5 Best Places to Visit in Skardu 2024

In Gilgit Baltistan, Skardu is one of the most visited destinations among tourists. And while pondering a journey to the north of Pakistan, Skardu boasts some of the finest autumnal attractions that one ought to explore.

The ideal time of year to visit Skardu is during the fall since many of the destinations there showcase the bold and vibrant hues of autumn. This enhances tourist satisfaction by allowing them to admire some of the charming and brilliant shades of the autumn season exhibiting magnificent elegance.

It’s fascinating to note that this lovely city is situated in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region of Pakistan. This region is a section of Pakistan’s northern region, which borders Afghanistan, India, and China, and the Skardu Valley is encircled by the majestic Hindu Kush and Karakoram Ranges.

The Hunza Valley, another well-known valley, lies to the region’s north, whereas the marvelous Fairy Meadows is to its west. Skardu, however, has become the most prominent municipality in the area due to its gorgeous and endearing mountains. Skardu is the ideal tourist hotspot for individuals who appreciate being in close proximity to lakes, valleys, towering forts, and cold deserts.

Additionally, this picturesque city is also well-known for its enormous highlands. This breathtaking town is home to K2, the second-highest peak in the world, which lures climbers from all around the world to Skardu. This valley is a deserving tourist destination in Pakistan thanks to its spectacular landscape, impressive fortifications, wonderful heritage, urban customs, and kindhearted inhabitants. Why not arrange a trip to see these incredible sights for yourself?

List of 5 Best Places to Visit in Skardu

Below are some of the best fall destinations that you will not want to miss! Take a look!

1. Katpana Lake and Desert

Nature and Lake Katpana are two of Skardu’s most striking attractions. It’s similarly astonishing to find deserts between the Karakoram and the Himalayas. The Katpana Desert and the Shigar Desert, situated in central Skardu, are blanketed by the Indus River, which is within easy reach of these two spectacular dunes. These dreamy and majestic dunes are sometimes called cold deserts because of the freezing weather and parched surroundings.

Katpana Lake is a charming natural lake that may be found parallel to the desert. Tourists are drawn to this location by its serenity and grandeur. A gorgeous lake, rich green fields, and the Karakoram Mountains in the distance lend appeal to this enigmatic site.

2. Shangri-La Lake

Shangri-La Lake seems to be another breathtaking site on Skardu’s roster of tourist hotspots. The distance between Skardu’s commercial hub and Shangri-La Lake, also known as Upper Kachura Lake, is somewhere around 32 kilometers. This glistening lake is widely obtainable in a two-hour jeep ride.

In the springtime, a variety of vibrant flora emerges, further enhancing the attractiveness of the environs. You can also savor delicious apricots, apples, and peaches that have just been harvested from neighboring trees.

In fact, you can stay at the opulent Shangri-La Resort Hotel nearby to appreciate a comfy and lavish ambiance. You may also notice the uncommon variety of native wildlife and vegetation onsite.

3. Shigar Valley and Fort

Shigar Valley is one of the other must-see locations in Skardu. Near the Shigar River, about an hour away northeast of Skardu, is the enchanting Shigar Valley. To go to Sigel, a quaint settlement, you must pass a gorgeous road.

Many local architectural marvels, including the medieval Chanque Mosque and Shigar Fort, will be evident along the road. In addition to this is that you’ll get to see how local Balti villages have traditionally lived! Amazing, isn’t it?

This valley appeals to travelers because of its history, art, indigenous cultures, pleasant pristine beaches, blind lagoons, and impressive ramparts. The Shigar Fort is among the valley’s best-known ancient landmarks. In the 17th century, this amazing structure was constructed.

The Rocky Land is just another name for this legendary fortification, which acquired the UNESCO World Heritage designation. The fortification is currently being utilized as a guest lodge, with twenty service rooms as well as a pavilion to educate visitors about Baltic tradition.

4. Deosai National Park

The most prominent place to visit in Skardu is the Deosai National Park. The term “top of the globe” is frequently used to describe this location. With a range of 13,497 feet above sea level, these enormous proportions consistently rank second worldwide. This nature reserve should only be approached in the fall as a result of brutally cold winters. In most cases, getting to the park by vehicle from Skardu takes approximately two hours.

When you reach the location, in the Himalayas, you’ll come across and see lots of brown bears. The Deosai Plain contains some aesthetic features such as jade pastures, crystal-clear streams, and towering high mountains; you can have a glimpse of it all.

This location is well-known throughout the world due to its captivating beauty, outstanding springtime-rich biodiversity, and peculiar species. Furthermore, tickets are required for entry into the park. The Deosai National Park is one of the main reasons visitors travel to Skardu.

5. Khaplu Valley

The most major tourist attraction and the most important one in Skardu that tourists should absolutely not miss out on. In autumn, the destination offers absolute elegance and splendor. The Khaplu Valley is near Skardu so while traveling to the valley you will get to witness a number of sites to admire on the route to this delightful panoramic valley.

Travelers and lovely trees flank the valley’s entrance pathway, offering cover. You will eventually arrive at this stunning valley after several hours of meandering paths. This location’s expansive view is very appealing. The drive to this valley is so much more intriguing and entertaining when taken in a jeep.

This historical valley, which is situated at the heart of the spectacular Karakoram Mountains, served as the administrative center of the legendary Yabgu Dynasty. Moreover, you can visit a citadel which has been transformed into a museum in order to entice tourists by demonstrating the traditions and history of this medieval region. If you explore the Khaplu Valley throughout the fall season, you will be over the moon because you’re going to be entranced by the vastness and exuberance of the Valley.

Conclusion

You should definitely add Skardu to your trip itineraries. We heartily urge you to travel to Skardu once in the autumn for an unforgettable experience. In Skardu, autumn begins in mid-September and lasts until about the end of October. We wish you a fantastic journey!