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List of Glaciers in Pakistan

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Glaciers in Pakistan: Overview

A glacier is a massive, slow-moving river of ice formed from compacted layers of snow that have accumulated over many years, often centuries. These ice bodies flow gradually under their own weight, shaping the landscape through processes like erosion and deposition. Glaciers act as critical freshwater reservoirs and are essential to the regional hydrological cycle, feeding rivers and supporting ecosystems downstream.

Pakistan is home to one of the largest concentrations of glaciers in the world outside the polar regions. According to widely accepted data, the country boasts over 7,253 glaciers, holding more glacial ice than any other nation beyond the Arctic and Antarctic. However, recent research conducted collaboratively by Pakistan’s Ministry of Climate Change and the Italian scientific organization EvK2CNR suggests that this number may be significantly higher, estimating more than 13,000 glaciers scattered throughout the country. The vast majority of these glaciers are situated in the mountainous northern territories of Pakistan, primarily within Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Given Pakistan’s rugged topography and high mountain ranges—such as the Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Himalayas—these glaciers are not only prominent features of the landscape but also vital to the environment and local communities. This article provides a comprehensive list of glaciers found in Pakistan, highlighting their locations, characteristics, and significance within the country’s diverse and dynamic mountainous regions.

A

Abruzzi Glacier

The Abruzzi Glacier is located to the north of Baltoro Kangri in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It forms part of the Karakoram mountain range and merges with the Baltoro Glacier — one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions. This glacier plays a significant geographical and trekking role as it provides dramatic views of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. It is named after Prince Luigi Amedeo, Duke of the Abruzzi, an Italian mountaineer and explorer who led an expedition to the region in 1909. His pioneering exploration helped open the area to future climbers and geographers.

B

Baltoro Glacier

The Baltoro Glacier is one of the most prominent and longest glaciers outside the polar regions, located in the Karakoram range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It stretches about 63 kilometers (39 miles) and originates near Concordia, the confluence point of several glaciers including the Godwin-Austen and Abruzzi glaciers. Baltoro serves as the main trekking route for expeditions heading to K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum peaks. The terrain is rugged with towering granite spires like the Trango Towers, making it a haven for trekkers, climbers, and nature photographers.

Barpu Glacier

The Barpu Glacier is situated in Hopper Valley, within Nagar District of Gilgit-Baltistan. It acts as a tributary to the Hispar Glacier, forming part of a glacial system that connects the Nagar and Hunza valleys through the Hispar Pass (Hispar La). Trekkers often traverse this glacier during multi-day expeditions from Hopper Valley to Hispar. The surrounding peaks and meadows offer breathtaking alpine scenery and are rich in flora during summer months.

Batura Glacier

The Batura Glacier lies in the upper Hunza region, near the Batura Muztagh sub-range of the Karakoram Mountains. It is one of the largest non-polar glaciers, stretching around 57 kilometers (35 miles) in length. The glacier runs westward from Passu village towards Batura Wall, making it one of the few glaciers in the world that can be easily accessed from a road. It offers picturesque views, and the lower parts of the glacier are dotted with alpine pastures, wildflowers, and yak herders’ camps.

Biarchedi Glacier

The Biarchedi Glacier is a minor but significant tributary of the Baltoro Glacier, located in close proximity to Biarchedi Peak (6,781 m). Nestled in the Karakoram range, this glacier contributes to the hydrological system that feeds into the larger Baltoro. Though not a popular trekking destination on its own, it forms part of the scenic surroundings of Concordia, where trekkers can observe it while en route to K2 base camp.

Bilafond Glacier

Located in the Siachen region, the Bilafond Glacier lies west of the Saltoro Ridge, a contentious area between India and Pakistan. The name “Bilafond” means “Pass of the Butterflies” in the local Balti language. It is situated in a highly militarized zone and is currently under Pakistani control. This glacier is a source of multiple offshoots, including the Chumik Glacier, and is important from both geopolitical and glaciological perspectives. Access is restricted due to its strategic location.

