How difficult is the Biafo–Hispar Glacier Trek?

It is one of the toughest treks in the Karakoram, requiring glacier travel, crevasse navigation, and up to 18 days in remote wilderness. Prior trekking experience is essential.

What is Snow Lake in the Biafo–Hispar Trek?

Snow Lake is a legendary 16 km wide ice basin at 4,800 m along the route, often described as one of the most beautiful wildernesses on earth.

Do I need a permit for the Biafo–Hispar Trek?

Yes. Foreign trekkers must obtain a trekking permit from Gilgit-Baltistan authorities. ATAP handles the entire process, including fees and paperwork.

How long does the trek take?

The full trek takes about 18 days, starting from Askole in Baltistan, crossing Snow Lake and Hispar La (5,151 m), and finishing in Hunza Valley.

Biafo–Hispar Glacier Trek: The World’s Longest Glacial Traverse

Overview & Highlights

The Biafo–Hispar Glacier Trek is an extraordinary adventure through the heart of Pakistan’s Karakoram Range, offering one of the longest continuous glacier traverses in the world. Stretching nearly 100 kilometers, the route connects the Biafo Glacier in Braldu Valley with the Hispar Glacier in Hunza, taking trekkers across the legendary Snow Lake – a vast expanse of ice and snow often described as one of the most beautiful places on earth.

This trek is a true test of endurance, rewarding adventurers with remote wilderness, towering peaks, and unparalleled alpine scenery.

Biafo Glacier Trek

This challenging trek follows the mighty Biafo Glacier in the Karakoram, leading towards the legendary Snow Lake and connecting with the Hispar Glacier.

Biafo Hispar Glacier Trek

Known for its dramatic landscapes, this trek combines Biafo and Hispar glaciers with a crossing of Snow Lake, one of the most remote and breathtaking areas of the Karakoram.

Key Highlights

World’s Longest Glacial Traverse: A 100 km journey linking two mighty glaciers in the Karakoram.
Snow Lake Crossing: Trek across the mythical 16 km wide expanse of Snow Lake at 4,800m.
Dramatic Mountain Views: Witness Karakoram's iconic peaks including Baintha Brakk (The Ogre).
Remote Wilderness: Experience complete isolation far from human settlements.
Adventure of a Lifetime: A rare trek for seasoned trekkers seeking challenge and raw beauty.
Cultural Contrast: Start in Baltistan’s Braldu Valley and finish in Hunza, experiencing diverse cultures.

Guidebook, Maps & GPS Resources

Due to the trek’s remoteness and shifting glaciers, reliable resources and navigation tools are essential:

Guidebooks

Lonely Planet Pakistan & the Karakoram Highway
Pakistan Trekking Guide – Wolfgang Heichel & Dieter Glogowski
Specialized Karakoram Mountaineering & Trekking Guides

Maps

Swiss Foundation for Alpine Research (1:250,000 scale)
US Army Map Service Topographic Maps
Custom Trekking Maps from local operators

GPS & Digital Tools

Download GPX tracks (AllTrails, Wikiloc)
Offline apps: Maps.me, Gaia GPS, OsmAnd
Carry satellite devices (Garmin InReach, SPOT)

⚠️ Pro Tip: Maps and GPS help, but nothing replaces an experienced local guide.

Detailed Trekking Route Map for Biafo Hispar Trek in the Karakoram />
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Trekking Permits

The Biafo–Hispar Trek lies in a restricted area of Gilgit-Baltistan, so all foreign trekkers need permits. ATAP handles all paperwork for you.

Who Needs It? Foreign trekkers (locals exempt).
Where to Apply? Through a licensed operator like ATAP.
Processing Time: 4–6 weeks (plan early).
Trekking Fee: About USD $50 per person/month.
Environment Fee: Around USD $50 for Central Karakoram NP routes.

Trip Itinerary (18 Days)

Starting in Islamabad, the journey moves through Skardu and Askole, before stepping onto the Biafo Glacier. Over several days, trekkers traverse vast ice fields, camp beneath peaks like Baintha Brakk (The Ogre), and reach Snow Lake. The crossing of Hispar La (5,151m) marks the trek’s highest point before descending into Hunza Valley.

Recommended Gear & Packing List

Clothing & Layers

Thermal base layers
Insulated down jacket
Waterproof shell & trekking trousers
Warm hat, gloves & neck gaiter

Footwear

Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in)
Warm socks + camp sandals

Camping & Sleeping

Four-season sleeping bag (–15°C)
Insulated sleeping mat
Trekking poles
Headlamp with spare batteries

Personal Gear

Backpack (50–65L) + small daypack
Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
First aid kit & personal meds
Water bottles & hydration system

💡 Pro Tip: ATAP provides group gear (tents, cooking, safety equipment). You only bring personal gear.

FAQs About the Biafo–Hispar Glacier Trek

It is one of the toughest treks in Pakistan, requiring excellent fitness, glacier experience, and mental endurance.

All foreign trekkers need an official permit from the Gilgit-Baltistan Council. ATAP arranges this for you.

The best season is June to August when passes are open and weather is stable.

Plan Your Biafo–Hispar Adventure

ATAP Pakistan specializes in Biafo–Hispar Glacier Trek tours and other adventure trips in Pakistan. Join us to experience Snow Lake, Hispar La, and the longest glacier traverse on earth.