Khaplu Valley, is one of the most peaceful, calming and charming places of the Northern Pakistan, offering a peace of mind with its traditional and cultural taste to the tourists. Whether you are looking for beauty, relaxation and history, this is what you are actually missing. In this guidebook, you are going to know about the location, significance, charm and the enchanting glory of this breathtaking creation of God. The Ultimate Travel Guide book to Khaplu Valley Baltistan.
Not only this, but you are also going to know about when to travel, where to stay, how can you enjoy the entire journey, what things are needed to be done in order to get the full of this Valley. This guidebook is completely designed in a way so that you are not going to miss any of the fun you can make there and to assure you a memorable experience.
Introduction regarding Khaplu Valley
Khaplu Valley, often referred to as Shyok Valley or Little Tibet, serves as the administrative heart of the Ghanche district in the picturesque Gilgit-Baltistan region. Nestled along the banks of the Shyok River, a major tributary of the Indus, this enchanting valley sits at a lofty altitude of approximately 2,600 meters above sea level.
It stands as a gateway to the awe-inspiring Karakoram Range, where colossal peaks like Masherbrum, Gondogoro, Chogolisa, K-6, and K-7 pierce the heavens. Beyond its natural grandeur, the valley is a living testament to history, boasting architectural marvels such as the iconic Khaplu Fort and the serene Chaqchan Mosque, immerse yourself in the authentic Balti culture, savor delectable local cuisine, and lose yourself in the serene beauty of lush orchards, emerald meadows, tranquil lakes, and crystal-clear streams and much more.
Also Read This: My Trip To Daitar Valley Nagar
History and Royal Heritage of Khaplu Valley
It did enjoy a period of significant prominence during the 17th and 18th centuries, largely due to its strong political and familial bonds with the royal lineage of neighboring Ladakh. Despite never visiting Baltistan, renowned geographer Alexander Cunningham contributed to it’s historical record by publishing a concise geographical account and a detailed genealogy of its rulers in 1854.
The first mention of the former small kingdom called Khápula is in Mirza Haidar’s (1499–1551) famous work Tarikh-i-Rashidi (p. 410). The author lists the Khaplu district of Balti(stan). The first European known to visit this place was likely Captain Claude Martin Wade in the mid-19th century, who briefly mentioned the region in his writings. Subsequently, other European explorers such as William Moorcroft, George Trebeck, and Godfrey Thomas Vigne made references to it in their accounts. The Ultimate Travel Guide book to Khaplu Valley Baltistan.
While Alexander Cunningham provided a written description and genealogy without visiting the area, Thomas Thomson offered a more detailed portrayal of it’s natural beauty. Knight later praised the valley as a “Garden of Eden” and Jane E. Duncan’s extended stay resulted in a comprehensive report. Finally, De Filippi’s visit in 1913 culminated in a description of this valley as a “loveliest oasis.” These early explorers laid the groundwork for future discoveries and appreciations of this remarkable region.
Geography/Location of Khaplu Valley
It is a beautiful treasure among the Eastern Himalayas in Gilgit-Baltistan, approximately 112 kilometers from the fascinating city of Skardu. Covering over a total of 15,000 square kilometers, 70,000 people are living their lives here. Geographically, it is located at 35.1611° North and 76.3319° East.
Ghanche district, with its administrative center in this valley, has a rich historical and strategic significance. It encompasses a broader territory than just the Khaplu Valley, including the regions of Balghar and Daghoni, as well as the area where the Indus River meets the Shayok.
Historically, this region played a crucial role as a defense against potential incursions from neighboring kingdoms, Skardu and Shigar. The former Kingdom of Kiris, now part of Ghanche district, served as a formidable military bulwark. Furthermore, another fortress in Haldi, located in the eastern part of the Hushe/Saltoro Valley, reinforced the region’s defensive capabilities.
What makes Khaplu worth visiting?
Although, Khaplu is a quite a sight to look at and to waste a thousand of seconds in keeping an eye on it, but there are certain questions which are needed to be answered like what in the world is in here that we should be visiting this place? This amazing place is quite famous for being near to Skardu as well, but the places it owns to specify the nature’s art it is holding are Sailing Valley and the Sogha Lake in it.
Moreover, this place is also comprising of the ancient and historic monuments including the Chaqchan Mosque and the Khaplu Fort/Palace. Let’s deep dive into the fascinating details and features of these places:
Sailing Valley:
Sailing Valley, is a beautiful valley within Ghanche District, Khaplu, Gilgit-Baltistan. The route from Khaplu city towards Sailing Valley is quite smooth. But this smoothness only lasts till the main bridge as after that the route becomes quite rough. You can imagine it by just knowing that it will make your regular jeep go on the speed of 30 km.
This whole route will take you towards the Sailing Valley within 30-40 minutes. It offers a satisfaction to the visitor’s heart and mind. Serving as a gateway to the stunning Hushe Valley, it also provides an iconic camping spot adjacent to a serene lake. The valley boasts breathtaking views of Khaplu Town, creating a captivating sight.
