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Introduction

Godwin-Austen Glacier

The Godwin-Austen Glacier is a glacier in the Karakoram, close to K2 in the Pakistani region of Gilgit Baltistan. It receives its name from Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen, an early explorer of this region. K2 was originally named Mount Godwin-Austin in his honour. Its confluence with the Baltoro Glacier is called Concordia and is a popular trekking destination as it provides views of four of the five eight-thousanders in the region.

The glacier can be approached via Shigar valley and Braldo valley as well as from Hushe Valley of Gilgit Baltistan.

If you are an adventurous traveler who loves to explore the hidden wonders of nature, you might want to visit Godwin-Austen Glacier. This glacier is located in the Karakoram range, close to K2, the highest mountain peak in Pakistan and second highest on Earth, in Gilgit–Baltistan, Pakistan. The glacier is named after Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen, an early explorer of this region.

Godwin-Austen Glacier List of peaks

Peaks near Concordia include:

  • K2, 2nd highest of the world at 8,611m.
  • Gasherbrum I, 11th highest of the world at 8,080m.
  • Broad Peak, 12th highest of the world at 8,047m.
  • Gasherbrum II, 13th highest of the world at 8,035m.
  • Gasherbrum III, 7,946m. (Often regarded as a subpeak of Gasherbrum II.)
  • Gasherbrum IV, 17th highest of the world at 7,932m.
  • Masherbrum (K1), 22nd highest of the world at 7,821m.
  • Chogolisa, 36th highest of the world at 7,665m.
  • Muztagh Tower, 7,273m.
  • Snow Dome, 7,160m.
  • Biarchedi, 6,781 m
  • Mitre Peak, 6,010m.

Why Visit Godwin-Austen Glacier?

Godwin-Austen Glacier is a stunning glacier that offers a serene and scenic experience for travelers. The glacier is situated at an elevation of 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level, which makes it a challenging but rewarding destination for adventure seekers.

How to Reach Godwin-Austen Glacier?

Godwin-Austen Glacier is about 95 kilometers from Skardu, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. You can reach Skardu by road or by air from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. From Skardu, you can take a jeep ride to the Baltoro Glacier, which takes about 4 hours. The Baltoro Glacier is one of the longest glaciers in the world, and its confluence with the Godwin-Austen Glacier is called Concordia, a popular trekking destination as it provides views of four of the five eight-thousanders in the region1. From Concordia, you can hike for about 2 hours to reach the Godwin-Austen Glacier.

When to Visit Godwin-Austen Glacier?

The best time to visit Godwin-Austen Glacier is between June and October, when the weather is mild and the glacier is at its most beautiful. The glacier’s water level begins to rise in May and reaches its peak in August. In winter, the glacier freezes and the area is covered with snow, which offers a different kind of charm. However, the winter season is not recommended for tourists, as the temperature drops below freezing and the road conditions are poor.

What to Do at Godwin-Austen Glacier?

Godwin-Austen Glacier is a perfect place to enjoy nature and relax. You can admire the amazing views of the glacier and the mountains, take photos, have a picnic, You can also explore the nearby areas, such as the K2 Base Camp.

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