Siachen Valley: Glacial Valley

Located in the eastern Karakoram Range in the Himalayas, northeast of the Line of Control between Pakistan and India, Siachen Glacier is a well-known tourist destination. The Siachen Valley is home to the longest glacier in the Karakoram. Siachen Glacier is the second longest glacier in the world’s non-polar areas. The glaciers are located at an altitude of 5,753 meters above sea level. All the major passes in the glacier and Siachen glacier itself is under the administration of India. However, Pakistan controls the west of the Saltoro Range, which lies to the west of the glacier. Pakistan prolongs its territorial claim over the Siachen Glacier.

The melting water of the glaciers is the main source of the Nubra River in the Indian region of Ladakh. Siachen Valley is home to a variety of fauna and flora. Some rare species like snow leopards, ibex, and brown bears are also living in the glacier.

Pakistan and India have fought at the Siachen glacier for years. Since 1984, the glacier region is the highest battleground on Earth. The military force from both India and Pakistan is always present in the region.

The weather at Siachen glacier is very harsh and severely cold. The temperature at the Siachen glacier ranges from 10-15 degrees Centigrade in summer while during the winters it drops down to minus 50 degrees Centigrade. The annual snowfall at the Siachen glacier is around 35 feet.

The region has been a paradise for the mountaineers. Some of the hotels near the Siachen valley are Hotel Real Siachen, Bagdour Guest House, and Hotel Siachen. If you are planning to visit the Siachen glacier, make sure you pack the warmest clothes since it’s extremely cold here.