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Gasherbrum I

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Gasherbrum I, also known as Hidden Peak, is the 11th highest mountain in the world at 8,080 meters and forms part of the Karakoram range's main crest. Located in the remote Gilgit-Baltistan region on the border with China, it is the highest peak in the Gasherbrum massif. The name 'Gasherbrum' originates from the Balti language, meaning 'beautiful mountain,' while 'Hidden Peak' refers to its secluded position behind neighboring summits. The first successful ascent was achieved on July 5, 1958, by Americans Pete Schoening and Andy Kauffman during an expedition led by Nicholas Clinch. Geographically, the mountain is defined by steep granite faces and massive glacial flows that feed into the Baltoro Glacier. In mountaineering terms, it is regarded as one of the most demanding 8,000-meter peaks due to its long approach and highly unpredictable weather. Since 1993, the area has been part of the Central Karakoram National Park, helping to preserve the fragile high-altitude ecology.

Location: Pakistan
Top sights: Sia Kangri · Urdok II · Baltoro Kangri

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-18	-16	-12	-6	-2	2	6	6	1	-5	-11	-16
Rain mm	28	31	30	32	26	26	28	30	19	10	20	14

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Requires major expedition planning, usually starting from Skardu and trekking via the Baltoro Glacier.

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Best season

Summer months, particularly July and August, offer the only viable weather window for climbing attempts.

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Terrain & paths

Extreme high-altitude alpine environment with glaciers, deep crevasses, and steep ice walls.

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What to bring

Specialized mountaineering equipment, supplemental oxygen, and extreme cold-weather clothing are essential.

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Parking

The journey begins in Skardu, where vehicle transport and logistics are typically arranged before the trek.

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Safety

Severe risks include avalanches, extreme cold, altitude sickness, and unpredictable weather changes.

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Time needed

A full expedition typically takes several weeks to properly acclimatize and attempt the summit.

Geography

Coordinates

35.70000, 76.70000

Facts

The official height of Gasherbrum I is 8,080 meters.
The mountain was surveyed as K5 (Karakoram 5) in 1856.
The first successful ascent took place on July 5, 1958.
It is the only 8,000-meter peak first climbed by an American expedition.
The name comes from the Balti words 'rgasha' (beautiful) and 'brum' (mountain).
Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler climbed it in alpine style in 1975.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Gasherbrum II11 km · SExplore →

K222 km · SExplore →

Karakoram Range22 km · SExplore →

Khaplu42 km · SExplore →

Masherbrum45 km · SExplore →

Khaplu Valley47 km · SExplore →

Zanskar Valley52 km · WExplore →

Nangma Valley54 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Gasherbrum I (3)

Sia Kangri🌿 nature

A 7,422-meter mountain located at the junction of the Baltoro and Siachen glaciers in the Karakoram.

Urdok II🌿 nature

A high peak in the Karakoram near the Gasherbrum group, challenging climbers with its extreme remoteness.

Baltoro Kangri🌿 nature

This 7,312-meter peak, also called the Golden Throne, towers over the upper reaches of the Baltoro Glacier.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Gasherbrum I accessible all year round?

No, expeditions are only possible in summer due to extreme conditions.

What makes this mountain so special?

It is one of the most technically difficult 8000ers and known as the 'Hidden Peak'.

What physical fitness is required?

Highest level of mountaineering experience and excellent physical condition are mandatory.

Are there fixed accommodations nearby?

No, beyond Skardu, there are only tent camps in the high mountains.

Is photography possible there?

Yes, but equipment must withstand extreme cold and wind.

Gasherbrum I: where is it located?

Gasherbrum I is located in Pakistan.

Gasherbrum I: what is there to see?

Highlights include Sia Kangri, Urdok II, Baltoro Kangri.

Gasherbrum I: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Gasherbrum I: why is it worth visiting?

Gasherbrum I, also known as Hidden Peak, is the 11th highest mountain in the world at 8,080 meters and forms part of the Karakoram range's main crest.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →