Skardu City – Baltistan
Where mountains speak the sky
Baltistan was called Skardu in the past because of its central headquarter Skardu. Baltistan has the world’s second-highest peak K-2, Masherbrum (7320 meters) peak, Gasherbrum (8355 meters) peak, Broad peak (8047 meters), and 150 peaks of Karakoram Mountain range out of 300 peaks.
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan |
| Skardu’s Significance | A picturesque city known for its stunning natural landscapes and as a gateway to some of the world’s highest mountain ranges. |
| Shangrila Resort | A popular tourist destination in Skardu, often called “Heaven on Earth.” It features Shangrila Lake, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the renowned Shangrila Resort Hotel. |
| How to Reach Shangrila | Visitors can reach Shangrila Resort by road or air, with accommodations available in the resort’s hotel and other options in Skardu. |
| Activities at Shangrila | Boating on Shangrila Lake, exploring lush gardens, and taking in breathtaking mountain views. It’s an ideal place for relaxation and nature appreciation. |
| Upper Kachura | A serene area in Skardu, known for the pristine Lower Kachura Lake and its tranquil surroundings. |
| Access to Upper Kachura | Easily accessible from Skardu by road, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful Lower Kachura Lake, enjoy boat rides, and experience tranquility. |
| Cultural and Recreational Activities | Skardu offers opportunities to immerse in the unique culture and traditions of the Baltistan region, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and trekking. |
| Best Time to Visit | The ideal time to visit is from April to September during the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant, and natural beauty is at its peak. |
| Travel Tips | Travelers are advised to check local regulations, obtain necessary permits for restricted areas, carry warm clothing, sunscreen, and essential travel documents. |
| Nearby Attractions | Nearby attractions include Deosai National Park, Shigar Fort, and the beautiful Shangrila Resort Gardens, offering more opportunities to explore the region’s natural and cultural beauty. |
The world’s largest and most famous glacier “Siachen” after the Pole glacier is here in Baltistan. Stretching between Karakoram and Himalaya ranges, Baltistan has Skardu, Khaplu, Shigar, Kharmang, Hushe, and Gultari Valleys. Parapo, Balay, Marzan, and green tea are among the popular foods of Baltistan.
In the Suburbs of Baltistan
I- Adventure of Skardu Road
A road turns toward Skardu from the Alam Bridge 48km before Gilgit. Skardu is 173km from this point. The Skardu road becomes narrow gradually after splitting from Karakoram Highway.
It is an adventurous journey between the Karakoram and the Himalayas along the river Indus. It seems difficult to breathe on the Skardu trail for the first time due to the twisting road like snakes, sharp turns of the highway, sky-scrapping mountain ranges, and the river Indus flowing like a thin line below. But, one feels better as you move forward.
II- Haramosh Valley, Kutwal Lake
At a distance of 25km from Skardu Road, a track lead to Dasu Village from Sassi Village. You can reach there in one hour. From Dasu to Haramosh Valley’s Kutwal Lake is a one-and-a-half-day pedestrian track. So, it’s a three-day journey. If you are a good trekker and have the stamina you can reach earlier.
There is no arrangement for a stay during the journey. You will have to take camping stuff and food with you. Dasu and Iskari have some small restaurants.
A memorial to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the construction of the road is built at the Shingas point. This point is 52km from Skardu Turn. A small town Rondu is 30km from Shingas.
Come across the river by crossing the bridge 38km from Dambu Wali Village. Dambu Wali Village is 22km from Rondu. From here towards the right side, a trail is directed to Shangrila Lake. The valley spreads from there. Skardu airport is 22 km beyond this road. And Skardu city is 13 km forward to the airport.
Skardu City
Skardu, the headquarter of Baltistan is at an altitude of 7500 feet above sea level. The Skardu Valley is 10km wide and 40km long. Skardu Base Camp is among the most adventurous and beautiful trekking sites in the World. Skardu is enriched with calm lakes, murmuring waterfalls, sky-kissing snow-capped peaks, and beautiful landscapes.
The world’s second-highest peaks K-2, Siachen Glacier, Batura Glacier, and Biafo Glacier are embracing each other in a unique manner. It is hard to find such a beautiful scene anywhere else in the world. Therefore, climbers from all over the world come here every year to fulfill their hobbies.
Skardu’s tourism season is from April to October. Peach, apples, apricots, and pear are the best fruits there. This city is located on a very interesting point. The river Indus flows in a calm and serene manner. Skardu is fenced by dry mountains and sand dunes. Wear a sweater before if you are going for an evening walk in Skardu. Do shopping in the old Bazar.
A PIA flight is available from Islamabad for Skardu on a daily basis. And the same plane brings the passengers back to Islamabad. All the flights depend on the weather condition. The flights are canceled if the climate is not favorable. Sometimes, the fights return back to Islamabad without landing at the Skardu Airport due to the lack of required atmospheric pressure.
Traveling at a height of 38,000 feet above the snow-capped mountains is a thrilling experience. According to the global tourism perspective, it is considered among the most beautiful journeys in the World. If you are fortunate to grab a window seat during the Skardu flight, the beauty of the north will mesmerize you.
Lush green valleys, colorful lakes, and snow-clad peaks are awaiting you. Skardu airport is 14km from Skardu City. This track is open throughout the year via Gilgit. Gilgit City is 241km from Skardu with about a 6 to 7 hours drive. A jeep and coster can be booked from Gilgit Bus Stand.
Famous Historical Sites and Tourist Destinations in Skardu
1- Fort Kharphocho Gangope
Raja Bokhany of Makboon family initiated building this fort. The king was a contemporary of Mughal king Babur. But, he died before its completion. His grandson Sher Ali Khan completed it. This fort of the 15th century was constructed near the river Indus bank on a rough rocky hilltop.
