Tour Overview
Gasherbrum III (K3a) is a high mountain summit in the Gasherbrum massif of the Baltoro region, a subrange of the Karakoram Mountains. It is located on the border between Xinjiang, China, and Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, and lies between Gasherbrum II and Gasherbrum IV. The mountain has an elevation of 7,952 metres (26,089 feet), making it one of the highest peaks in the Karakoram.
Although Gasherbrum III is extremely high, it is not officially recognized as an independent mountain because it has less than 500 metres (1,600 feet) of topographic prominence. For this reason, it is generally considered a subpeak of Gasherbrum II.
Before it was climbed, Gasherbrum III was regarded as one of the highest unclimbed summits in the world. Its first successful ascent was made on 11 August 1975 by a Polish expedition. The climbing team consisted of Wanda Rutkiewicz, Alison Chadwick-Onyszkiewicz, Janusz Onyszkiewicz, and Krzysztof Zdzitowiecki. This expedition was historically significant because Wanda Rutkiewicz became one of the first women to achieve the first ascent of a major Himalayan–Karakoram peak.
Gasherbrum III is known for its steep rock faces, snow-covered ridges, and harsh weather conditions. Climbers face extreme cold, strong winds, avalanches, and technical climbing challenges. Because of these difficulties, the mountain is climbed far less frequently than nearby peaks such as Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II.
Today, Gasherbrum III remains an important mountain in the history of mountaineering. Although it is considered a subpeak rather than an independent mountain, its great height, difficult climbing routes, and historic first ascent make it one of the most respected summits in the Karakoram Range.
Best Departure Seasons
| Season | Temperature | Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|
Tour Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our expedition staff will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in and some time to relax, a detailed expedition briefing will be conducted covering the climbing schedule, safety procedures, permits, environmental guidelines, and equipment checklist. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Pakistan's beautiful capital, including Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Heritage Museum, Saidpur Village, and Daman-e-Koh viewpoint.
Destination: Islamabad
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After an early breakfast, begin one of Pakistan's most scenic road journeys towards Chilas. The drive follows lush valleys, alpine forests, waterfalls, and mountain rivers. During summer, the route crosses the spectacular Babusar Pass (4,173 m), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains. Several stops will be made for photography and refreshments before reaching Chilas in the evening.
Destination: Chilas
Distance: 470 km
Driving Time: 10–12 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today's journey follows the mighty Indus River through one of the world's deepest mountain valleys. Along the way, travelers witness dramatic rock formations, traditional villages, and the famous junction of the Himalaya, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Skardu, there is time to relax, organize climbing equipment, and explore the local bazaar.
Destination: Skardu
Distance: 285 km
Driving Time: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Skardu is the final preparation point before entering the Karakoram. The day is spent organizing climbing equipment, food supplies, permits, and meeting the expedition staff and porters. Final gear checks, safety briefing, and last-minute shopping are completed before departing for Askole.
Distination: Skardu
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Following breakfast, depart by 4×4 jeep for Askole, the last permanent village before entering the Karakoram wilderness. The drive passes through Shigar Valley, crossing rivers, rocky tracks, and spectacular mountain landscapes. After reaching Askole, meet the local porters who will accompany the expedition during the trek.
Destination: Askole
Distance: 125 km
Driving Time: 6–8 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The expedition officially begins with a pleasant trek along the Braldu River. Passing Korofong, trekkers enjoy magnificent views of Bakhor Das (5,810 m) and the Biafo Glacier. The trail is mostly gradual with occasional river crossings and rocky sections before reaching Jhola Camp.
Destination: Jhola
Distance: 20 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today's trek gradually gains elevation while offering the first impressive views of the Baltoro Glacier. Massive granite towers including the Cathedral Group and Trango Towers dominate the skyline. Paiju Camp is beautifully located beneath Paiju Peak and surrounded by juniper trees, making it one of the most pleasant camps on the Baltoro Trek.
Destination: Paiju
Distance: 19 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today the trail crosses the snout of the Baltoro Glacier before continuing across glacial moraine. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic with uninterrupted views of Paiju Peak (6,610 m), Uli Biaho Towers, Cathedral Group, and the world-famous Trango Towers. This is considered one of the most spectacular trekking days in the Karakoram.
