Want to explore some of Skardu’s famous hidden treasures besides mountains and forests? This guide will help you locate some heavenly places to visit in Skardu. Mark these locations, and the next time you visit Skardu, don’t forget to explore its rich heritage.
Skardu Valley is located at an altitude of 2,230m sea level in the extreme north of Pakistan. It is surrounded by three mountain ranges, one of which is the World’s second-largest mountain, K2. Skardu is Pakistan’s top tourist destination.
According to the Gilgit Baltistan Tourism Department, 2.5 Million Tourists were received Globally in Skardu.
Now, tourists can enjoy other beautiful destinations, too. Although Pakistan is a third-world country, its beauty and places like Skardu are matchless. To visit these places, either you plan independently or you can book Skardu tour packages from pakistan. But before visiting any northern area, first find out what is the best time to Visit Skardu.
10 Famous Places to Visit in Skardu
| Places |
| Upper Kachura Lake |
| Katpana Desert |
| Basho Meadows |
| Sarfaranga Cold Desert |
| Khaplu Palace |
| Shigar Fort |
| Organic Village Skardu |
| Blind Lake |
| Khamush Waterfall |
| Mantokha Waterfall |
Places to Visit in Skardu within One Hour Drive
Upper Kachura and Katpana deserts are located at a one-hour drive from Skardu. These are the most famous Skardu tourist places. You dont need to do any hiking or walking to go to Kachura Lake. It is a simple Jeep track from Skardu Valley. Also before visiting there, keep notes on things to consider while visiting the northern areas. These all places are mesmerizing. Let’s explore what they can provide you the best:
1. Upper Kachura Lake
Upper Kachura is about 2500 meters above sea level, which is why it is known as the highest lake in Skardu Valley. The lake experiences the lowest temperature, which is why, in the summer season, tourists are attracted to Skardu tourist points. To reach Upper Kachura, you need to drive 20 minutes from Skardu. The facilities you get at this lake are parking, restaurants, and resorts. The best time to visit Upper Kachura is in May or September. At that time, you can see the real beauty of the lake. If you visit the lake in December, then it will be frozen. Because in December, the place experience -20°C.
What are the main attractions in Upper Kachura Lake?
Upper Kachura is already a beauty in its way. But at the lake, you can also explore some hidden attractions. Some of them are:
Trekking Path
The trekking path starts from the lake and takes you to amazing views of the Himalayan mountains. The trek is of about one hour, but if you want to explore more than continue trekking, you may find mysterious places. The best time for doing this trekking is September because in that season you will see beautiful red flowers blossoming around.
Conifer Forest
The reason why Upper Kachura is the best place to visit in Skardu is because of its beautiful attractions like apricot trees and conifer. The combination of these two is as amazing as the whole scenic view of the lake.
Things to do in Upper Kachura Lake
| Boating | Ticket Price starts from 500 |
| Fishing | Ticket Price starts from 1500 |
| Trekking | Free |
| Photography | If you have your camera, then it’s free. People providing photography services start their prices from 500. |
2. Katpana Desert
The word desert relates to dusty and warm places, but this Skardu tourist destination is an amazing wonder of Pakistan. The desert is located one hour’s drive from Skardu Valley. It is the world’s coldest desert, with an average elevation of 2226 meters above sea level. Along with Skardu, explore Ratti Gali’s travel guide, which is mesmerizing in beauty. The place is famous for its Blackish grey mountains and water streams that flow between the desert.
What are the main attractions in the Upper Katpana desert?
Following are some major attraction of this cold desert:
Grey Mountains
The grey mountains behind the cold desert give out an amazing landscape view of Skardu Valley. Trek up to these mountains and find the amazing hidden treasures of Skardu.
Water Streams
The water streams flowing in between the desert are just a magical view you can imagine. These streams provide fresh and cold water to the desert, which you can use to cool yourself off.
Things to do in Katpana Desert Skardu
| Trekking on Mountains | Explore the beautiful mountains of the Katpana desert |
| Camping | Charges start from 11,500 |
| Star Gazing at Night | Explore the perfect night view of the mountains |
3. Basho Meadows
Basho Meadows is yet another amazing place to visit in Skardu. There are so many things to do in Skardu, but visiting these places can be a new adventure for you. Basho Meadows has been relatively less explored compared to the other places. It is located in a round area near Skrdu Valley. Basho Valley is a gem as it is covered in snow, even in summer. Talking about summer, explore the best time to visit Swat in this season. Summers at Basho Valley are moderate temperature remains from 15°C to 20°C.
Why it is named Basho?
The word Basho means Raisins in the Balti language. The valley produces a large number of grapes, and local people make raisins from them. That’s why it is called Basho.
What are the main attractions in Basho Valley Skardu?
Here are some major attractions of Basho Valley in Skardu:
Basho Waterfall
Basho Waterfall is a perfect picnic spot to cool off. The waterfall is near to the bridge of Basho Valley
Alpine Forest
It’s alpine forest is worth watching. The beautiful alpines near the mountains of Skardu are of amazing importance. The view you get from there is unforgettable.
Things to Do in Basho Valley
| Fishing | Starting from 2000 |
| Camping | Starting from 1200 |
| Hiking | Free |
| Photography | Free |
4. Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Sarfaranga is one of the unique deserts in Pakistan. It is included in the top Skardu visiting places. The desert is worth visiting for everyone. Sarfranga is located 7500ft above sea level and is between the way of Shigar Valley. If by any chance you want to discover more, then explore the best time to visit shogran. The majestic mountains and strong wind are just some common things you will find there. The best time to visit this place is September. Only in that season, you can bear its temperature.
