Biafo

Biafo is a glacier in the Karakoram Range of the Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan. It is about 67 kilometers long, making it one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions. It forms part of the Biafo–Hispar glacier system, which is connected to the neighboring Hispar Glacier and together spans roughly 100 kilometers.

Geography and hydrology: The glacier originates near the Hispar Pass in the northern Karakorams and flows south-southeast into the Baltistan region, eventually feeding the Braldu River, a tributary of the Indus. The Biafo–Hispar system supports a high-altitude ice field that interacts with surrounding valleys and peaks, including routes that cross the high mountains to link Baltistan with Skardu.

Access and trekking: The Biafo Glacier is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. A well-known route traverses the glacier from the Hispar Pass toward Skardu, often combined with visits to the Snow Lake area. Treks commonly begin from Askole, a traditional base for expeditions into the region. The trek typically takes several days and passes through remote high-altitude terrain, ice, moraines, and panoramic Karakoram scenery.

Glaciology and environment: The Biafo Glacier features areas of heavy ice and morainal deposits characteristic of Karakoram glaciers. Like many high-altitude glaciers, it is monitored for changes in terminus position and ice thickness, with regional climate variability influencing its behavior over time.

Cultural and historical significance: The glacier corridor has historically served as a caravan route linking Baltistan with the Karakoram and the broader Central Asian trade networks, contributing to the cultural and economic history of the region.