Destination: Khoburtse
Distance: 16 km
Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail follows the edge of the Baltoro Glacier while crossing several small glaciers. Urdukas Camp is the last grassy campsite before entering the high glacial environment. On clear days, spectacular views of Broad Peak (8,051 m), Gasherbrum IV (7,925 m), and Great Trango are visible.
Destination: Urdukas
Distance: 7 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Continue trekking across the central Baltoro Glacier over rocky moraine and glacial ice. Crystal Peak, Marble Peak, and Masherbrum create unforgettable scenery. Goro II Camp is located at the meeting point of two glaciers and offers one of the finest sunset views in the Karakoram.
Destination: Goro II
Distance: 12 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today's trek leads to Concordia, often called the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods." It is considered one of the world's greatest mountain amphitheaters, where four major glaciers meet. Weather permitting, trekkers enjoy unforgettable views of K2 (8,611 m), Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, II, III & IV, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa, Baltoro Kangri (Golden Throne), and many other legendary summits.
Destination: Concordia
Distance: 12 km
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The route follows the Godwin-Austen Glacier toward the Gasherbrum Group. As you approach Base Camp, the magnificent walls of Gasherbrum I, II, III, and IV dominate the skyline. Upon arrival, the expedition team establishes Base Camp, where climbers will spend several weeks preparing for the summit.
Destination: Gasherbrum III Base Camp
Distance: 12–15 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Fully Equipped Expedition Base Camp (Tents)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
These days are dedicated to:
• Acclimatization rotations
• Carrying equipment to higher camps
• Route fixing
• Glacier and ice climbing
• Technical climbing practice
• Summit attempts
• Weather contingency days
• Rest and recovery
Climbing Camps
Camp Altitude
Base Camp 5,250 m
Camp I 6,000 m
Camp II 6,600 m
Camp III 7,100 m
Gasherbrum III Summit 7,952 m
After completing the expedition, descend along the same Baltoro Glacier route through Concordia, Goro II, Urdukas, Paiju, Jhola, and finally Askole. The return trek offers a final opportunity to appreciate the magnificent scenery of the Karakoram.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Duration: 5 Days
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel by jeep back to Skardu through the spectacular Shigar Valley. Upon arrival, enjoy a comfortable hotel stay and celebrate the successful completion of the expedition. check equipments .
Distance: 125 km
Driving Time: 6–8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Fly back to Islamabad (weather permitting). If flights are delayed due to weather conditions, the journey will continue by road on the following day.
Flight Time: 1 hour
Alternative Road Journey: 18–20 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
This day is reserved for shopping, sightseeing, or as a contingency day in case of weather-related flight delays from Skardu.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your return flight. Our team will assist you with airport formalities and bid you farewell, concluding your unforgettable Gasherbrum III expedition.
Services
- All airports pick & Drops on arrival and departures.
- Air condition Transportation for Briefing & De-briefing in Alpine club of Pakistan /Ministry of Tourism.
- Both Way domestic flights between Islamabad - Skardu. if our guest want to travel through by air .
- Both ways Air condition coaster / mini bus / car between Islamabad - Skardu.
- 4x4 Jeep/Toyotas between Skardu - Askoli.
- Comfortable transportation between Hushe To Skardu. if our guest want to Return from GG la .
- Transportation for sightseeing.
- All Hotel accommodation during our journey .
- Insurance premium for Local staff and porters.
- Fully paid Government Liaison officer.
- Documentation .
- Visa facilitation letter.
- Professional guide to transfer expedition to base camp.
- Way up 50kg to transfer at base camp for 7000m peak expedition allow in our services.
- Way down 40kg allow in our services for 7000m peaks expedition.
- While ascending any pass above 5000m 15kg allow in our services.
- Necessary base camp staff (base camp manager, Chief, Cook, and Assistance & Waiters.
- Three meals a day and tea - coffee - snacks during the trek and base camp stays.
- Solar panel / generator for light and battery charge at base camp.
- Comfortable foam / mattress while trekking and base camp.
- A north face tent provide as individual member at base camp.
- Hot shower and toilet tents.
- Comfortable chairs and table while trekking and base camp stays.
