Concordia (Karakoram)

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K2, the second highest peak in the world
K2, the second highest peak in the world

Concordia is the name for the confluence of the Baltoro Glacier and the Godwin-Austen Glacier, in the heart of the Karakoram range of Pakistan. It is located in Baltistan, part of Pakistan-Administered Kashmir. The name was applied by European explorers, and comes from this location's similarity to a glacial confluence, also named Concordia, in the Bernese Oberland, part of the European Alps.

Around Concordia are clustered some of the highest peaks in the world. Four of the world's fourteen "eight-thousanders" are in this region, as well as a number of important lower peaks.

Concordia offers the region's best place to camp for mountain enthusiasts not involved in climbing. With breathtaking views, it also offers short hikes to several important base camps: K2 (three hours), Broad Peak (two hours) and the Gasherbrums (three hours). An alternative exit to returning down the Baltoro Glacier is available by climbing the Gondogoro Pass (5450 meters). Visitors to the region are advised to carefully monitor their water intake with concern. To avoid often painful and sometimes debilitating stomach upsets at high altitude, water should be obtained from clear water sources, preferably white ice dug from the glacier.

Notable peaks in this area include:

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[edit] Image Gallery

K2 (Baltoro Muztagh, Central Karakoram, Pakistan)

K2 (8,611m), Pakistan

Broad Peak (8,047m) from Concordia

Masherbrum (7,821m), Pakistan

Gasherbrum II (8,035m), Pakistan

Muztagh Tower (7,273m), Pakistan

Coordinates: 35°44′N, 76°31′E

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