required permits, bridge, and road taxes.
Official Briefings: Mandatory Ministry of Tourism briefing and debriefing arranged.
Certification: Alpine Club of Pakistan certificate upon successful summit.

Exclusions: Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Technical Gear & High-Altitude Support

Technical Equipment: Personal climbing gear, HAPs, and high-altitude rations not included.

Personal Kit & Expenses

Personal Gear: Sleeping bags, rucksacks, clothing, and footwear are not included.
Incidental Expenses: Tips, laundry, satellite communication, and extra beverages not included.

Meals in Cities

City Dining: Lunches and dinners in Islamabad and Skardu are excluded (only breakfast is included during the Skardu stay).

Safety & Insurance

Rescue Insurance: Mandatory helicopter rescue insurance with minimum coverage of $15,000.

Broad Peak Expedition 2026: Summit the “Falchan Kangri”