K2 Expedition Pakistan

Overview

K2 Expedition is considered to be one of the top mountaineering adventures in the world. It combines the thrill of climbing and trekking in the glacial surroundings around Baltoro Glacier with the pleasure of touring in the colourful Himalayan and Karakorum valleys of Skardu, Shigar and Askoli. During the K2 expedition you will have spectacular views of other world famous peaks including Broad Peak (8,044m), Gasherbrum Group, Chogolisa (7,686m), Golden Throne (7,365m), and Trango Tower.

The first ascent route is known as the standard route or Abruzzi Ridge, used more than any other route via the Abruzzi Spur (Southeast Ridge). It was first attempted by Luigi Amedeo, Duke of the Abruzzi in 1909 but was first climbed by an Italian expedition on July 31, 1954. The expedition was led by Ardito Desio and the two climbers who actually reached the top were Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni. Also vital to the expedition's success were the famous Italian climber Walter Bonatti and Pakistani Hunza porter Mehdi, who carried oxygen to 26,600 feet for Lacedelli and Compagnoni.

The route follows an alternating series of rock ribs, snow slopes, ice fields, and some technical rock climbing on two famous features — "House's Chimney" and the "Black Pyramid". Above the Black Pyramid, dangerously exposed slopes lead to the "Shoulder", followed by the narrow "Bottleneck" couloir, which places climbers dangerously close to hanging seracs.