Skardu

A Realm of Rugged Peaks and Serene Lakes

Skardu, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is a picturesque and captivating destination. Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range, Skardu offers breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and a rich cultural heritage. The town serves as a gateway to some of the world’s highest mountains, including K2. Visitors can explore Shangrila Resort, known as “Heaven on Earth,” and take boat rides on the pristine Upper Kachura Lake. Additionally, the ancient Skardu Fort, perched on a hilltop, provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on treks to nearby glaciers, such as Baltoro Glacier and Concordia. Skardu’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking both tranquility and adventure.

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Places of Attraction

Family-Friendly Places

Shangrila Resort

Shangrila Resort, also known as “Heaven on Earth,” is nestled amidst some of the world’s highest peaks in Skardu, Pakistan. Encircling the heart-shaped Kachura Lake, the resort offers awe-inspiring views of fruit-laden orchards and flower-filled gardens. Founded in 1983, it was the first-ever resort established in the Northern Areas for tourism. The serene and scenic ambiance, combined with stunning beauty, makes it a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking natural splendor and relaxation. The resort features elegantly furnished cottages and VIP suites, each providing an awe-inspiring lakeside view. Visitors can enjoy exquisite cuisine at the “Pagoda” restaurant, explore nearby attractions, and experience the breathtaking panorama of the awe-inspiring mountains from the View Point. Shangrila Resort Hotel Skardu truly lives up to its name as a slice of paradise in the Karakoram Range.

Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park is an alpine plateau of exceptional beauty and ecological value, situated in the western massif of the Himalayas. It lies east of Nanga Parbat Peak and in close proximity to the Central Karakoram Range. This high-altitude national park spans an area of 843 square kilometers (325 square miles) and boasts an average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 feet) above sea level. The Deosai Plains, often referred to as the “Land of Giants,” are home to diverse flora, including wildflowers, and serve as a critical habitat for the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus). In spring, the plains come alive with vibrant blooms and fluttering butterflies, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Upper Kachura Lake

Upper Kachura Lake, also known as Shangrilla Lake, is a picturesque glacial lake located in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level, it offers mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding beauty, making it a popular tourist destination. Upper Kachura Lake is home to Western Himalayan Alpine Conifer Forest and features peach orchards, adding to its charm. Whether you visit in summer to enjoy the blooming flowers or in winter when the surface freezes, this tranquil lake promises an unforgettable experience۔

Sadpara Lake

Sadpara Lake, also known as Satpara Lake, is a natural gem nestled near Skardu in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. Fed by the melting ice of the Deosai Plains, this freshwater lake serves as a vital water source for the Skardu Valley. At an elevation of 2,636 meters (8,650 feet) above sea level, Sadpara Lake spans an area of 2.5 square kilometers. Its turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and captivating landscape. Currently, a dam is under construction, which will enhance the lake’s water capacity while preserving its breathtaking beauty.

Manthokha Waterfall

Manthokha Waterfall, also known as Mantoka Waterfall, is a stunning natural wonder located in the Kharmang Valley near Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, in the extreme northern region of Pakistan. This majestic waterfall stands approximately 180 feet high and is situated about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away from downtown Skardu. Nestled amid the towering rocky mountains of the Karakoram, the waterfall cascades down into green pastures, creating a picturesque setting for visitors. The nearby restaurant offers local trout fish, and sightseers can explore the fish farm while enjoying the breathtaking views. Manthokha Waterfall is a hidden gem accessible via a challenging hiking trail, making it a rewarding adventure for those who seek its beauty.

Katpana Desert (Cold Desert)

The Katpana Desert, also known as the Cold Desert, is a high-altitude desert located near Skardu in District Shigar, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This unique desert features large sand dunes that are occasionally covered in snow during the winter months. Situated at an elevation of 2,226 meters (7,303 feet) above sea level, the Katpana Cold Desert ranks among the highest deserts globally. While it technically stretches from the banks of the Indus River south of Skardu to New Ranga Village in the north, the portion most frequented by tourists lies near Katpana Lake, close to Skardu Airport.

Shigar Valley

Shigar Valley, situated in the Baltistan region of Pakistan, lies nestled within the majestic Karakoram mountain range. This scenic valley stretches approximately 170 kilometers from Skardu to Askole and serves as the gateway to the high mountains of the Karakoram. The town of Shigar, the largest settlement in the valley, offers a rich history and architectural heritage worth exploring. Adventurers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to Shigar Valley’s towering peaks, glaciers, rivers, and lakes, including the iconic K2, the second-highest mountain in the world.

