Skardu is a city located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, serving as the capital of the Skardu District and Baltistan Division. The city is located at an elevation of 2,500 meters at the confluence of the Shigar and Indus Rivers.
There are several attractions to visit while you are in Skardu, including Shigar Fort, Satpara Lake, and Hussainabad Waterfall. Getting around this town is very easy, thanks to the numerous tour operators. So, let's explore some of the best things to do in Skardu, Pakistan.
Shigar Valley
When it comes to culture, history, and traditions, Skardu and the Shigar Valley are hard to beat. You can spend a few days hiking through this region and visiting its many historical sites. The Shigar Fort, which dates back to the 17th century, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also many other attractions in the region, such as the Jarbazo (Blind) Lake.
As Skardu is a relatively small town, you can easily spend a day exploring it. Its main bazaar is a popular spot for tourists, and you can also check out the city's textile and local craft markets. While you're there, make sure to haggle for the best deals. The bazaar is a great place to buy souvenirs, but be prepared to haggle for the best price.
If you're not interested in hiking, you can take a drive to the nearby Shigar Valley. A drive to the valley from Skardu will take you around 20 minutes. The road to Shigar is long and paved and offers beautiful scenery. From there, you can head to the scenic Safaranga Desert and continue to the town of Shigar. Take note that you will pass a military checkpoint before you reach Shigar. Remember to carry your passports and other important documents in case of an inspection.
Those who love mountain climbing and trekking will enjoy the terrain around Skardu. Just make sure to get permission before you go, though! It is best to get a permit from the tourism department before embarking on a major excursion. There are many local stone dealers in Skardu, and craft souvenir shops sell locally mined gems. "North Handi Crafts" is a good place to start looking for these souvenirs. The valley is also famous for its mountain jade and garnet, so make sure to take home some of each.
Shigar Fort
The Shigar Fort is another historic site in the region. It dates back to the 8th century and resembles Tibetan architecture. Its Mosque dates back to the 16th century when the first Muslims settled there. Unlike most of Pakistan's cities, Skardu is also home to several religious communities, including the Christian Church. The ruins of the ancient fort also include a mosque and old religious buildings.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site in Shigar Valley is the Shigar Fort. It is a beautiful, legendary route to the K-2 plateau. The town is surrounded by mountainous terrain and is popular with tourists. There are many historical buildings of architectural importance in Shigar, including the old house and garden house. You can also see the Amburik Mosque, which is over 700 years old.
The stunning Shigar Fort is the most popular tourist spot in Skardu. Located in the cold sands of the Shigar desert, the fort was built around 400 years ago and has been transformed into a modern luxury hotel. The reconstructed fort houses treasures of Baltit culture. A visit to the fort will surely make you fall in love with its ancient past. If you're a history buff, you'll also enjoy the city's local bazaar.
When planning your trip to Skardu, remember that prices will be higher in the summer than during the other seasons. While it is still possible to visit the fort in summer, it's also popular in winter, which is generally much cheaper. If you'd prefer a more romantic setting, plan your trip during the winter months when temperatures are below freezing. You can even go skiing in Skardu if the snow is falling.
Satpara Lake
In addition to visiting the town, you'll have the chance to hike to the beautiful Satpara Lake, which is famous for its trout. The lake is only a short hike from Skardu, so if you are fit, you can be there in four hours.
While you're in the region, don't miss out on some of the best sights in the area. You can take a hike to Marsur Rock, a precariously perched rock that is a popular attraction. If you're a fan of rock climbing, there are several opportunities to do so in Skardu. It's also free to visit. The city is incredibly diverse, with a cultural diversity that is unmatched in other parts of Pakistan.
There's no shortage of outdoor activities in the area from mountaineering and trekking to rafting. Whether you're interested in bird watching, chasing fish, or exploring the valley's wildlife, there's plenty to see here. You'll also find plenty of beautiful flowers in the town's flowering meadows. If you're interested in wildlife, the Deosai National Park is a must-see while you're in the area.
Hussainabad Waterfall
When in Skardu, make sure to visit the Hussainabad Waterfall, which is located nearby the town of Hussainabad. This small waterfall cascades into the River Indus. The falls are free to visit, and the local market is known for its handicrafts. The waterfall is a popular tourist attraction in the region, and it's worth spending some time exploring it.
You may also wish to visit the historic Deosai National Park, which was created to protect the wildlife in the area. The mountainous area boasts lush green meadows, streams, and snow-capped peaks. While visiting the park, you'll also want to take time to explore the rocky mountain area in the area. A hike to this site requires about an hour.
Another must-see attraction is the Basho Valley, which is a green valley located twenty kilometers from the airport. This lush green valley is known for its waterfalls and pine forests. The Basho Valley can only be reached by 4WD vehicles, making it a perfect destination for those looking for places to visit and things to do in Skardu. Just be sure to check the season before you go to make sure you're not visiting in the midst of a cold spell.
