Our group of 13 photographers met in Islamabad and flew to Skardu in the northern mountains of Pakistan, led by Marc Adamus. The mountain tops are over 8000 meters (26,000 feet), so it seemed that the peaks were right outside the window even when flying at 30,000 feet. The landing is spectacular as the plane has to circle downwards into the valley between the steep mountains. We arrived at our hotel and later in the evening took some photos of the evening sun rays over the sand dunes. One member arrived without her luggage, so we had to find some local stores for new gear. A video produced by Nic is available below.
Sand Dunes in Skardu
The next day we took a 6 hour drive across very rough roads to Hushe, the gateway to K6 and K7. The bridges are always sketchy, and the views of the valleys and massive mountain peaks are spectacular. The villages are very poor but the people seem very content. We flew drones to capture some views of K1 (Masherbraum) in the evening. We had excellent food and then stayed in a small rustic hotel before departing on our 10 day trek.
Images of K1 (Masherbraum)
On day 1 of our trek we left just after sunrise and hiked for several hours to base camp Saicho between Charakuso glacier and Ghondogoro glacier, located at 3434 meters. It truly was a special group of people that were both fun to be around and tough enough to conquer the cold weather and difficult hiking above 15000 feet. Despite illnesses and injuries, no one had to be evacuated. We pitched tents and prepared for sunset shooting. We had 96 porters helping us, along with horses to carry some gear. They even brought along live chickens, goats, and sheep for future meals. They brought everything to cook fresh food at least 3 times a day, which was incredible for such a remote area.
Images from Saicho Camp
On day 2 we moved up the glacier to camp Ancom near Namika Peak. The fall colors were in view and the skies were clear. We had our first glimpse of Drefekal Peak.
Images from Camp 2
On day 3 and 4 we stayed at the K6 and K7 base camp at 4600 meters. We were surrounded by big peaks in all directions. Again we were able to see the stars brightly during the clear nights. We hiked up the glacier further for snowy foregrounds. In the morning the small river was frozen with ice crystals. It was so cold my water bottle froze during the night. We also were next to the sharp symmetrical peak known as Giza.
Best photos from K6/K7 base camp:
On day 5 we went back down to Saicho camp from day 1. The weather was warmer at lower elevation, and we were met with stormy clouds and sunbeams in the morning.
On day 6 we hiked up Ghondogoro glacier to the north and stayed at Dalsampa camp at 4170 meters. The clouds rolled in and we had amazing sun beams again in the morning.
Images from Dalsampa with Drone
On day 7 we hiked up past Laila Peak to Kuispang base camp at 4695 meters. We were hit with a snowstorm along the way, and almost lost 2 members to the white out conditions. Fortunately they were able to gps their baggage air tags to find their way out. We stayed 2 nights and were able to see K2 and the other big peaks over the ridge. It was the coldest night of the trip, reaching down to 0 degrees F (-32 C) in the morning. Again we had great conditions for photography.
Best Images of Laila and K2
On day 9 we hiked all the way back down to camp 1 for our final night. Again a rain storm came through overnight, but left beautiful clouds and fog along the mountain peaks for a great morning finale.
On day 10 we hiked down to Hushe, and drove the long drive back to Skardu. We enjoyed the views and small villages. The following day we barely made it out on the last flight back to Istanbul. After another 30 minutes the airport closed down for a couple of days due to weather.