It is a place where the people living in Skardu come for a picnic. It has a majority of locals.
An attraction to add in Sailing’s charm is its fun fish farm, named as Hidden Trout Resort, renowned for its flexible offerings. The calming part is that there’s no disturbance or noises but only the sounds of the birds chirping and the hustling of leaves. Visitors can enjoy a delightful picnic along with the natural beauty while indulging in fresh seafood. The area is further enriched by numerous springs, including a unique hot spring that provides a refreshing bathing experience, especially during the colder months. Its temperature changes with the seasons, offering comfort year-round. The Ultimate Travel Guide book to Khaplu Valley Baltistan.
Sogha Lake:
Now moving on from the Trout Resort to the Sogha Lake. The road of this journey is very fascinating as there are beautiful mountains on one side of the track while a river flowing on the other side of it. This journey takes an estimate of 15-25 minutes.
This beautiful lake has breathtaking views as of the clear blue crystal water flowing in it. It also has Shyok River right next to it. Sogha Valley relies entirely on a single lake for its drinking water supply, making it an invaluable lifeline for the people living here. This body of water maintains a consistently low temperature, even during the height of summer, which is barely exceeding 10 degrees Celcius.
Location: Sogha Lake
Khaplu Fort/Palace:
Khaplu Palace is a living demonstration of the Baltistan’s regal past. This ancient hotel, once a royal residence, offers a mix of history, luxury, and natural beauty. Its five buildings, dating back to the 1840s, have been carefully preserved to create an extreme calming effect.
Stepping into a world of enchantment as you explore the palace’s delicate woodwork, decor, and antique mysteries. Each of the 21 rooms is a unique is thoughtfully furnished with necessary comforts while keeping the palace’s historic beauty.
Get a chance to experience the culinary delights at Sarfa Khar Restaurant, where there’s traditional Balti, Pakistani, and international cuisines are expertly prepared. The Khatamband Loggia serves a delicious experience with the sight capturing mountain views.
Also Read This: Best Christmas Activities for Travelers with Kids
Chaqchan Mosque:
Moving on from the Sailing Valley, the Sogha Lake and the Khaplu Palace, now comes the Chaqchan Mosque of its own great history. Chaqchan Mosque, often referred to as “The Miraculous Mosque,” stands as a historical and architectural pearl in here. Its origins trace back to around 1370, a period of significant religious transition when the region was shifting from Buddhism to Islam.
Chaqchan Mosque has Sailing Valley and Haldi Cones at its back, while it has Khaplu mountains as the front view of it.
A unique solution of Tibetan, Persian, and Mughal architectural styles is evident in the mosque’s design, reflecting the region’s rich culture. While the exact details of its construction remain being a mystery, localists say that its creation to the influential Mir Syed Hamdani.
The mosque’s ancient two-story cubic structure is a marvel of engineering. Its walls, constructed from stacked wooden slabs and clay, are a demonstration to the determination and firmness of its builders.
Chaqchan Mosque is not only a place of worshipping but also a museum of history and art, giving a glance into the region’s past.
Traditional festivals and events followed in Khaplu:
Some of the Khaplu’s festivals and events are as illustrated below:
- Eid-ul-Fitr: This Eid is one of the Islamic the festivals of Muslims, is celebrated right after the completion of Ramadan in the happiness of fasting the entire sacred month. People here celebrate this Eid every year at the selected time.
- Eid-ul-Adha: This is a Muslim festival that is celebrated here as well. It is beautifully celebrated in this region.
- Navroz: A mix of customs can be seen in the celebration of Navroz, which is the Persian New Year. The air at this specific event is filled with a sense of love as people living here engage themselves in cultural activities such as music, dance, and poetry.
- Annual Mela: The Annual Mela, a grand fair is held typically in October, being a proof of Khaplu Valley’s diverse offerings. Many people from across Gilgit-Baltistan come here to experience the area’s richness of culture, trade, and entertainment. From local handicrafts and agricultural products to thrilling competitions like horse racing, polo, archery, wrestling and including many more, the Mela offers everything for everyone.
Adventure Opportunities
The wild River Shyok allures the visitors to satiate their desire for adventure by rafting through the cold and untamed waters. You can also go rock climbing to Biamari Thoqsikhar and DowoKraming (hot spring).
Visitors can also indulge in thrilling outdoor activities like rock climbing spots such as Biamari Thoqsikhar and DowoKraming (hot spring). Dongsa Rock Kuro offers a captivating viewpoint for those seeking tranquillity amidst nature’s bounty.
Trekking lovers have a myriad of scenic places like Khaplu Thung, Kholi, Hanjoor, Kaldaq, Khaplu Braq, and Ehli around Khaplu valley to hike and trek for many days, Khaplu is a scenic place for hiking.
