Godwin Austen Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the world and is located in the Karakoram range of Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region. The confluence of Baltoro and Godwin Austen Glacier is called Concordia.
The glacier is named after the British surveyor and geographer, Godwin Austen, who first surveyed the region in the late 19th century.
Godwin Austen Glacier Length and Height
The Godwin Austen Glacier is over 60 kilometers long and is surrounded by towering peaks, including K2 (the second-highest mountain in the world), Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, and Masherbrum. The glacier is situated at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers.
One of the unique features of the Godwin Austen Glacier is the Concordia, which is a place where the glacier meets the Vigne Glacier, forming a vast open plain surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world. Concordia is often called the “throne room of the mountain gods” due to its awe-inspiring beauty.
The Godwin Austen Glacier is also home to a number of smaller glaciers, including the Trango Glacier, which is known for its challenging climbing routes. The region is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan ibex, snow leopard, and various species of birds.
Visitors to the Godwin Austen Glacier can take a trek from Askole, which is the last inhabited village before reaching the glacier. The trek takes around 7-10 days and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Peaks near Godwin Austin Glacier
Popular mountains near Concordia include:
- K2, the 2nd highest mountain in the world at 8,611m.
- Gasherbrum I is the 11th highest mountain in the world at 8,080m.
- Broad Peak, is the 12th highest mountain in the world at 8,047m.
- Gasherbrum II is the 13th highest mountain in the world at 8,035m.
- Gasherbrum III, 7,946m. (Often regarded as a subpeak of Gasherbrum II.)
- Gasherbrum IV is the 17th highest mountain in the world at 7,932m.
- Masherbrum (K1), is the 22nd highest mountain in the world at 7,821m.
- Chogolisa is the 36th highest mountain in the world at 7,665m.
- Muztagh Tower, 7,273m.
- Snow Dome, 7,160m.
- Biarchedi, 6,781 m
- Mitre Peak, 6,010m.
The region around the Godwin Austen Glacier is also home to a number of traditional villages, where visitors can experience the unique culture and traditions of the local people. The region is known for its hospitality and visitors are often welcomed with open arms by the locals.
In conclusion, the Godwin Austen Glacier is a magnificent natural wonder located in the heart of Pakistan’s Karakoram range. Its stunning beauty, unique ice formations, and surrounding peaks make it a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Anyone traveling to Pakistan should definitely consider visiting this beautiful glacier and experiencing its natural wonders firsthand.
