Skardu or Hunza! Which one is better for adventure? Both belong to the northern region of Pakistan and offer unequaled adventure. With breathtaking views and lush valleys, both have unique features in terms of location, adventure, and traditions.
During my visit to Skardu and Hunza, I had a very remarkable and memorable experience of enjoying the picturesque beauty of these two best places in Pakistan. Exploring the famous places of Gilgit Baltistan, I’ll share my thoughts in this blog to help you decide where to go in Skardu or Hunza.
This article will explore the famous places during an expedition to Skardu and Hunza. Let’s examine their key differences, determining whether Hunza or Skardu is the best to visit and why…..?
Skardu or Hunza: The short overview
In the heart of the magnificent Karakoram Range, Hunza Valley is in the Gilgit Baltistan region of northern Pakistan. Surrounded by extraordinary mountains, it is a peaceful tour destination. Hunza’s famous and attractive tourist places offer a breathtaking experience of high mountains, the celebration of Hunza’s cultural and traditional festivals, and interaction with the local people of Hunza Valley. By exploring the best tourist destinations in Hunza Valley, you can decide where to enjoy yourself with your family and friends.
On the other hand, visiting Skardu is a delightful and once-in-a-lifetime must-tour, particularly in spring. In Gilgit Baltistan, Skardu is a beautiful region with lush and picturesque valleys like Shigar Valley and Khaplu Valley. Skardu also contains famous and adventurous places such as Shangrilla, Katchura Lake, and Manthoka Waterfall, which serve as the most attractive tourist destinations in Skardu.
Baltoro Adventure arranges a Gilgit Baltistan Tour to explore this hidden beauty of nature. It offers a 15-day tour to indulge in the most mesmerizing beauty of nature on Earth. You can also join us on the Hunza Valley Spring Blossom Tour, which will take you to the most mesmerizing world of nature.
By exploring the attractive places of Skardu and Hunza, you can easily plan your trip with us:
Which is more attractive? Hunza or Skardu
Best Places to Visit in Hunza
Karimabad
Traveling through Karakoram Highway, it will take approximately 7 hours to reach Karimabad from Chilas. This spot is also famous for its unique local markets and some popular and ancient forts like Baltit and Altit Fort. Baltit Fort, constructed 700 years ago, serves as the perseverance site, while 900 years old Altit Fort provides a beautiful experience of the Royal Garden.
Rakaposhi & Nanga Parbat
Rakaposhi:
It takes approximately 2 hours to reach Rakaposhi from Gilgit. As you travel through a large area, you will pass various cafes and restaurants where you can rest. Being the most famous place to visit in Hunza Valley, it is also popular among the locals.
Due to the high elevation, approximately 7788m, and attractive geography, it is considered the best place to visit in Hunza.
Nanga Parbat:
Road travel mainly offers the scenic beauty of the Northern Regions of Pakistan. Upon reaching Chilas, you can be attracted to the unparalleled view of “The Killing Mountain”: Nanga Parbat, standing at 8126m. Trekking and hiking are the best adventurous opportunities to explore this beautiful point in Hunza Valley.
Attabad Lake & Attabad Tunnel
Attabad Lake is the best tourist destination in Hunza Valley. Built-in 2010, it has also modified Hunza’s culture and beauty. The lake’s calm and quiet water symbolizes peace and harmony because it was reconstructed through the hardships and hard work of the local people after massive damage.
Attabad Bridge, located near the lake, is another critical corner in Hunza. This ground was erected to reconnect the region after the landslide. While crossing the ground, you can see the flowing waters of Attabad Lake beneath your bases, with the rugged mountains in the background creating a genuinely graphic scene.
Gulmit Village
Gulmit Village is one of the must-visit destinations in Hunza Valley. One of the famous spots in Gulmit is the Gulmit Fort, a well-structured old Fort that offers fantastic views of the girding vale. Gulmit Fort has most of the attractive and ancient items that play crucial roles in enhancing the history and culture of Hunza Valley. Another highlight of Gulmit is the presence of the Gulmit Glacier, which is a widespread spot for pedestrians and nature suckers.
