Difficulty of the Gondogoro La Pass:
Crossing the Gondogoro La Pass is a difficult and challenging task for most trekkers. The ascent is moderate at first and becomes steeper as we approach the summit. The climb is mostly on snow-covered surfaces with glaciers beneath. There may be small crevasses along the way, but fixed ropes will be in place on the more difficult sections. The ascent becomes steeper and more direct as you reach the summit of Gondogoro La at 5,585 meters. The descent, however, is the most difficult part of the Gondogoro La trek.
During the early season (June and July), there will be snow, but by August, the snow melts, and the terrain becomes rocky. As a result, descending on a rocky and slippery surface becomes more challenging. The objective danger is higher during the descent due to the risk of rockfalls and mudslides. Most sections of the descent are equipped with fixed ropes to assist trekkers. In summary, the ascent is steeper, but the real challenge of Gondogoro La lies in the descent due to the significant risks of rockfalls and mudslides.
Chogori's rescue and staff team have a proven track record of successful ascents of Gondogoro La. Our team will accompany and assist participants throughout the entire Gondogoro La expedition.
What is the Gondogoro La Pass?
The Gondogoro La Pass is a mountain pass at an altitude of 5,585 meters, located in the heart of the Karakoram range, 25 km south of the second-highest mountain in the world, K2 (Chogori). The Gondogoro La connects the Gondogoro Glacier with the Vigne Glacier. "La" in the Balti language means a high mountain pass.
The Gondogoro La Pass was discovered and crossed in 1986 by a local explorer who connected Concordia with the Hushe Valley. Since then, thousands of trekkers and climbers have approached the pass from the northeast/Concordia side.
The Gondogoro La Pass is an excellent addition to the K2 trek. It is the border between two valleys in the Baltistan region. Trekkers walk to Concordia and the Ali Camp in the Shigar Valley, then cross Gondogoro La into the Hushe or Gangche Valleys. Gondogoro La is a technical pass that requires some climbing knowledge. The northeast side (Baltoro region) is a longer 55-degree slope, mostly covered in snow, with technical sections or steeper parts with fixed ropes. The descent, however, is a 45-degree slope but is more risky due to mudslides and rockfalls.
The best part of the Gondogoro La trek is the panoramic view of the mountains from the summit. The 360-degree view of the breathtaking peaks is unparalleled anywhere in the world.
Do I Need Climbing Skills to Cross Gondogoro La?
The Gondogoro La Pass is undoubtedly a technical mountain pass that requires alpine climbing skills, but it is not the only option. There are also significant risks, such as rockfalls and mudslides. Technical climbing skills are a positive factor when crossing the Gondogoro La Pass. If you know how to use crampons, harnesses, jumars, and an ice axe, the crossing will be relatively straightforward for you. Crampons and the ice axe are primarily used during the ascent from the Concordia side.
What really matters is physical fitness and a positive mental attitude. It is often said that climbing skills are not necessary, and this is true to some extent. The descent is the most challenging part of the Gondogoro La trek. The 45-degree slope is equipped with fixed ropes, but it is still complicated for many trekkers. The use of a harness and jumar is essential for this part. Participants should walk gently down the slope with the support of the fixed ropes until they reach the high camp, and the rest is a normal hike to reach Khuspang camp for the night. Care should be taken not to kick or drop rocks onto fellow trekkers.
I’ve been crossing Gondogoro La since 2011, and most of my clients had no prior alpine experience. We help them with their equipment and assist them throughout the expedition, and they successfully cross Gondogoro La without any problems.
Therefore, the most important factor for crossing Gondogoro La is being physically fit and having a positive mental attitude—not necessarily technical climbing knowledge. It’s an advantage, but not an essential requirement to cross Gondogoro La.
Fitness and Training for the Gondogoro La Trek:
If you are physically fit and have done strenuous treks in Nepal or Pakistan before (such as the K2 Base Camp trek, Everest Base Camp trek, or Annapurna Circuit) or any other equivalent trek anywhere in the world, you are suitable for the expedition. A high level of fitness is required to cross Gondogoro La. It is recommended to learn some basic mountaineering skills before undertaking the Gondogoro La trek.
Is the Gondogoro La Trek Safe?
To some extent, crossing Gondogoro La is more risky. The ascent is steep, with crevasses along the way to the summit. Therefore, it is always best to stay close and accompanied by a staff member or rescue team. Additionally, the descent is very complicated, and there is a higher chance of objective danger due to the risk of rockfalls and mudslides on the slippery gravel surface.
How Do We Minimize the Risk for the Gondogoro La Pass?
We will cross the Gondogoro La Pass at midnight with the support of our rescue team. We will reach the summit before the first rays of dawn. After a 20-minute break to relax and take photographs, we will begin the descent before the sun warms the surface, meaning the rocks on the slopes will still be frozen, reducing the chance of rockfalls. We aim to reach Khuspang camp before the sun melts the glacier slopes at Gondogoro La. After descending the pass, you’ll find a clear path toward the Khuspang camp. By doing this, we minimize the risk of objective dangers and make crossing the Gondogoro La safer.
Is It Worth Crossing the Gondogoro La?
Yes, definitely. The Gondogoro La Pass offers one of the most spectacular views of the Karakoram Mountains and the surrounding region. Furthermore, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for trekking and adventure enthusiasts. Although it is a technical pass, the thrill and beauty of the landscapes along the way make the effort well worth it. If you're looking for a challenging and exciting adventure in pristine nature, crossing the Gondogoro La Pass is an excellent option.
Click the link to see details, dates, and pricing for our 2024 Baltoro K2 and Gondogoro La Trek.
