Skardu is located in the breathtaking Himalayas Ranges, which offers travellers a lot of things to do in Skardu. Its stunning landscape scenery and rich cultural heritage attract nature lovers and adventurers. Skardu become a popular tourist destination in Pakistan. Skardu provides you with exploration through various thrilling adventures and the serene beauty of the natural beauty. The valley has rugged terrain tracks, locals’ cuisine, historical sites, and scenic lakes that provide the adventure that travellers seek.
Skardu’s climate is cooly in winter and moderate in summer, making it a year-round tourist destination. If you are a trekking lover, visit Skardu in summer and experience the stunning snow-covered valley in winter. Skardu is also called the “Trekking of North” due to its lack of tourist infrastructure.
With time, Skardu has become a famous tourist adventure destination. This article will provide a complete guide about “things to do in Skardu,” including trekking in the Karakoram Range, exploring lakes, visiting ancient historic forts, doing adventure activities, and sightseeing around the valley.
Things to Do Around Skardu
Skardu offers a wide range of adventure activities in the nearby places. You can find plenty of things in the main bazaar, including hidden gems and the scenery’s beauty. Skardu is a popular attraction in Gilgit Baltistan. The main bazaar of Skardu is the middle point from which to reach the nearby spots.
Check out the list of all the best things to do in Skardu, which is below. Some are located outside the city, but you can discover them on a short-day trip.
Sightseeing and Top Attractions
Shangrila Resort
Shangrila Resort is nestled in the heart of Skardu, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Skardu and majestic Shangrila Lake. It is also known as “Paradise on Earth”. The lake is located a 45-minute drive away from Skardu. The resorts feature lush green gardens, crystal clear lakes, and stunning views of mountain peaks. Visitors immerse themselves in the adventure activities and focus on the “Things to do in Skardu,” including boating and jet skiing to explore the breathtaking beauty of Upper Kachura Lake. They also taste the delicious local cuisine of the resort and make an unforgettable experience of your journey.
Skardu Fort
Skardu Fort, located on the hilltop, features the region’s cultural heritage. It is also known as the Kharpochu Fort. Exploring the history of the ancient Fort and the tales of the rulers who built it provides a pathway to understanding the region’s cultural richness.
The Fort’s interior and exterior walls feature traditional Balti architecture, reflecting its cultural importance. Visitors visit the Fort and capture breathtaking views of the valley surrounded by mountains and the Indus River.
Satpara Lake
Satpara Lake is a fascinating, fresh, crystal-clear gem beauty nestled in the majestic peaks 8 km from Skardu. The lake is famous for its captivating scenery view and natural beauty surrounded by the mountains. It is heaven for nature lovers due to its picturesque beauty. The water reflects the mountain’s shadows that admire the travelers and enjoy the boating experience. The lake is famous among the “Things to do in Skardu.”
Deosai National Park
The Deosai National Park is also called the “Land of Giants.” It is the second-highest altitude plateau on the earth, with dramatic meadows and lush green grassland during the summer. Experience the thrill of trekking through this narrow valley surrounded by mountain ranges.
It unveils diverse wildlife, including Himalayan brown bears, making your journey more adventurous—the two accessible routes to reach Deosai Plains. One is from Skardu to Deosai, consisting of a multi-day round trip to Skardu, and the second is from Astore to Deosai. Ensure all the travel gear, equipment, and proper transport are before traveling to Deosai.
Kachura Lakes
The Upper and Lower Kachura Lakes are famous tourist attractions in Skardu. The Kachura Lake is located a 40 -50 minute drive from Skardu. Both lakes offer picturesque, breathtaking landscapes and beauty surrounded by towering mountains. The crystal-clear water reflects the mountain’s shadow and provides an opportunity to experience the lake’s hiking, boating, and sightseeing. Visitors also stay in the luxurious guest houses or huts of Shangrila Resorts and taste the local food. The lake is a perfect photogenic location for the photographers.
Check out the view at Marsur Rock
A storm in Skardu Valley formed Marsur Rock, the new hiking track in the valley. It is best for hiking. You should take half a day to hike Marsur Rock, located at a height of 600 meters. Start walking towards the valley early in the morning because there is no shade during the journey. Bring a lot of water, snacks, and other refreshments.
Ensure you know the trail’s status before going. If the new trail is very sensitive to walk on, you will need to walk on the old trail track, which is much longer. When you reach the Marsur Rock, you understand why people compare it to Norway’s Trolltunga. The rock features the spectacular image of the Nordic icon, albeit. You can also stay here. Most hikers choose to sleep here and then hike back on the same day.
