Biafo–Hispar Trek
The Biafo–Hispar Trek, traversing the legendary Snow Lake basin, is one of the most iconic high-altitude treks in the Karakoram Range. It links the Biafo Glacier ( approx. 67 km long) with the Hispar Glacier (49 km), joining at the high‑altitude Hispar La (5,128 m)—together forming the world’s longest non-polar glacial traverse of approximately 100–120 km
At its heart lies Snow Lake (also known as Lukpe Lawo), a glacial basin over 16 km wide, and up to 1.6 km deep, making it among the most extraordinary ice expanses outside the polar regions
Location: Skardu, Hispar (Nagar)
Tips: Best Time to Trek: Early June to mid‑September, when weather and snow conditions are favorable
Permits & NOC: Although trekking falls in an “open zone” (no trekking permit), entry into Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) requires an NOC from Skardu Tourism Office.
Guided Trekking Required: Independent trekking is not allowed; you must go through a registered operator with licensed guide and crew
Insurance Required: Mandatory coverage, including medical, accident, and helicopter evacuation.
Altitude-related precautions: Aim for gradual acclimatization (“climb high, sleep low”) and be aware of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Passive rest days and active acclimatization walks are incorporated.
Gear You Need: High-altitude trek preparation—crampons, ice axes, ropes, sturdy glacier boots, UV protection, warm layers.
Health & Safety:
Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, diphtheria recommended; yellow fever only as applicable
Water safety: Use purification tablets or filters; avoid raw veggies, unverified water—carry rehydration salts
Sun & UV: Strong UV at altitude makes sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses essential
Highlights
- Longest Glacial Traverse (non-polar): A massive frozen corridor of ice and snow
- Snow Lake: A colossal ice basin of rare beauty
- Surrounding peaks—The Ogre, Latok group, Kanjut Sar, Disteghil Sar, and others—offer dramatic backdrop vistas
- Rich wildlife: Ibex, Markhor, Himalayan brown bears, and elusive snow leopards inhabit the region
- Center to view multiple Karakoram mountain ranges and peaks
- More exploration opportunities
- Become part of nature for lifelong happiness.
- Historic route: An ancient pathway connecting the mountain kingdoms of Hunza and Baltistan, with stories of warriors and trade
Company responsibility
- Local logistics
- Accommodation/camping/food
- Transportation
- Guides, porters etc.
- Permits/NOCs where necessary
- A first Aid Box with very basic medicines
- Emergency rescue, helicopter charter
- Dress and personal equipment e.g. ice – axe, boot, crampons, trekking poles, sunglasses etc.
- Individual/group Insurance
- Visa
- Passports
- International air ticketing
- Helicopter Payment (refundable after safe trek).
Biafo–Hispar Trek
Activity: Fly/drive from Islamabad to Skardu
Acclimatization day
Final gear checks and permits
Night: Hotel/Guesthouse
Drive time: 6–8 hours (jeep)
Terrain: Dirt roads, bumpy ride along the Braldu River
Night: Camping at Askole – last village before the trek
Trek time: 6–7 hours
First day on the trail; gradual ascent
Camp near the Biafo Glacier’s snout
Night: Camping at Namla
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Glacier walking begins: moraine, ice, and rock
Mango is a scenic camp with green pastures and side streams
Night: Camping
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Beautiful walk past granite spires and glacial streams
Baintha is a vast, green campsite — good for rest/acclimatization
Night: Camping
Activity: Short hikes around the valley, medical checks
Important for acclimatization before gaining further altitude
Night: Camping
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Cross crevassed areas of Biafo Glacier
More challenging glacial terrain, ropes may be needed
Night: Camping on moraine
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Enter the vast Snow Lake — an enormous ice basin surrounded by peaks
One of the most scenic days of the trek
Night: Camping on the glacier
Prepare for the Hispar La crossing
Optional short hikes or glacier training
Night: Camping
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Steady climb over the glacier
Views of Hispar Pass and surrounding Karakoram peaks
Night: Camping below the pass
- Trek time: 7–9 hours
- Early start to cross the pass
- Panoramic views: Snow Lake, Biafo & Hispar glaciers, peaks like Pumari Chhish
- Descend onto Hispar Glacier
- Night: Camping
- Trek time: 5–6 hours
- Tricky moraines and crevasses
- Night: Camping near glacier edge
- Trek time: 5–6 hours
- Easier terrain begins
- Streams, meadows, and views of Hispar Valley open up
- Night: Camping
- Trek time: 5–6 hours
- Final descent through meadows and shepherd huts
- Reach road access point in Hispar village (Nagar Valley)
Night: Local guesthouse or camp
- Drive time: 4–6 hours
- Jeep ride through Nagar Valley to the Karakoram Highway
- Reach Hunza for rest, hot shower, and civilization
- Night: Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's
No—trekking must be done with a licensed operator and guide
AMS is a serious concern. Use acclimatization strategies, hydration, rest, and pace yourself—bring medication like ibuprofen as backup
It’s non-technical but strenuous due to altitude, length, crevasses, and glacier terrain. Prior glacier-trekking experience is highly advised.
Look out for ibex, markhor, brown bears, and occasionally snow leopards