When planning a trip to Gilgit Baltistan, consider the best things to do in Skardu Valley. Situated in the Northern region of Pakistan, Skardu is the most attractive place to visit.
Visiting Skardu is more about experiencing adventurous activities. Skardu tours may involve specific challenges, such as high altitude sickness. Still, it also offers various famous places to visit and the best activities.
This blog delves into the famous places of Skardu and the best things to do in this region. After reading this blog, you will quickly decide where to go and what to do in Skardu Valley.
How to get to Skardu?
When planning a trip to Skardu Valley, a question arises: where is Skardu Valley? Located in the northern region of Pakistan, Skardu is easily accessible by road and air. If you come by air, you will closely observe the wonderful nature. High mountainous peaks and cloudy weather are enjoyable during your journey.
On the other hand, if you come by road, you will pass through Karakoram highway. By road, the experience is more joyful and memorable than any other. You will also visit some other famous places during your journey. Meeting with the local people of different regions also gives you pleasure and enjoyment.
At Baltoro Adventures, you will find more fantastic opportunities to visit Skardu’s famous visiting places. After reaching Skardu, you will have a lot of adventurous things to do in Skardu. Let’s explore the best tourist things to do in Skardu Valley.
Top 10 things to do in Skardu Valley
Hike to Deosai National Park
The best place to visit in Skardu is Deosai National Park. You should visit this place in the summer. Visiting Deosai National Park, frequently called the” Land of Titans,” was an unearthly experience I’ll never forget. As I stepped onto the vast table, stretching endlessly at an altitude of over 4,000 measures, I was struck by its untouched beauty. At Deosai National Park, you can enjoy hiking adventures due to its mountainous roots.
The vibrant wildflowers, grazing Himalayan brown bears, and the serene Sheosar Lake reflecting snow-limited peaks painted a surreal picture. Deosai’s raw, unequalled beauty made me realise why it’s frequently considered one of the most magical places in Skardu. It’s a destination that connects you deeply to nature and leaves you in admiration of nature’s majesty.
Relaxing at Shangrilla Resort
Referring to “Heaven on Earth,” Shangrilla Resort is the most beautiful place in Skardu. Located by the serene Lower Kachura Lake, it offers stirring views, lush auditoriums, and a unique floating eatery. The beautiful lake and attractive decorations make the resort ideal for visitors to enjoy this stunning landscape. A visit to Shangrila Resort Skardu is a must-have for anyone exploring the beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Boating in Katchura Lake
Kachura Lake is located near Skardu and is a stunning destination that includes both Upper Kachura and Lower Kachura Lake. Rugged mountains and lush greenery surround the crystal-clear waters of Upper Kachura Lake, while Lower Kachura Lake is home to the famous Shangrila Resort.
Whether you are a nature lover or want to go through the boating experience, Katcura Lake is a must-visit destination for adventure lovers. The serene landscape and picturesque surroundings make it one of Skardu’s famous places. Visitors usually come there in Summer or Spring because Winter offers lower temperatures and cold water.
Stroll through Katpana Desert (Cold Desert)
Skardu is known as the coldest place in Pakistan. Its coldest Desert is the Katpana Desert, with a high elevation of over 2,200 meters. It is also regarded as the best place for photography.
I went through this desert in winter, when it was very cold, and the snowy landscape was seemingly attractive and breathtaking. If you are a winter lover or want to experience the icy weather of Skardu, I recommend visiting in December or January when there is heavy snowfall.
Trek to Satpara Lake
Skardu is famous for Satpara Lake due to the presence of picturesque and large lakes. Satpara Lake is situated at some distance from the central city, and you can enjoy the trekking experience to visit Satpara Lake.
Among the best places to visit in Skardu, Satpara Lake is at the top. Known for being the coldest place in Pakistan, it offers quiet water scenery that creates a sense of relaxation and peace. It is also the best place for photography.
Enjoying a visit to Manthoka Waterfall
Visiting Manthokha Waterfall was a memorable experience during my whole trip to Skardu. The rushing sound and heavy drops of water filled my heart with natural enjoyment. It is also the best spot in Skardu for photography and mind relaxation. Fishing is also one of the best adventurous activities to enjoy at Manthoka.