Places to stay when One visits Khaplu:
There are many hotels and guest houses to stay in Khaplu valley. These are the famous hotels in Khaplu: PTDC Khaplu motel, Karakoram lodge, PWD Guest house Khaplu, Guest house Hushe and Sereena Khaplu Fort. Sereena Khaplu fort provides local dishes. You can taste some local Balti dishes. Khaplu fort once the residence of royals now restored by Agha Khan Foundation and converted into Sereena heritage hotel. The Ultimate Travel Guide book to Khaplu Valley Baltistan.
The Khaplu City, all basic fascilities are available here:
The Sailing Valley is quite near to the Khaplu city. Coming to think, but this city is not a backward city. In fact, this city has many facilities in here including the DHQ Hospital, Bank, ATM and workshops. Unlike villages, as villagers are busy with their crops and farms. On the other hand, here in khaplu city, people are doing jobs and businesses. In short, all the basic needs which are required to live here in this city are present here.
Perfect time for visiting Khaplu:
You can visit Khaplu valley in fall, summer, winter and spring season. But best season to visit Khaplu is summer, spring and fall. The romantic autumn season can be enjoyed fully in Khaplu valley. Similarly. during spring blossom apricot, almond, apple and cherry trees bloom. The romantic spring season has its own feelings and views which cannot be expressed in words. The summer season has its own beauty when whole valley looks like a paradise.
Packing guide for Khaplu Visit:
Today, however, I’ll be sharing with you my packing list for a short trip to the north! Aside from the usual thing like clothes and shoes (!), my tried and tested packing list is;
- Power bank. There are lots of places where you’ll be without electricity for a whle
- Earphones for the long bus rides. Noise-cancelling headphones are even better, unless you’re into tinny Bollywood soundtracks
- Sunglasses. The mountains are covered in snow and glare is harsh.
- Electricity adaptor to charge the camera
- Chapstick – the alpine sun and wind is abrasive
- Water bottle to fill up at mountain springs – no need to waste plastic bottles
- Deodorant – treks get sweaty, even in the mountains
- Passport and driver’s license – don’t even think about heading north without your passport
- Passport sized photos and copies of my passport and visa pages – security checkpoints often require them
- Motion sickness medication – long winding bus rides and a tummy full of chai don’t make good friends.
- Shalwar kameez – helps to blend in if I end up in a more conservative part of the north
- Hoodie – it’s an extra layer the hood can be especially useful in the evenings when there is a chilly breeze
- Beanie – it’s surprising how much body heat escapes via your head
- Down jacket – it packs away compact, it’s light to carry and ultra warm.
- Shawl – pleasant to drape over yourself if it’s a bit chilly. Plus it makes a great makeshift blanket/pillow for long bus rides or under-appointed hotel rooms.
Renovation and Current Use:
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture, from 2005 to the year of 2011, under the Aga Khan Historic Cities Program. The restoration adhered to the Venice Charter’s standards, and the process involved. The use of Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) devices for surveying.
Accessing Khaplu:
Khaplu is predominantly accessible by road, with the primary route connecting it to the Skardu Valley. Several other roads link Khaplu to Kashmir, Ladakh, and Yarqand, allowing travellers to explore more of the picturesque region.
In the past, an all-weather road connected Khaplu to Drass in Ladakh. However, it is now closed due to the changes in administrative boundaries. For those seeking a more convenient mode of transportation. Khaplu has a few helipads, facilitating easy access for tourists to this captivating paradise.
Frequently asked questions about Khaplu
Question: Is Khaplu safe for tourists?
Awnser; Khaplu is generally considered safe for tourists. But it’s always good to check the current situation and follow some guidelines before starting your travel.
Question: When should be the suitable and best time to visit this Valley?
The suitable time to visit are the months of the summer season from May to September. During these months the weather is good and most trekking routes are available.
Question: Are there accommodation options available in Khaplu?
Yes, there are accommodation options available in Khaplu. The Khaplu Palace itself serves as a hotel.
Question: How can I reach Khaplu from Skardu?
It is accessible by road from Skardu. The journey offers pretty views of the Karakoram Range and takes about 3-4 hours.
Question: In this Valley, what are the good trekking routes?
In this Valley, the good trekking routes are the Gondogoro La trek, Saraksa Glacier trek, and Masherbrum Glacier trek, and others.
Also Read This: Best Christmas Activities for Travelers with Kids
Conclusion:
Khaplu valley is a beautiful place that is offering a good combination of nature, culture and the significance of this area’s history. Whether it a Khaplu Fort/ Palace or the old Chaqchan Mosque. It’s the peaceful landscape of the Hushe Valley or Sailing Valley, this place offers a big range of beautiful experiences. If you are looking for adventure or you want to explore the beauty and charm of Gilgit Baltistan. Khaplu Valley serves nature for every visitor. The Ultimate Travel Guide book to Khaplu Valley Baltistan.
Every visit to this charming Valley gives you a beautiful experience and peace for its beauty and the hospitality of the people living here. While you are exploring the enchanting and beautiful scenes of this heaven on earth, you will see that you are lost in the nature and cultures of this Valley, creating moments that you will always remember. Assuring you that if you visit this place, the beauty of Khaplu will never let you regret anything for sure.
