Best Places to Visit In Skardu
Every year, thousands of local and international tourists visit their dream place - Skardu, one of the best places to visit in Northern Pakistan.
This land is famous for its natural landscape, streams, waterfalls, lakes, valleys, deserts, meadows, historical forts, and mountains. If you are planning to visit the Northern areas of Pakistan, you should include Skardu. I hope the Skardu trip adds new experiences to your life.
Skardu is the region of Gilgit-Baltistan that feels like a paradise surrounded by mountains. Skardu is not just popular for its incredible views, it’s a gateway to adventure, solitude, and unique cultural experiences.
Plan your Skardu tour now to visit the amazing tourist destinations in Skardu that you should visit to experience the beauty, adventure, and peace you’ve ever dreamed of.
Lower Kachura Lake
Located 18km from Skardu City, the heart-shaped Lower Kachura Lake that takes about 20-25 min to reach. This lake serves as the centerpiece of the luxurious Shangrila Resort.
Lower Kachura Lake can be accessed by purchasing an entry ticket to the Shangrila Resort, which is typically open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Here, visitors can enjoy the lake's beauty and the well-maintained gardens of the resort. This calm and peaceful environment makes it an ideal place for visitors. Almost every tourist who visits Skardu definitely comes here because it's not too far and is an ideal spot for all kinds of tourists.
Here, you can also take part in activities like boating and swimming.
Upper Kachura Lake
Upper Kachura Lake is a natural lake and one of the hidden gems of Northern Pakistan.
It is located slightly above the Lower Kachura Lake and is surrounded by lush green forests and majestic mountains. This lake has crystal-clear water that perfectly reflects the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
You can also enjoy boating here.
Soq Valley
Soq Valley is located on the upper side of Kachura Lake and is about a 30-minute drive from Shang Ri La Resort.
Soq Valley is beautiful, but the journey to reach it has its own stunning views. You’ll come across many streams and waterfalls towards Soq Valley. This valley is called Soq because there was a time when this place was filled with thorns. In Balti Language thorns are called “Soq” so this valley was named as Soq Valley.
Several hotels have been built along the riverbank in Soq Valley, offering visitors to enjoy the beauty of the valley and the peaceful river. Soq Valley is also very famous for fishing. Many locals and tourists visit here to catch fish trout, which is famous all over Skardu.
Near Soq Valley, there is a Safari Resort that is famous for its organic cherry garden. To enter, you need to pay an entry fee, after which you can enjoy both the garden and the cherries.
Kharpocho Fort
Kharpocho Fort is a historical landmark located at the peak of Skardu city, only a few minutes' drive from the town center. This fort is at the top of the mountain, so it requires about a 25-30-minute hike to reach the fort. The path to the fort is slippery and uneven, so you need to be very cautious while going there.
Kharpocho Fort is constructed by Shah Ali Shair Khan in the late 16th century. The fort is built with rocks and stones that expose the architectural style of that era. While the interior view of the fort may not be particularly special, the view of Skardu City from there is truly breathtaking. This makes it perfect for photography and videography.
So, whenever you visit Skardu, don’t forget to go over to Kharpocho Fort and captutre these moments.
Shigar Valley
Shigar Valley, often referred as the “Land of K2”, is famous for the streams, ancient fort, and traditional wooden houses. It is located approximately 50km from the main city of Skardu and takes 1 hour to 1.5 hours to reach Shigar Valley.
On the way to Shigar from Skardu Valley, you’ll come across the these tourist spots:
Sarfranga Cold Desert.
Sarfranga dessert is one of the coldest deserts in the world, 29km from Skardu on the way to Shigar Valley. Sarfranga Desert offers you a variety of adventures such as quad bike, Dirt Bike, Paramotor, Jeep Safari, and much more. Visitors can also enjoy BBQ, camping, and a bonfires here.
Blind Lake
You can also visit Blind Lake, about 17km from the Sarfranga dessert. Blind lake offers essential facilities such as Cafeterias and washrooms. It is also a great spot for camping.
Shigar Fort
Finally, you’ll arrive at Shigar Valley, one of the most beautiful villages of Gilgit-Baltistan. Whenever you visit here, visit the Historic Shigar Fort, an ancient fort that’s a major tourist attraction. This fort is famous for its beautiful architecture and Shigar Fort is now under Serena Hotels, which provides both services: restaurant and accommodation.
If you want to visit K2, its route goes through Shigar Valley.
Amburiq Mosque
Agr ap shigar fort sy left side pr aty hain tou you can visit one of the ancient Mosques of Skardu, Amburiq Mosque. This mosque is the 1st Mosque in the Shigar that is built in the 14th century.
Hashupi Garden
Just 13 kilometers from Shigar Fort lies Hashupi Garden, the largest and most expansive garden in the Skardu Valley. The garden is home to vast orchards of cherries, apples, and apricots. Visitors are required to pay an entry fee, after which they are welcome to enjoy the fresh fruits directly from the trees. However, guests are kindly requested to respect the garden and avoid wasting any fruit.
