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If you’re a travel enthusiast who’s up for a visit to an exotic travel experience, you must know about these 11 wonderful places to visit in Skardu. Skardu has been inhabited for centuries, and people still live there today because of its natural beauty and climate.
And that’s also what attracts tourists towards it. It is a great place to visit for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of nature and enjoy the scenic views.
What will you get from this article?
This article will tell you the names of eleven wonderful places to visit in Skardu. You will also learn what amazing activities you can do in Skardu to make it one of the best trips ever.
So if you’re planning a visit to Skardu, read this fun and informative article so that you don’t miss any of these exotic places and fun activities in Skardu.
List of 11 Best Places to Visit in Skardu
- Manthoka Waterfall
- Katpana Lake and Desert
- Satpara Lake
- Sheosar Lake
- Shangrila Lake
- Deosai National Park
- Basho Valley
- Skardu Fort
- Khaplu Valley Fort
- Shigar Fort
- K2 Mountain
1. Manthoka Waterfall
What else to enjoy in an exotic place other than an amazing waterfall? The best time to visit Manthoka Waterfall is during the spring when the snow is melting, and the waterfalls are fully flowing.
Manthoka Waterfall is 4080 meters above mean sea level and is, therefore, the highest waterfall in Skardu. The waterfall is 60 meters long and has a drop of about 10 feet. This makes Manthoka Waterfall one of the best places to visit in Skardu.
What fun activities can you do here?
The Manthoka waterfall has a sight to behold, and so are the activities available at this place. Below are some of the activities you can enjoy at Manthoka Waterfall:
● Water sports
Water sports such as rafting and kayaking are great ways to have fun along Manthoka Waterfall. You can also play games like water-balloon fights and water gun wars.
● Trekking
Trekking is another activity you can do while at Manthoka Waterfall. The trek will take you across man-made bridges and through tall grasses. If you’re looking for an adventure, consider trekking while at Manthoka Waterfall.
2. Katpana Lake and Desert
Katpana Lake
Katpana Lake is a beautiful, deep lake in Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. This lake is surrounded by beautiful green hills and mountain peaks.
The lake water is very clean with no visible presence of harmful pollutants. Although the lake is not very deep, it does have many caves that are ideal for exploring.
It is located at an altitude of 5200 feet (1609 m) above sea level and has an area of 45 square kilometers.
Katpana Desert
If we talk about the Katpana desert, it’s situated in the NW Himalayas near Skardu town. It is one of the hottest and driest deserts of Pakistan and lies at an altitude of 319 meters above sea level.
So visiting the Katpana desert is best for you if you want a safe adventure tour in a desert. It is one of the hottest and driest deserts of Pakistan and lies at an altitude of 319 meters above sea level.
The desert has rich biodiversity due to its varied topography and climate. Due to the stone ridges, the Katpana Desert is prone to flash floods during rainstorms.
What fun activities can you do here?
Katpana lake is a popular spot for camping and rafting. The surrounding mountains provide excellent hiking opportunities for those looking for some exercise.
You can take your ATV (or any suitable vehicle) to the Katpana desert in the daytime to experience a desert tour.
3. Satpara Lake
Satpara Lake is a beautiful place in Skardu, Pakistan. It is the second highest lake in the world, and it has an elevation of 2,636 meters above sea level.
The lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and has a depth of about 50 meters. The lake was created by a dam constructed on the Satpara River.
The dam was built in 1982 on the Satpara River, a tributary of the Indus River. The reservoir created by the dam has an area of about 1,320 square kilometers, and it can store up to 479 billion cubic meters of water.
The Satpara dam also has an installed capacity of 2,700 megawatts and generates about 18,000 GWh annually.
What fun activities can you do here?
Satpara Lake is surrounded by green meadows and hills, making it a perfect place for picnics, camping, and other outdoor activities. You can play your favorite outdoor sports near this lake.
The lake is a popular destination for tourists because it has various things to do, such as fishing, trekking, or just admiring its beauty.
The water in this lake is also clean and clear, which makes it perfect for swimming or boating.
4. Sheosar Lake
If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural wonder, look no further than Sheosar Lake in Skardu, Pakistan. This stunning lake is nestled in the Himalayan mountains. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
Sheosar Lake is a small, serene, scenic lake with emerald green water. It is located in the heart of Skardu on the way to K2 peak. The surrounding mountains provide a beautiful view of this lake.
The lake is known for its crystal clear water and picturesque setting.
What fun activities can you do here?
The lake has a width of about 100 m and a depth of about 40 m. It also has an island on it, which is frequented by tourists for picnics and camping.
You can do the same. You can also play some light sports there that won’t disturb people. Enjoy hiking in the area; there are even a few hotels and restaurants nearby for those who want to stay longer.
