Nestled in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, Skardu is a land where the earth touches the sky, and silence speaks louder than words. Surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks and glistening alpine lakes, Skardu isn’t just a destination—it’s a revelation.
I recently had the chance to visit this surreal gem of northern Pakistan, and it turned out to be one of the most awe-inspiring experiences of my life.
✈️ Getting There: The Adventure Begins
Reaching Skardu is an adventure in itself. There are two main routes:
-
By Air: A scenic 1-hour flight from Islamabad, where clouds part to reveal snow-covered mountains.
-
By Road: A 20+ hour journey via the Karakoram Highway, full of rugged beauty, dramatic gorges, and hidden villages.
Though flights are weather-dependent, the aerial views of Nanga Parbat and the Indus River alone are worth the uncertainty.
🏔️ First Impressions: A City Cradled by Giants
Skardu town lies at over 7,000 feet above sea level, cradled between rugged mountains and the mighty Indus River. The air is crisp, the sky unbelievably blue, and time seems to slow down.
Our first stop? A stroll through the local bazaar, where friendly locals, colorful handicrafts, and the aroma of fresh apricots welcomed us warmly.
🌄 Must-Visit Places in Skardu
1. Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake)
Often called “Heaven on Earth,” Shangrila Resort is like a postcard come to life. A red-roofed hotel sits beside a heart-shaped lake surrounded by trees and cliffs. Boating here as the sun sets is pure magic.
2. Upper Kachura Lake
Just a few kilometers from Shangrila, Upper Kachura is wilder and less commercial. Its deep blue waters, set against a backdrop of snow-dusted peaks, feel like something out of a dream.
3. Shigar Fort
A 400-year-old fort-turned-hotel, Shigar Fort offers a peek into the region’s rich Balti culture. It’s part history, part luxury, and entirely captivating.
4. Deosai National Park
Known as the “Land of Giants,” Deosai is a high-altitude plateau filled with wildflowers, marmots, and endless skies. At over 13,000 feet, the landscape feels otherworldly.
5. Satpara Lake
Fed by melting glaciers, Satpara’s turquoise waters are perfect for boating or just sitting and soaking in the serenity.
🛖 Culture and Cuisine
Skardu’s culture is a beautiful blend of Tibetan, Persian, and Central Asian influences. The Balti people are warm, proud, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Don’t miss:
-
Balti cuisine: Try Chapshuro (Balti meat pie), Balay (noodle soup), and dried apricots.
-
Local music and dance, often seen during festivals and weddings.
🧳 Travel Tips
-
Best time to visit: May to September for clear skies and pleasant weather.
-
Bring layers: Nights can get cold even in summer.
-
Connectivity: Limited cell service; embrace the digital detox!
-
Local transport: Hire a jeep or a local guide to explore remote areas.
🌟 Final Thoughts: A Place That Stays With You
Skardu isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place that visits you. In quiet moments, it whispers back into your life with memories of starlit skies, glacier-fed rivers, and the warm laughter of strangers.
Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature, Skardu offers it all—wrapped in silence, mountains, and soul.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. And next time, I’d stay even longer.