History of Mount K2
Mount K2, also known as the "Savage Mountain," is the second- highest mountain in the world, and its climbing history is very challenging and adventurous. Here are some important events in the history of K2. We are going to present them to you now.
First discovered and nominated (1856)
Mount K2 was discovered in 1856 by British surveyor Thomas Montgomery. They named it "K2", with the "K" representing the Karakoram mountain range and the "2" representing the second-highest mountain. Before the naming, the mountain was known as Mount Godwin-Austin. The mountain has been given different names by different people at different times, which is why the mountain is always a subject of debate.
The First Essent (1902)
The first attempt to climb Mount K2 was in 1902, which included members of a British team. However, they failed to reach the summit.
Difficulty of K2 climbing routes (1970-1980)
Climbing Mount K2 is an adventurous activity which includes a strenuous and challenging phase. In 1970 AD, and 1980, attempts were made to climb a difficult route known as the Magic Line. However, many climbers failed on this route, and many people lost their lives. In 1986, a successful attempt was made by a Polish-Slovak team, but this also ended in tragedy. It is said that people who travel to this mountain should not be afraid of dying, because many say that this mountain is the abode of ghosts.
The historic climb of 2004.
In 2004, Jordan Caminas and his friends were involved in an attempt to climb the Magic Line route. The effort was a great adventure, and they managed to reach the peak of Mount K2, but this success led to a big tragedy. After the climb, one of the members died, and the incident helped leave a deep impression on the history of Mount K2.
Modern-day Mount K2
Mount K2 remains a dangerous and challenging mountain. Climbing efforts continue, and the mountain is considered one of the most prominent and dangerous mountains due to its severe weather and hard topography.
Geographical Location of K2.
Mount K2 is the second largest mountain in the world, located in the Karakoram mountain chain. The geographical location is very difficult and distant, which makes it even more dangerous for climbing.
In which mountain range is K2 located, and which two countries share its border?
Where is Mount K2 located?
Location: It is located at the border of Pakistan and China (coordinates: 35°52′57″ North, 76°30′48″ East), in the Gilgit-Baltistan area of southern Pakistan, at the same time as the northeastern part of China is connected to Xinjiang.
Mount K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world, standing at an altitude of 8,611 meters (28,291 feet). Mount K2 is a part of the Karakoram mountain range.
Climate and Environment of Mount K2.
Mount K2 is very cold, dry, and windy, with a lot of snow even in summer. It is always very cold here, and due to its location in the northern latitudes, the weather here is very unpredictable. For this reason, the climate here is not easy to predict.
Major Glaciers Mount K2.
Major glaciers here include the Baltoro Glacier flowing into Pakistan, the Godwin-Austin Glacier flowing to the southeast, and the Sharip Gang Glacier flowing towards China.
Location of the Base Camp Mount K2.
We are speaking about the base camp of Mount K2. It is located at an altitude of about 5000 meters above sea level and is located in the Pakistani aspect. To achieve this base camp, you have to trek (Skardu) for about 10 to 15 days.
Why is Mount K2 So Dangerous?
Mount K2 is a mountain full of fear, terror, and death.
Mount K2 requires a straight vertical climb, so it is difficult to reach its summit.
The weather here changes unexpectedly, and storms suddenly appear.
Avalanches can fall at any time.
Above 8,000 meters, there is no oxygen, so it is very difficult here, it is also called the death zone.
One in four climbers die on Mount K2, it is also an area with an extremely high mortality rate.
How long does it take to climb Mount K2?
The trek to Mount K2 usually takes about 6-8 weeks.
The trek to the base camp of Mount K2 takes up to 8-10 days.
Due to climate change, if the trek is a circuitous trek, it takes up to 3-4 weeks.
It will take up to 7-10 days to reach the summit and descend.
K2 vs. Everest: Which is More Difficult?
Feature | Mount K2 | Mount Everest |
Height | 8,611 m (28,251ft) | 8,848 m (29,029ft) |
Fatality Rate | ~25% | ~4% |
Climbing Routes Steeper, more technical, and more gradual ascent. |
Success Rate | ~30% | ~65% |
Many climbers say that climbing Mount K2 in Pakistan is more difficult than climbing Mount Everest in Nepal because Mount K2 requires a steep climb.
Mount K2 Base Camp Trek: The Adventure of a Lifetime.
Those who want to trek only to the base camp without climbing the summit of Mount K2 can take this facility. From here too, they can see the breathtaking views and unique, beautiful mountain pictures of the Karakoram Range.
Starting point: To be done from Skardu, Pakistan.
Trek duration: 14-20 days round trip.
Best time to visit: From June to September.
Major highlights: Concordia, Baltoro Glacier, Broad Peak Base Camp.
Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, which is done commercially, the K2 Base Camp trek is remote, less crowded, & very challenging.
What do you need for a Mount K2 trek?
Travel Permits
Trekking/Hiking Gear and equipments
Footwear.
Upper Body
Light Weight Top / Thermo Coat (2-3 Layers)
Mid Weight Top (2-3 Layers)
Heavy Weight Top (2 Layers)
Fleece Jacket
Gore Text Jacket
Down Jacket
Wind Proof Jacket
Cotton T-Shirt For Base Camp.
Lower Body
Light Weight Long Under Pants
Under Wear
Mid Weight Long Under Pants
Heavy Weight Long Under Wear
Gore Text Pant.
Down Pants.
Water Proof Pant.
Climbing Equipment.
Climbing Helmet
Down Suit (Kailas / Marmot / Mountain
Hardware / North Face / Millet )
Crampons (Fit with Boot)
Ice Axe
Harness
Atc Guide
Jummer / Ascender
Lock Carabiner
Unlock Carabiner
Tape Slings
Prusik Loops
Snow Goggle
Head Light (4 Pairs Rechargeable Batteries Recommended)
Satellite Phone
Hand Warmer (If Possible)
Mount K2 FAQs
1. What is Mount K2’s full name?
Ans: Mount K2 does not have a local name like Everest (Sagarmatha/Chomolungma). It was originally surveyed as the second peak of the Karakoram Range, hence the name K2.
2. Is Mount K2 in Nepal?
Ans: No, Mount K2 is located in Pakistan, not Nepal. Mount Everest, however, lies on the Nepal-Tibet border.
3. Why does K2 not have a name?
Ans: K2 was named by British surveyors, and unlike other mountains, it did not have a widely recognized local name.
4. What country is K2 in?
A: K2 is in Pakistan, specifically in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
