Spantik Peak (7,027m / 23,054 ft), popularly known as the Golden Peak, is a stunning mountain located in the Karakoram Range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is an excellent choice for climbers seeking their first 7,000m peak or for those looking to train for higher-altitude expeditions. The Spantik Expedition offers a thrilling climbing experience with breathtaking views of Rakaposhi (7,788m), Diran Peak (7,257m), Malubiting (7,458m), and Ultar Sar (7,388m).Spantik is renowned for its Golden Pillar, a magnificent rock wall that glows in the sunlight, making it one of the most visually striking peaks in the Karakoram. The climb involves glacier travel, snow slopes, and moderate technical sections, making it suitable for experienced trekkers and climbers.
Expedition Overview
Day | From | To | Activity |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Islamabad | Skardu | Arrive via flight from Islamabad or by road from Gilgit. Rest and explore Skardu, visit Satpara Lake or Kharpocho Fort. Overnight stay in a hotel. |
2 | Skardu | Skardu | Expedition briefing at the Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Office. Gear check and last-minute shopping for supplies. Overnight stay in Skardu. |
3 | Skardu | Arandu | Scenic jeep ride through the Shigar Valley to Arandu village. Meet local porters and prepare for the trek. Camp overnight in Arandu. |
4 | Arandu | Chogo Brangsa | Start the trek through green meadows and river crossings. Beautiful views of Spantik Peak. Camp overnight at Chogo Brangsa. |
5 | Chogo Brangsa | Bolocho | Trek along the Chogo Lungma Glacier, navigating rocky terrain. Spectacular views of Laila Peak (6,096m). Camp overnight at Bolocho. |
6 | Bolocho | Spantik Base Camp | Steady ascent through glacial moraine and snowfields. Arrive at Spantik Base Camp, set up tents, and acclimatize. Overnight camping. |
7-8 | Base Camp | Base Camp | Rest, acclimatization, and ice/snow training for fixed ropes and crevasse rescue. Short hikes for altitude adaptation. |
9 | Base Camp | Camp 1 | Steep snow slopes and rocky ridges. Moderate technical climbing with fixed ropes. Set up Camp 1. |
10 | Camp 1 | Camp 1 | Short hikes and rest day for altitude adaptation. Ice and rope practice. |
11 | Camp 1 | Camp 2 | Traversing steep snow slopes and ridges. Camp 2 is located at Golden Pillar. Set up camp. |
12 | Camp 2 | Camp 2 | Final preparations for the summit push. Hydration and nutrition focus before ascent. |
13 | Camp 2 | Summit & Return to Camp 2 | Early morning start for final climb. 8-10 hours of climbing over steep snowfields. Reach Spantik Summit (7,027m). Descend back to Camp 2. |
14 | Camp 2 | Base Camp | Gradual descent via Camp 1 back to Spantik Base Camp. Celebration of the successful summit. |
15 | Base Camp | Bolocho | Retrace steps down through the Chogo Lungma Glacier. Camp overnight at Bolocho. |
16 | Bolocho | Chogo Brangsa | Easy descent back to Chogo Brangsa. Camp overnight. |
17 | Chogo Brangsa | Arandu | Final trekking day, enjoying lush meadows and streams. Overnight stay in Arandu. |
18 | Arandu | Skardu | Return drive to Skardu. Rest and celebrate the expedition. |
19 | Skardu | Islamabad | Flight/Drive from Skardu to Islamabad. End of the expedition. |