Moreover, in winter, the nearby mountains freeze and become one of the best places for ice skating in Pakistan.
5. Shangrila Lake
It is also known as Kachura Lake. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and has a beautiful view of the Himalayan peaks. It has abundant flora and fauna, including various birds, deer, monkeys, and fishes.
The lake was named Shangrila after a novel by British author James Hilton in 1933. Shangrila lake, or lower Kachura lake, has an elevation of 2,500 meters above sea level.
What fun activities can you do here?
The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and can be accessed by trekking for 4 hours from the town of Skardu. So you can hike while going to Shangrila lake for adventure’s sake.
After that, you can go fishing, swim, or just relax on the banks of the lake.
No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to do at Shangrila lake. So come on and enjoy all this wonderful place has to offer!
6. Deosai National Park
Deosai National Park is home to various wildlife, including the Himalayan brown bear. The park also has a wealth of plants and flowers, many of which are endemic to the area.
The park covers an area of about 843 km² and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
It was established as a game reserve in 1974 to protect snow leopards and other animals from poaching. It was later upgraded to a national park on November 15, 1996.
The Deosai National Park is known for its varied landscape, including sand dunes, snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and river valleys.
What fun activities can you do here?
You can go hiking if you plan a trip to Deosai National Park. There are many hiking trails with different difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone. You can even trek to the top of the park’s mountains for an incredible view.
Visitors also enjoy stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and lakes. Photography in Deosai National Park is also a unique experience. The park is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
Whether you are a professional photographer or a hobbyist, there is no doubt that you will be able to capture some amazing photos while you are in the park.
If you plan to visit Deosai National Park, bring your camera and plenty of films or digital storage. You will definitely want to take lots of pictures while you are there!
Though, there are a few things to remember if you want to photograph in Deosai. First, the park is located in a very remote part of the world, so you must be prepared for a long journey.
Secondly, the weather can be very unpredictable, so you need to be prepared for all sorts of conditions. Finally, the air is very thin because of the altitude, so you must be careful not to overexert yourself.
Deosai National Park is a great place to visit for anyone who loves nature. It is a place of unparalleled beauty, and it is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
7. Basho Valley
Basho Valley is a hidden gem in the foothills of the Rockies. If you love mountains, greenery, and water, you can get it all in one place at Basho valley.
It’s surrounded by mountains and has greenery, of course. There is a famous pull they’ve made on the river that lets the visitors go to the other side of the river.
What fun activities can you do here?
You can do anything, be it camping, outdoor sports, barbecue, or other fun stuff. Make sure you take camps with you so that you and your friends are safe if you decide to stay outdoors.
You can also check in to hotels, but if you want to experience the outside stay of Basho valley, you can stay in camps. You can also swim whenever you want. Moreover, hiking can be another activity there as well.
8. Skardu Fort
The Skardu Fort is located in the city of Skardu in Baltistan, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. It is located at an altitude of 1,743 meters (5,650 ft) above sea level. This fort is one of the largest forts in Baltistan.
It is located on a hilltop with a commanding view of the monastery below. The fort is considered a major tourist attraction in Baltistan and attracts large numbers of visitors each year.
Why was it built?
The fort was constructed by British forces in 1893 as part of their efforts to establish rule over the Gilgit-Baltistan region. The purpose was to provide security against threats coming from Tibet and China.
In 1895, it was taken over by the British Empire following the treaty with China over control of the Hunza and Nagar valleys. It remained under British control until India’s independence in 1947 when it became part of Pakistan’s western sector.
Since then, it has been administered by the Pakistan Army as part of its Northern Areas region.
The fort is made up of several interconnected stone buildings surrounding a courtyard. The main entrance is on the north side, while another gate leads into a small enclosure called “Chak No-1”. Inside this enclosure are three watchtowers that are connected.
What fun activities can you do here?
The first thing you want to do when you visit Skardu fort is to see it fully. If you get access to visit its inside, then go for it. You will be amazed at how wonderfully it is constructed.
It will also take a lot of your time to fully explore this fort. If you like visiting historical places, the Skardu fort is best for you. You can click photographs of you there as its sight is breathtaking.
9. Khaplu Valley Fort
Khaplu Valley Fort is located in Khaplu Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It was built in the 19th century when the British Empire occupied territories in India and later became a key British military garrison. The fort is an important historical site and also has some natural beauty.
It was built by Ali Sher Khan, a local commander of the Hunza Kingdom who ruled over Gilgit-Baltistan from 1788 to 1806. The fort was then taken over by the British Empire after Ali Sher Khan was defeated in a war with the Sikhs in 1819.
Today, it houses a small museum depicting the region’s life during the British Raj. A small hiking trail also leads to a grotto called “The Lake of Dreams.”