It is spreading over an area of two miles. It is said that 12 lac or 1.2 million for making a mud mixture. It is an adventure to reach this fort at the top. Take water along with you. There is a royal polo ground in between the fort. Players are practicing at the noon. It will be a memorable experience to enjoy this royal polo game for you.
A public library and a memorial to the martyrs are adjacent to the polo ground. A stream used to flow in Skardu City. It had a length of 3 miles. It was constructed by queen Gul Khatun of Sher Ali Khan. It was named Ganope after the name of the engineer who built it. There are traces of this stream in the city.
2- The first organic village in Pakistan
Nansoq, the first-ever organic village in Pakistan is 3km from Skardu City at the confluence of the river Shigar and the river Indus. This village is at the back of the historical Kharphoco fort. British Prince Charles, Lady Camilla Parker, and Prince Agha Karim visited this village in 2006. It is a curious point of Skardu.
3- Italian K-2 Museum
A museum in the PTDC Motel of Skardu City is established by the contribution of Itlay. This museum has different galleries which portray trekking and hiking in the mountains of Pakistan with the help of charts and pictures. It especially focuses on the peaks that are trekked by Pakistani and global hikers. Documentaries are there too to become familiar with the culture, history, and traditions of Gilgit Baltistan.
4- Lake Katpana
The beautiful Lake Katpana is 10km away from Skardu City’s Police Line. You can visit historic villages Katpana and Sandos. Spend some time near the grey water lake Katpana. You will see a lot of ducks swimming in this shining water. Thick green woods, desert, and sky-high mounts on its sides present a charming view.
5- Shangrila (Paradise on Earth)
A DC3 plane of orient airways took off from the Skardu Airport on 13th October 1954. One of its engines failed and the pilot did a crash landing near the river Indus. All the passengers and the staff remained safe.
Brigadier Muhammad Aslam of North Scouts purchased this plane and took it here. This human heart-shaped lake has a garden, a hotel, and a restaurant. They are established beautifully near the edge of the lake that’s why it is called a part of paradise on Earth.
Accommodation facilities have been provided in the huts of Shangrila Resort situated near Upper Kachura Lake. The outside view from the restaurant and the airplane’s café will enthrall you. Shangrila has gained international recognition because of its charismatic and beautiful geography.
Shangrila is located on the Gilgit road at a distance of 30km from Skardu City. At an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level, this site has 60 lakeside cottages, a zoo, sailing, indoor games, the trout fish farm, café DC three coffee shop (in the airplane), an open-air tandoori restaurant, a gift shop, a Pagoda restaurant, a Lake-view restaurant, helicopter safari services, and other facilities.
6- Upper Kachura Lake
Upper Kachura Lake is beyond Shangrila Lake (Lower Katchura Lake) at 8200 feet above ocean level. It is surrounded by thick fruit trees and sky-high mountains. This lake with deep green color water has a depth of 230 feet. In summer the temperature is usually 15 . The lake completely freezes in the winter. Enjoy boating and sailing on the lake. Restaurants and hotels are there too.
FAQs
1. Where is Skardu located, and what is its significance as a tourist destination in Pakistan?
Skardu is a beautiful city in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and as a gateway to some of the world’s highest mountain ranges.
2. What is Shangrila Resort, and what are its main attractions?
Shangrila Resort is a popular tourist destination in Skardu. It is often referred to as “Heaven on Earth” and is known for its serene surroundings, Shangrila Lake, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the famous Shangrila Resort Hotel.
3. How can visitors reach Shangrila Resort in Skardu, and what accommodations are available in the area?
Visitors can reach Shangrila Resort by road or air. The resort has its own hotel that offers comfortable accommodations, and there are also other lodging options in Skardu.
4. What are the activities and things to do at Shangrila Resort and Shangrila Lake?
At Shangrila Resort, visitors can enjoy boating on Shangrila Lake, explore the lush gardens, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place for relaxation and nature appreciation.
5. Tell us about Upper Kachura and its significance in the Skardu region.
Upper Kachura is a part of the Skardu region and is known for its pristine lakes, including the Lower Kachura Lake. It’s a serene and less-crowded area that offers a peaceful environment for travelers.
6. How can tourists access Upper Kachura from Skardu, and what are the attractions in this area?
Upper Kachura is easily accessible from Skardu by road. Visitors can explore the beautiful Lower Kachura Lake and its surroundings, take boat rides, and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
7. Are there any cultural or recreational activities in Skardu, apart from the natural attractions?
Skardu offers visitors the opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Baltistan region. Travelers can also enjoy hiking, trekking, and interacting with the local community.
8. What is the best time to visit Skardu, Shangrila Resort, and Upper Kachura for optimal weather and experiences?
The ideal time to visit is during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when the weather is most pleasant and the natural beauty is at its peak.
9. Are there any specific guidelines or tips for travelers planning a trip to Skardu, Shangrila Resort, and Upper Kachura?
Travelers are advised to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits if planning to visit restricted or sensitive areas. It’s also recommended to carry warm clothing, sunscreen, and essential travel documents.
10. Can you provide information on other nearby attractions or day trips that visitors can consider when in the Skardu region?
Visitors to Skardu can explore nearby attractions such as Deosai National Park, Shigar Fort, and the beautiful Shangrila Resort Gardens. These places offer additional opportunities to experience the natural and cultural beauty of the region.
Wind Up Lines
Skardu Valley is an embodiment of natural beauty. There are historical sites too. It is one of the best and ideal city for holidays. You will be enchanted by the beauty of Upper Kachura Lake, Haramosh Valley, Lake Katpana, and Shangrilla Resort.
