About
The Karakoram Range is a major mountain range in Asia, stretching across northwestern China, India and Pakistan. It is among the great high-altitude landscapes of the world, and for many visitors its appeal lies in sheer scale: glaciers, jagged peaks and valleys that feel remote even when they are reached by road.
The range is home to K2, the world's second-highest peak. Its reputation for difficulty is well known, and the terrain across the range is among the most challenging for climbers. Most visitors will not attempt to climb, but the views of these peaks from the surrounding valleys are a draw in their own right.
What a visit offers
- Mountain scenery: a landscape of high peaks and large glaciers that changes with the light.
- Trekking and exploration: the range is known to experienced mountaineers and trekkers, who value its demanding routes.
- Remote travel: the high country feels far from everyday routines, which suits travellers seeking quiet and wide horizons.
Planning your trip
Because the range spans three countries, the route you take will depend on which side you approach from. Travellers should check current access conditions and permit requirements for the area they plan to visit before setting out, and should allow for the physical demands of high altitude. The surrounding regions offer the chance to combine a visit to the mountains with time in the towns and valleys nearby.