There are many scenic places to visit in Skardu Valley. Skardu beautiful places are waiting for you to enjoy the natural scenery. We have best Skardu Tour Packages from Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad at affordable prices. Moreover, Skardu places to visit are Khaplu, Shigar Valley, Manthoka Waterfall, Khurpacho Fort, Shangrilla and Upper Kachura Lake, Deosai Plain best destinations to visit. So, Top 10 – 15 Skardu Famous Places to visit are as following:
This valley is 52 km away from Skardu, and it takes 3 to 4 hours to reach there. Shigar Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in Skardu. So, this valley is 23km away from Skardu. 40 to 50 mins drive from Skardu. All kinds of vehicles can go through.
Additionally, a mighty river in this valley watered the whole region and is the gateway to the mighty mountain of Karakorum. One of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, Skardu, is teeming with unmissable sights.
Shigar Fort Fort is also located here, which was once the residence of the native ruler. A Kashmiri carpenter built a wooden mosque in the middle of the valley. You can also visit the Zharba, or Blind lake is, a Panoramic Lake near Shigar Valley, Baltistan region. Moreover, Shigar Fort is a one-of-a-kind heritage boutique hotel situated within a peaceful natural setting.
We have wide range of Skardu Tour Packages from all over the Pakistan. Seek refuge and find adventure in a 400-year-old fort and the 17th century Palace of the Raja of Shigar, which, along with the more recently added “Old House” and “Garden House,” encompass 20 rooms and suites steeped in Balti culture.
Khaplu Valley is one of the ancient valleys of Baltistan situated along the Shyok River. The best honeymoon destination in whole Baltistan. A romantic view of the Karakoram Mountains, Majestic Peaks, Crystal clear streams make it more attractive. You can also visit the Khaplu Fort, known as Yabgo Khar.
In addition, Balti’s delicious food is another reason to visit this valley. Summer, Spring, and colorful Autumn Seasons are the best seasons to visit this valley. Syed Ali Hamdani constructed the Chaqchan mosque, also the main attraction. The fresh and crystal clear water of Ghanche makes this valley mesmerizing for tourists in Cheap Hunza Holiday Packages.
Kharphocho Fort is a must-visit destination in Skardu. It is on the edge of a hill overlooking the Indus River and the town of Skardu. Although a well-maintained path leads to the fort, reaching the top requires some physical exertion due to its height. A five-minute drive from the city center followed by a ten-minute hike will take you to the fort, where you’ll enjoy the breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding landscape.
The fort was built in the late 16th century by King Ali Sher Khan Anchan. The visit to the fort should be on your bucket list as a complimentary part of our tour. It is on a mountain near the city. The track to the top is very rough, but it is relatively manageable. At the top, there are a few rooms that remain, but they are in poor condition. We noticed a housekeeper residing there, although no facilities were available.
There is an old mosque at the top, over 900 years old, showcasing beautiful woodwork on its doors and windows. Some restoration work was evident, but it is far from complete. The views from the fort are breathtaking, offering panoramas of the town, river, terraced fields, apricot and cherry trees, and the majestic Karakoram ranges. It would be beneficial for the tourism department to put up instructions to make the area more presentable.
I recommend taking this free trek if you are in Skardu. Be sure to bring some water, especially on a hot day. In the UK, they would likely charge an entry fee of around £10 for such a visit.
The Katpana Desert (also called Cold Desert or Biama Nakpo) is a high-altitude desert in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, near Skardu. It features sand dunes occasionally covered in snow during winter.
The Katpana Desert stretches from Khaplu Valley to Zanskar (Indian Occupied Kashmir), with the largest area in Skardu and Shigar Valleys. Temperatures range from 8°C to 27°C in summer, dropping to −17°C or lower in winter.
The desert is known for activities like stargazing (edge-to-edge Milky Way visibility), trekking, photography, sunset views, and winter landscapes with snow-dusted dunes. It may require a 4WD vehicle for deeper exploration.
This unique landscape combines arid dunes with mountain vistas, making it a standout destination in Pakistan’s north.
Katpana Lake itself is a stunning spot. At the base of the dunes, there is a small lake, which we found completely dry today. It feels that the reservoir fills with water once the rainy season begins. The view from the top of the dunes is truly beautiful. The view from the top is mesmerizing, and if you are fortunate, you might be invited by locals to board a boat, as that’s their way of crossing the lake to the village. Otherwise, it is best to walk and not intrude. A walk from the top down to the lake is a must.
Tip: Remember to bring plenty of water, as it can get very hot during the summer season.
