Baltoro Glacier — famous glacier trek
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Trekking Route
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
14 to 20 Days
Visa / NOC Info
Specific NOC Required for Foreigners and trekking permits.
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Baltoro Glacier is one of the world's longest glaciers outside polar regions. It is located in the Karakoram mountain range in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This glacier is famous as the gateway to some of the world's highest mountains, including K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum peaks. The Baltoro Glacier trek is a challenging journey for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. It leads to Concordia, a vast junction of glaciers known for its stunning mountain views.
What To Do
- Trek along the glacier towards Concordia.
- See famous mountain peaks like K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum.
- Camping at high-altitude sites along the trek route.
- Take photographs of the vast glacial landscapes and mountain scenery.
- Experience remote wilderness and glacial environments.
What To Buy
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm, locally made wool shawls found in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Handicrafts: Wooden carvings and traditional items from local artisan shops in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Walnuts, apricots, and almonds available from shops in Skardu city. Get Directions
- Traditional Jewelry: Silver and stone jewelry from artisan stalls in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Local Honey: Pure honey from the valleys, sold in various shops around Skardu. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Special permits are required for trekking in this area, especially for foreign visitors. These are arranged through trekking agencies.
- Respect local customs and traditions when passing through villages on the way to the glacier.
- Always practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; carry out all your waste and do not litter.
- Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful when taking pictures of local people.
Health & Safety
- This high-altitude trek requires excellent physical fitness and proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
- Carry appropriate cold-weather clothing, sturdy waterproof trekking boots, and gear for glacial travel.
- It is highly recommended to trek with experienced local guides and porters.
- Be aware of rapidly changing weather conditions, potential for rockfall, and hidden crevasses on the glacier.
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: April to May. Weather is cold but clear. Less snow on the lower parts of the trek, good for early season trips.
Summer: June to August. This is the best time. Warmer temperatures and stable weather make it ideal for trekking.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: July to August. Rain mainly affects lower valleys; the glacier areas are generally drier. Trekking is still possible but watch weather forecasts closely.
Autumn: September to October. Cooler temperatures, clear skies, and fewer trekkers. Can get very cold asWinter: approaches.
Winter: November to March. Extremely cold with heavy snowfall. Trekking to the glacier is not advised or safe during these months.
How to Reach
- By Air: Skardu International Airport (KDU) is the nearest active airport. It is the main entry point to the region for trekkers.
- By Road: Skardu is connected by the Karakoram Highway and the Skardu Road. From Skardu city, hire a jeep to Askole, which is the starting village for the Baltoro Glacier trek.
- By Train: The nearest active major railway stations are Rawalpindi (RWP) or Lahore (LHE), both located over 700 kilometers away from Skardu.
- By Public Transport: Shared jeeps or vans are available from Skardu city to Askole village, which is the last point reachable by road before starting the trek.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Dewan-e-Khaas Restaurant: Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan. Contact: 0345 5000990. Get Directions
- Faqir Restaurant: Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan. Contact: 0345 6000000. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Kargil Road, Skardu. Contact: 05815-455000. Website: http://www.serenahotels.com. Get Directions
- Hotel One Skardu: Main Airport Road, Skardu. Contact: 05815-470001. Website: http://www.hotelone.com.pk. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- DHQ Hospital Skardu, Skardu. Phone: 05815-920027. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Pakistan official emergency number)
- Police Station: Police Station Skardu City, Skardu. Phone: 05815-920023. Get Directions