What are the main attractions in Sarfranga Cold Desert Skardu?
Here are some major attractions of this cold desert:
Sunset View
The sunset view of this desert is worth watching. With its scenic views and mesmerizing temperature conditions, it will provide you with an unforgettable trip.
Sand Dunes
Dunes are the primary key for cold deserts it is the reason it is considered among Skardu’s famous places. The massive dunes with 30m height and a perfect camel ride, what else can you dream of?
Things to Do in Sarfranga Cold Desert
| Paramotoring | Starting from 8000 |
| Dirt Bike Riding | Starting from Rs.1000 |
| ATV Ride | Charges for one round are 8000 |
| Camping | Starting from 8000 |
| Horse Riding | Rs. 300 to 1000 |
5. Khaplu Palace
One of the most mesmerizing palaces on the north side of Skardu is Khaplu Palace. It is located on the upper side of Khaplu town, in front of the Karakoram highway. The palace is a classic example of royal residence in Baltistan, which is why it is considered among the best places to visit in Skardu. Along with Skardu, visit some Hunza tour packages from 2024. Having different experiences can help you have mesmerizing adventures. It is the royal fort of north Pakistan.
What are the main attractions in Kaplu Palace?
Here are the following attractions of Khaplu Palace:
View of the Himalayan Range
From the top of the Palace the view you get is very surprising and appealing to most of the tourists.
Sarfa khan Restaurant
Sarfa Khan is located inside the Khaplu fort. Its walls are covered with simple yet translucent curtains, which add to the palace’s mesmerizing beauty. The best thing they serve is BBQ.
Things to Do in Khaply Palace
| Photography | Free of Cost |
| Sightseeing | Free of Cost |
| Restaurants Nearby | Free of Cost |
| Organic Vegetable garden | Free of Cost |
| Semi-open Balcony rooms to explore | Free of Cost |
Top Attractive Skardu Places to Visit for Sightseeing (Waterfalls and Lakes)
6. Shigar Fort
Shigar Fort is another good place to visit in Skardu. It is located near Serena Shigar Hotel, Baltistan. The fort comprises 20 rooms featuring Balti architecture and beauty. The entire fort is built of wood and is earthquake-resistant. Every pillar has amazing woodwork and art to represent. Also, explore some luxurious best hotelsin Nathia Gali. It might be of your help.
What are the main attractions in Shigar Fort?
Following are some main attractions of Shigar Fort:
View of Bardari Garden
Every room has an open terrace, providing you with an amazing view of Brdari Garden. Baradari Garden is full of flowers and birds.
The Raja’s Mosque
The Raja’s Mosque is located adjacent to the main entrance of Shigar Fort. A four-sided building with a central column and a terrace on the eastern side. But the view that mosques provide is mesmerizing yet breathtaking.
7. Organic Village Skardu
Organic Village Skardu is an amazing hidden gem of this place. It was not discovered before, but now it is a famous Skardu tourist attraction. The village is the best place for tourists to discover organic village life. The villagers are warm and hospitable. The organic village of Skardu is the only chance to discover delicious organic produce on-site. Also, for your information, another mesmerizing destination, Babusar Top, is now finally open for tourists.
8. Blind lake
Blind Lake is yet another amazing place to visit in Skardu. In the winter season, the lake is usually covered in snow. Although it has a low tourist rate, the place is as amazing as the whole of Skardu. Blind Lake allows camping, which is again an unforgettable experience. The striking feature of this lake is its crystal-clear water.
9. Khamush Waterfall
Khamush Waterfall is located near Ghundus Valley in Skardu. Towering mountains surround the trilling waterfall and create an amazing scenic atmosphere. The jouney to this waterfall is very amazing. You have to do 1 hour of hiking to reach up to that much hike.
10.Mantokha Waterfall
Mantokha is also one of Skardu’s famous places. It is located in the Kharmag Valley of Skardu. The waterfall combines rocky hills with cold temperatures. The breeze that blows here is the coolest and most liveliest breeze in the world.
Conclusion
So, that’s it with the list of the top best places to visit in Skardu. Some of them are yet to be discovered by tourists, so if you opt for that, you can create your documentary on that historic place. Skardu has so much to offer. These places are heaven on Earth, and that is why they attract tourists globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is Skardu famous for?
Skardu is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains like K2, pristine lakes, and unique cold deserts. It’s also famous for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites like Khaplu Palace and Shigar Fort
Q2. Which place is better, Skardu or Hunza?
Both Skardu and Hunza offer unique experiences. Skardu is known for its dramatic mountain scenery and adventure activities, while Hunza is celebrated for its lush green valleys and cultural richness. The choice depends on personal preferences for landscapes and activities.
Q3. Which is the best month to visit Skardu?
The best months to visit Skardu are May to September. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the roads are accessible, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities fully.
Q4. Is Skardu cold in July?
In July, Skardu experiences mild weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. While it is not extremely cold, it’s advisable to carry light, warm clothing for cooler evenings
Q5.What to wear in Skardu in June?
In June, it’s best to wear comfortable, layered clothing. Lightweight and breathable fabrics are ideal during the day, while a light jacket or sweater will help keep you warm in cooler temperatures in the evenings.