Go sandboarding in the Safaranga Desert
The two most famous deserts located near Skardu are Katpana and Safaranga. Both are considered the highest deserts in the world and receive snow blankets in winter. They are also known as Cold Deserts. Katpana is located near the Skardu airport, so visitors come a lot to visit this place. If you have a short time, then you will choose to visit Katpana.
Experience the real feel of natural deserts, and head to Safaranga instead of Katpana. It features sand dunes, breathtaking scenery, and adventure activities. It is difficult to find the board in the desert, but the sand dunes are in the perfect shape for sandboarding. You can take a Jeep ride to experience the off-roading to the dunes.
Relax in the Organic Forest
The Organic Forest is located behind the rocks that hold up Kharpocho Fort. It is a very peaceful place compared to the bustling city of Skardu. The trek to the Organic Forest starts from the climb up to the fort. Following the trail, you take 20-25 minutes to reach the sand-wooded area on the bank of the Indus, so it takes 15-20 minutes to reach the Forest.
Arriving at the Organic Forest offers you the opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of sightseeing. There are also man-made canals for great stopping and photography points. Bring a little food for a picnic at this beautiful place. Before evening, return to Skadru by following the route you came.
Climb up to Kharpocho Fort
Visiting the Kharporcho Fort is an incredible experience, “Things to do in Skardu”. It’s located in the centre of the city, and its impressive and beautiful view admires the visitors. So this is the reason why people consider it worth visiting. You can easily walk up to Kharporcho Fort. It is a 15-20 minute climb up the track from the starting point.
Once you reach the fort, you will explore the breathtaking beauty of the valley mountains and the Indus River. The original builders used this fort for defence against attackers and a watchtower in case of invaders.
Visit the K2 Museum
If you want to learn more about mountaineers, go to “The Savage Mountain”, which is dropped by the Italian K2 Museum near the centre of Skardu bazaar. The museum is designed as a pyramidal tent filled with photographs and maps of the first climber, K2, which was first climbed by the Italian climbers in 1954. The museum is located at PTDC Motel Grounds, about 5-10 minutes from the centre of Skardu. Entry is free for everyone.
Make a day trip to Shigar
Shigar Valley features landscapes and sightseeing that are much better than Sakrdu. Visiting here allows you to explore the region’s ancient historic culture. Travel to Shigar starts at the junction leading to Ghanche district, which is the same route to reach Sarfaranga. When you pass through the valley, you can see breathtaking views of mountains and the Shigar River. On your way, there are small villages and a small community.
Keep driving; after 30-40 minutes, you will arrive at Shigar Fort and its old heritage town, famous for its museum/hotel. Spending the night there is unique “Things to do in Skardu.” This is a good place for sightseeing, beauty, and historical heritage experience, then back to Skardu.
Explore the Basho Valley
The valley is situated down the road from Kachura. Basho Valley is famous for its picturesque bucolic meadows. This lovely place exists in the dusty, barren Indus Valley. The entrance of the Basho Valley is fine, but the road up to the valley is not very good or paved. Be ready for an adventure ride in a 4×4 jeep with lots of mud and potholes to reach the valley.
It features beautiful waterfalls, wide pastures, and isolated communities that make it a hidden paradise on earth. The sightseeing is surrounded by the granite walls of Karakorum. There is a limited range of hotels and guesthouses for overnight stays. Make sure to bring your own bedding, food, and equipment for staying there.
Find the Manthal Buddha Rock
The major cradles of Buddhism are found in the Skardu and the Baltistan Regions. The religion flowed from the Asian subcontinent, Central Asia, and onwards to China and Japan. Now, Islam is the dominant faith, but Buddhism is still found in the form of old inscriptions, historical places, and relics.
In the northern region, the most impressive archaeological site is still present in Skardu, Pakistan. The Manthal Rock has been at the edge of town for over a thousand years. This large granite rock of Buddha looks very close to see this place. The entry fee to Buddha Rock is only 150 rupees, and in the morning, it is best to visit this place in better light and less intense heat.
Things to Do Outside of Skardu
Skardu offers plenty of things to do, but the real adventure is found outside in the rest of Baltistan. Baltistan features most of the world’s thrill landscapes, but some have unique and special cultures as well. There are three main districts bordering Skardu: Ghanche, Kharmang, and Astore. These are the best destinations to discover and experience the epic and thrilling journey.
Visit the Palace and Chaqchan Mosque in Khaplu
Khaplu is located near Skardu. It is famous for its breathtaking greenery, peaceful environment, and engaging local sightseeing. Khaplu is only one piece of real civilization before visiting the Hushe and Khondus Valleys.