The Khaplu Valley is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is home to several ancient forts. The most notable of these is the Khaplu Fort, which was built in the 16th century and is one of the largest fortifications in the region.
The Khaplu Fort is a massive structure with several towers and a large central courtyard. The fort was once the stronghold of the Raja of Khaplu, who ruled over the valley for centuries.
Today, the Khaplu Fort is a popular tourist destination and one of Pakistan’s most well-preserved forts. The fort is open to the public and is a popular spot for picnics and hikes.
What fun activities can you do here?
This is another fort in Skardu that allows you to take the best photographs with its beautiful architecture and greenery surrounding it. Khaplu fort looks like a fort hidden in the green hills from fairy tales.
Moreover, according to visitors and experienced travelers, Khaplu fort is one of the most romantic places in Skardu. Many couples pick this place for their honeymoon destination.
10. Shigar Fort
Have you played counter strike 1.6? If you have, you may resemble this fort to one of the counter strike 1.6 game’s maps. Shigar Fort is a historic fort located in the Shigar valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan.
The fort was built in the 16th century by the local ruler, Raja Shigar. It was used as a base for the region’s defense against invaders. The fort has been renovated and is now open to the public as a tourist destination.
What fun activities can you do here?
This is another place in Gilgit Baltistan that is perfect for new couples on their honeymoon. The fort looks so mesmerizing in the evening. It can become your go-to place every time you visit Skardu because of its beautiful and breathtaking architecture.
11. K2 Mountain
Skardu is also known as the gateway to K2, Karakoram. K2 mountain is one of the tallest mountains in the world. It is located in the Karakoram range in Pakistan and is known for being a difficult and dangerous climb.
Despite its challenge, k2 mountain attracts many climbers each year who attempt to summit its peak.
What fun activities can you do here?
Mountain climbing is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. It can be done in many different settings, from rugged peaks to urban areas with easy routes. However, it takes a lot of practice to become a good climber.
Knowing your limits and preparing for unexpected circumstances are also important. If you’re interested in mountain climbing, check local regulations and talk to other climbers before you go.
You should also be aware of the risks involved with this sport, including the potential for serious injuries.
Many factors can increase your risk of injury, including inexperience, poor weather conditions, illness, or fatigue. If you are interested in mountain climbing, search online for resources and safety tips.
A Little Overview of the City Skardu
Skardu is a beautiful hill station in Pakistan. It is situated in the Karakoram range of the Himalayas (north of Pakistan). The town has an altitude of 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) and is surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Skardu is a small village located on the Indus River bank and was once an important trading post.
Skardu’s importance as a trade center declined when it was bypassed by the railway network in 1887. Still, its population has grown steadily because of its proximity to Khaplu, which has become an administrative center for Baltistan.
History of Skardu
Skardu was once also the capital of the independent state called Ladakh, which was established by Ladakhi king Senge Namgyal in 1540 CE. Ladakh region was conquered by Sikhs in 1823.
It was in 1828 that Skardu was made into a district headquarters by the Sikh rulers of Kashmir. The city has been an important trading post for centuries.
Its location at one of the main routes from Ladakh to Central Asia makes it an important trade caravan between Central Asia and South Asia.
In 1947, Skardu came under Pakistani control as part of Pakistan’s first military action in Kashmir, Operation Gulmarg. In 1949, Skardu became part of Gilgit-Baltistan.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) About Skardu
I. What is the best time to visit Skardu?
The best season for visiting Skardu is during spring as it is not too hot and not too cold. It’s just perfect!
II. Do we have a Skardu airport?
Yes, the town has its airport called Skardu International Airport. Because Skardu is a major attraction for country people and foreigners, we have an airport eleven miles away from the city.
III. How is the Skardu Weather?
You can experience every climate type in Skardu. However, it is mostly semi-cold. You also get to see snowfall in Skardu.
IV. What are some of the best hotels in Skardu?
You can have a range of the most costly hotels to cheap hotels in Skardu. Byasara hotel is one of the most expensive hotels in Skardu. Rafsal, The Guest House, is another luxury hotel in Skardu.
If you want to stay at an average-budget hotel, you can check Hotel Travelodge Skardu. This hotel is very cost-effective as well as beautiful.
V. What is the population of Skardu?
The population of Skardu is not accurately known as it has never been surveyed; however, based on other towns in the region, it can be estimated to be around 20,000 people.
VI. How much above sea levels is Skardu?
The city has an average elevation of 2,400 meters (7,900 ft.) above sea level. It covers an area of about 16 square kilometers (6 sq. mi).
VII. Is Skardu a Village, Town, or City?
Skardu is a beautiful town in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan.