Skardu - Discovering Pakistan

Travelling to Skardu

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Skardu, a pretty good destination in Pakistan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Skardu and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Skardu, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Pakistan, here's everything to know about Skardu for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Skardu

Skardu is a town in Gilgit-Baltistan, a province in the northern areas of Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,438 meters (7,999 feet) above sea level. Skardu is a popular tourist destination, known for its mesmerizing natural scenery, including mountains, valleys, and lakes. The town is surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas, including K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. Skardu is also home to several glaciers, including the Baltoro Glacier, which attracts mountaineers and trekkers from around the world. The town is accessible by road and air, and there are several hotels and guesthouses offering accommodation. The best time to visit Skardu is from April to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

What to visit in Skardu

Sure, here are the top tourist attractions in Skardu, Pakistan: 1. Kharpocho Fort: A 16th century fort built by the ruler of Skardu, Ali Sher Khan Anchan. It is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the Skardu valley and mountains.
2. Shigar Fort: A 17th century fort that has been converted into a hotel. It has a beautiful garden, museum, and a traditional bakery that makes local bread.
3. Katpana Lake: A unique lake that changes its color throughout the day due to the reflection of the surrounding mountains. It is also known as the "Colorful Lake" and offers stunning views.
4. Manthal Buddha Rock: A rock carving of Buddha that dates back to the 8th century. It is located on a hilltop near Skardu and is considered a sacred site.
5. Deosai National Park: One of the highest plateaus in the world, Deosai National Park is home to brown bears, Himalayan ibex, and snow leopards. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
6. Satpara Lake: A clear blue lake located near Skardu. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers boating and fishing opportunities.
7. K2 Base Camp: Skardu is a popular starting point for treks to K2, the second highest mountain in the world. The base camp provides stunning views of the mountain and surrounding glaciers.
8. Cold Desert: A desert located near Skardu that is covered in snow during the winter months. It is famous for its sand dunes and camel rides.
Skardu is a beautiful place with a lot to offer to travelers. It is known for its stunning landscapes, fortresses, and mountain ranges.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Pakistan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Skardu.

When to go on holiday to Skardu

Skardu, Pakistan is the perfect place for adventure lovers, especially in the summer months. The best time to visit Skardu is from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as mountaineering, trekking, and camping. However, it's important to note that during the monsoon season (July to August), there may be heavy rainfall and landslides, which may disrupt travel plans. So, it's always advisable to keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Additionally, winter months can be very cold with heavy snowfall, so it's better to avoid the winter season unless you are interested in winter sports.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Skardu

Skardu is a district located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region in northern Pakistan. You can reach Skardu using three major transportation modes: 1. By Air: The easiest way to get to Skardu is by air. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is the only airline that operates flights to Skardu from Islamabad. The flying time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
2. By Road: Skardu can also be reached by road. The Karakoram Highway (KKH), which is a major highway that connects Pakistan with China, passes through Skardu. You can take a bus or hire a jeep from Islamabad or Gilgit to reach Skardu. The journey can take approximately 22 hours from Islamabad and 8-10 hours from Gilgit.
3. By Train: Currently, there are no direct train services to Skardu. However, you can take a train from Lahore or Rawalpindi to reach Gilgit. From Gilgit, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Skardu. Keep in mind that due to the remote location of Skardu, road travel can be challenging and may not be suitable for certain individuals. It is always recommended to check the current situation and take necessary precautions before planning a trip to Skardu.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Skardu, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Skardu

Here are some typical foods of Skardu, Pakistan with their short descriptions: 1. Skardu Bread: A type of bread that is made with wheat flour and has a crispy outer layer.
2. Mantu: A popular dish that is made with steamed dumplings filled with spiced minced meat and served with yogurt.
3. Harisa: A savory porridge made from ground wheat and cooked with spices, meat, and lentils.
4. Khambir: A type of bread that is made with whole wheat flour and is commonly eaten with butter or honey.
5. Palau: A fragrant rice dish made with meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and spices.
6. Shapik: A hearty soup made with turnips, meat, and wheat flour.
7. Chakku: A sweet dish made with clarified butter, wheat flour, and sugar.
8. Cholay: A spicy chickpea dish that is cooked with tomatoes and served with bread or rice.
Overall, the typical foods of Skardu offer a mix of hearty, spicy and sweet flavors that make them a delight for food enthusiasts.
You can find general info about typical foods in Pakistan here.