Khaplu and Shigar feature old heritage historical places, including a museum/hotel. Khaplu is smaller than Shigar but features an impressive view. The Balti architecture style is on full display here. The palace is surrounded by beautiful mountains that enrich its beauty. Pay $200-$300 for one night’s stay in Khaplu, which is too much for Pakistanis but not for foreigners.
Explore the Chaqchan mosque near the palace (one of the oldest mosques in the region). Though foreign entry is banned, the mosque still functions as a place of worship. At the same time, women face obstacles when entering, as is the case with mosques..
Walk amongst the orchards of Barah
Barah is a group of small villages located near Khaplu. Khaplu is undoubtedly worth visiting and a great place to base yourself in the Ghanche district, while Barah is not neglected. This is a hidden paradise and a famous place to visit in Pakistan. Barah is an isolated part of Baltistan.
It features glaciers, irrigated land, canals, and gardens flourishing. Barah is popular for growing 40 different types of organic apricots. You can stay in Barah to explore the beautiful sights of the valley. Experience the hike to the nearest twin waterfalls in the heart of the villages, including Barah Broq, and engage with the locals to learn about the culture of the region.
Climb Moses Peak
There is no doubt K2 is not an accessible mountain to trek. The British started to survey the area in the 19th century. The only way to see the K2 is by trekking up the Baltoro Glacier. Most people skip the option to go to the mountains due to the fear of spending many weeks on the glacier. Machlu La, Burji La, and Humbrok are well-known viewpoints from which to catch a glimpse of K2.
But the Moses Peak is only the one that crushes the rest. The incredible peak is at a high altitude of 5300 meters from sea level at the top of Barah Valley. The 360-degree surrounding mountains include Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush. You can also see from Nanga Parbat on a clear day. A hike to Moses Peak is relatively easy. It takes multiple days to reach. The official name of “Moses Peak” is Barah Broq.”
Admire the Haldi Cones
Passu Cones in Hunza is generally the photographic peak in the region on social media.
Did you know that Ghanche has its own set of cones?
On the way from Saling Bridge, the crossing point from Khaplu to Hushe, you can see the beautiful view of Haldi Cones. A person who has already visited Hunza can compare these cones, which are similar to Passu, crumbly and stunning. While passing through the bridge towards Machlu, you can experience a closer view of Haldi Cones from a little distance. Some ponds are near the cones, making the place great for photography. In the daytime, you can capture the cones’ reflection in the water.
Cool Off at Manthokha Waterfall
Manthoka waterfall is a famous spot in Skardu and has become a tourist attraction. This is also called the highest waterfall due to its tall height. Lush green trees and majestic rugged mountains surround the waterfall. People also have picnics at this place and explore the beauty of sightseeing. They feature luxury guesthouses and hotels for night stays near the beautiful surroundings.
Go on a Superlative Trek in the Hushe Valley
Here are some notable ones worth doing:
Humbrok: This is a two-day, one-night trekking trip to Humbrok. You will explore the amazing view of the valley, and you can also see the K2 from a distance.
Machlu La: To trek the meadow, you need 3 days and 2 nights. You can take a day or two to reach and explore the good view of K2. From the sailing bridge, it is a 30- 40-minute drive to hike Machlu.
Thale La : Four days/3 nights. It connects the Hushe Valley with Shigar. You can capture the view of the Karakoram Mountains.
Nangma Valley: It is a granite playground, and climbing is similar to Yosemite. Aminn Braak is the famous peak in this valley. To visit this place, you need four days and three nights.
Masherbrum Base Camp: It takes four days and three nights to reach it. The long, straightforward way to the base is at a height of 7,800 meters. It starts from Hushe Village and offers some severe glacier trekking.
Charakusa Valley: Reaching the Charakusa Valley is a six-day, five-night trek. It is an ideal place for the climbing community to spend vacation. The valley offers every type of climb imaginable, but not several virgin peaks. Base camp is great. It starts from Hushe and is very prone to rockslides.
The trail is in a restricted region, so you must obtain a permit to visit by contacting a local operator in Skardu. Ishaq Hushevi (WA: +92 333 5915957) is a reliable choice. The valley features a wide range of trekking tracks for adventure lovers.
Neighbourhoods
Skardu Bazaar
It is located in the heart of Skardu. The bazaar is famous for its mineral deposits, dry nuts, gemstones, and handmade crafts. Visitors explore the shops and stalls of traditional handicrafts and textiles. Skardu Bazaar allows you to taste the delicious local cuisines, including Mamtu (dumpling) and grilled yak, which are made with unique recipes. It is a popular hub for local shopping and stones. Remember, when you travel to Pakistan, barter before buying anything from the shop.
