Photo: BlackZero_007 · CC BY 2.0Field guides / Gilgit-Baltistan / Biafo Glacier
Field guide · Mountains
Biafo Glacier
Biafo Glacier, 67 km of ice in the Karakoram — with the Hispar Glacier, the longest glacier system outside the polar regions.
The Biafo Glacier runs 67 kilometres through the central Karakoram and is one of the largest glaciers in the range. At Hispar La (5,128 m) it meets the 49 km Hispar Glacier, and together they form the world's longest non-polar glacier system, about 120 km, linking Nagar with Shigar in Baltistan. Near its high point lies Snow Lake, a vast basin of ice.
Why go
- ✦67 km long, one of the Karakoram's largest glaciers
- ✦Joins the Hispar Glacier at Hispar La (5,128 m)
- ✦Snow Lake near its upper end
How to Reach
The trek starts from Askole in the Braldu valley of Shigar District, reached by jeep from Skardu. The glacier is a multi-day expedition route for experienced trekkers with a guide.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, June to September.
Getting there, The trek starts from Askole in the Braldu valley of Shigar District, reached by jeep from Skardu. The glacier is a multi-day expedition route for experienced trekkers with a guide.
Allow, Several days to two weeks, depending on the route.
What to Do
Nearby
Straight-line distance from Biafo Glacier, within 5 km.
Nothing else genuinely close by (within 5 km of Biafo Glacier) is published yet.