Khorpocho Fort

Khorpocho Fort, also known as Skardu Fort, stands as an ancient architectural marvel in the Skardu Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Perched atop a mountain, approximately 40 meters above the town, this historic fortress offers panoramic views of Skardu and the surrounding landscape. Built in the 16th century by King Ali Sher Khan, it served as a military stronghold to protect the town from invading forces. Visitors can explore its intricately carved rooms, underground tunnels, and a small museum showcasing artifacts related to Skardu’s rich cultural heritage. To reach the fort’s summit, a one-hour trek from Qatilgah Main Bazar in Skardu is required. Additionally, nestled behind Khorpocho Fort on the banks of the Indus River lies Nansoq Village, an organic settlement known for its clear climate and vegetation, just 16 kilometers from Skardu. The Aga Khan Rural Support Program supported the creation of this unique village.

Soq Valley

Soq Valley, located near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Situated at an elevation of 2,500 meters, it offers breathtaking natural beauty. Soq Valley lies in the upper part of Kachura, just 23.4 kilometers away from Skardu. You can reach it within half an hour from Shangri-La Resort, making the journey engaging and worthwhile. To reach Soq Valley, you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle or a jeep. The rugged terrain adds to its charm, and although SCOM signals are limited, the enchanting beauty remains unaffected. Soq Valley boasts lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and pristine lakes. It’s home to the rich flora of the western Himalayan conifer forests, with wild apricot orchards adding to its allure. Every visit offers a new life experience. Trekking is a favorite activity here. Adventurous souls can trek from Kachura village to reach Soq Valley. Unwind, explore, and immerse yourself in nature’s splendor.

Khaplu Valley

Khaplu Valley, also known as “Shyok Valley” and “Little Tibet,” serves as the administrative capital of Ghanche district in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Located approximately 112 kilometers east of Skardu, this scenic valley sprawls along the River Shyok, a tributary of the River Indus. It lies next to the ancient trade route to Ladakh, making it historically significant. Khaplu is a base for treks to peaks like Mashebrum, Gondogoro, Chogolisa, K-6, and K-7. The valley’s architectural heritage includes the Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the region, built around 700 years ago. Additionally, the Khaplu Palace (locally known as “Yabgo Khar”) is a major tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.

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Adventurous Places

K2 Base Camp

The K2 Base Camp trek in Pakistan is one of the great hikes on Earth. Trekkers follow a rocky trail that winds up the mighty Baltoro Glacier, passing through a colossal amphitheater of sky-scraping summits – including seven of the 19 highest mountains on the planet – en route to the base of the world’s second-highest peak. Beginning in the remote village of Askole, the trail winds its way along the grand Braldu Valley before mounting the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia. Positioned 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from K2, Concordia is one of the few places on Earth where it’s possible to see four 8,000-meter (26,247-foot) peaks from one place: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. Unlike the approach to Everest base camp in Nepal, where trekkers are treated to only teasing glimpses of the iconic summit, K2 is unimpeded by its satellite peaks, and instead stands imposing, watching over all who tackle the trail to its base. The K2 base camp trek may be second in notoriety to Everest, but as a spectacle, it is second to none.

Rupal Base Camp

The Rupal Base Camp is a crucial starting point for climbers and trekkers aiming to conquer Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain on Earth. Located in the Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, this base camp lies at an elevation of approximately 4,100 meters (13,450 feet) near the Rakhiot Base Camp. From here, adventurers can witness the awe-inspiring Rupal Face, which rises a staggering 4,600 meters (15,090 feet) above its base. This south face of Nanga Parbat is renowned for its sheer verticality and challenging climbing routes. The trek to Rupal Base Camp takes you through lush green potato fields of the Rupal valley, offering close-up views of the massive peak. It’s a journey that combines natural beauty with the thrill of high-altitude adventure.

Biafo Glacier

The Biafo Glacier is a colossal ice expanse nestled within the Karakoram mountain range in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Stretching an impressive 67 kilometers (42 miles), it ranks as one of the largest glaciers in the entire Karakoram range. This icy giant flows southeastward from the central Karakoram crest, covering a basin area of 853 square kilometers. Notably, 68% of the glacier’s total area lies within its accumulation zone. The Biafo Glacier joins forces with the Hispar Glacier at Hispar La (Pass), creating the world’s longest non-polar glacial system – a frozen pathway that spans 49 kilometers (30 miles) and links two ancient mountain regions. Trekkers and adventurers brave its rugged terrain, encountering crevasses, icefalls, and seracs along the way. The journey culminates at Snow Lake, a basin of snow and ice up to 1,600 meters (0.99 miles) deep, making it one of the world’s largest outside the polar regions.

