Laila Peak Expedition

Laila Peak expedition provides a unique Karakoram range climbing experience. Breathtaking view of K2, Nanga Parbat, and other peaks..

Laila Peak Expedition

Laila Peak is located in the Hushe Valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, and it stands at a height of 6,096 meters (20,000 feet). This peak is considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, known for its dramatic and symmetrical pyramidal shape.
The name “Laila Peak” is derived from the famous Laila mountain from the Persian and Urdu literature, symbolizing beauty and grace. Laila Peak is part of the Karakoram Range, the second-highest mountain range in the world, and it attracts adventurers for its aesthetic appeal as well as the technical challenges it poses.
Unlike some of the more crowded high peaks like K2, Laila Peak offers a quieter, more personal mountaineering experience. Its rugged terrain, snow-covered slopes, and the surrounding Ghulkin Glacier make it an incredibly rewarding summit for mountaineers.
The first successful ascent of Laila Peak was achieved in 1976 by an Italian team led by Marco Giraudo, who made the climb via the north face. Over the years, the peak has become a favorite among climbers for its relatively lower altitude (compared to 8,000-meter peaks) yet challenging terrain, attracting both experienced climbers and those aiming to conquer a major peak for the first time.

A Successful Story: The Ascent of Laila Peak
One of the most remarkable success stories on Laila Peak came in 2017, when a small expedition led by David Armstrong, a renowned British mountaineer, successfully reached the summit after several failed attempts over previous years. Armstrong, along with his team, faced technical difficulties and harsh weather conditions. But perseverance, solid teamwork, and careful acclimatization led them to success.
The ascent was particularly significant because it was one of the first modern climbs of Laila Peak, where climbers used more advanced climbing technology like high-altitude tents, specialized ice tools, and modern GPS systems to map the route accurately. The team faced steep ice walls, rockfall, and white-out conditions, but their determination paid off when they stood atop the peak, overwhelmed by the beauty of the surrounding ranges.
Their successful climb also served to highlight Laila Peak as a destination for experienced mountaineers looking for both a physically demanding and visually spectacular ascent. The expedition’s success was celebrated in the mountaineering community as a triumph of modern technique and old-fashioned persistence.

Itinerary

The Laila Peak Expedition is a challenging yet stunning climb through one of the most picturesque regions of the world. Here's a detailed breakdown of the itinerary

Day	From	To	Activity
1-2	Home	Islamabad	Arrival at Islamabad International Airport. Meet your team at the airport and transfer to a hotel in Islamabad. After checking in, take the opportunity to rest after your flight. A thorough briefing on the expedition will take place, and gear checks will be conducted to ensure you have everything you need. Explore Islamabad: Visit Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in South Asia, and Daman-e-Koh for panoramic views of the city.
3-5	Islamabad	Skardu	Flight from Islamabad to Skardu (weather permitting), a scenic flight that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Arrival in Skardu, the main town in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Acclimatization and Sightseeing Visit Shangrila Resort, Deosai National Park, and Satpara Lake. These are key spots in the region that also help you adjust to the altitude. Team briefing and last-minute checks before heading for the trek.
6-8	Skardu	Hushe	Begin the overland journey from Skardu to Hushe, a village located at the foot of Laila Peak. The journey, which takes about 4-5 hours, will be on rough roads through Khaplu Road, offering panoramic views of the Khaplu Valley. Arriving in Hushe, rest and prepare for the trek to Base Camp.
9	Hushe	Laila Peak Base Camp	Begin the trek to Laila Peak Base Camp. The path follows the Mashabrum Glacier. Camp overnight in beautiful locations, adjusting to the altitude as you move closer to the Base Camp. The trek is about 12 Km. You’ll reach Base Camp, situated beneath the stunning Laila Peak, where you’ll set up camp and acclimatize.
9-14	Base Camp	Base Camp	Acclimatization is crucial at this altitude, so several days are spent resting and hiking around the Base Camp. Review climbing strategies, inspect your gear, and ensure that your body is properly adjusting to the altitude. Optional light hikes around Base Camp to improve acclimatization and get familiar with the climbing terrain.
14-18	Base Camp	Camp I (5,200 meters)	Climb from Base Camp to Camp I at 5,200 meters. The climb involves mixed rock and snow climbing and requires careful planning and teamwork. Once you reach Camp I, set up tents and rest. This is your first significant high-altitude camp, so it’s important to acclimatize fully.
19-21	Camp I	Camp II (5,600 meters)	Move to Camp II at around 5,600 meters. The ascent becomes steeper, requiring more technical climbing. You will encounter rock and snow sections, and the air becomes thinner. At Camp II, rest and prepare for the final ascent. This camp offers beautiful views of the surrounding Hunza Valley and the Karakoram peaks.
22-24	Camp II	Summit (6,096 meters)	Begin the summit push early from Camp II. The final ascent involves steep snow and ice climbing, and will require all of your technical climbing skills and experience. Reaching the summit of Laila Peak will take 12-14 hours depending on weather conditions and climber pace. Once on the summit, enjoy incredible views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks, including Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, and Diran Peak. The pyramid-like structure of Laila Peak is a climber’s dream, with its sharp ridgelines and pristine snow-covered slopes.
25-26	Summit	Base Camp	Descend safely back to Base Camp after summiting. Descending quickly but cautiously is critical to avoid fatigue and altitude sickness. Celebrate your achievement with your team and rest.
27-29	Base Camp	Hushe	Retrace your steps from Base Camp back to Hushe, enjoying the beautiful vistas along the way. Once back in Hushe, drive back to Skardu.
30-32	Skardu	Islamabad	Return to Skardu by jeep and rest for a few days before catching the flight back to Islamabad. After arriving in Islamabad, you can relax, do some sightseeing, and enjoy a farewell dinner with the team.
33-34	Islamabad	Home	Final packing and preparing for your departure. Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home.