Have you ever thought why we are having all the hype about the District Skardu? What does it offer? What sort of areas and regions does it comprise? Why are people choosing this district over all other holiday destinations? When you visit this place, you will not regret it either!
This district offers several beautiful, adventurous, challenging, and surreal places that will leave your mouth open with wonder. Whether you require a calm environment or a chance to dive into history, this place is all about it.
So, stick with us, as this guide will provide you with all the informational facts about the Skardu District. Tighten up your seat belts, fellas, as the journey is about to begin!
History of the Skardu District
This area has a fascinating history, and you can trace it back to ancient times. It has been populated for thousands of years and was included in many empires and kingdoms of the time. In the 16th century AD, the Balti prince Ali Sher Khan Anchan, also known as Ali Sher, introduced the area to Islam. Islam became the dominant religion in Skardu and nearby areas over time.
Skardu trade was an essential hub between Central Asia and India during the 19th century. The Dogra Empire was a princely state covering much of Northern India and the Himalayas, into which the town also formed part. In 1947, Pakistan separated from British rule, and in 1948 Gilgit Baltistan became a part of the newly established country.
Also, Read Luxury Camping in Skardu- Gilgit Baltistan
Location and Geography of the Skardu District
It is a district of Gilgit-Baltistan in the Pakistan-administered Kashmir region. It is located at the confluence of the Indus River and Shayok River, leading to the ancient tourist destination of the world’s greatest peaks. The district lies east of Ghanche District, south of Kharmang District, west of Astore District, northwest of Rondu District, and north of Shigar District. The district headquarters are in Skardu town (also the division headquarters).
Skardu District | Administration
The Skardu District has the following four tehsils:
- Kharmang
- Gultari
- Rondu (Formerly part of Skardu District and upgraded to a district in 2019)
- Shigar
What is the Reason for Skardu District to be Famous?
Skardu District is famous for its incredible natural beauty, adventure spots, and its rich cultural past. Some key factors that make it famous are
Majestic Mountains
- This region belongs to a challenge seeker as some of the world’s highest mountain peaks are in Skardu, including K2, the second-highest mountain in the world.
Lakes
- Its lakes, including Satpara and Kachura, are beautiful. Amazing views, boating, fishing, and photography opportunities abound at these natural wonders.
Cultural Heritage
- Skardu is a town with a rich cultural heritage and the manner of influence of Tibetan Buddhism, Persian, and Central Asian traditions. The architecture, music, and customs of the region show this.
Adventure Activities
- It is a place where you can do trekking, mountaineering, and many more. The terrain here is rugged and the landscape is amazing, making it a good destination for people who like adventures.
You should read Karakoram Range -All You Need To Know.
Top Places to Visit in Skardu District
You may go to the Skardu District, but do you have any guide on which places there are that you would not miss? But there is no need to worry at all. Following are some of the best places that you should visit. By visiting them, you will know why visiting each place is worth it!
- Skardu City
- Kharpocho Fort
- Manthal Rock (Buddha Rock)
- Kachura Lakes
- Sadpara Lake
- Chunda valley
- Basho valley
- Khaplu valley
- Deosai National Park
- Bilamik Valley
- Sheosar Lake
Skardu City
Skardu City is a mountain town in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The City is situated in the Karakoram mountain range at a height of around 2,438 meters (7,999 feet) above sea level. It is famously known as the Capital of Baltistan. Skardu is famous for its beauty and wide scenery enveloping the Karakoram mountains, glaciers, and water bodies that tourists have used to access some of the campsites.
Skardu is a hub for trade, trekking, and tours in Baltistan with connection to the neighboring regions of Gilgit, Nanga Parbat over the main pass Skardudarya (Skardu River) after Basho city that remains open year around excluding infrequent landslide blocks the way to road traffic during rain. It is positioned at the Collage Point of the Indus and Shigar Rivers, in between some recognized mountain peaks such as Broad Peak and Gasherbrum I-II, along with K2-the-second-maximum hill globally.
Also, read K2 Museum Skardu -Journey Through Time and History
Kharpocho Fort
It is also known as Skardu Fort and is situated in Skardu City in the Gilgit-Baltistan area of Pakistan. Towards the end of the sixteenth century, King Ali Sher built the fort. The fort was then occupied by the clan general of the Dogra Rajput clan, Zorawar Singh, though working under Maharaja Gulab Singh.
One of his many wars was his military campaign to annex Baltistan to the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. In 1857, ordered to kneel to the ground by Ranbir Singh. Mughal emperor Aurangzeb even occupied the fort but was unable to capture it.
However, it was not much restored but still has a seasonal view of ancient architecture. An ancient mosque is visible on a wooden structure perched on the architecture, once in the fort courtyard.