Sadpara Village
Sadpara village is a stunning and picturesque village near the Skardu. The village showcases the lifestyle of the Balti people. The village features a breathtaking landscape of beauty surrounded by mountains. Travelers immerse themselves in the cultural heritage and explore the ancient architecture living hood of the village. Another scenic Satpara Lake is also located in this village.
Cultural Activities, Museums, and Galleries
Baltistan Museum
The Baltistan Museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the region. The architecture of the Balti houses, crafts, ancient relics, lifestyles, and artifacts invite visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking culture of Skardu. Exploration of the Skardu Museum is the significance of the rich cultural history that enriches the “Things to do in Skardu” sightseeing of the region.
Local Festivals and Events
The local events celebrated in Skardu every year are the Shandoor Polo Festival, cultural events, and seasonal events. These events represent traditional music, dances, and regional cuisines. This festival enriches the “Things to do in Skardu.” Visitors also participate in these festivals to experience the Balti region’s old cultural and local traditions.
Local Handicrafts and Workshops
Skardu has a vibrant handicraft artisan in its cultural heritage. Visitors can take part in workshops to create beautiful, classic, intricate pottery, textiles, handmade woodwork, and metal crafts. The workshop offers a hands-on experience to learn about traditional techniques and make conventional and cultural crafts. It also boasts the region’s scenic handicraft techniques.
Outdoor Activities & Parks
Trekking in Skardu
Skardu is an adventure paradise with many trails through stunning landscapes, rugged terrain, and beautiful scenery. The valley offers a variety of adventure activities, from the Baltoro glacier trek to the fantastic K2 base camp, starting with different routes and challenges. A trekking experience in Skardu is a journey through the wilderness and breathtaking local culture and traditions. Skardu is the best outdoor adventure destination for adventure seekers.
Fishing and Boating
Fish farming is widespread in Skardu. The lakes and rivers in Skardu feature fishing and boating activities. Experience breathtaking boating in the crystal-clear, majestic lake to enjoy the picturesque Surroundings. All types of river trout fish are delicious when grilled. Boating and fishing activities offer visitors a leisure experience to relax and enjoy the natural landscape’s beauty.
Camping in the Skardu Region
Skardu Valley offers camping sites from mountain peaks to lush grassland at high-altitude plains in Deosai National Park. Camping is not only an experience of sleeping under the stars but also an opportunity to explore the natural scenery outside the bustling world. This is ideal for those who love adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Food and Drink
Local Cuisine
Skardu is famous for its delicious local cuisine in Balti traditions. The local cuisine has aromatic spices, hearty meats, and grains. The famous dishes of Skardu, like “Apricot Chicken” and “Thukpa” noodle soup, are cooked with locally sourced. Experience the local cuisine and cultural heritage during the journey through the Balti region.
Popular Eateries and Restaurants
Many restaurants offer a wide range of delicious culinary options. From cafes serving savory tea and freshly baked cakes to restaurants offering a wide range of local and international cuisines, the food invites visitors to enjoy the region’s traditional cuisine.
Traditional Beverages
Traditional beverages include flavoured teas, butter tea, and salty chai with local herbs and spices. They also serve a fresh juice of organic apricot and lemon-infused black tea. These beverages refresh you while you explore the valley’s scenic beauty during your journey. “Things to do in Skardu.”
Shopping & Dining
Souvenir Shopping
Shopping is the most important factor during your trip to Skardu. The local bazaar features a wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, woodwork, and handmade Balti artifacts. The bazaar is decorated with colorful crafts that inspire travelers to shop during their journey. These crafts indicate Balti rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
Local Markets and Bazaars
The bazaar and local markets show the heart of Skardu’s beauty. Engage in activities and explore the stalls of products, spices, and textiles for daily life. Discovering this beautiful hub, “Things to do in Skardu,” and interacting with the locals is a fantastic experience.
Unique Dining Experiences
Skardu features a unique culinary experience. You can enjoy dining in the breathtaking beauty of the starry sky, served with traditional food. It offers a diverse range of food for a memorable escape. This unique dining experience adds more adventure to your journey of “things to do in Skardu.”
Entertainment
Cultural Performances
Explore the Skardu cultural performance, a fantastic entertainment scene in the city. These cultural events include traditional dance, folk music, concerts, and theatre dramas. They allow visitors to explore the heritage of Balti. You can participate in this performance, which is a blend of “Things to do in Skardu” that showcases the local and traditional art of the region.
Movie Theaters and Entertainment Centers
The concept of movie theaters and entertainment centers must be promoted in Skardu. The region offers only local shows, occasionally hosting film screenings and cultural events. This allows visitors and locals to entertain themselves. These occasional screenings enrich the value of “Things to do in Skardu.”