Gasherbrum Base Camps

The Gasherbrum II Base Camp is located at an elevation of approximately 4,800 meters. From here, climbers embark on a glacier hike to reach the Gasherbrum II West Summit. The round trip covers a distance of approximately 20 kilometers and takes about four to five days. The camp is common to both Gasherbrum I and II, although it is quite far from the peaks. To reach the actual peaks, climbers must navigate across the hazardous Gasherbrum glacier. For Gasherbrum I, the base of the peak lies at 6,500 meters.

Trango Towers

The Trango Towers are a family of dramatic granite spires situated in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan. These iconic towers boast some of the world’s largest cliffs, offering incredibly challenging opportunities for big wall climbing. Among them, the Great Trango Tower stands as the highest point at 6,286 meters (20,623 feet), featuring the world’s greatest nearly vertical drop. The group also includes the Trango Tower (often called the “Nameless Tower”), the Trango Monk, and other impressive summits. Climbers from around the world embark on expeditions to the Karakoram region to conquer these awe-inspiring granite faces.

Chaqchan Mosque

The Chaqchan Mosque, meaning “The Miraculous Mosque,” is a historical gem located in Khaplu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Dating back to 1370 CE, it is one of the oldest mosques in the region. The mosque’s architecture reflects a blend of Tibetan, Mughal, and Persian styles. Its cubic structure features wooden slabs stacked to form a frame, with void spaces daubed with clay or mud. This ancient construction technique ensures weatherproofing and resilience in harsh winter conditions. The Chaqchan Mosque stands as a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage and religious history.

Baltoro Glacier

Boesam Pir is a mountainous region located in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its high concentration of unclimbed peaks, making it a paradise for mountaineers and adventure seekers. The region offers a range of climbing routes, with heights ranging from 5,500 meters to 6,000 meters and grades from PD (Peu Difficile) to AD (Assez Difficile). The weather conditions are generally favorable for ascents, although snow conditions can vary. Boesam Pir was suggested as an alternative destination for climbers when access to other regions was restricted due to glacier movement. It has since become a popular destination for mountaineering expeditions.

Hushe Valley

Hushe Valley, also known as Vallée de Hushe, is a picturesque valley located in the Ghanche district of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Formed by the Hushe River, the valley stretches from Masherbrum Mountain (at 7,821 meters) and nearby glaciers southward to the Shyok River, opposite Khaplu. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glacial rivers, and beautiful meadows, Hushe Valley remains unspoiled and captivating. It is renowned for its high peaks in the Karakoram range, including Laila Peak, K6, and K7. Additionally, Murtaza Peak (5,100 meters) stands just behind K6 base camp and serves as a popular spot for trekkers and beginners. The valley also features sub-valleys like Gondogor, Charkusa, Nagma, Nanbroq, and Mashabrum, each offering unique natural beauty and adventure opportunities.

Nangma Valley

Nangma Valley, nestled in the majestic Karakoram Range of Pakistan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Surrounded by towering peaks, including the famous K2 and Gasherbrum Massif, the valley presents a stunning panorama of snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and crystal-clear streams. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage. Trekkers can explore its picturesque villages, verdant meadows, and breathtaking alpine landscapes. Notably, the K2 Base Camp Trek is a popular route, providing an up-close encounter with the rugged beauty of the Karakoram. Nangma Valley remains relatively unexplored, making it a captivating destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience in this pristine wilderness.

Biafo Hispar Traverse

The Biafo Hispar Traverse, also known as the Snow Lake Trek, covers approximately 100 kilometers in the Karakoram region of Pakistan. It connects the Biafo Glacier (63 km long) and the Hispar Glacier (49 km long), forming the world’s longest glacial traverse. Trekkers navigate rugged terrain, witness breathtaking peaks, and explore Snow Lake – a vast high-altitude glacial basin. The circular trek continues to the scenic Hunza Valley, immersing travelers in rich culture and pristine wilderness.

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Accommodation Options

Oasis Resort, Skardu

Oasis Resort in Skardu offers a serene retreat surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, combining modern comforts with natural tranquility for an unforgettable stay.

From Rs. 18000 / night

Signature Skardu Hotel, Skardu

Signature Skardu Hotel provides a luxurious escape in the heart of Skardu, featuring elegant accommodations and stunning views of the region's majestic landscapes.

From Rs. 16500 / night

Hotel Delight, Skardu

Hotel Delight in Skardu offers comfortable and cozy accommodations with warm hospitality, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxing stay amidst the breathtaking scenic beauty of the region.

From Rs. 15000 / night