Manthal Rock (Buddha Rock)
This large granite rock contains a relief sculpture of Buddha, which is probably from the 8th century, and is called Manthal Buddha Rock. The rock is in Manthal village in Skardu, Pakistan. One of the chief relics of Buddhism in Skardu is Buddha Rock. This is about 3 km from the Sadpara road that leads to Satpara Lake.
Now it is a tourist attraction, with a huge Buddha carving in the middle and two standing Metreyias (future Buddhas) and 20 small Buddhasattvas (disciples).
Tibetan text and images of Buddha were also desired to be depicted by Buddhist monks of the time because they wished to impress their aspirations and life events. Before Islam came to Baltistan in the mid of 14th century A.D. these Buddhist rocks were used as a site of worship by the local populace.
Read Lakes in Gilgit Baltistan -An Overview
Kachura Lakes
There are two Kachura Lakes
- Lower Kachura Lake
- Upper Kachura Lake
Lower Kachura lake
Shangrila Lake (also known as Lower Kachura), near Skardu, is a picture-perfect lake in northern Pakistan. The lake is located in a valley called Kachura Valley, surrounded by a range of hills and inhabited by a variety of flora and fauna species. More so than just that, it is known for its dramatic turquoise blue waters. There is a nearby glacier that feeds the lake, which is green and surrounded by mountains and is a great place to get and swim and boat in.
A short drive from Skardu, the Kachura is a popular place to see the Lower Kachura. Several small villages and cultural landmarks are in the area around the lake, such as the Chamba Temple, as well as the close by Udi village, where visitors can attend demonstrations of the local culture and traditions.
Upper Kachura Lake
Upper Kachura Lake is situated in the northern part of Pakistan nearby at Skardu. It is located in the Kachura Valley and is mostly known for its stunning scenery and remote location. While Upper Kachura Lake is less developed than that of Lower Kachura Lake (also known as Shangrila Lake), it’s primarily a place for trekking and adventure travelers.
High mountains surround the lake and it is fed by an adjacent glacier and is a great area for picnicking, fishing, and camping. The trek to Upper Kachura Lake is not for the fainthearted and takes some fitness. It is a rewarding and unusual destination for its remote setting and stunning scenery.
Satpara/ Sadpara Lake
This is a beautiful lake near Skardu in the Northern part of Pakistan. The lake sits in Sadpara Valley, home to famous turquoise blue waters and scenic surroundings.
This can be driven quickly from Skardu and is popular as a trailhead to trek up nearby mountains, including the Sadpara Peak. Visitors to the lake, and the surrounding area, find it to be a peaceful and serene place to lie back and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Visitors looking for a little more remote and secluded get a unique and peaceful experience in the sights around the lake.
Also, see Frozen Lakes in Gilgit Baltistan Guide to Winter Travel.
Chunda Valley
Chunda is one of the most favorite tourist spots in the Skardu District. Skardu City has some great beautiful valleys, but one of them is in Skardu City. It is only a few kilometers away from downtown Skardu but not an hour’s drive. Chunda is a small hilly village of 500m above Skardu Town, it has a beautiful view of Skardu City.
Beautiful Chunda Valley, located in the valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and crystal clear streams, is a land of nature lovers. Meandering trails twist their way through panoramic views that look like so many postcards as you go.
Preserved for generations, the cultural practices and traditions of Skardu are shown to the visitors to give a picture of the authenticity of the heritage of the town of Skardu. You will have an immersive experience by engaging locals, participating in traditional festivities, and devouring local cuisine.
Basho valley
This was a valley, like stepping into a dream located in Skardu, Pakistan. Picture wide-open gorgeous land and awesome mountains blanketed in snow with air that is so crisp you can taste it. It’s not what was shown; it’s how the valley makes you feel.
Lying in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, the valley is at 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level. As it’s a stunning travel spot, it boasts of its Basho Glacier and other ice wonders. It has wonderful views and loads of outdoor fun, surrounded by tall mountains.
Basho Meadows is beautiful, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green fields, and a crystal-clear river. They offer fishing, camping, swimming, and dining in wooden shelters.
Khaplu Valley
It is one of the nicest, coolest, and most enjoyable areas of Northern Pakistan, allowing its tourists a flavor of traditional and cultural traditions.
Khaplu is simply the administrative heart of the picturesque Gilgit Baltistan region pipers to Khaplu Valley, also known as Shyok Valley or Little Tibet. This was about 2,600 meters high in this loftily high valley.
It is the most loved tourist attraction and lies approximately 112 kilometers away in the Eastern Himalayas in Gilgit-Baltistan. We’re a place with 70,000-odd people living in a space bigger than 15,000 square kilometers, people with all different kinds of lives. It lies geographically at 35.1611° North, 76.3319° East. Furthermore, Chaqchan mosque and Khaplu Fort Palace were ancient and historic monuments in this place.
Read The Ultimate Travel Guide book to Khaplu Valley Baltistan.
