The best activities in Skardu Ultimate Travel Guide.

Skardu is a great place of visiting in Pakistan. The Gilgit-Baltistan region is known to have it and the mountainous terrain, the crystal lakes, the expansive deserts and the serene environment. The Karakoram and Himalaya mountains surround the town and this town is the entry point to some of the tallest mountains in the world, such as K2. Thousands of people visit Skardu every year to explore the nature, adventure sports, and the culture of the people.

This guide will demonstrate the best things to do in Skardu in case you are planning to visit it and you do not want to waste any of your time there and enjoy the great beauty of this place.

Tour Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake)

Shangrila Resort commonly referred to as Heaven on Earth is one of the most renowned locations in Skardu. It is close to Lower Kachura Lake which is approximately 20 minutes of Skardu city. The resort is encircled with the tall mountains, green gardens and a clear lake of clear water.

Another unique aspect of Shangrila Resort is the airplane restaurant, which is an old airplane converted into a restaurant where one can have meals. It is also possible to row in the lake, walk through the gardens, or just relax and take photos of the view.

Tips for visitors:

May to September is the most optimal period.
Entry tickets are required (they are typically inexpensive).

• Family, couple and photographer friendly.
  Shangrila has everything to offer to those who prefer to enjoy peace, nature, and scenic views.

Explore Upper Kachura Lake

The other beautiful natural place in skardu is the Upper Kachura Lake that is just a short walk away of the Shangrila Resort. Compared to Lower Kachura, Upper Kachura is not active and gives the person a relaxing environment consisting of a serene lake and high mountains in the background.

The lake is renowned in that it has deep blue water and crystal clear hence its popularity among nature lovers and photographers. Tourists have an opportunity to swim, go boating, hike in the vicinity and take pictures of the lake that they will remember.

Travel tips:

• Snacks and water there are no restaurants around.
  Hiking: Hikes The trails in the area can be visited by wearing hiking shoes.
• Morning is not the best time to take a picture because of mist and reflections.
• Upper Kachura Lake is a great destination to visit when a traveler does not want crowds.

Explore the Beauty of Shigar Valley.

Shigar valley is located approximately 30 kilometers away in Skardu and it is one of the most picturesque valleys in the area. It has its mountains, rivers and traditional Balti villages around it, providing the visitors with both nature and culture.

The key one is the Shigar Fort which is an old structure that has been refurbished into a museum and a luxury hotel. The fort reveals a rich history and traditions of the Baltistan region and provides an insight into the royal life of the past.

Things to do in Shigar Valley:

• Shigar Fort and museum.
• Traditional Balti villages.
• Walk along rivers in nature
• Try local Balti food

Shigar Valley is an ideal blend of history, culture, and nature and as such it is a place to visit around Skardu.

Cold Desert (Sarfaranga Desert) Visit.

A lot of the travellers get shocked to hear that Skardu has a cold desert known as the Sarfaranga Desert. It is a high cold desert which is situated right outside the city of Skardu.

There are white sand dunes and rocky terrain in the desert with mountains forming a unique adventure and photographing location. This is particularly famous amongst the photographers who desire an alternative landscape in Pakistan.

Activities to enjoy:

• Jeep rides across the dunes
• Desert camping and star gazing.
  Adventure seekers: Sandboarding.
• pictorials of the distinctive landscape.

There is also the Sarfaranga Jeep Rally which is taking place in the desert and the adventure lovers across the country are coming to it. The sunset visit is also a magical sight of the dunes with the golden tint.

Tour Deosai National Park.

Deosai National Park is the most spectacular tourist attraction near Skardu commonly referred to as the Land of Giants due to the expansive plains and elevated altitude. It is the second highest plateau in the world and it is above the sea level by more than 4,000 meters.

Deosai has wildlife, notable with Himalayan brown bear that is a rare animal, numerous birds, marmots, and wildflowers. The most beautiful place in the park is the Sheosar Lake which is a clear blue lake surrounded by snow covered mountains and wild flower-laden meadows in the summer.

Things to do in Deosai:

• Check wild animals and make photos.
• Camp under the stars
• Jeep safari on the plateau
• Visit Sheosar Lake
• Trek on nearby trails

Tips for visitors:

• June to September is the most appropriate month to visit.
• It is better to come with warm clothes during summer because nights are quite cold.
• Do not forget to carry food and water, the facilities are minimal.

Deosai National Park is the best destination among the adventure travelers and nature lovers who wish to explore one of the most distinct ecosystems in Pakistan.

Tour Skardu Fort (Kharpocho Fort).

Kharpocho Fort or Skardu Fort is an ancient fort that is on a mountain topping the city. The fort was constructed in the 16 th century and commands panoramic views of the Karaku town, the Indus River and the mountains and valleys that surround it.

It takes a mild hike to get to the fort but the view at the top is magnificent. Tourists are given an opportunity to walk around the ancient walls, capture picturesque photos, and discover the history of Baltistan.

Tips:

Morning or evening – go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the views are best.

• Hiking shoes should be comfortable.
  Combine the visit with the local markets to buy souvenirs.

The castle is an awesome place to visit when one wants to see the historical sites with breathtaking scenery.

Sightseeing in Satpara Lake by Boat.

Another scenic lake that is approximately 9 kilometers to the city of Skardu is the Satpara Lake. It is famous with the pure blue water and quiet atmosphere, and it is a favorite destination of the locals and tourists.

Tourists have an opportunity to boat, fish, picnic, and take photos. The lake also provides the drinking water in Skardu, hence the importance of the lake to the region.