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Best glacier destinations in Asia

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Nepal
Land of Himalayan wonders
8.5
Some 3,252 glaciers spread across the country, covering roughly 2,055 square miles. Annapurna Conservation Area spans 2,946 square miles and includes the Annapurna Sanctuary. Its highest point is Annapurna I at 26,545 feet. Trekking routes there include the Annapurna Circuit. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project restricts visitor numbers, firewood gathering and grazing.
Highlights:
  • 🕍 Explore the ancient temples and squares of Kathmandu Valley
  • 🛩️ Take a scenic flight over Mount Everest
  • 🏔️ Hike to Everest Base Camp and witness majestic peaks
Annapurna
Legendary Trekking in Himalayan Diversity
8.0
Peaks mostly over 23,000 feet ring a glacial basin at roughly 13,550 feet. The Annapurna Sanctuary lies about 25 miles north of Pokhara. Its only entrance is a narrow valley between Hiunchuli and Machapuchare. Glacier runoff drains through that valley into the Modi Khola. The Gurung people considered the area sacred.
Highlights:
  • ♨️ Relax in natural hot springs at Tatopani
  • 🌅 Watch sunrise from Poon Hill’s panoramic viewpoint
  • 🥾 Trek the iconic Annapurna Circuit with varied landscapes
Pakistan
Land of ancient heritage
6.0
More glacial ice is credited to this country than to anywhere on Earth outside the polar regions. Baltoro Glacier runs 39 miles through the Karakoram. K2 and three more peaks above 26,000 feet rise within about 12 miles. Concordia, at 15,100 feet, marks where the Baltoro meets the Godwin Austen Glacier.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Visit Lahore Fort and stroll through Shalimar Gardens
  • 🏛️ Explore the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro
  • 🏔️ Admire the stunning mountain views of Hunza Valley
Pokhara
Lakeside Calm, Himalayan Adventure Gateway
7.8
Three of the ten highest peaks in the world, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu, can be seen from the city. Machhapuchhre, at 22,943 feet, is the closest peak. Pokhara serves as a base for the Annapurna Circuit. The Annapurna Sanctuary glacial basin lies about 25 miles north.
Highlights:
  • 🕳️ Explore the mysterious Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave nearby
  • 🌄 Hike to Sarangkot for stunning Annapurna sunrise views
  • 🚣‍♂️ Boat across serene Phewa Lake to Tal Barahi Temple
India
Palaces, temples, backwaters and Himalayan peaks
7.5
Gangotri Glacier stretches about 19 miles in Uttarakhand and feeds the Bhagirathi river at Gomukh. Hindu pilgrims trek to Gomukh from Gangotri town. In the Karakoram, Siachen Glacier runs 47 miles by its longest route. It ranks as the second longest glacier in the world outside the polar regions.
Highlights:
  • 🛶 Sail on the serene backwaters of Kerala
  • 🛺 Take a colorful rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s lanes
  • 🌅 Watch sunrise over the majestic Taj Mahal
Mount Everest
World's highest peak, ultimate challenge
Khumbu Glacier falls from 24,900 feet near Everest to 16,100 feet at its terminus. It is described as the world's highest glacier. The glacier lies between Everest and the Lhotse Nuptse ridge. The Khumbu Icefall is the first major obstacle on the standard south route. The Base Camp trail follows it for the final stretch.
Highlights:
  • 🚁 Fly over Mount Everest on a scenic helicopter tour
  • 🥾 Trek through the Khumbu Valley and visit Namche Bazaar
  • 🏔️ Reach Everest Base Camp and gaze at the towering peak
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