Hey wanderers! Are you planning an expedition to visit the best places in Skardu, or perhaps looking for the must-visit spots while staying there? No need to stress because I have got you covered!
I had an extensive stay in Pakistan along with my friends, and we ventured to many of its amazing places. So, I have compiled the ultimate ‘Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Skardu’ list for you, so you can have the best time exploring the wondrous land too.
Now, this isn’t any typical random list based on rankings or reviews, but these are places that I’ve personally explored and absolutely fallen in love with. Whether on a solo trip or vacationing with family or friends, these places are must-visits that will etch into your heart forever (just as they did in mine).
And I would strongly recommend everyone to visit these destinations for an unforgettable adventure in Skardu!
So, let’s start.
Best Places to Visit in Skardu:
1. Deosai National Park
The first place at the top of this list is Deosai National Park, and as I call it ‘a place of wonder’, it indeed is. It is my absolute favourite place to relax and camp in the wilderness of Deosai. At a distance of 40 km away from Skardu city, the Deosai National Park is located at an elevation of 4114M (14500 ft) above sea level and only accessible by jeeps.
It is the second-highest alpine plain in the world, covering an area of 4000 square km. Now, one can imagine why this ‘Land of Giants’ is the best place to camp in Skardu. It is also home to the Himalayan Brown Bear, which was the foremost reason why I visited it the first time, flying all the way to Skardu just to have a glimpse of these furry giants.
With diverse fauna and flora, Deosai and its ever-expanding lands undoubtedly offer a spellbinding experience to everyone.
2. Sheosar Lake
Sheosar Lake is also located in Deosai, but this place deserves to be on the list separately. I can never forget the enrapturing experience of camping and stargazing at Sheosar Lake. Called the ‘Heart of Deosai’, it is located at 13500 ft above sea level with a length of 65 km.
The lake is mostly cold but surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Thus, it provides a fascinating, peaceful atmosphere that people can’t get enough of, which is why I recommend visiting it.
3. Skardu or Kharpocho Fort
The next on the list is Skardu fort, named Kharpocho fort. For history geeks, this one is an absolute feast for you. This ancient landmark is perched 1,400 metres high on the hilltop of Skardu City, Pakistan, which is accessible after 40 minutes. The preserved fort dates back to the 16th century, and every wall whispers secrets of the past.
Not just the history and the tales attached, but the old-style architecture it is built in, is too awe-inspiring. Even if you’re not into all this, the panoramic view of the whole Skardu city you get from its top is worth a visit at least once. The King of Forts is not something to miss in Skardu!
4. Upper Kachura Lake
During my first visit to Skardu, I was unaware of the places and what to visit. Fortunately, the locals were very welcoming, and they suggested this place, Upper Kachura Lake. And woah, I could not be more grateful for this suggestion.
Skardu has many stupefying lakes, but Kachura Lake is totally something else. Located in Kachura Village, the mesmerising lake is encircled by dense alpine forests, gigantic mountains, and breathtaking beauty. The serenity of this place makes it no less than a paradise.
5. Shangrila Resort
The lavish Shangrila resort should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list. One of the most popular destinations in Skardu, this splendid resort is the gateway to Lower Kachura Lake.
With an entry fee of 1000 PKR ($3-4) per person, you are led to an enticing world with a lush green garden, beautiful orchards, and a crystal clear heart-shaped lake in the middle. I enjoyed most of my time with my friends, boating and trout fishing there.
6. Katpana Cold Desert
The coldest desert in Pakistan, Katpana Cold Desert, is an unexplored beauty in Skardu, with unique sand dunes surrounded by big snowy mountains. It is 15 minutes from Skardu city, right at the entrance of the Shigar Valley.
This wonderland, with a mix of the warm desert and snowy mountains, is like nowhere else. There was a different touch of natural wonder when I was sliding down the dunes. Have a visit and experience it yourself!
7. Basho Valley
Here’s another less explored place but an extremely beautiful place in Skardu, Basho Valley. This secret paradise is nestled in the Roundu Division of Skardu District, almost a 3-hour drive away from the main city. Then, a bumpy uphill ride of 1.5 hours takes you to the guarded beauty, the picturesque Basho Valley.
It is situated at an elevation of 3,600 metres (11,800 feet) above sea level. With no mobile networks anywhere in the valley, we were totally indulged in the peacefulness of this place. The Basho Waterfall, Chocolate Rocks, and the Ice Cave are some must-see points in Basho Valley.
8. Manthal Buddha Rock
For a spiritual and peaceful time, I would suggest you visit Manthal Buddha Rock. This holy relic of Buddhists in Skardu dates back to the 8th century. It is located in Manthal village in Skardu.
The relief sculpture of Buddha with old rock carvings on a large granite stone is something to keep spectating about. I had a wonderful time exploring these historical carvings, and I’m sure you would love it, too.
9. Hushe Valley
When listing the best places to visit in Skardu, how can I miss this magical land?
Hushe Valley is yet another hidden jewel in Skardu. The last settlement of Pakistan, Hushe, is located in the Ghanche district, Gilgit-Baltistan. This valley is also the gateway to the mighty Karakoram ranges.
I was totally wonderstruck by the beauty surrounding this village. The glimpses of the glorious towering peaks of Karakoram and the raw beauty of this traditional village made it one of my favourite places in Skardu.
10. Khaplu Valley
The administrative capital of the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khaplu’s charm is totally irresistible. I found a different kind of solace in its verdant landscapes. The warm hospitality of the locals towards me made this place more special.
Since it is the base for trekking into the Hushe Valley, Khaplu is a gateway to many thrilling treks. There are many tourist attractions in Khaplu, but the most famous is Serena Khaplu Fort. The palace is a significant landmark in both historical and cultural aspects.
There are many more sites worth visiting in Khaplu that I explored and would recommend to everyone.
Conclusion:
As I write these best places to visit in Skardu, I’m just rejuvenated by all the memories back there in Skardu, Pakistan. I now call it my second home, because of the memories attached.
With picturesque beauty, cultural heritage, hospitality of locals, comfort of living, raw natural beauty and serenity of the surroundings, Skardu is undoubtedly a paradise. And all these places mentioned above are enchanting landscapes that everyone should definitely explore.
If you’re planning for an expedition to Skardu, make sure to embrace these out-of-world places!