Is Skardu an expensive destination for tourists?

Skardu is generally considered to be a cheaper destination compared to other popular tourist destinations but it can still be quite expensive, especially during peak tourist season which is from May through September. Keep in mind that a significant portion of your budget in Skardu will be spent on transportation due to the remote location of the city. Additionally, accommodation and food can be pricey in the city, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options available as well. Overall, it is possible to visit Skardu on a budget, but it will require planning and research to find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and tour packages.

Where to find accomodation in Skardu

Skardu, Pakistan is a popular tourist destination and there are several areas where you can find accommodation to stay during your trip. The most popular area for accommodation is the main city center of Skardu, where you can find a range of hotels, guest houses, and hostels. This area is great if you want easy access to the city's amenities and tourist attractions.
If you're looking for a more peaceful and scenic location, you might consider staying near the Upper Kachura Lake. This area offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, and there are several high-end resorts and guest houses to choose from.
Another option is to stay in the Shigar Valley area, which is about an hour's drive from Skardu. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes and historic sites, and there are several traditional guest houses and lodges in the area.
Overall, the best areas to stay in Skardu will depend on your preferences and travel itinerary.
You can check hotel prices at Skardu here:
Booking.com

Is Skardu a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Skardu is considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Skardu is low and locals are generally friendly and welcoming towards tourists. However, it's always important to take precautions when traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping an eye on your belongings, and being aware of your surroundings. It's also a good idea to check the latest travel advisories from your government before traveling to any destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Pakistan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Skardu.

What type of travelers will enjoy Skardu the most?

Skardu is a beautiful tourist destination in Pakistan, and it offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. The scenic beauty of Skardu is unmatched and breathtaking, which makes it a perfect destination for couples and families looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure activities in Skardu such as trekking, mountaineering, and camping. So, young and adventurous people looking for outdoor activities can also enjoy their time in Skardu.
However, it's worth noting that Skardu is located at a high altitude and requires a bit of physical fitness to enjoy the activities fully. Therefore, families and elderly travelers must ensure that they are physically fit to travel to Skardu. Overall, Skardu is an excellent destination for all types of travelers but is especially recommended for couples, families, and adventure lovers.

How to get around Skardu

In Skardu, the most common modes of transportation are taxis, jeeps, and buses. Taxis and jeeps can be easily hired from the main bazaar area, while buses operate on fixed routes and timings. It's important to note that the roads in Skardu can be quite challenging, so it's best to hire a qualified driver who is familiar with the area. Additionally, renting a bike or a car may also be an option for those who are comfortable driving themselves.

What to see around Skardu

Great, here are some places to visit in a day trip from Skardu, Pakistan: 1. Shigar Valley: Located about 28 km from Skardu, Shigar Valley is known for its scenic beauty and historical buildings.
2. Kachura Lake: Also known as Shangrila Lake, Kachura Lake is about 30 km from Skardu. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for boating and picnicking.
3. Skardu Fort: This historic fort is located in the heart of Skardu and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
4. Satpara Lake: Situated about 6 km from Skardu, Satpara Lake is scenic and is known for its clear blue waters.
5. Manthal Buddha Rock: It's a place you don't want to miss. It's 50 kilometres from Skardu. You'll be amazed by the intricate carvings on the rock that date back to the 8th century.
6. Khaplu Valley: This is about 103 km from Skardu and offers some stunning views of the Himalayas.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Pakistan you can click here.

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