Sports
Adventure Sports in Skardu
Skardu offers a wide range of thrilling adventures, from playgrounds to pumping activities for visitors. Start your journey from trill mountain climbing and experience the paragliding to the stunning landscape of Skardu City. Trekking across the rugged terrains, adventure 4×4 jeep ride to the majestic plains, and participate in river rafting on the Indus River. This group of activities is a mixture of thrilling “Things to do in Skardu” for adventure seekers.
Local Sporting Events
Skardu hosts local sporting events that encourage the community to participate in sports. The event includes traditional polo matches that showcase the region’s heritage and cricket and football tournaments to bring the locals and visitors together. They offer a unique experience where you can enjoy the local culture and develop impressive community engagement in “Things to do in Skardu.”
Nightlife
Evening Hangouts
Skardu offers beautiful evening hangouts from the bustling nightlife. The cafes and guest houses near the lakes provide a perfect setting to capture the sun setting behind the majestic mountain peaks. These locations also give you a peaceful environment for serene views and relaxation while exploring the beauty of nature, enriching the value of “Things to do in Skardu.”
Nighttime Activities
Exploring nighttime activities in Skardu includes bonfires and stargazing under the starlit sky. These activities offer a serene way to capture the stunning landscape beauty of the region. Immersing yourself in the nighttime activities gives you a calming and impressive experience of the valley surroundings.
Accommodations
Hotels and Resorts
Skardu offers many hotels and resorts featuring comfort and luxury accommodations. Explore the stunning beauty of the valley surrounded by mountain peaks in nature. Some hotels also organize guided tours that include trekking, cultural, sightseeing, and adventure to experience the cozy stay and city attractions.
Guesthouses and Lodges
The guesthouses and lodges in Skardu provide a comfortable, luxurious, and homely experience. Accommodations allow visitors to explore the region’s culture, sightseeing, and interaction with locals and fellow travelers. They also offer a private recommendation for exploring the city and engaging in “Things to do in Skardu.” Staying in a luxury accommodation makes your trip memorable.
Transportation Options
Rental transport is available around Skardu to visit the area and sightseeing. Local transport that connects different routes to Skardu is a budget travel option. Hiring a local guide and traveling with a tour company ensure the experience of navigating Skardu. This transportation is vital in facilitating easy access to the sightseeing attractions of “Things to do in Skardu.”
Tips for Navigating Skardu
Before traveling to Skardu, some essential tips are required for a fantastic experience. First of all, plan your adventure, excursion, and sightseeing activities. The most important thing is to consider weather conditions. Immerse yourself with the locals to explore the region’s breathtaking culture and understand various “Things to do in Skardu” are done. This journey through the rich traditions discovered makes a lasting and memorable experience.
Where to Stay in Skardu
Mostly visitors to stay in the center of Skardu near bazaar and food cafes. After a few hour research work we find the best middle points of stay in Skardu that is nearby the market just from 10-20 minutes drive. We listed below the best hotels and guesthouses for stay in Skardu.
- The Garden Villa Resort : This is a newly constructed hotel by Mr Ishaq Hushevi. The hotel has well-designed luxury rooms with modern amenities. It is located near the Skardu main Bazaar. It offers the best accommodation in a peaceful environment and the beauty of nature.
- Eat and Read Hotel: This is the best option for staying in luxurious accommodation. There are also cheaper options, but this is an excellent choice for vacationing at the Skardu Eat and Read Hotel.
- Serena Shigar Fort: Serena is a famous brand in Pakistan. It offers very beautiful places to stay. Immerse yourself at this breathtaking mountain hotel.
How to Get to Skardu
You can get to Skardu by road or by air. Several flights operate from Pakistani cities daily to Skardu. Flying is a convenient way to reach Skardu from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Getting to Skardu by road is another great option instead of canceling a flight due to weather conditions. The airline will reschedule the delayed flight and accommodate you for the next day’s flight to Skardu.
There are two route to get to Skardu:
- Via the Gilgit-Skardu road: The highest paved road, Karakoram Highway, was newly built in the last several years. You take 4-5 hours drive from Gilgit to Skardu. However, with traffic or landslides, the travel will be closer for 8-10 hours.
- Via Deosai and Astore: The route required a 4×4 jeep vehicle to get from Chalham to Sadpara. The road is in terrible shape and surrounded by majestic mountain peaks. There is no public transport option throughout this route, so it is better to take your private or rental car. It takes 6-8 hours from Astore to Skardu. Remember that the Deosai is an epic trip and a destination worth visiting.