SNOW LAKE, BIAFO-HISPAR TREK
The Biafo-Hispar Trek is one of the most exhilarating and challenging treks in Pakistan, connecting the Baltistan and Hunza regions across the Karakoram mountain range. It follows two massive glaciers—the Biafo Glacier and the Hispar Glacier—together creating the longest glacier walk in the world outside of the polar regions.
Typically, the Biafo-Hispar Trek takes around 19 to 21 days to complete, starting and ending in Islamabad, depending on the pace and conditions. This strenuous trek involves glacier traverses, crevasses, and some technical sections, requiring experience in ice trekking and good physical fitness.
The best time to attempt this trek is from late June to early September when weather conditions are more favorable and the snow cover is more stable. Due to the remote and challenging nature of the trek, thorough preparation is essential. Necessary gear includes crampons, ice axes, ropes, and proper camping equipment for high-altitude conditions.
The Biafo-Hispar Trek offers an incredible journey for seasoned trekkers, providing isolation, adventure, and the opportunity to traverse one of the world’s most awe-inspiring glacial landscapes. It is a journey into the heart of the Karakoram, surrounded by mountains and glaciers in one of the wildest corners of the world.
HIGHLIGHTS OF TREK
- -Spectacular Scenery: The trek offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, massive icefalls, and rugged landscapes. You'll witness stunning snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and remote glaciers, offering an otherworldly experience. Lukpe Lawo (Snow Lake): One of the most unique features of this trek is Snow Lake, or Lukpe Lawo. It’s a large glacial basin around 16 kilometres wide, surrounded by high peaks. This natural amphitheatre of ice and snow is isolated, with an almost mystical aura that attracts adventurers from around the globe.
- -Biafo and Hispar Glaciers: These glaciers stretch for about 114 kilometres combined, making the trek a long and demanding journey over ice. Trekking over such vast glaciers is a challenging feat, but the surrounding beauty makes it incredibly rewarding.
- -Wildlife and Flora: Despite the icy terrain, trekkers can encounter unique wildlife like ibex, snow leopards, and brown bears at various points, though sightings are rare. The lower regions of the trek have some alpine meadows with seasonal flowers and lush greenery, adding a touch of colour to the surroundings.
- -Technical Challenge and High-Altitude Pass: The trek includes the Hispar La Pass, a high-altitude pass at around 5,151 meters (16,900 feet) that connects the two glaciers. Crossing this pass is challenging due to the altitude, variable weather, and tricky glacier terrain, making this trek suitable for experienced high-altitude trekkers.
