Field guides / Gilgit-Baltistan / Askole
Field guide · Mountains
Askole
Askole is the last permanent habitation before the Baltoro Glacier, a small stone village at 3,015 m in the Braldu Valley of Baltistan from which all expeditions to K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and II, and the Concordia trekkers depart on foot. The village's connection to the Karakoram's greatest climbs makes it one of the most significant small settlements in mountain history.
Askole is the last permanent habitation before the Baltoro Glacier, a small stone village at 3,015 m in the Braldu Valley of Baltistan from which all expeditions to K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and II, and the Concordia trekkers depart on foot. The village's connection to the Karakoram's greatest climbs makes it one of the most significant small settlements in mountain history.
Why go
- ✦Last village before the Baltoro Glacier
- ✦Start point for K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, Concordia
- ✦3,015 m, high-altitude acclimatisation stop
- ✦Essential porter hire and jeep drop-off point
History and Logistics
Every K2 expedition since the early 20th century has passed through Askole. The village has grown around the expedition economy, cook boys, porters, and local guides are hired here for all Baltoro journeys. The last chance for fresh supplies before the glacier.
The Braldu Road
The drive from Skardu to Askole via the Braldu Valley is a journey in itself, a rough jeep track that crosses rivers, traverses cliffs, and passes through villages that have changed little in a century. Reaching Askole already feels like an achievement.
Planning tip
When to go, May to September; the Braldu Valley road is passable from late May.
Getting there, Drive from Skardu to Shigar, then the rough jeep road via Dasso to Askole, about 4-5 hours from Skardu in a 4x4.
Allow, Askole is an overnight stop before the Baltoro trek; allow a full day from Skardu due to road conditions.
