Skardu Travel Tips and Guide for Tourists

Skardu and Hunza Tour

Skardu is the name of a city in Gilgit-Baltistan, but in the local tourism industry, Skardu refers to four districts of Baltistan and Astor district. Tourists going to Gilgit-Baltistan either go to Gilgit or Skardu.

That is why the Gilgit-Baltistan tour is divided into two parts.

1: Skardu Tour

2: Gilgit Tour

The Gilgit tour starts from Jaglot and ends at Khunjarab top while the Skardu tour starts from Jaglot and goes through Siachen on one side and Deosai on the third side and ends at Mini Marg. If you travel to Skardu by plane, all kinds of vehicles are available to go from Skardu city to all tourist places. The journey to Skardu by road starts from Jaglot after Babusar Highway and Karakoram High. The best road from Jaglot to Skardu has been made. The name of the new highway has been changed from Jaglot Skardu Road to Shahrah Baltistan. Vehicles can be found for Bisho Meadow, beyond Bisho, after Shaheed Bridge, a ten-minute drive from JSR Chowk, on the ride side, to Kachora Valley, straight on, a forty-minute drive from Skardu City.

District Skardu

District Skardu starts from Rondo Valley and ends at Sirmak.

Divided into four districts, including Skardu, Ganche, Shigar, and Kharmnik, this area boasts a myriad of attractions ranging from ancient forts to serene lakes and majestic mountains.

Skardu city is the biggest city of Gilgit-Baltistan. People from every district of Gilgit-Baltistan live in this city. In this city, Shia, Nurbakshi, Sunni, Ismaili, Ahl al-Hadith people of every sect live a peaceful life. Skardu is also the commercial center of this entire region. Skardu also has the only international airport in Gilgit-Baltistan. Pakistan International Airlines operates daily flights from Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Since last year, flights have also started from Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan.Skardu and Hunza Tour departs from Lahore every Friday night

Astor, Ganche (Wadi Nawam), Khurmang, and Shagarjane bananas can also be rooted in Skardu.

Skardu Tour includes the following tourist attractions.

Tourist Places of District Skardu

The largest city in Gilgit-Baltistan, Skardu city, is a melting pot of cultures and serves as a commercial hub for the region. From the historic Kharpocho Fort to the breathtaking Deosai National Park, District Skardu beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

1. Deosai National Park
2. Kharpocho_(Historical Fort)
3. ShangriLa Resort
4. Jhuq Valley. Staqchan Valley. Shagharthing Valley
5. Kachora Lake Upper Lake.Ghalcho Chasma Padang Kachora
6. Sikkim Jho Green Lake Lor Kachora
7. Sadpara Dam
8. Chandah Valley
9. Satak Valley Rondo
10. Blamak Rondo.Tormak Rondo
11. Wadi Bisho Sultanabad Bisho Valley
12. Ning Zhuoq Organic Village
13. Katpanah Lake and Cold Desert
14. Bhada Rock Monthal Sadpara
15. Mysore Rock Hussainabad
16. Dinosaur Rock Chandah
17. Sarfa Rangah Cold Dessert

District Ganche (Wadi Nawam)

The district starts from Ganche Kress and ends at Siachen Glacier. Ganache district is also known as Wadi Nawam. Ganache district is famous all over the world for its highest mountains and glaciers. The world’s highest mountain Siachen is located in this district besides the highest mountains of Karakoram such as K To, Gushabrom, and Broadpeak. On the way back from Misha Brom, the climbers use the Hosea Valley route of the same district. This district is the epitome of beauty.

Some of the historical and tourist attractions of this district are listed below.

1. MyFort_
2. Chaqchan Masjid (700 years old mosque)
3.  Thuqsi Khar
4. Turmeric cones viewpoint
5. ‏Wadi Hoshe, K Six, K Seven, Masha Brom-like valley of high mountains of Karakoram.
6. Sling Resort
7. Kundus Valley Hot Spring
8. Gyari Siachen Valley Siltru
9. Wadi Thale, Thale la
10. Ningma Valley Kande
11. Kharfaq Lake
12. ‏Khanqah Ma’ali Nawam (Asia’s largest monastery)
13. ‏K2 points of view Machlo Brook
14. Ghorse Villages. Beautiful villages of Shiraz and Muskan, famous international YouTuber

Shigar district

Shigar is a fertile Valley, this valley is famous for its historical places and highest mountains.

Home to the world’s second-highest peak, K2, Shigar District entices travelers with its historical landmarks and panoramic vistas. The Sarfa Ranga Cold Desert and Blind Lake are among the must-visit attractions in this fertile Valley. The second highest peak of the world K2 is also located in this district and 5 mountains above 8000 in the world are also located in this region. The Shigar district is located at a distance of 30 km from Skardu.