C

Chogo Lungma Glacier

The Chogo Lungma Glacier is located in the Shigar District of Gilgit-Baltistan, within the Karakoram mountain range. It holds historical significance as it was the first large glacier in the Karakoram to be discovered by Western explorers in 1835. Stretching over 47 kilometers (29 miles), this glacier originates near Spantik Peak and flows westward. It is a vital source of meltwater and plays a role in the local hydrology. Treks to this glacier often begin from the Arandu village, and its untouched landscape makes it a draw for remote trekking experiences.

Chumik Glacier

The Chumik Glacier is a smaller glacier situated in the Siachen region, branching off from the Bilafond Glacier. It is about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) long and lies to the west of the Saltoro Ridge. Though relatively lesser-known, the glacier is geopolitically significant due to its location in a disputed region. Its surrounding terrain is rugged and largely inaccessible due to military sensitivities.

G

Godwin-Austen Glacier

The Godwin-Austen Glacier is a vital tributary of the Baltoro Glacier, situated near K2. It originates near the base of K2 and flows southwest to join the Baltoro at Concordia, one of the most scenic and significant trekking points in the world. The glacier is named after Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen, a British geographer and surveyor who mapped parts of the Karakoram in the 19th century. This glacier is a key part of expeditions to K2 base camp, offering majestic views of surrounding peaks like Gasherbrum, Broad Peak, and Mitre Peak.

Gondogoro Glacier

The Gondogoro Glacier is located south of the Gondogoro La Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass that connects Concordia with the Hushe Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan. It serves as an alternate trekking route to reach K2 base camp. While more challenging than the Baltoro route, it offers stunning views of four 8,000-meter peaks: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and II. Trekkers cross the Gondogoro Glacier while descending from the Gondogoro La, making it an adventurous path that is only accessible under good weather conditions with proper technical equipment.

Ghulkin Glacier

The Ghulkin Glacier lies in the Upper Hunza Valley, near the village of Ghulkin in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is one of several small but beautiful glaciers that shape the landscape of the Gojal region, nestled between Passu and Gulmit. The glacier flows towards the Karakoram Highway, and its moraines have created natural features such as glacial lakes and rivers. It is easily accessible and offers great trekking opportunities for amateur adventurers. The surroundings are marked by lush valleys, apricot orchards, and traditional Wakhi culture.

H

Hispar Glacier

The Hispar Glacier is a major glacier in the Karakoram Mountains, located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It stretches approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles) and originates from the Hispar Pass (5,128 meters or 16,824 feet). Hispar Glacier connects with the Biafo Glacier at the pass to form the famous Hispar–Biafo ice corridor, which is nearly 100 kilometers (62 miles) long. This corridor is one of the longest glacial systems outside the polar regions and offers a remarkable trekking route from Hopper Valley in Nagar to Askole in Shigar District. It traverses remote terrain, wild glaciers, snowfields, and towering peaks, attracting seasoned trekkers and climbers.

Hoper (or Hopper) Glacier

The Hoper Glacier is located in the picturesque Hopper Valley, a part of Nagar District in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is one of the most accessible and visited glaciers in the region, especially popular among domestic tourists and beginner trekkers. This glacier is actually a confluence of two glaciers — Barpu and Miar, which together form a stunning glacial landscape surrounded by peaks like Golden Peak (Spantik) and Miar Peak. The contrast between lush green fields and white icy terrain offers a captivating view that is easily reachable via a short drive from the town of Karimabad in Hunza.

Hainablak Glacier

The Hainablak Glacier lies in Baltistan, near the iconic Trango Towers — one of the world’s most vertical rock faces, located in the Baltoro Muztagh subrange of the Karakoram. The glacier is relatively less traveled compared to Baltoro, but it is well-known among professional climbers. The Trango Towers, rising directly from the Hainablak Glacier, are renowned for challenging alpine climbs, attracting elite rock climbers and mountaineers from across the globe.

K

Kutia Lungma Glacier

The Kutia Lungma Glacier is located in the Karakoram range, within Gilgit-Baltistan, and is notable for its distinct geographic orientation — extending from northwest to southeast. While less popular in the mainstream trekking circuits, it provides pristine views of towering Karakoram peaks and is part of remote alpine wilderness. The glacier is primarily accessed by research teams and adventurous trekkers looking for unexplored terrain.