If you plan to visit in winter or early spring, make sure to bring appropriate clothing and enough fuel for your trip. A day trip can also be enjoyable, but keep in mind that it is called a cold desert for a reason—it can drop to 1 degree at night.
Manthoka Waterfall is located in the Kharmang Valley, approximately 120 km from Skardu. The waterfall is easily accessible by road, and the journey is beautiful, showcasing interesting and breathtaking scenery. The area is peaceful, with a water stream flowing from the hills, leading to the waterfall. The sound and pressure of the falling water are impressive. You will take the time to take pictures, enjoy tea and snacks, and offer the Zuhr prayer.
Upon arrival, there are designated parking areas for cars. It is a busy place on weekends, so it’s better to visit this attraction on weekdays. There are tree houses overlooking the waterfall available for rent, as well as a large restaurant and convenience store that sell various local products and snacks. You also have the option to bring a picnic with you. Its also included in our Pakistan Tour Packages.
The waterfall itself is spectacular. You can access it via a wooden bridge secured with metal cables, which provides a fun, slightly bouncy experience. There are plenty of photo opportunities, but I recommend wearing sturdy and preferably waterproof footwear as the paths leading to the waterfall are uneven, steep in places, and can be slippery. Be prepared to get wet as you approach the waterfall, as the water spray is quite substantial. Despite its relatively remote location, visiting was definitely worth it for me.
Hiring a car is a good option, as local transport is not very comfortable. A sedan rental costs around 5,000 PKR (approximately $35), while a 5-door vehicle ranges from 8,000 to 10,000 PKR ($60-$80). I personally opted for a sedan. full of
The road to Kharmang Valley is in good condition. You can expect an average speed of about 80 kph, though the road can be bumpy and pitted in places. The route to Kharmang is filled with natural beauty, often prompting stops to enjoy the scenic views. The last leg of the journey is roughly 5 km and can be tiring, as there is no paved road, and speeds drop to around 5 kph or less.
Adjacent to the waterfall, there’s an open-area resort called Manthoka Waterfall Resort, which serves freshly cooked trout fish and fries. A small tuck shop is also available at the resort, though prices are higher compared to those in the mainstream Skardu market. Ending your evening with a warm cup of tea against the backdrop of the waterfall makes for an even more special and memorable experience (especially for tea lovers).
Overall, Manthoka Waterfall is a must-visit destination that truly lives up to expectations.
As a must-visit attraction in Baltistan, Deosai is typically open from mid-June to the end of October. Skardu, situated in Baltistan, offers many other attractions, including treks and hikes, but Deosai stands out as something extraordinary. Although the road leading there is quite rough, once you arrive, you will quickly forget all those bumps.
Deosai Plain, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, offers unparalleled beauty and tranquility. You will be captivated by its ethereal charm and untouched landscapes that stretched as far as the eye could see.
A day trip from Skardu to Deosai typically takes 7 to 9 hours, making it feasible for visitors. At more than 13,000 feet above sea level, Deosai holds a special status, surrounded by towering mountains, each over 20,000 feet tall. The views are exquisitely beautiful, leaving visitors in awe. The area features a lake called SheoSar, which translates to “blind lake,” as it has no visible water outlet.
The sheer vastness of Deosai Plain took my breath away. Rolling meadows blanketed in a sea of wildflowers, framed by majestic snow-capped peaks, created a surreal and awe-inspiring sight. You can join our Northern Areas Tour Packages to cover all the main tourist attractions of Skardu Valley. Deosai is home to the Brown bear, and you can also easily spot Marmots living in colonies throughout the plains.
Two majestic rivers run through Deosai; however, both have hanging bridges, reducing some of the adventure. Traveling to Deosai Plain from Islamabad by road is a long journey, spanning approximately 600 km.
The Astore Valley offers a range of accommodations, including good hotels and restaurants located on the other side of Deosai Plain. Upon crossing Deosai from the Astore side, travelers descend into Skardu, which also has pleasant tourist accommodations.
Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan) comprises mainly five primary valleys, one of which is Kharmang Valley—the point where the Indus River enters Pakistan. Deosai Plain is one of the well-known tourist attractions in this Skardu.
Insider Tip: Located at an altitude of nearly 4,000 meters, the air is quite thin. So those with asthma or heart issues should consider avoiding the area.
Undoubtedly, Sheosar Lake is the jewel of Deosai National Park. Situated at the far end of the park, the Chilam Chowki side, Sheosar Lake sits at an elevation of 13,000 feet above sea level. While there are a few areas where you can easily approach the water, much of the shoreline is boggy. The lake is quite deep and has crystal-clear water.
