Karakoram Mountains

mountains · Asia · extreme peaks · geography

Home to K2. K2 is the second tallest mountain in the world at 28,251 feet high. Only Mount Everest is taller, but many climbers say K2 is even more dangerous to climb.

Spans four countries. The Karakoram stretches across Pakistan, China, and India, with parts reaching into Afghanistan and Tajikistan. It's one of the longest mountain ranges in Asia.

Four eight-thousanders. The range contains four mountains that are over 26,247 feet tall (eight thousand meters). Besides K2, these are Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II.

Frozen rivers of ice. The Karakoram has some of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions. These massive rivers of ice shape the mountains and valleys.

Ultimate climbing challenge. The Karakoram is famous around the world for being incredibly difficult and dangerous to explore and climb, attracting experienced mountaineers from everywhere.