Biafo Glacier is one of the longest glaciers in the world, located in the Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan. It is approximately 63 kilometers long and connects the Hispar Glacier to the Braldu Valley. The glacier is an important source of water for the Indus River, which provides water to millions of people in Pakistan and India. Biafo Glacier is also an important destination for adventure seekers and hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.
Biafo Glacier is located in the Northern Areas of Pakistan, which is a region known for its rugged and mountainous terrain. The glacier is situated at an elevation of 3,200 to 5,600 meters above sea level and covers an area of approximately 710 square kilometres. The glacier is fed by the accumulation of snow and ice over thousands of years, and its melting waters flow down into the Braldu River.
The Biafo Glacier is known for its beauty and pristine wilderness. It is surrounded by towering peaks, some of which are over 7,000 meters high. The glacier itself is a massive river of ice that twists and turns through the landscape, carving out deep valleys and crevasses. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, snow leopards, and brown bears.
Hiking on the Biafo Glacier is a popular activity for adventure seekers. The trek usually takes about 14 days and covers a distance of approximately 100 kilometers. The trek starts in the village of Askole and ends at the Hispar Pass. Along the way, hikers pass through stunning scenery, including deep gorges, snow-covered peaks, and crystal-clear lakes. The trek is not easy, and hikers need to be physically fit and have experience in mountain trekking. However, the reward is an unforgettable experience of exploring one of the most beautiful and remote parts of the world.
Campsites along the Biafo are positioned off the glacier, adjacent to the lateral moraines and steep mountainsides. The first 3 (heading up from the ultimate village before the glacier, the thousand-12 months-old Askole village) are beautiful web sites with flowing water nearby. Mango and Namla, the first two campsites, are regularly covered in flowers and Namla has a top-notch waterfall very near the tenting area. Baintha, the 0.33 campsite, is frequently used as a relaxation day. A huge green meadow, it has a few going for walks streams close to the camp, and plenty of places to spend the day rock climbing or rappelling.
Evidence of flora and fauna can be visible at the trek, which includes Ibex and the Markhor mountain goat. The region is likewise regarded for Himalayan brown bears and snow leopards, although sightings are uncommon.
