Skardu Valley

Exploring Skardu Valley:

The Heart of Northern Pakistan's Beauty

Skardu Valley, situated in Gilgit-Baltistan, is a breathtaking hub for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, ancient forts, and unique landscapes, Skardu offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From trekking to serene lakes to exploring the cold deserts, Skardu Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Pakistan’s northern region.

Top Attractions in Skardu Valley

6. Katpana Desert (Cold Desert)

Known locally as Naqpo Biyama, the Katpana Desert is a unique cold desert located just a 20-minute drive from Skardu city.

• Highlights: Visitors can marvel at a surreal combination of sandy dunes, the Katpana Lake, the Indus River, and snow-covered mountains all in one view.

• Activities: A rare landscape for a cold region, the Katpana Desert is an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing.

Location and Accessibility

Skardu Valley is accessible by both road and air. For those traveling by road:

• Via Karakoram Highway (KKH): The distance from Islamabad is approximately 699 km.

• Via Babusar Pass (N-15): When the pass is open, this route covers about 605 km.

The journey by road takes around 14 to 15 hours. Alternatively, visitors can take a flight from Islamabad to Skardu Airport, which is about one hour long. Flights provide an incredible aerial view of the mountains, making the trip as scenic as the destination.

Weather in Skardu

• Summer: Skardu’s summer weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Summer is the ideal season for tourists, as the pleasant climate allows for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Snow-capped peaks add to the valley’s stunning landscape without impacting accessibility to major attractions.

• Winter: Winters in Skardu are harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow blankets the valley, and several roads may be closed due to heavy snowfall. Despite the cold, winter presents a unique beauty, as Skardu transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting adventurers interested in winter sports and those seeking a more serene experience.

1. Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura Lake)

Located just 18 km from Skardu, Shangrila Lake, or Lower Kachura Lake, is a private lake owned by the Shangrila Resort.

• Entry Fee: Rs 1000 per person.

• Activities: Boating is available, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake's calm, clear waters while surrounded by the stunning mountain landscape.

• Highlight: Known for its serene environment and the famous Shangrila Resort, this spot is perfect for those seeking relaxation with a touch of luxury.

2. Upper Kachura Lake

Just a bit further up, 21 km from Skardu, lies Upper Kachura Lake.

• Size: Almost double that of Lower Kachura Lake.

• Activities: This lake offers a variety of activities, including boating, zip-lining, trekking, and camping.

• Highlight: Less developed than Shangrila Lake, Upper Kachura provides a more natural, rugged beauty ideal for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

3. Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park, also known as the "Land of Giants," is a high-altitude plateau known for its vast landscapes and unique ecosystem.

• Distance: About 40 km from Skardu.

• Activities: The park is home to the stunning Sheosar Lake, a clear blue lake surrounded by wildflowers in the summer, making it a favorite spot for trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

• Highlight: This national park, one of the highest plateaus in the world, provides a habitat for a range of flora and fauna, including the endangered Himalayan brown bear. Its vast, untouched beauty offers visitors a truly immersive experience in nature.

4. Sadpara Lake

Located 24 km from Skardu on the way to Deosai National Park, Sadpara Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters.

• Local Legend: Locals believe there is a gold mine at the bottom of the lake, which is why its water glistens during the day.

• Activities: Visitors can enjoy fishing (with a permit) and boating.

• Highlight: The lake reflects the surrounding icy mountains, creating a truly picturesque scene.

5. Kharpucho Fort

An ancient fort built in the 8th century by Maqpon Bugha, Kharpucho Fort stands proudly above Skardu.

• Location: It is perched on a 40-meter-high mountain on the bank of the Indus River, with panoramic views of Skardu city and the Indus.

• Hike: A 20-minute hike is required to reach the fort.

• Highlight: Near the fort is the convergence point of the Shigar and Indus Rivers, adding to its scenic beauty and historical significance.

7. Chunda Valley

A short 40-minute drive from Skardu takes you to Chunda Valley, a lush green valley lined with fruit trees.

• Highlights: The valley is stunningly scenic, with vast expanses of green grass and vibrant cherry blossoms in June.

• Setting: Nestled between high mountains with steep edges, this valley offers an enchanting view, particularly during cherry blossom season.

8. Manthal Buddha Rock

An important historical site, Manthal Buddha Rock is a religious relic from the 9th century.

• Distance: Located 18 km from Skardu Airport.

• Description: This large rock features carvings of Buddha in meditation along with his disciples, making it an essential site for those interested in the region’s Buddhist history.

9. Ringchan Hanging Rock

The Ringchan Hanging Rock offers a panoramic view of Skardu and nearby places.

• Hike: Approximately a one-hour hike from Skardu city.

• Highlight: The elevated viewpoint provides sweeping vistas of the valley below, making it a popular spot for hikers and photographers.

10. Sarfaranga White Desert

At a distance of 31 km from Skardu city, Sarfaranga White Desert is a unique and scenic landscape.

• Activities: Known for its jeep rallies, paragliding, desert bikes, four-wheel bikes, and jeep safaris.

• Highlight: The white sand dunes against the mountainous backdrop provide a truly one-of-a-kind experience in Pakistan.

11. Marsur Rock

Marsur Rock is a unique natural formation situated 27 km from Skardu, near Hussainabad, perched on a hilltop.

• Hiking: Reaching Marsur Rock requires a challenging hike of 1.5 to 2 hours on a steep mountain trail, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views along the way.

• Highlight: The rock formation bears a strong resemblance to the famous Trolltunga Rock in Norway, making it a popular spot for adventurous hikers and photographers looking for that perfect shot.

Conclusion

Skardu Valley is a remarkable destination with its mix of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and adventurous landscapes. From the serene beauty of Shangrila Lake to the rugged trails of Deosai Plains, Skardu has something to offer for every type of traveler. Each attraction in Skardu, whether it’s the ancient fort of Kharpucho or the mystical Sadpara Lake, has its unique charm and story, making it a destination you’ll want to explore deeply and savor slowly.