Hispar Glacier – The Ice Highway of the Karakoram!
Hispar Glacier, stretching about 49 kilometers, is one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions. Located in the Hispar Valley of Nagar District, it forms part of the legendary Biafo–Hispar Traverse, which connects the Karakoram with the Baltoro region via the Hispar La Pass (5,151m).
For experienced trekkers, Hispar Glacier is not just a place — it’s a journey through some of the most remote, dramatic, and glacier-packed terrain on Earth. It also offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped giants like Pumari Chhish, Hispar Sar, and Spantik.
Why Visit Hispar Glacier?
Hispar Glacier is for true explorers — those who crave extreme wilderness, solitude, and raw natural power. Whether you venture only to its mouth or attempt the full Biafo–Hispar Traverse, you’ll witness landscapes that few ever see and feel the timeless silence of ancient ice beneath your feet.
It’s not just a trek — it’s a journey across the spine of the Karakoram.
Routes to Hispar glacier
Location & Accessibility
Region: Hispar Valley, Nagar District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: ~3,400 meters at glacier base; up to 5,151 meters at Hispar La
Length: ~49 km (joins with Biafo Glacier to create 100+ km glacial highway)
Distance from Gilgit: ~150 km (6–8 hours by jeep to Hispar Village)
Route to Hispar Village
Gilgit → Danyor Bridge → Nagar Khas → Hoper Valley → Hispar Village
Road conditions: Rough, narrow, and bumpy after Hoper — 4×4 necessary
Hispar is the last village of Nagar Valley before the glacier starts
From Hispar Village, the trek begins on foot toward the glacier and beyond
Hispar Glacier Trek Overview
| Trek Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 10–14 days for full Biafo–Hispar traverse |
| Starting Point | Hispar Village |
| End Point | Askole (Baltoro region, Skardu side) |
| Highest Point | Hispar La Pass – 5,151 meters |
| Difficulty | 🔴 Very Challenging – for experienced trekkers only |
| Season | July to September (snow-free and stable weather) |
Short treks to the glacier mouth are possible in 1–2 days, with camping near base
Main Attractions
| Location | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hispar Glacier Base | Access to massive ice walls and crevasses |
| Snow Lake (Lukpe Lawo) | Legendary high-altitude glacial basin (~16,000 ft) |
| Hispar La | Connects Nagar to Baltistan – ancient caravan route |
| Panoramic Peaks | View of Hispar Sar, Golden Peak, Pumari Chhish, Kunyang Chhish |
| Ice & Rock Formations | Natural sculptures, seracs, and ice towers |
Important Notes
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Not suitable for beginners – only for experienced trekkers or those with mountain guides
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Glacier crevasses and sudden weather changes are dangerous
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Altitude sickness risk – acclimatize in Hoper or Nagar before ascending
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No emergency rescue nearby – self-sufficiency is key
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Notes |
|---|---|
| Mid-June to Early September | Best window for glacier trekking |
| Off-Season (Oct–May) | Glacier inaccessible due to deep snow and harsh conditions |
Things to Do
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Long-Distance Trekking – Join with Biafo Glacier to complete the 100+ km “Ice Highway”
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Camping on the Glacier – Multi-day wilderness camping
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Photography – Glacial rivers, ice cliffs, mountain vistas
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Peak Spotting – Observe some of the highest unclimbed peaks in the world
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Adventure Mapping – Ideal for mountaineers, geographers, and glaciologists
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually