Central Karakoram National Park, National park in Shigar District, Pakistan.
Central Karakoram National Park is a large protected area in the Gilgit-Baltistan mountains that holds some of the world's highest peaks. The landscape is defined by extreme elevation changes, vast glaciers, and bare rocky terrain that spans across multiple mountain systems.
The protected area was established in 1993 to safeguard the region's mountain ecosystems. This designation came as part of Pakistan's broader efforts to protect its most important natural areas.
Local communities have adapted to life in this harsh mountain environment, shaping how the region is used and experienced today. Their traditional practices remain visible in settlements and the way people move through these high-altitude spaces.
Visitors need special permits and must travel with experienced local guides to navigate safely. The best time to visit or conduct expeditions is between May and September, when conditions are most favorable.
The glaciers here show unusual behavior by holding their size despite global warming that causes rapid retreat elsewhere. This puzzle has intrigued scientists and makes the region key to understanding how glaciers respond to climate change.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
