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Hispar Pass at at altitude of 5,151m/16,900 ft) is a high-altitude, non-technical mountain pass in the Karakoram Range in Pakistan.
At the pass, the Biafo Glacier (63 km long) and Hispar Glacier (4 9 km long) meet at Hispar Pass to form the world’s longest glacial traverse outside of the polar regions, 100 kilometers in length.
This Hispar Pass of ice connects two ancient mountain kingdoms, Nagar (immediately south of Hunza) in the west with Baltistan in the east. The traverse uses 51 of the Biafo Glacier’s 63 km and all of the Hispar Glacier to form a 100 km (62 mi) glacial route.
One can reach there by 8-10 days walking from Askole Shigar valley of Gilgit Baltistan, which is preceded by a jeep ride of 6-7 hours from Skardu Capital of Baltistan Region of Pakistan. An alternative access path is 3-4 days walk via Hushe valley.
Hispar Pass: A Breathtaking Adventure in the Karakoram Range
Are you looking for a thrilling and unforgettable experience in Pakistan? Do you want to explore the majestic beauty of the Karakoram Range, one of the highest mountain ranges in the world? If yes, then you should consider trekking to Hispar Pass, a high-altitude, non-technical mountain pass that connects the Biafo and Hispar glaciers, forming the world’s longest glacial traverse outside of the polar regions
Hispar Pass, also known as Hispar La, is located in Nagar District, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It has an elevation of 5,128 meters (16,824 feet), making it one of the highest passes in the region. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, such as Kanjut Sar, Kunyang Chhish, Distaghil Sar, and Pumari Chhish, some of which are over 7,000 meters (23,000 feet) high1.
The trek to Hispar Pass is not for the faint-hearted. It requires a high level of fitness, endurance, and acclimatization, as well as proper equipment and guides. The trek usually takes about 12 to 14 days, depending on the weather and the pace of the group. The trek starts from Askole, a small village in the Shigar Valley, and follows the Biafo Glacier for about 63 kilometers (39 miles) until it reaches the pass. Along the way, you will encounter various challenges, such as crevasses, moraines, icefalls, and snow bridges. You will also witness the diverse and fascinating flora and fauna of the region, such as ibex, markhor, snow leopards, marmots, and wildflowers.
From the pass, you will descend along the Hispar Glacier for another 49 kilometers (30 miles) until you reach Hispar Village, the end point of the trek. The Hispar Glacier is equally challenging and scenic as the Biafo Glacier, with its own set of obstacles and attractions. You will pass by several glacial lakes, such as Snow Lake, Hispar Lake, and Khani Basa Lake, as well as some historical sites, such as the Hispar Fort and the Hispar Muztagh Tower.
Hispar Pass is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will test your limits and reward you with unforgettable memories. It is a rare opportunity to witness the beauty and power of nature, as well as the culture and history of the local people.
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