M

Malanguti Glacier

The Malanguti Glacier (also spelled Malangutti) originates from Malangutti Sar, a high peak in the Shimshal Valley of Hunza District, Gilgit-Baltistan. The glacier flows through one of Pakistan’s most remote and isolated valleys — Shimshal, often referred to as the “Valley of Mountaineers.” It contributes to the water system of the region and is surrounded by pristine wilderness. The area is home to some of the most skilled high-altitude climbers in Pakistan, and the glacier lies along routes to peaks like Minglik Sar and Yazghil Sar.

Miar Glacier

The Miar Glacier lies to the north of Miar Peak, in Hopper Valley, Nagar District. It is a primary tributary of the Barpu Glacier and forms part of the Hoper glacier system. Miar Glacier plays an important role in feeding meltwater into the valley below. The area is encircled by spectacular peaks including Miar Peak (6,824 m) and Golden Peak (Spantik). The glacier is frequently visited by climbers and trekkers who embark on expeditions to nearby peaks or cross over to Hispar Glacier via Barpu Glacier and Hispar La.

P

Panmah Glacier

The Panmah Glacier is located in the central Karakoram region of Gilgit-Baltistan and is part of the Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) — the largest protected area in Pakistan. This glacier lies near famous climbing zones such as Latok Group and Ogre (Baintha Brakk). It is remote and rugged, drawing attention from experienced mountaineers. The glacier is ecologically important and contributes to the region’s glacial systems and freshwater resources. Due to its setting within CKNP, it is also subject to conservation policies aimed at protecting the fragile mountain ecosystem.

Passu Glacier

The Passu Glacier lies in the Upper Hunza Valley, near Passu village and Passu Sar (7,478 m). The glacier is part of the scenic Hunza landscape, easily visible from the Karakoram Highway. It is known for its serrated ridgelines, proximity to Passu Cones (Cathedral Ridge), and photogenic beauty. The glacier flows down from the mountains and is popular among both local and foreign tourists due to its accessibility, with short trekking trails offering up-close views. Passu Glacier also contributes to the Hunza River system, especially during the summer melting season.

R

Rupal Glacier

The Rupal Glacier lies on the southern side of Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) — the ninth-highest mountain in the world. Located in the Astore District of Gilgit-Baltistan, this glacier feeds into the Rupal River, a tributary of the Astore River. The glacier offers a route to the Rupal Face of Nanga Parbat, considered one of the tallest mountain faces on Earth, rising over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) from base to summit. The area is surrounded by alpine meadows and is less crowded than the Diamer (north) side of the mountain, offering scenic camping sites like Rupal Base Camp and Shaigiri.

S

Siachen Glacier

  • Location: Eastern Karakoram range.
  • Details: At 76 km, it is the longest glacier in the Karakoram and second-longest in non-polar regions globally. While claimed by Pakistan, it has been controlled by India since 1984 after Operation Meghdoot. The region remains one of the highest-altitude conflict zones in the world. The glacier is the source of the Nubra River, a tributary of the Indus.

Shishpar Glacier

  • Location: Hunza Valley, near Passu.
  • Details: Known for its surging behavior, it has periodically advanced rapidly, forming glacial lakes that pose Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risks to downstream communities. Its movement threatens the Hasanabad Glacier and infrastructure in Hunza District.

Sachiokuh Glacier

  • Location: Sachiokuh Gol Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: The glacier is the source of the Sachiokuh River, which supports the local ecosystem. It lies in a relatively remote area and contributes to the regional water supply.

Sarpo Laggo Glacier

  • Location: Northeastern Karakoram, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Flows eastward from the Shaksgam Valley, which lies near the disputed territory administered by China but claimed by Pakistan. The glacier is part of the wild and less-explored Shaksgam watershed, near peaks like Broad Peak and K2.

Shaigri Glacier

  • Location: Nanga Parbat region, Astore District.
  • Details: Feeds into the Rupal River, which eventually merges with the Astore River. It lies on the southern side of Nanga Parbat, within the vast glacial network of the massif.

Shandar Glacier

  • Location: Near Passu and Batura Glaciers, Hunza Valley.
  • Details: Part of the interconnected glacial system of Upper Gojal. This area is dominated by vast ice fields, with trekking routes leading to Shimshal, Chafchingol, and other high passes.