Satpara Lake
In the east of Skardu, there is a hidden gem - Sadpara lake, located just 8-9 km from Sakrdu which can be reached with a 20-25 minute jeep drive.
Sadpara Lake is at an altitude of 2636 meters and spans about 2.5 km in width.
The lake’s primary source of water is the Sadpara stream and melting snow of Deosai Plains, and it serves as the water supply for the town.
On the way to Deosai, you’ll come across this lake that instantly makes you feel happy. It is a peaceful destination that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
At Satpara Lake, you can enjoy the activities like Boating and Hiking.
Deosai Plains / National Park
About an hour’s drive from Skardu, you’ll find the exciting Deosai National Park. It is also known as the Land of Giants because it is believed that this place is hunted by giants.
Deosai Plains are located at an altitude of 4114 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest plateau in the world. Due to its height, it is also known as the Roof of the World. Deosai Plains receive heavy snowfall, so the best time to visit Doesai Plains is from 15 July - 15 August.
Deosai National Park is in the middle of Kahrmang, Astore, and Skardu. Although the road is bumpy, you can reach here on a 4x4 vehicle.
This park is famous for its Flora and Fauna, Here, you can discover the habitat of pleasing plants and animals. It also protects the Himalayan Brown Bear and its habitat.
The largest river of the region, Bara Pani, extends across Deosai National Park. Along its bank, you’ll find the accommodation facility and enjoy a peaceful night. Refreshments are available here, and visitors can also enjoy fishing in the Bara Pani River.
The Deosai Plains offer a perfect escape into nature, where you can relax and refresh yourself in the cool streams and rivers. The water here is crystal clear and so pure that you can clearly see the stones lying at the bottom of the river.
After crossing Bara Pani, you’ll come across another river in the Deosai Plains known as Kala Pani, located about 10 kilometers from Bara Pani.
Continuing your journey, you’ll reach the stunning Sheosar Lake, situated approximately 60 to 70 kilometers from Skardu.
Katpana Dessert and Lake
Like the Sarfaranga Desert, the Katpana Desert is also one of the coldest deserts in the world.
The Katpana Desert is not far from Skardu; it is only 5–7 km away from the city. From Skardu, you need to turn onto the Gilgit-Skardu Road towards the airport. After 3 km, take a small link road that will lead you to the Katpana Desert.
If you go a little uphill from Katpana Lake, you will get a chance to witness the beauty of the Katpana Desert. The white sand of the desert make it unique among all other deserts of the world. You can enjoy horse riding here.
Katpana Lake is located in front of the Katpana Desert. The lush green trees around the lake and the surrounding mountains enhance the beauty of the lake's view. Although this lake is naturally attractive in summer, in winter, it presents a completely different kind of beauty.
If you go a little uphill from Katpana Lake, you will get a chance to witness the stunning Katpana Desert. The white sand of the desert makes it unique among all other deserts in the world.
Hotels and restaurants are available near the desert, also you can enjoy horse riding here.
Khaplu Valley
Khaplu Valley is the 2nd most popular destination of the Skardu. It is located 103km east of Skardu. The road to Khaplu is in good condition, so you can reach it easily in about 2 hours. This Valley is famous for its Fort and ancient Mosque.
Khaplu Valley is covered by mountains. A large number of people visit Kahplu to see the Siachin Glacier.
Here are the places that you should visit in Khaplu.
Khaplu Palace
Khaplu Palace, also known as Khaplu Fort, is an iconic historical site and is one of the old Fort and Palace in Khaplu Valley. In 1840, it was built by Yabgo Raja Daulat Ali Khan.
This palace was renovated by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, transforming it into a museum that showcases the history and culture of Gilgit-Baltistan. During spring and summer, visitors can enjoy the greenery and pleasant weather. In winter, this Palace is covered with snow, giving a vibe of fairytale.
This Palace is now acquired by Serena Hotles, offers a Royal Residency experience.
Khanqah-E-Muallah
Gilgit-Baltistan is known as the land of Auliya-e-Karam and is home to many historical and spiritual landmarks. Khanqah-e-Muallah is also one of its remarkable sites.
This 4,500-year-old Khanqah is entirely made of mud and wood. It showcases traditional architecture and remains a major tourist attraction.
Reaching the Khanqah-e-Muallah requires a half-hour hike from the parking area. This place holds great importance in religious significance, so visitors come here with great devotion.
Chaqchan mosque
The Chaqchan Mosque is one of the ancient landmarks of the Skardu region, built in 783 Hijri. Its architecture reflects timeless beauty. Constructed entirely from mud, stone, and wood, the mosque features beautiful woodwork that shows the skill of the people who built it. The mosque has a central hall with open courtyards around it, making the place peaceful and inviting. This old mosque attracts many tourists, and people visiting Khaplu often come to see it with great interest.