Upper Kachura Lake is another popular attraction in Skardu. With a depth of 60 meters, this lake is surrounded by huge mountain ranges and lush greenery. This is also a popular picnic spot and is a perfect place for boating and fishing. When in Skardu, you should also make time for a visit to this natural beauty. It's also home to the Shangrila Resort, which is located about 30 minutes away from Skardu city.
Deosai National Park
When visiting Skardu, Deosai, and the surrounding area, the first thing you should know is that the climate in the park is cold throughout the year, with some parts of the park even snowing during the summer months. Dress warmly and remember to pack plenty of food and water. The closest village is an hour away, so you will need to carry your supplies.
After exploring Skardu city, head to Deosai National Park. The valley is surrounded by giant mountains, all of which are more than 20,000 feet high. Visiting Deosai will help you appreciate the unique environment in this pristine region. There are numerous activities to choose from, and if you want to experience true authentic village life, consider horseback riding.
The landscape of Deosai National Park is unforgiving due to the presence of wildlife. Here, you can spot Himalayan Brown Bears, Ladakh Urial, Snow Leopards, and various types of birds. Also, you can observe many types of plants, including medicinal ones. You can also visit local villages, where children may stop your vehicle and hand you flowers or herbs.
You can hike through the Deosai National Park to get a better perspective of the area. You can also fish for a variety of trout, including the famous Snow Trout. Fishing licenses are available from the park authorities for a small fee. Bara Pani is the best place to fish. The park has many trails to explore, and it is possible to find a local guide to help you. Although there are few designated trails, there are several routes through the park that you can follow. Getting into the Deosai National Park may not be as easy as you would hope. In some areas of the park, there are fewer people than expected.
To get to Deosai, you'll need to travel from Skardu. The city is 30 kilometers from Skardu and can be reached by car or by air. A road trip to Skardu from Islamabad takes fifteen to eighteen hours. The road to Deosai begins at the Skardu Satpara region. The first step is to visit Bara-Pani and the lake of Satpara.
Buddhist Rock
You might be surprised to learn that the Manthal Buddha Rock in Skardu is a religious site. This ancient rock carving, carved in the shape of a Buddha, stands guard over the serene town of Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is made of smooth, pale granite and was believed to have been carved in the 8th or 10th century. Located in the village of Manthal, the Buddha Rock is a must-see for Buddhists who wish to learn more about this sacred relic.
The Buddhist rock is about five feet high, and it is surrounded by lush green fields and a river. The journey takes between one and two hours and involves a mix of mountains, rivers, and green fields. Whether you are traveling by car or on foot, the Buddha rock is definitely worth the trip. It's much more enjoyable than taking the road. However, there's a steep hill that leads to the rock, so make sure to have your hiking shoes on.
The Buddha rock carvings in Gilgit-Baltistan are still very much alive. However, they were not known to the world until the early 20th century, when a British traveler, Ella Christie visited Western Tibet and featured it in her book. After that, carving was gaining worldwide attention. Today, Skardu has taken steps to preserve it and attract tourists from all over the world. It is one of the most important cultural sites in Gilgit-Baltistan.
There are also prehistoric figures carved on rocks along the Kachura lake. You can also find rock carvings in the monastery at Perkuta and Mehdi Abad. The two cities are gateways to the snowy peaks of the region, including the Gasherbrum and Broad Peak. Not to mention the enormous glacier that's nearby. So be sure to visit Skardu during your visit to the region!
Kharpocho Fort
For travelers interested in history and culture, a visit to the imposing Kharpocho Fort in Skardu will be a memorable experience. A few steps away from the fort is the Lower Kachura Lake, a man-made lake and the second-highest plateau in the world. The area is tentatively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to three thousand hectares of protected natural habitat. The region is known for its rare sightings of Himalayan Brown Bears. This rocky mountain is also covered in wildflowers during the summer.
The entrance to Kharpocho fort is through a tiny window-like opening. The massive structure is held together by enormous tree trunks and ancient stone. The architecture is impressive and intelligent. You'll also find a beautiful mosque, which once served as a courtyard. The long, arduous hike to the fort is worth it. The architecture of the fort is stunning.
The trek to the fort is approximately 30 minutes long and features a steep drop at one end. A stunning view of the mountains will be your reward for taking on the challenge. The entrance to the fort is a window-like opening that can only accommodate one person at a time. This makes the visit a memorable one. Kharpocho Fort is one of the most popular destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.
Visitors to the fort are advised to plan their trip according to the season and to bring water. A warm sweater and sturdy footwear are essential to climbing to the fort. In the case of rainy weather, a raincoat is highly recommended. The site is also home to several rare birds and wildlife, including leopards. The Pamir Times is a great resource for local news. The website is operated by local youth and is non-partisan.
Organic Valley Trek
If you're in the mood for some adventure, the Organic Valley Trek in Skardu might be the perfect thing to do. The trek starts right from Skardu, at the foot of the ancient fort, Kharpocho, and goes to Nangsoq, Pakistan's first organic village. While you're there, take in the views of the valley and surrounding mountains from the fort's balcony, which dates back to the 16th century.