Shani Glacier

  • Location: Naltar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Located north of Shani Peak (5,887 m), the glacier feeds into the Naltar River, contributing to the water system of this verdant valley, which is also known for its ski resort and biodiversity.

Shireen Maidan Glacier

  • Location: Near Passu and Batura Glaciers, Hunza Valley.
  • Details: Adds to the glacial density of the Upper Hunza region. While less prominent, it contributes to the overall ice mass and watershed systems of the area.

Shuijerab Glacier

  • Location: Shimshal region, Karakoram.
  • Details: Lies near peaks like Koh-e-Gulistan (6,224 m). Part of the Shuijerab Group, this glacier drains rugged and high-altitude terrain in one of Pakistan’s most isolated valleys. The area is renowned for climbing and alpine exploration.

Shutwerth Glacier

  • Location: Shimshal-Pamir and Ghujerab region, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Forms part of the transboundary glacial systems near the borders of China and Afghanistan. It is surrounded by high passes and contributes to seasonal river flows.

Silkiang Glacier

  • Location: Upper Nagar, Sumayar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Located in the Karakoram, it is part of the glacial hydrological network that feeds the Hunza River system. The Sumayar region is rich in mineral resources and biodiversity.

Sim Glacier

  • Location: Not precisely mapped.
  • Details: Listed in glacial inventories of Pakistan but lacks substantial documentation. Likely a smaller glacier within a broader Karakoram or Himalayan subrange.

Siru Glacier

  • Location: Undocumented.
  • Details: Recognized in records but lacks specific topographic or hydrological data. Possibly located in a lesser-known valley of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Skora La Glacier

  • Location: Likely near Skora La Pass, though detailed coordinates are lacking.
  • Details: Information is minimal; may lie along lesser-used trekking routes or near glaciated passes in the Karakoram.

Sokha Glacier

  • Location: Not explicitly mapped.
  • Details: Listed among Pakistan’s glaciers; further research or satellite mapping may yield details. May be located near known glacier groups like Batura or Rakaposhi.

South Barum Glacier

  • Location: Karakoram range (exact location unclear).
  • Details: Possibly a southern offshoot or tributary glacier of a major system such as Baltoro or Biafo. May play a hydrological role in local meltwater runoff.

Sovoia Glacier

  • Location: Near K2 and Concordia, Baltoro region.
  • Details: Part of the Concordia confluence, where major glaciers such as Godwin-Austen, Vigne, and Baltoro meet. It lies in one of the world’s most iconic mountaineering zones and is surrounded by peaks like K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum.

Stokpa Lungma Glacier

  • Location: Specific data unavailable.
  • Details: Likely a small or remote glacier in Gilgit-Baltistan; “Lungma” means “valley” in Balti, indicating a glacier flowing through a valley setting.

Sumayar Bar Glacier

  • Location: Sumayar Valley, Upper Nagar, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Located in a mineral-rich and glaciated region, this glacier is part of the Sumayar Bar watershed, which drains into the Hunza River. Known for its crystal deposits and trekking potential.

T

Tarashing Glacier

  • Location: Astore Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Serves as the gateway for treks to Nanga Parbat (south face). The glacier lies near the village of Tarashing and feeds the Astore River. It forms part of the Rupal face’s glacier network and is a popular base for mountaineers and trekkers.

Trango Glacier

  • Location: Baltoro region, near Trango Towers, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Lies adjacent to the world-famous Trango Towers, which are some of the tallest vertical rock faces on Earth. The glacier is frequently crossed during the Baltoro Glacier trek en route to Concordia. It is a key location for technical rock climbers from around the world.

Thalo Glacier

  • Location: Undocumented.
  • Details: Though listed in regional glacial inventories, there is limited public data or mapping. It may be located in a lesser-known valley in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Thui Glacier

  • Location: Unspecified; possibly near Thui Pass in northern Pakistan.
  • Details: Very little information is publicly available. Likely situated in Ghizer District, possibly in the vicinity of Thui Valley, which borders the Hindu Kush and Karakoram regions.

