wandelgids Karakoram, Trekking in the

Three of the most popular high-altitude treks in Pakistan's Karakoram, among some of the world's highest mountains: Snow Lake and the Biafo and Hispar Glaciers; the K2 Base Camp Trek; and Gondogoro La via Concordia. Also includes two shorter treks in the shadow of Nanga Parbat: Fairy Meadows and Rakhiot Base Camp Trek; and a trek to Diamir Face.

Seasons
Late spring, summer and early autumn is the best time for walking in the mountains, but do expect it to be hot. During the rest of the year snow could cause problems.

Centres
Gilgit and Skardu are the main access points for the Karakoram. The three Karakoram treks start from Askole.

Difficulty
With the exception of the Fairy Meadows trek, all the routes are strenuous. In general, expect long hours of hiking on trails covered with unstable rocks and scree, minimal shade and high temperatures during the day. Crampons are needed for some of the glacier travel.

Must See
K2, the second highest mountain in the world, along with other 8000m giants (Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum I and II and Broad Peak) and many 7000m+ peaks, embedded in long glaciers, located in a region with a rich cultural, religious, political and historical past

Furthermore:
- Route description illustrated with 1:100,000 mapping and elevation profiles
- Advice on planning and preparation, including trek operators
- Safety considerations
- History of mountaineering and exploration in the Karakoram
- Offers views of 5 of the world's 8000m peaks

Trivia:
The author is a close friend of Leon Receveur, owner of De Noorderzon ;)