Owir An
The Owir An trek, located in the middle of the spectacular Tirich Mir massif, provides an easily accessible and popular adventure that travels along the southern slopes of this mighty peak. Trekkers traversing this road are greeted by welcoming settlements, each with its own distinct charm, offering a fantastic journey across the region's raw grandeur.
Itinerary
The Itinerary for the Owir An is noticeable below
Day 02: Kiyar High Camp to Owir High Camp
In 15 minutes, the trail reaches a hill and swings east to ascend the valley's south side towards the pass. Around 30 minutes, contour to the snow pack at the confluence of two minor streams. The climb to Owir An begins on the north (left) side of the steep bluffs above. In 30 minutes, ascend from the snowfield to the gully with a tiny stream to the left of the rocky outcrop. The pass itself is a difficult one- to eleven-hour hike from here. Just to the left of Owir An (4337m) is a little black outcrop. A snowfield exists on both sides of the pass during heavy snow years or early in the season. The Buni Zom massif dominates the view from the pass, with the Shandur range stretching to the horizon in the distance. Shungush's fields can be seen below.
Descend the tiny stream, crossing another small side stream on your left. The trail descends a ridge, well above the real left bank of the main stream. Reach a flat area with some grass and a few campsites one hour from the pass, where two streams combine. The alternative track to the Barum Glacier begins here (see Alternate Finish)
Alternative Finish: Kiyar High Camp to Shahbronz
If ascending to the pass from Owir High Camp in the reserve direction, take the ridge trail up sharply. The pass isn't visible until you reach the ridge top, above the stream's actual left bank. As the route and the stream approach each other, a tiny hill ahead with a notable squared-off rock outcrop to its south (left) becomes evident. This hill is just to the north of the Owir An.
To continue towards Mujhen, take the Trail that crosses to the true right bank of the mainstream and continues 45 minutes via rolling hills and grassland to another stream and a huge grassy area. The large Owir High Camp (4178m) is located at the base of a rock outcrop near a tiny pool.
Day 03: Owir High Camp to Mujhen
Cross the stream to the east and follow an abandoned canal. The trail bends around numerous ridges, and as you leave camp, you can see Owir An's square-topped outcrop and a little hill. The vista up to Tirich Mir is breathtaking. One hour from the High camp, contour to a ridge overlooking farms and residences, then drop to the upper settlement. One hour through the village on the wide trail to Mujhen (2927m).
Alternative Finish: Kiyar High Camp to Shahbronz
This path gets you to Shukushal and allows you to continue on to Tirich Mir Base Camp.
Alternative day 02: Kiyar to High Camp to Gologari
Follow a route following the main stream's true left bank 30 minutes ahead to the grassy region called Gologari (4200m) from the level grassy area with a few tent sites one hour below (east of) the pass.
Alternative day 03: Gologari to Shahbronz
Continue on until Shahbronz (3000m), where you will switch porters.
Alternative day 04: Shahbronz to Shukushal
Shukushal (3800m), the local name for Tirich Mir Base Camp, is located six hours up the Barum Gol, towards the terminus of the North Barum Glacier.
Side Trip: Tirich Mir Base Camp
Another base camp (4700m) used by the 1950 Norwegian expedition, the first to summit Tirich Mir, is two days beyond Shukushal, up the Barum Glacier.
Alternative Day 05: Shukushal to Shahbronz
Return to the roadhead at Shahbronz by descending the valley.
Holiday Overview
Owir An, at 4337 meters, is the highest point on this short yet spectacular trek. The ability to see the awe-inspiring southern flanks of the Tirich Mir massif up close is what distinguishes this approach. The walk can be done in either direction, from Ojhor in Tirich Mir's southwest to Owir in the southeast, or vice versa.
The tour promises close contact with the region's spectacular scenery, with each step exposing the natural magnificence of the Karakoram. From verdant valleys to rugged peaks, Owir An offers a glimpse into this region's untamed wildness.
Trekkers can connect with the warm and inviting communities that call this region home as they navigate this spectacular environment. It's a journey that provides not just intimacy with nature but also immersion in the region's rich cultural tapestry.
Owir An reminds us that adventure and beauty do not have to be distant dreams, but may be experienced in the here and now. It's an invitation to explore, interact, and be captured by the Karakoram's beauties, leaving trekkers with unforgettable memories of a journey well worth taking.