Ondra Poygah Gulmit Trek
Ondra Poygah is a famous historic community built wooden stair trek in Gulmit Gojal offering panoramic views of Attabad Lake Passu Cones and Gulmit Village.
ExploreAskole Village Gateway to K2
Skardu Shigar, Gilgit-Baltistan
Overview
Perched high in the rugged Karakoram range at an elevation of 3000 meters Askole is the last inhabited village of the Shigar Valley in Baltistan. Known globally as the ultimate springboard for world famous mountaineering expeditions Askole serves as the official road head and starting point for trekking to K2 Base Camp Concordia Baltoro Glacier Biafo Glacier and Snow Lake. Surrounded by towering granite cliffs roaring glacial rivers and terraced barley fields this historic village offers an authentic view of traditional Balti mountain culture stone masonry and local porter communities. Beyond Askole civilization ends and vast high altitude glacier wilderness begins making it one of the most legendary geographic gateways in international mountaineering history.
Highlights
- Final permanent human settlement and road head in Shigar Valley before high Karakoram wilderness
- Historic international gateway for K2 Concordia Baltoro Glacier and Biafo Glacier expeditions
- Starting point for legendary high altitude trekking routes and mountaineering ventures
- Traditional Balti mountain architecture stone homes terraced barley fields and irrigation canals
- Hub for local Balti high altitude porters guides and expedition logistics support
Things To Do
- Begin the multi day trek toward K2 Base Camp Concordia and Baltoro Glacier
- Explore traditional stone and timber Balti village homes and terraced mountain fields
- Interact with legendary local Balti high altitude porters and trekking guides
- Photograph dramatic Karakoram mountain gorges river banks and traditional village life
- Experience the unique transition from vehicular road to untouched glacial wilderness
Local Transportation
Accessible exclusively via a thrilling 6 to 8 hour 4x4 jeep drive from Skardu city passing through Shigar Valley along the Braldu River gorge.
Accommodation
Basic local community guesthouses, villager homestays, and designated expedition camping grounds equipped with water facilities.
Food & Cuisine
Local eateries serve simple traditional meals including flatbreads, dal lentils, rice, goat mutton karahi, chapshuro, and hot herbal tea.
Safety Information
The 4x4 jeep mountain road along the Braldu River is narrow and bumpy. Hire highly experienced local Balti jeep drivers.
Travel Tips
Carry adequate cash, personal medical supplies, and power banks as digital payments and cellular mobile signals are unavailable in the village.