- comfortable camping setup with dinning & kitchen tents while trekking and base camp.
- Imported and local foods during trekking and base camp stay.
- Medical first aid kit for group and staff.
- Walkies talkie for base camp communication.
- All camping and bridge crossing fee.
- CKNP west management fee and Gondogoro La rescue fee.
- Assistance for international tickets reconfirmation.
- Farewell dinner will served in Skardu / Islamabad.
- Bamboo Sticks for 6000m -8000m Expedition.
- Member international flight tickets.
- Members any Climbing / trekking gears.
- Sleeping bag and all personal expenses such as telephone calls, fax, email charges liquor or soft drinks,
- Room service, gratuities for personal services, items of a purely personal nature.
- Staff tips, We recommend you to give small bonus for our local staff.
- Mini bars while staying in hotels / travelling.
- Member personal insurance.
- Custom clearing charges (import and export of equipment)
- Oxygen, Mask & regulator sets,
- EPI Gas, Ropes, Ice screws, snow bar, cooking pots beyond base camp.
- RECOMMENDATION:- We recommend our clients to deposit helicopter rescue aviation deposit in advance $5000/- the entire money is refundable if not use. In case any emergency happen on remote mountain range then we fly helicopter on time to save life.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE:- It is a strongly recommend that while booking treks and tours with us that travelers/trekkers must be protected by insurance themselves that covers cancellation, accidents, health, emergency evacuation, and loss of items, or damage to baggage and personal effects.
- Essential High Altitude Food Items (Above Base Camp) Chocolate bars Energy bars / Protein bars Nuts & dry fruits (Almonds, Walnuts, Raisins, Dates) Energy gels Peanut butter Biscuits & crackers Dried fruits Instant noodles Instant soup Hot chocolate powder Tea & coffee sachets Electrolyte drinks Glucose tablets Protein powder Freeze-dried meals (Pasta/Rice)
Location on Map
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Gasherbrum III (GIII) stands at 7,952 meters (26,089 feet) above sea level and is one of the highest peaks in the Karakoram Range of Pakistan.
Gasherbrum III is located in the Gasherbrum Massif of the Karakoram Range, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, near Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, and Gasherbrum IV.
The best climbing season for Gasherbrum III is generally June to August, when weather conditions are more suitable for high-altitude climbing and summit attempts.
A complete Gasherbrum III expedition usually takes around 40–45 days, including arrival in Pakistan, travel to Skardu, trekking to Base Camp, acclimatization, climbing activities, summit attempt, and return journey.
Gasherbrum III is an extremely challenging technical climb requiring previous experience on 7,000 m+ peaks, strong high-altitude skills, glacier travel experience, and advanced mountaineering knowledge. Climbers should be physically fit and prepared for severe weather and difficult terrain.
Book Your Tour
Client Feedback
Customer Reviews
See what our clients say about their experience
No reviews yet. Be the first to review this tour!
Write a Review
Explore Further
Related Packages
Baintha Brakk 7,285 meters (23,901 ft)
Skil Brum Expedition 7,360 meters (24,140 ft)
Rakaposhi 7,788 meters (25,551 ft)
Diran Peak 7,266 meters (23,839 ft)
Latok II 7,108 meters (23,320 ft)
K12 Peak 7,665 meters (25,148 ft)
Muztagh Tower 7,276 meters (23,854 ft)
Masherbrum 7,821 meters (25,659 feet)
Gasherbrum V 7,147 meters (23,448 feet)
Gasherbrum IV 7,925 meters (26,001 feet)
Chogolisa Peak 7,665 meters (25,148 feet)
Spantik Expedition (7027m)
Image will be added soon
Orga I 7,029 meters (23,062 feet)
Image will be added soon
Orga II 7,046 meters (23,088 feet)
Image will be added soon
Orga III 7,040 meters (23,101 feet)
K6 7,282m
Baltoro Kangri 7,312m
Haramosh peak 7397m
Image will be added soon
Malubiting peak 7,458m
Ultar sar 7,388m
Terichmir Peak 7708m
Link sar peak 7,041m Expediton
Gasherbrum III (K3a) 7,952 metres (26,089 feet)
Distaghil Sar (7,885m) Expedition
Feedback