Toltar Glacier

  • Location: Not precisely documented.
  • Details: Included in lists of Pakistan’s glaciers but without published topographic or hydrological information. May be in a side valley of Skardu, Astore, or Hunza.

Toshain Glacier

  • Location: Not mapped in detail.
  • Details: Another glacier with minimal public records. Possibly one of the smaller glaciers in Shimshal, Hispar, or upper Indus basin areas.

Trivor Glacier

  • Location: Near Trivor Peak, in Hispar Muztagh, Karakoram range.
  • Details: Lies within the glacial catchment of the Hispar Glacier, one of the major glaciers in the region. The glacier contributes to the ice mass surrounding Trivor (7,728 m), a high but less frequently climbed peak in the region.

Tsarak Tsa Glacier

  • Location: Undetermined.
  • Details: Listed among Pakistan’s glaciers but with very limited documentation. May lie in a remote or less-traversed region of Gilgit-Baltistan or Ladakh border areas.

U

Udren Glacier

  • Location: Rosh Gol Valley, Chitral District, Hindu Kush range.
  • Details: A key access route to Udren Zom (7,140 m), one of the highest peaks in the Hindu Kush. This glacier is used by climbers heading to Udren Zom and other surrounding peaks.

Uli Biaho Glacier

  • Location: Baltoro region, near Uli Biaho Tower, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Lies close to the Uli Biaho Tower, a vertical rock spire popular with elite climbers. The glacier connects to the Baltoro Glacier network, part of the greater Karakoram ice field.

Ultar Glacier

  • Location: Near Ultar Sar, Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Forms below Ultar Sar (7,388 m) and Ladyfinger Peak. Known for steep climbs, avalanches, and glacial icefalls. Routes here are challenging due to rapidly changing glacial terrain.

Upper Khurdopin Glacier

  • Location: Shimshal Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Notorious for glacial surges, which can form lakes that pose a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risk. It is one of the most dynamic glaciers in the Karakoram.

Upper Tirich Glacier

  • Location: Hindu Kush, Chitral District.
  • Details: Part of the Tirich Mir massif glacial system, the highest point in the Hindu Kush. This glacier contributes to the base of major peaks like Tirich Mir (7,708 m).

V

Vigne Glacier

  • Location: Baltoro region, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Crucial route to Gondogoro La Pass (5,585 m), connecting the Baltoro Glacier to Hushe Valley. Trekkers on the K2 Base Camp trek via Gondogoro La commonly traverse this glacier.

W

Wyeen Glacier

  • Location: Karakoram range, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Specific geographical and glaciological data is scarce, but it is listed in regional glacial databases.

Waniya Glacier

  • Location: Unknown; likely Karakoram.
  • Details: Minimal data available; noted among the lesser-known glaciers.

Y

Yazghill Glacier

  • Location: Shimshal Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Known for remote high-altitude trekking. Leads toward Yazghil Sar (6,000m+) and other peaks. It is isolated, pristine, and rarely visited.

Yermanendu Glacier

  • Location: Possibly in the Hindu Kush or Karakoram.
  • Details: Limited publicly available documentation, but listed in glacial inventories.

Yishkuk Glacier

  • Location: Unknown; possibly Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Details: Information is limited; categorized among lesser-documented glaciers in Pakistan.

Yukshgoz Glacier

  • Location: Likely in Karakoram or Ghujerab region.
  • Details: Minimal details; included in official listings.

Z

Zindikharam Glacier

  • Location: Tirich Mir region, Hindu Kush, Chitral District.
  • Details: Contributes to the tributaries of the Kunar River. Flows from a high basin surrounded by snowfields and peaks in the western Hindu Kush.

Pakistan’s glacial landscape is both vast and vital, playing a critical role in the country’s ecology, water resources, and climate systems. With thousands of glaciers spread across the towering peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan holds more glacial ice than any other non-polar country in the world. These glaciers are not only majestic natural wonders but also lifelines for millions, feeding major rivers like the Indus and supporting agriculture, hydroelectric power, and biodiversity.

However, the growing impacts of climate change—such as rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns—pose significant risks to these frozen reserves. Glacial melting and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) threaten downstream communities and infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need for monitoring, conservation, and climate resilience strategies.

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