Hussaini Suspension Bridge
The best tourist experience in Hunza Valley is crossing the Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Though it is famous due to the higher risk of accidents, most tourists visit it yearly. Courage, patience, and physical abilities are essential to overcome specific challenges faced while crossing it. Hussaini Suspension Bridge also offers a unique and popular photography destination.
Borith Lake
The notorious highlight of Borith Lake is the Borith village, which is positioned just near it. The Borith village is a notorious sightseer spot in Hunza, offering literal and artistic experiences to callers. The peace and magnet among the original people make it a heavenly destination, emphasizing togetherness and tolerance.
Chapursan valley
Located in the Northern region of Pakistan, Chapursan Valley is a must-visit destination in Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan. It is situated near the Afghan Border. The Chapursan Valley tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the highest mountain views, Chapursan’s delicious taste, and Chapursan’s adventurous activities.
Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint
Standing at an altitude of 3500m, Eagle’s Nest offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the most famous peaks, such as Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and Diran Peak. During my visit to Eagle’s Nest viewpoint, the best experience I had in this region was the unforgettable sunset and sunrise through the picturesque golden mountains. The peace and calm at the top of the mountains make this place one of the famous tourist places in Hunza Valley.
Ultar Glacier
The Ultar Glacier trek is relatively challenging but attractive. Ultar Base Camp is the resting point for trekkers, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks and other famous glaciers in Hunza Valley. The base camp is also an excellent place to connect with local guides who share stories of past expeditions and the significance of this glacier in Hunza’s history.
Why should you visit Skardu?
From the extensive Deosai National Park, known as the” Land of Titans,” to the tranquil Satpara Lake, Skardu promises an unparalleled experience that feels like stepping into a different world. While Hunza offers serene geographies, Skardu’s dramatic terrain and thrilling touring openings, similar to the K2 Base Camp Trek trip, make it the perfect choice for those pining for adventure and raw natural beauty.
Skardu, being the coldest place in Pakistan, provides an unforgettable and remarkable adventure to explore the best places to visit in Skardu.
Deosai National Park
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. The vibrant wildflowers, grazing Himalayan brown bears, and the serene Sheosar Lake reflecting snow-limited peaks painted a surreal picture. Deosai’s raw, unequaled beauty made me realize 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.
Shangrilla Resort
Referring to “Heaven on Earth,” Shangrilla Resort is the most iconic 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.
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.
Katchura Lake
Kachura Lake, located near Skardu, 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 top attractions.
Katpana 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.
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.
K2 Base Camp
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.
Which is easily accessible? Skardu or Hunza
Hunza is generally more accessible than Skardu. While both destinations are located in the northern region of Pakistan, Hunza is near major cities like Gilgit, making it easier to reach by road. It’s well-connected through the Karakoram Highway and has a better tourism structure.
On the other hand, Skardu requires further effort to reach, especially by road, because the journey may take one or more days to complete depending on the conditions of the road.
Hunza Valley, with its lush green fields, rich tradition, and unique landmarks, is a destination that leaves an unforgettable mark on every visitor’s heart. From the majestic peaks of Passu Cones and the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge to the quiet waters of Attabad Lake and the historical charm of Baltit and Altit Forts.
Hunza Valley consists of other famous tourist places, each place sharing a story of natural wonder and human resilience. On the other hand, 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 Hunza or the wild beauty of Skardu, both destinations promise to leave you in admiration of Pakistan’s natural prodigies.
FAQs
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.
Which destination is better for adventure activities?
Skardu is better suited for adventure seekers, with its trekking opportunities, such as the K2 Base Camp trek, and the rugged beauty of Deosai National Park. Hunza offers scenic hikes, but Skardu is the go-to place for serious adventure.
What are the must-see attractions in Skardu and Hunza?
In Skardu, must-visit places include Deosai National Park, Shangrila Resort, Satpara Lake, and the K2 Base Camp. In Hunza, you will enjoy views of Rakaposhi, Passu Cones, and historic sites like Baltit Fort.
