travel to sakrdu

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The Beauty of Skardu: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the Karakoram

Nestled in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, Skardu is a breathtaking valley surrounded by some of the world's highest peaks, including the mighty K2. Often described as "Heaven on Earth," Skardu is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and cultural explorers. With its crystal-clear lakes, majestic mountains, ancient forts, and warm hospitality, Skardu is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

1. Geographical Location and Climate

Skardu lies at an elevation of about 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan. The valley is part of the greater Karakoram mountain range and is flanked by dramatic landscapes that include towering peaks, glacier-fed rivers, and expansive valleys.


Best time to visit: April to October (summer offers lush greenery, while autumn brings golden hues to the trees).
Climate: Cool summers and harsh winters. Snowfall can block roads during winter, so summer is the peak tourist season.

2. Natural Attractions


 Satpara Lake

One of Skardu’s most iconic lakes, Satpara is fed by the Satpara Stream and glacial waters. Surrounded by mountains and with a dam nearby, it’s a tranquil spot ideal for boating and photography.

Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake)

Known as "Heaven on Earth," Shangrila Resort is a picturesque retreat with Swiss-style cottages and a stunning lake with mirror-like water. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and nature.

Upper Kachura Lake

Less commercial than Lower Kachura, this alpine lake offers serenity and crystal-clear waters. It’s popular for trout fishing, kayaking, and nature walks.

Sheosar Lake

Located in the Deosai National Park, Sheosar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and endless plains.

3. Majestic Mountains and Treks



 K2 Base Camp Trek

Skardu is the gateway to the world’s second-highest mountain, K2. Adventurous trekkers begin their journey from Askole, a village near Skardu, and pass through awe-inspiring valleys like Concordia.

 Deosai National Park

Known as the "Land of Giants," this vast plateau sits at 4,114 meters and is home to Himalayan brown bears, golden marmots, and a dazzling array of wildflowers in summer.

Baltoro Glacier and Concordia

A haven for mountaineers, the trek through Baltoro Glacier to Concordia offers panoramic views of K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum mountains.

4. Historical and Cultural Sites



Skardu Fort (Kharphocho Fort)

Perched on a hill, Skardu Fort offers panoramic views of the city and the Indus River. Dating back to the 8th century, it is steeped in history and offers insight into ancient Balti architecture.

 Shigar Fort

Now a heritage hotel run by Serena Hotels, this restored 17th-century fort gives a glimpse into Balti royal history and features a blend of Tibetan and Islamic architecture.

Manthal Buddha Rock

A significant relic of Buddhism in Baltistan, this rock-carved Buddha dates back to the 8th century and reflects the region's diverse religious history.

5. The Culture of Skardu

Language: Balti, a Tibetan-derived language.

People: Friendly, hospitable, and deeply connected to nature.

Cuisine: Traditional Balti food includes Momo (dumplings), Skardu-style soups, and buckwheat bread. Yak butter tea is a local delicacy.

Handicrafts: Woolen shawls, rugs, and handwoven baskets are popular souvenirs.

6. Adventure Activities

Trekking & Hiking: Numerous trails ranging from easy hikes to advanced expeditions.

Mountaineering: K2, Gasherbrum I & II, Broad Peak attract climbers worldwide.

Paragliding & Rock Climbing: Gaining popularity for adrenaline seekers.

Camping & Stargazing: Clear skies and minimal light pollution make Skardu ideal for stargazing.

7. How to Reach Skardu

By Air: Direct flights from Islamabad to Skardu (weather dependent). A new international airport terminal has increased accessibility.

By Road: 22-hour scenic drive from Islamabad via Karakoram Highway. Alternate route via Babusar Pass (open in summer) offers spectacular views.

8. Tips for Travelers

  • Acclimatization: Due to high altitude, give your body time to adjust.

  • Connectivity: Limited internet in some areas; Jazz and SCOM work best.

  • Respect local customs: Modest dress and polite behavior are appreciated.

  • Pack for weather: Warm clothes even in summer; layers are key.

Skardu is more than just a travel destination; it’s a soulful experience. With its unspoiled landscapes, ancient heritage, and heartfelt hospitality, it offers something for every traveler — from adventure junkies to cultural explorers. Whether you're camping under a starlit sky or sipping tea by a glacial lake, Skardu’s serene beauty will stay with you long after you leave.

Although Pakistan is still an off the beaten path destination, tourism is increasing in

 places like Skardu. Traveling sustainably to the Karakoram mountains is essential

 to minimize your environmental impact and preserve the area’s natural beauty for

 future generations.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels: It is better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

You can try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Leave no trace principle: When hiking around Skardu, stick to designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem. Straying off the marked paths can cause soil erosion and damage to plant life. If you are lucky enough to spot wildlife such as ibex, observe quietly from a distance to prevent disruption to their habitats and help maintain their natural behaviors.

I encourage you to take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture: Besides environmental concerns it is also important to be sensitive of the community’s way of life. People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Urdu, can go a long way in building meaningful connections.

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