Gasherbrum II is the 13th highest mountain in the world, with a summit elevation of 8,035 meters (26,362 feet) above sea level. It is located in the Karakoram range of the Himalayas on the border between Pakistan and China, and it is part of the Gasherbrum massif, which includes several other peaks.

The name Gasherbrum is derived from the Balti language, which is spoken in the region, and means "beautiful mountain". Gasherbrum II is also known as K4, as it was the fourth peak in the Karakoram range to be measured and named.

The first successful ascent of Gasherbrum II was made in 1956 by an Austrian expedition led by Fritz Moravec. Since then, the mountain has been climbed by several expeditions, and it is considered a challenging and technical climb that requires high-altitude mountaineering skills.

The Gasherbrum massif is known for its dramatic and imposing peaks, including the striking pyramid-shaped summit of Gasherbrum II. The area surrounding the mountain is home to several ethnic groups, including the Balti people, who have a rich cultural heritage and a long history of mountaineering.

Gasherbrum II is a popular destination for high-altitude mountaineering, with several routes leading to the summit. The most common route is the Normal Route, which follows the southeast ridge of the mountain, but there are several other technical and challenging routes for experienced mountaineers.