The Organic Forest is a tranquil place, with a giant sign welcoming you. It's a quick walk from Skardu, so bring a picnic lunch and plan to come back the same way. If you'd like to circumnavigate the entire rock, you can also hike back the same way. You can take an afternoon to explore the organic farmland, or you can spend the whole day here.
After the Organic Valley Trek, your next stop is the renowned Kharmang Waterfall, which is famous for its waterfalls. This valley lies on the banks of the Indus River, which originates from India. You can also visit the Basho Valley, a high-altitude meadow with a glacier stream. While there, don't forget to try out a local pastime. You can try polo. You won't regret it!
If you're looking for a relaxing break from the trek, there's no better place to relax than Skardu. The town is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, which make for an impressive backdrop. There's also plenty of sightseeing to do here. For example, you can check out the Kharpocho Fort, the Shigar Fort, and the Buddha Rock. Then, head back to Skardu, where your tour concludes.
Upper and Lower Kachura Lake
The Upper Kachura Lake is a natural lake located near the Indus River in Skardu, Baltistan. It is 20 km away from Skardu city and takes about half an hour to reach. The lake is crystal clear and has a depth of 70 meters or 90 feet. During summer, the water temperature can reach 20 degrees Celsius, making it a great destination for swimming and camping.
The Upper Kachura Lake is one of the most scenic lakes in Skardu. It is the deeper of the two lakes and is surrounded by lush forests. There are many activities for people visiting the Upper Kachura Lake, including fishing and hiking. If you have the time, you can try your hand at mountain climbing. And if you're not into trekking, you can always stay at one of the resorts along the lake.
The Upper Kachura Lake in Skardu is one of the most beautiful natural lakes in the world. Its clear water and rich flora make it a perfect destination for hiking and enjoying the lake. The surrounding area is home to many unique people with unique dialects and cultures, which is another great attraction for tourists. So, get out there and discover the beauty of Upper Kachura Lake in Skardu!
There are many natural and manmade lakes to explore in Skardu. One such beautiful lake is the Lower Kachura Lake, which is located at an elevation of more than 13,000 feet above sea level. The waters of the lake are clear, and there is a beautiful island in the center. Many tourists stop by to take pictures of the picturesque lake. The surrounding area is also filled with smaller hotels. This is a great way to spend the day.
The Lower Kachura is a smaller version of the Upper Kachura. It is located just 30 minutes away from Upper Kachura Lake and is also known as Shangrila Lake, which is the Tibetan word for Heaven on Earth. The Lower Kachura is much smaller and considered an artificial lake, but is a great place to spend the day with a loved one. For food, try the local Balti cuisine and the traditional soup that is served here.
Manthokha Kharmang Waterfall
If you're interested in waterfalls, you can't go wrong with the Manthokha Kharmang waterfall located in the village of Manthokha Kharmang, Skardu. This natural wonder is renowned for its picturesque landscape and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a tranquil setting, breathtaking views of the mountains, or a more adventurous adventure, the waterfalls in Skardu will surely delight you.
The icy water of the waterfall is not only beautiful but also quite cold. It's surrounded by lush green meadows and falls into the Indus River. You can eat delicious trout fish from the river, which is nearby. However, be sure to check out the wooden bridge before you walk across it many people find it scary to cross it, and that's understandable!
Another popular attraction is the Marsur Rock. Located near the Basho Kharmang waterfall, this precariously perched rock is a breathtaking natural wonder. Visiting this site is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and enlightened. You'll want to return to Skardu as soon as possible, so make your plans accordingly. This mountain town offers a taste of life in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Off-Road Driving to the Dunes
Off-road driving to the dunes in the province of Skardu is a fun way to explore the area. This area is especially beautiful in the early spring. Numerous man-made canals make excellent stopping points for your journey. If you have a few days to spare, try a tour that includes a visit to the Shigar River, which is fed by the Baltoro Glacier. You can also check out the Shigar Fort, which is a renovated palace and a good place to turn around. Then, head back to Skardu!
Another way to explore the area is to take a drive through the Katpana Desert, a cold desert surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This is a particularly beautiful place in winter and is easy to access from Skardu Airport. In addition, there are several settlements to visit around the area, including Kachura, a town about an hour northwest of Skardu. The town is best known for its two lakes, the Upper and Lower Kachura lakes. The Upper Lake is accessible via a 15-minute trek through a forest, while the Lower Kachura Lake is accessible by motorboat.
After your off-road driving tour, make sure to stop and visit the city's famous bazaar. There are also several points of interest within the city, including the city's textile and craft markets. Those looking for souvenirs should haggle a bit when purchasing items. Alternatively, head to the Shigar junction for more sightseeing and shopping. If you plan to spend a night in Skardu, consider staying at a hotel in the city.