Around the lake, picnic spots are available, and a couple of small kiosks offer drinks, snacks, and tea. However, if you want to eat by the lake, you will need to bring your own food. The weather can be quite windy, and if the sun disappears, temperatures can drop quickly. The lake remains frozen for almost 4-5 months each year.
It took us almost five hours to reach Sheosar Lake, and once you arrive, you will find yourselves in a truly beautiful place. The weather was very cold, with the temperature hovering around -2°C, but it felt like -10°C due to the wind. It is essential to wear a very warm jacket, a cap, and gloves. The scenery was breathtaking, though the cold wind added to the experience. The land is covered with grass, but it’s quite uneven because there’s still water beneath it, so be careful when walking on that surface—you could lose your shoe!
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Satpara Lake is a beautiful wild wonder in Gilgit-Baltistan near Skardu which is 5 KM above the Skardu hence its water resource never gets dry. The lake has turquoise waters that are enveloped by tall mountains and In the center of the lake, there is a beautiful Island.
It is a famous tourist destination of Skardu from all over the world and is visited by thousands of visitors yearly on the way to Deosai Plain. The lake is situated at 2,821 meters (8,987 feet) above sea level and is accessible by a 30-minute adventurous jeep ride from Skardu.
Even so, the sight of the mountains lying among ice is picturesque and breathtaking. At first glance, the lake sight can captivate your heart with its fairy-tale meadows, mountains, and crystal water. Aside from enjoying the breathtaking views, the lake is also a great place to participate in a variety of activities.
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Shangrilla is one of the beautiful lake of Pakistan and located when the Gilgit Skardu road end up and you cross the bridge. Also known as Top Beautiful Places of Skardu. Kachura Lake is one of the main tourist attractions of Skardu. You will be amazed by the beauty and serenity of the place. The calmness, sound of water, and ever-changing view of the same landscape due to the natural light effect make it a perfect place to stay for at least a night.
Upper Kachura Lake is truly beautiful and easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. The lake is located to the west of Lower Kachura and sits at an elevated position. It will take 20 minutes by car to reach the main parking area, followed by an additional 10 minutes to reach the lake. It takes you past local vendors selling handmade and locally sourced products.
There are also places where you can stop for drinks or snacks. At the base of the lake, you will find a peaceful hotel that offers a western view, as well as boat riding opportunities. During autumn, the lake presents a serene ambiance, with colorful leaves in shades of yellow, green, and orange-red.
The first view of the lake is from an elevated position, offering a breathtaking panorama. However, to reach the lake’s edge, you must navigate a considerable number of steep concrete stairs, which may pose a challenge for visitors with mobility issues. It’s also important to note that the water level of the lake changes throughout the year. In July and August, the melting mountain snow results in a fuller lake.
I visited in May when the mountains were still snow-capped, and the water levels were lower. Once down at the lake level, there are plenty of boats of various sizes ready to take you on a boat tour, which is both enjoyable and inexpensive. I was fortunate during my visit; it was very quiet, and the boat I chose was the only one on the lake. Experiencing such a beautiful place almost entirely to myself was a true privilege. Check weather before visit.
The lake is incredibly serene and picturesque, and you cannot complete your visit to Skardu without experiencing it. There are many activities available, including speed boating, jet skiing, zip lining, and swimming. Drifting in a speed boat was definitely the highlight of my visit!
Basho Valley is among the newly discovered hot spots around Skardu. This region has many high-altitude meadows above 3000 meters, and it is a signature landscape. In the background, the towering mountains are part of the Karakoram Range, while Basho lies in the Himalayas.
You can visit this beautiful valley in the Rondu region. It is a 2-hour Jeep Ride from Skardu’s main city. You will have to hire local 4×4 Jeeps, as driving on this track can be a bit tricky. Taking the Gilgit – Skardu road to Basho is ideal at the beginning or end of your trip since the turn for Basho is just before Kachura / Skardu.
There are few places on earth, that can compare with Basho Valley in Skardu, Pakistan. The Valley is a genuine paradise for nature enthusiasts because it is encircled by imposing mountains. Adventures can be had in a variety of ways, including hiking, trekking, night camping under million stars, hunting, and rock climbing.
The vistas are also amazing! There is something magical about this location, whether you are gazing at the glistening water of the lake or the towering hills. You can have a lifetime experience at the Basho Canyon if you want something unforgettable.