If you are a food lover, you can enjoy the taste of local cuisine as many restaurants and cafes serve refreshments. Try to plan your visit in Summer when the weather in Skardu is moderate.
Exploring K2 Base Camp Trek
Due to its fatal and harsh climatic conditions, K2 is regarded as one of the most challenging mountains to climb. Covered with heavy snow and changing weather conditions, climbers need help reaching their peak. Many trekkers end their journey meeting with the K2 base camp, but some adventure seekers want to achieve a higher reputation and deadly success. Along with their physical fitness and mental satisfaction, these climbers overcome all the challenges to reach their destination, facing thrilling moments during the K2 trek. Visiting Skardu is the best opportunity to achieve this challenging destination and enjoy the exciting hiking and trekking experiences.
Winter is very harsh for visiting K2 Base Camp and may result in accidents. If you are a mountain lover, visit the K2 Base Camp and join us for the Baltoro Glacier Trek. July is considered the best month to trek to K2 Base Camp.
If you are a beginner mountaineer, you should train yourself for the K2 base camp trek. Visit our website to learn how to train for K2 Base Camp.
Attending the Shandur Polo Festival
Shandur Polo Festival is a significant cultural and sporting event. It takes place every year at the Shandur Pologronud. Every summer, this festival offers the following vibrant experiences:
- Showcasing of Rich Traditions of Gilgit Baltistan
- Experiencing the breathtaking Landscape
- The traditional spirit of Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral.
Dating back to 1936, the players use a wild and freestyle format to play this match. For a long week of celebration, the Chitrali and the Gilgiti teams face off in this match. Visitors also experience other engaging and attractive activities that include:
- Traditional music
- Cultural dances
- Taste of local cuisine
Camping in Bashu Valley
Bashu Valley Skardu is the iconic spot in Skardu Valley. The distance from Skardu to Bashu Valley is approximately 20km, and you can reach it by car in 1 to 1.5 hours. Regarded as one of the most famous tourist spots in Skardu, Bashu Valley is famous for the following adventurous activities:
- Glacier Crossing
- Nature Photographic experience
- Wildlife spotting
- Bonfire night and storytelling
- Climbing and Hiking Adventures
- Trekking through untouched trails
- Camping under the stars
Enjoying the Local Cuisines of Skardu
Mamtu
Mamtu is the most famous dish of Gilgit Baltistan, now widely accepted as dumplings. It is generally made through steam by filling with minced meat and spices. People usually eat mamtu in winter to overcome their coldness by eating steamed food.
Sattu
Sattu is famous for making our body refreshed and cold in summer. It is usually made by adding roasted flour in water or milk. Though it is a quick recipe, it is still widely prepared in homes in Gilgit Baltistan.
Apricot Soup
Apricot soup most prominently contributed to reflecting the culture and tradition of Gilgit Baltistan. It is made when dried local apricots are mixed with sugar and water and cooked until they are thick and tasty.
With its beautiful places like Deosai National Park, Shangrila Resort, and Satpara Lake, Skardu is ideal for adventure campaigners who want to witness natural beauty. Whether you choose the peaceful charm of Bashu Valley Skardu or experience the hiking adventure in K2 Base Camp, both are Ideal things to do in Skardu. As spring arrives, the Skardu Valley comes alive with the stunning colours of cherry blossoms, making it the perfect time for a Gilgit Baltistan Spring Blossom tour. Iconic destinations like Shangrilla Resort, Satpara Lake, and Mankthoka Waterfall are transformed into magical havens, offering unparalleled beauty with blooming apricots and cherry trees against snow-capped peaks.
FAQs
What are the top things to do in Skardu?
Visiting Deosai National Park, experiencing the local cuisines of Skardu, and attending famous festivals are the top things to do in Skardu. Other adventurous activities are also performed based on the weather conditions and visiting month.
Which is easier to reach, Skardu or Hunza?
Hunza is generally more accessible due to its proximity to Gilgit and better road connections, while Skardu requires a longer, more challenging journey, especially by road.
What is the best time to visit Skardu and Hunza?
The best time to visit Hunza is from July to November when you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Skardu is ideal from May to September, especially for trekking and exploring places like Deosai and K2 Base Camp.