Shigar tourist places

1. ShigarFort
2. BlindLake
3. World’s highest and coldest desert Sarfa Ranga Cold Desert
4. K2 Pahar_k2
5. Hushopi Bagh
6. ‏Khanqah Maala is a 600-year-old mosque
7. Arundu valley
8. Concordia
9. Gulabpur Rangah
10. Zhuqgu Falls
11. Hot spring eruption and basalt
12. The highest mountains of Middle Karakoram are Gushabrom, Broad Peak, Turango Tower, etc

Kharmnik district

A land of waterfalls and clear rivers. Kharmnik District captivates visitors with its cascading waterfalls and pristine rivers. From the majestic Manthokha Waterfall to the tranquil Ghandus Lake, this district offers a serene retreat amidst nature’s splendor.

Tourist places

1. Manthokha Waterfall
2. Silent Falls
3. Sheila Valley
4. Ghandus Lake (two lakes, one upper and one lower)
5. Kargil Border

Wadi Gultri

Which falls in Kharmang, a seven to eight-hour drive from Skardu, and the road goes towards the lift side a little beyond Deosai Top.

1. Bada Das
2. Franshot
3. Banyal
4. Thanot
5. Shakhma
6. Battle
7. Hussaini Top
8. Shingo Shigar. Matial.Thali.Krabush.
9. Dumbo Bhau

Astoor Valley

Astoor district is administratively located in the Diamar division but access to Astoor is from Skardu especially for tourists who come to Skardu by ship, access to Astoor is from Skardu Deosai. Tourists coming from Astoor can access Chalam Deosai. Following are the tourist places of Astoor Valley.

1. Rupal Face Nanga Parbat
2. Rama Meadows
3. Pressing
4. Chalam.Brussel top.Mini marg
5. Dumail Lake
6. Rato
7. Shunter
8. Darle Lake

Haramush and Shingos Valley

Beyond Alam Burj towards Skardu, a very beautiful valley comes at some distance from Maqpon Das

Tourist attractions

Katwal Valley

Visit to the Katwal Valley in Pakistan promises an unforgettable adventure amidst breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.

Scenic Beauty

The Katwal Valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery, meandering rivers, and towering mountains surrounding it. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and take in the serenity of the landscape.

Hiking and Trekking

The valley offers excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Numerous trails lead through picturesque valleys, past cascading waterfalls, and up to high mountain passes. Popular treks include the trek to Jahaz Banda and the trek to Katora Lake.

Jahaz Banda

Jahaz Banda is a picturesque meadow located in the upper reaches of the Katwal Valley. It’s famous for its expansive grasslands, vibrant wildflowers, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Camping at Jahaz Banda is a popular activity, allowing visitors to spend a night under the starry sky.

Katora Lakesss

Katora Lake, also known as the Cup Lake, is a stunning alpine lake located at an elevation of around 11,500 feet above sea level. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers mesmerizing views. It’s a relatively remote and pristine destination, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Local Culture and Hospitality

The Katwal Valley is inhabited by friendly and hospitable people who belong to various ethnic groups, including Pashtuns and Kohistanis. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with the residents, and learn about their traditional way of life.

Photography

The Katwal Valley is a paradise for photographers, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, colorful flora and fauna, and the unique cultural heritage of the region. From sunrise to sunset, every moment presents a perfect photo opportunity.

Adventure Sports

In addition to hiking and trekking, adventurous travelers can indulge in activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and paragliding in the Katwal Valley. The rugged terrain and pristine environment make it an ideal destination for adrenaline junkies.

Local Cuisine

Visitors to the Katwal Valley can savor delicious local cuisine, including traditional Pashtun dishes such as Chapli Kebab, Karahi, and various types of bread. Eating at local eateries or enjoying a home-cooked meal with a local family can be a memorable experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers:

For those planning a trip to Skardu, it’s essential to make necessary arrangements in advance. From transportation options to accommodation choices, careful planning can enhance your overall experience. Apart from this, numerous tourist spots are not accessible to ordinary tourists. For shopping, Banazir Chowk to Alamdar Chowk, Sher Ali Chowk to Agha Hadi Chowk, and College Road to Jama Masjid Road are famous for handicrafts and dry fruits. Gar Chowk to MP Chowk Bhutto Bazar etc. Hotels Guest Houses 1000 to 20000 rest tourists can eat according to their budget. Restaurants etc will also be found in these markets.

Additionally, exploring local markets like Benazir Chowk and sampling traditional delicacies adds a delightful touch to your journey.

Conclusion:

Skardu and its surrounding districts offer a treasure trove of experiences for intrepid travelers. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged terrain of Deosai National Park or the tranquility of Rama Meadows, each destination promises an adventure of a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on this journey, and uncover the magic of Skardu and its enchanting environs.

Thank you