Ghawari
On the way to Khaplu, there is another beautiful village called Ghawari. In Ghawari, there is an “Organic Rest House and Resturant”, which is the most beautiful visiting place for the tourists.
Although this place has stunning views, in winter, the combinations of red, yellow, and green trees add even more beauty.
In the garden of the Rest house, there are several bookshelves, allowing book lovers to enjoy reading under the open sky beside the trees.
At the backside, there is the Shyok River View Point, where you can enjoy the beauty of waves.
Sogha Lake
Sogha Lake, also known as Crystal Lake, is located in a village called Sailing Valley, 20km from Khaplu. This lake is right by the road, so there is no need for any kind of hiking to reach it. You can enter the lake as soon as you get out of the car.
The water of Sogha Lake is perfectly still and clean. For tourism, this is a perfect place where you can enjoy with your family and create wonderful memories.
Near the lake, there is the Trout Fish Farm. You can also visit this farm and even purchase the fish if you need.
Basho Valley
Bashu Valley is another gem of Gilgit-Baltistan that sits at an altitude of 9692 feet, just 45km form Skardu. It takes about 3 hours to 3.5 hours to reach Bashu, as half of the journey is on challenging road so a 4×4 vehicle is necessary.
Famous for its stunning views, meadows, streams, and waterfalls, Bashu Valley is a peaceful place and paradise for nature lovers. The locals of this valley are hospitable and make visitors feel at home. Here you can enjoye camping and bonfires under the sparkling sky.
If you want a comfortable stay, hotels and resturants are also available.
The activities you can enjoy at Bashu Valley include:
- Fishing
- Playing Cricket
- Hoseriding
- Visit Bashu Meadows
- Peaceful Bashu River
- BBQ
- Night Camping
- Bonfire
Kharmang Valley
Kharmang Valley is the district of Gilgit-Baltistan and one of the five main valleys of this region. This valley is famous for meadows, waterfalls, mountains, and fruits.
The best tourist spot of this valley are
- Manthoka Waterfall
- Khamosh Waterfall
Manthoka waterfall
The largest waterfall in Pakistan, Manthoka Waterfall, is located in Kharmang Valley, approximately 80km from Skardu city, and takes around 2-2.5 hours to reach. The road leading to Manthoka Waterfall is in excellent condition, so you can easily reach it.
Whenever you visit Skardu, never miss the beauty of this spot. This is the perfect family picnic spot. If someone wants to stay here overnight, the best accommodation facilities are available here.
For a more unique experience, tree houses have been built right in front of the waterfall, offering a truly captivating view.
Khamosh Waterfall
Khamosh Waterfall is a 2-hour drive from Manthoka Waterfall. It is located 120km from Skardu city, in the Hamzigon Village.
This waterfall is truly delightful for everyone. Apart from visitors, a large number of locals also visit in every season.
In winter, this waterfall presents a completely different and breathtaking view. Its entire body freezes, and it is covered in snow on all sides.
Canteen and washroom facilities are available at Khamosh Waterfall, but no accommodation. If you want, you can head back and spend the night at Manthoka Waterfall or Skardu City.
Chunda Valley
Chunda Valley is located 16km in the west of Skardu. It sits at an altitude of 9160 feet.
The road leading to Chunda Valley is an off-road track, so you can travel comfortably in a 4×4 vehicle, which takes 1 hour to reach.
Chunda Valley is covered with a peak of mountains. Lush green meadows and crystal clear streams add beauty to this valley. If you visit here in spring season, the whole valley is covered with white and pink flowers, which feel like a piece of heaven on earth.
Skardu is a land where every turn reveals a new wonder, from towering mountains to crystal-clear lakes and vibrant valleys. Don’t just dream about it—pack your bags, book your trip, and experience the magic of Skardu for yourself. Your next unforgettable adventure awaits
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Skardu?
The ideal time to visit Skardu is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, roads are accessible, and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
Do I need a 4×4 vehicle to visit Skardu?
For main city-to-city travel, any vehicle works fine. However, for destinations like Fairy Meadows, Deosai Plains, Basho Valley, and Sharan Forest, a 4×4 is highly recommended due to rough terrains.
Is Skardu safe for tourists?
Yes, Skardu is generally safe for both local and international tourists. The locals are very hospitable, but like any trip, always travel with basic precautions.
What should I pack for Skardu?
Pack warm clothes even in summer, as temperatures drop at night. Also, bring comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a camera.
Can I visit K2 Base Camp from Skardu?
Yes, Skardu is the gateway to K2 Base Camp. You’ll need a proper trekking plan, permits, and a guide to reach there.
Do I need any permits to visit tourist spots in Skardu?
Most areas are open to tourists without permits, but trekking routes like K2 Base Camp require special permits from local authorities.
Can I travel to Skardu with family?
Absolutely! Skardu is a family-friendly destination with plenty of easy-access tourist spots like Lower Kachura Lake, Katpana Desert, Shigar Fort, and Satpara Lake.
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