It spans across the Baltistan region of Gilgit-Baltistan, which is the northernmost political entity of Pakistan, and extends into Xinjiang, China.

The range is home to K2 which has an elevation of 8,611 metres (28,251 ft) above sea level, which is also the second highest mountain in the world.

Additionally, it is home to three other eight-thousander peaks, all located on the north and east sides of the Baltoro Glacier.

There are a number of lower summits near the tongue of the Baltoro Glacier which are striking rock towers, and are famous for their aesthetic, difficult climbing.

These include: Jerzy Wala, Orographical Sketch Map of the Karakoram, Swiss Foundation for Alpine Research, Zurich, 1990.