About
K2, at 8,611 metres (about 28,250 feet), is the second highest mountain in the world and the highest in Pakistan. It rises on the northern ridge of the Karakoram above the head of the Baltoro Glacier in Shigar District, and its steep pyramid shape has made it a legend among mountaineers. British surveyors recorded the peak in the mid-19th century, and its name comes from the survey notation, K for Karakoram and 2 for the second peak measured. Locally it is also known by other names, and it is often called the Savage Mountain because of its difficulty. Most visitors never climb K2 itself, but many trek to its base camp. The route from Askole follows the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, where K2 appears in full view, and onward to K2 Base Camp at around 5,050 metres. It is one of the greatest treks in the world.