Karakoram: Ice Mountains of Pakistan

The Karakoram is a mountain range in Central Asia that includes the second-tallest mountain on Earth, K2, as well as over 60 peaks above 7000 meters. It is the most glaciated region on the planet outside the Arctic and Antarctic, and the name of the range comes from the Turkic term for "black rock" or "black gravel." The landscape photographer Colin Prior has been passionate about the Karakoram for over 20 years and has recently published a new book that showcases the region's breathtaking beauty through 130 duotone and color photographs. The images are arranged to follow Prior's progress up the glaciers, and are accompanied by quotations from historical expeditions.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 160 pages
\n Publication date: 25 February 2021
\n Publisher: Merrell Publishers Ltd
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The Karakoram is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its majestic ice mountains standing as some of the world's greatest wonders. Among these towering peaks, K2 stands tall at an impressive height of 8,611 meters (28,251 feet), making it the second-tallest mountain on Earth. The Karakoram range is home to not just K2 but also three other mountains that surpass 8,000 meters (26,247 feet), including Gasherbrum I, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum II. Additionally, there are over 60 peaks that reach elevations of 7,000 meters (22,966 feet) or higher within this breathtaking region. Spanning a south-easterly direction from the northeastern tip of Afghanistan and crossing the borders of Pakistan, India, and China, the Karakoram forms part of a complex of mountain ranges in Central Asia. This region includes the Hindu Kush to the west and the Himalayas to the southeast, creating a diverse and stunning landscape. However, what sets the Karakoram apart is its exceptional glaciated nature. Outside the Arctic and Antarctic, this is the most glaciated region on the planet, with vast ice fields covering the mountains and valleys. While most of the world's great peaks are adorned with snow and ice, the Karakoram stands out as a remarkable exception. The sheer verticality of these mountains allows them to rapidly shed snow, revealing their bold, jagged outlines of black granite that glisten in the sun. The name "Karakoram" itself derives from the Turkic term for "black rock" or "black gravel," reflecting the rugged and awe-inspiring nature of this mountain range. It was the captivating images of the sharp, fractured peaks and vast glaciers that first drew the attention of renowned landscape photographer Colin Prior in his early twenties. Intrigued by the allure of the Karakoram, Prior embarked on his first trip to this remote region in the mid-1990s. Since then, his passion for these mountains has only grown stronger, leading him to undertake six expeditions to the Gilgit-Baltistan region of north-east Pakistan over the past six years. The Karakoram's remote location and lack of established base camps make these expeditions challenging and require meticulous planning and extensive preparations. Prior and his team must navigate through treacherous terrain, endure extreme weather conditions, and overcome logistical challenges to reach the summit of these majestic mountains. Despite the challenges, the rewards of exploring the Karakoram are immense. The breathtaking landscapes, the pristine glaciers, and the opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close make it a truly unforgettable experience. Prior's new book, "Karakoram: A Photographic Journey," is a testament to his dedication and passion for these mountains. Through his stunning photographs and captivating storytelling, Prior takes readers on a journey through the Karakoram, showcasing its beauty and grandeur in all its glory. Whether you are an avid mountaineer or a nature enthusiast, this book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the world's greatest natural treasures. In conclusion, the Karakoram is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its majestic ice mountains standing as some of the world's greatest wonders. K2, the second-tallest mountain on Earth, is just one of the many peaks that grace this breathtaking region. The Karakoram's exceptional glaciated nature, combined with its sheer verticality and rugged terrain, makes it a unique and unforgettable destination. Colin Prior's new book, "Karakoram: A Photographic Journey," provides a captivating glimpse into the world of these majestic mountains, inspiring and captivating readers with its stunning photographs and captivating storytelling.

\n Weight: 1764g\n
Dimension: 290 x 355 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781858946870\n \n