Chunda Valley is nothing short of magical! The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas, and during the blossom season, the valley transforms into a paradise draped in pink and white. It is a must-visit destination in Skardu for anyone seeking peace, beauty, and unforgettable views.
Situated at an elevation of 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) above sea level, Chunda Valley lies at the junction of the Indus and Shigar rivers. It is easily accessible from Skardu, but it is advisable to travel there in a 4×4 vehicle due to the condition and incline of some roads.
You will enjoy stunning apple blossoms, clear blue skies, and snow-capped peaks in the spring season. This area is also home to an abundance of cherry trees, with their blossoms at their best in March and April.
The views from Chunda Valley are truly spectacular. Trying to convey just how beautiful the scenery is in this part of Pakistan is quite difficult; there don’t seem to be enough adjectives to do it justice.
The viewpoint offers incredible views, with majestic mountains as a backdrop and a lush, fertile valley cradled below. When visiting Skardu, be sure not to miss this hidden gem!
More to Know: Plenty of camping opportunities in the region, along with various places to find food and drinks.
Souq Valley is a hidden gem in Skardu, blessed with lush greenery, flowing streams, and absolute serenity—perfect for those who appreciate peace and nature. The Dream Nest Resort is the perfect spot to enjoy delicious food while soaking in the calm beauty of Souq Valley. It offers a serene escape where good taste meets the charm of nature.
Buddha Rock Manthal is located just outside the town of Skardu, off Satpara Road. This large granite rock features a carving of Buddha that dates back to the 8th century, making it a site of historical significance and a heritage site.
Buddhism flourished in this region between the 8th and 10th centuries, and many other carvings related to the faith can also be found nearby, with Buddha Rock considered the finest example. The carving depicts Buddha along with two future Buddhas (Maitreya) and 20 disciples (Bodhisattvas).
Visiting Buddha Rock involves a short walk from Skardu, with a little uphill climb to this ancient attraction. The visit doesn’t take long, and when I went, it was quiet, allowing me to take my time and truly appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of the carving, which is impressive for its age.
This engraving on a large rock dates back to the 8th century, when Baltistan was a predominantly Buddhist region, along with the Gilgit and Chilas areas.
The K2 Museum, sponsored by the Italian government, was established on the 50th anniversary of the first successful ascent of K2 by Italian climbers. Located at the PTDC K2 Motel in Skardu, the motel itself is steeped in the history of climbing and trekking in the great mountain ranges of Baltistan. If you’re not staying here, consider spending an evening after your museum tour enjoying a cup of tea with a view of the magnificent Indus River.
The museum offers great reviews of the local flora and fauna, as well as accounts of the various early attempts to scale K2, complete with large-scale photographs. It is well-maintained and presents a glimpse into local culture, and expedition maps, making it a significant tourist attraction.
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In terms of tourism, Skardu is one of the best destinations in the world. There is a wealth of diversity in the landscape, and the weather is spectacular, especially during the peak tourist season. There are sky-piercing mountains and cliffs surrounding the 15-kilometer-wide by 50-kilometer-long Skardu Valley, with rivers flowing on each flank along with beautiful flora and fauna. The diversity is so unique that you can find a whole desert between the lush green valleys, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers. Each year, millions of people from Pakistan and abroad visit this beautiful place and enjoy the best time of their lives.
A walk to the Organic Village Trek begins from the main Skardu market road alongside the Polo Ground and Football Stadium. Along a mountainous path and a few wooden bridges, you must trek for almost an hour alongside the River Indus. At first glance, this trek is quite dangerous. In a few minutes, it will become easy if you focus all your attention on it. It is impossible to describe in words the view of the city and the river. Take some amazing photos of the entire valley while you stop for some photography. There are products made from 100% organic ingredients available at Organic Village.
Kachura is further down the road from the renowned Basho Valley, where bucolic meadows abound. There are many contrasts between this lovely, languid place and the dusty, barren Indus Valley. If you’re in need of a bit of greenery, this is the best thing near Skardu to do.
Although the road to the entrance of the Basho Valley is relatively good – having been repaved a couple of years ago – the road up the valley does not seem as good. There is lots of mud and potholes when traveling here, so make sure you have a Jeep or 4×4 with you.
The inner sanctum of the Basho Valley is idyllic. This place feels like a hidden paradise thanks to its wide pastures, isolated communities, and abundant waterfalls. The towering granite walls of the Karakoram frame all this scenery. Nearby guesthouses are available to those who want to spend the night. There is no bedding or food provided, though, so you are advised to carry your own.
