Shigar Valley

It feels as if you are traveling in the Cholistan Desert when the jeep reaches Khaplu Road from Skardu. Shigar Valley is 32km to the north of Skardu Valley. Shigar Valley was a state in the past. The whole Valley abounds with grapes, apples, walnuts, peach, apricot, mulberry, and pears. The dry fruits of Baltistan are unique.

The river Shigar irrigates the whole valley. Enjoy a walk around the river. Go to the local villages. Observe the regional culture. Buy the handicrafts if you like them. There are traces of the Buddhism era in the Shigar Valley which were discovered by Doctor Carl Ganter.

There are thousands of pictures inscribed on the rocks and writing pieces in the Tibetan and Sanskrit languages. They belong from the eighth to the tenth century. A stone is found there which is called “Zehar Mohra”. It is said that this stone has the capacity to absorb the poison.

Shigar Fort (Residence) – The Palace on the rock

This 350-year-old fort was the palace and residence of Shigar’s emperor in the famous Valley Chinpa of Shigar. This fort was built at an elevation of 2250 meters above sea level near the Shigar brook on a giant rock. This fort was built by Rah Hassan Khan, He called artisans of wood from Kashmir.

Professional architect Nayyar Ali Dada gave his services to resolve the technical issues related to maintenance. It was done to protect this masterpiece of Kashmiri architectural style asset. Nowadays, Serena Hotels (the largest chain of hotels in Pakistan) is operating this residence as a hotel.

There are the best facilities for residing and high-quality restaurants. A two-floor museum has been established there. It has things and artifacts used in the Shigar State.

Ambraq Mosque

This mosque is one of the ancient mosques in the Shigar Village. It was constructed by millionaire Ali Syed Hamdani. He was the first Islamic scholar in Gilgit Baltistan. People embraced Islam due to his struggles.