Skardu – Where the Earth Touches the Sky

Welcome to Skardu

Skardu isn’t just a destination — it’s an emotion.

Tucked deep in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, Skardu is the meeting point of the Karakoram and Himalayas. Here, roads wind through raw cliffs and glaciers, and the air feels lighter — not just because of altitude, but because of peace.

In summer, wildflowers bloom across its valleys. In winter, it turns into a dreamland of snow and silence. Skardu welcomes adventurers, poets, photographers, and those simply looking to breathe a little deeper.

 A Touch of History

Skardu has long been a hub on the ancient trade route between Tibet and Central Asia. The region was once part of the Baltistan Kingdom, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism before embracing Islam in the 14th century.

The legacy lives on — in the architecture, in local customs, and even in the food. Old forts like Skardu Fort and Shigar Fort tell stories of royal families, mountain warriors, and caravan traders.

Skardu’s name is derived from the Balti words “Skar” (place) and “Du” (below) — meaning “place between two mountains.” And when you arrive, you'll feel cradled between giants.

 Skardu at a Glance

• Region: Gilgit-Baltistan

• Best Time to Visit: May to October (accessible, blooming, best weather)

• Languages: Balti, Urdu, English

• Daily Budget: PKR 3,000–6,000

• Getting There:

  • By air: Direct flights from Islamabad to Skardu Airport (weather dependent)

  • By road: 18–22 hour drive via Karakoram Highway — stunning but intense

 Top Places to Visit

 Skardu Fort (Kharphocho Fort)

Perched on a rugged hilltop, this 8th-century fort offers sweeping views of the city and Indus River. The climb is a bit steep, but sunset here is unforgettable.

 Shigar Fort

Now a heritage hotel run by Serena, Shigar Fort was built in the 17th century. Walk through wooden halls, lush gardens, and imagine what royal life looked like — surrounded by glaciers.

Satpara Lake

A sapphire-blue lake fed by glaciers. You can take a boat ride, camp nearby, or just sit quietly and let the wind play with your thoughts.

 Shangrila Resort & Lower Kachura Lake

Also known as “Heaven on Earth,” this resort features a heart-shaped lake, red-roof cottages, and charming landscapes that seem too perfect to be real.

 Upper Kachura Lake

Less commercial, more tranquil. This lake is deep, cold, and surreal, especially in early morning mist.

 Deosai National Park

Known as the "Land of the Giants", Deosai is a high-altitude plateau (second highest in the world) bursting with wildflowers, marmots, and golden eagles. You feel small here — in the best way.

 Cold Desert of Skardu

Yes, a desert — but at 2,226 meters above sea level. The Katpana Desert is a strange and beautiful contrast: golden sand dunes set against snowy peaks.

 What to Eat in Skardu

Skardu's cuisine is a reflection of its climate — hearty, warm, and unique.

• Balti Gosht – A meaty curry with local herbs, served with naan

• Mamtu – Balti dumplings steamed with meat and spices

• Buckwheat Roti – Perfect with butter tea

• Apricot Soup – Sweet and savory, great in the cold

• Butter Tea (Noon Chai) – Salty, milky tea to keep you warm

• Khurba – A porridge-style breakfast made with barley

Try these at:

• Mountain Lodge Café

• PTDC Restaurant

• Organic local homes (ask your guide or host)

 Where to Stay

Whether you want rustic or royal, Skardu has options:

• Budget: Baltistan Continental Hotel, Sangam Hotel

• Mid-range: Serena Shigar Fort, Hotel One

• Luxury: Shangrila Resort, Skardu Serena

• Camping options are available near lakes and in Deosai

Pro tip: Even in summer, nights are cold. Always check if hot water and heaters are working.

 Things to Do in Skardu

• Boat on Satpara Lake

• Star-gaze at Deosai (bring a sleeping bag — skies are unreal)

• Hike to Manthal Buddha Rock — traces of Buddhist heritage etched in stone

• Try a local cooking session with Balti women (through guided tours)

• Explore local handicrafts — wool shawls, wooden carvings, handmade caps

• Take part in a polo match if you visit during festival season

 Culture & Festivals

Skardu holds strong to its Balti roots, blending Tibetan heritage with Islamic traditions.

• Nowruz (Balti New Year) – Celebrated in March with dance, sports, and food

• Polo Festivals – Often held in Shigar or Skardu — fierce and full of pride

• Eid Celebrations – Community feasts, clean streets, and families dressed in vibrant traditional wear

Locals speak softly and welcome warmly. It’s customary to be offered tea, bread, and stories.

 Common Phrases in Balti:

• “Joo waari shukria” – Thank you very much

• “Khush amadid” – Welcome

• “Acho skardu pang” – Let’s go to Skardu

 3-Day Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

• Land in Skardu, check in to hotel

• Visit Skardu Fort for golden hour

• Dinner with Balti Gosht & fresh naan

Day 2: Lakes & Local Life

• Morning: Satpara & Upper Kachura Lake

• Afternoon: Visit Shigar Fort and explore nearby villages

• Evening: Walk along Indus River, try Mamtu

Day 3: Deosai Day Trip

• Full-day Jeep tour to Deosai National Park

• Visit Sheosar Lake, spot wildlife, picnic under the sky

• Return by evening — tea under the stars

 Travel Tips

• Pack layers. It’s hot by day, freezing by night — even in summer

• Roads are rough. Always keep buffer time for weather delays

• Flights often get canceled. Road is long but worth it

• Internet is limited. Enjoy the digital detox

• Talk to locals. They’ll share shortcuts, myths, and trail tips

 Final Thoughts

Skardu doesn't just wow you — it grounds you.

It strips away noise and gives you mountains, stars, and moments. Whether you're sipping salty tea in a wooden hut or watching clouds roll over Deosai — you'll feel humbled and deeply alive.

Skardu isn’t about sightseeing. It’s about stillness, stories, and scale.

Come with curiosity. Leave with clarity.