Deosai National Park
Deosai National Park is an alpine plateau at the western massif of the Himalayas just east of Nanga Parbat Peak and next to Central Karakoram Range. Lavas spread out in every direction of the area have formed — at a height of 3500—5200 m, an extensive, flat to rolling plateau (358400 ha), dissected by shallow valleys with gently sloping mountainous ridges and peaks.
Deosai National Park, the second highest plateau in the world located at the Western edge of the Tibetan Plateau, is where two very contrasting biogeographical regions – the Himalayas and Karakorum-Pamir highlands, meet. Therefore, three parallel mountain ranges contain the richest biodiversity in this part as regional and global species pass through the Sind valley of the Karakorum range to the main crest of the Himalayas, Next Zanskar range (Trans-Himalaya), Ladakh range (Trans-Himalaya) and Nubra, Indus valleys.
Bilamik Valley
Bilamik is the most beautiful, greenest valley of Subdivision Skardu District. Being almost 2.4k meters above sea level, it is located in the Skardu District of Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. It is situated amidst the Himalayan range and touches the southern side of the Indus River. The Roundabout stretches from the Karakorum mountains at its northern rim to the south, where it ends against the southern slopes of the Himalayan mountains. The only natural connection between these two distinct regions is a low-altitude suspension bridge across the Indus River at Shout Valley, providing access for irregular raiding parties into Bilamik Valley or else for permanently stationed patrols ready to respond in case of conflict northwards against stronger raids.
Sheosar Lake | Skardu District
In Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, Sheosar Lake, also known as Shausar Lake, is another gem of Deosai. It is west and north sides of Chillam Chowki, at the far end of Deosai National Park. Sheosar Lake means Blind Lake, as Sheo in the Shina Language signifies blind and Sar implies Lake. It is called Sheosar Lake, and it has a length of 2.3 km, a width of up to 1.8 miles, with a typical depth reaching about 40 meters.
Sheosar Lake, also called Shausar Lake, is a lake situated in Deosai National Park in Gilgit-Baltistan province of northern Pakistan. It sits at 4,142 m (13,589 ft).
Deosai is a snowbound area between November to May. In spring, the area is filled with different colorful flowers and butterflies. Summer (from June to early September) — the time when most visitors come to the lake.
Also, visit Best Places to Visit in Skardu-Gilgit-Baltistan
Best Hotels to stay in Skardu District
Relaxation and comfort are always the top priority for any site you visit. To maintain your comfort while you are in the Skardu District, the Following are the hotels where you can stay during your visit to the Skardu District.
- Montagna Pods
- Executive Guest House
- Biafo House Skardu
Montagna Pods
Located in Skardu, Montagna Pods offers a garden. Room service and a 24-hour front desk are among the facilities provided at this property, along with free WiFi throughout the property. A Chinese restaurant is on-site, and free private parking is available.
Services
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle (free)
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Free Parking
- Breakfast
Location
Katpanah lake and desert Katpanah lake and desert, skardu, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
+92 343 5269634
Executive Guest House
Situated in Skardu, the Executive Guest House provides a terrace equipped with a garden view and a garden. Apart from lake views, there is a balcony complimentary wi-fi skins, and free private parking. The property offers family accommodation that includes an outdoor fireplace. The facilities, which include a coffee maker and a kettle, further enhance the stovetop and kitchenware. The guests’ house has some rooms overlooking the garden, and all the children are provided with bed linens and towels.
Services
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Free Parking
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Breakfast
Location
Clifton Road, Benazir Chowk Skardu, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
0300-5333193
Biafo House Skardu
The Biafo House offers bed and breakfast options to its patrons in a homey atmosphere. The bed and breakfast offers complimentary parking. Guests can enjoy the outdoor fireplace and picnic area for mountain and garden views.
Services
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle (free)
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Free Parking
- Breakfast
Location
Satpara Road, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
+92 355 4684199
Signature Skardu Hotel
This hotel features advanced air-conditioned guest rooms, including a workspace, coffee maker, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, private terraces, and separate toilets with bidets. A kettle is available in each room, while some studios will also be provided with a kitchen, including a refrigerator, dishwasher, and oven. The accommodation units also include a wardrobe.
Services
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Free Parking
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Breakfast
Location
Gamba, Airport Road,Skardu, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
+92 313 2332549
Baltistan Fort Skardu Resort
There is a closet in the resort hall rooms. The rooms all feature direct access to private bathrooms with a bathtub, shower, and complimentary toiletries, as well as offer High-speed internet in the rooms
Services
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Fitness centre
- Free Parking
- Very good breakfast
Location
Street 1 Katpana Desert, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
+92 300 8220488
Taj Residence Skardu
Just like the location, the Taaj Residence Skardu has internal seating located in the room. This guest house features free onsite parking and a 24-hour reception. Has family rooms this property also offers an outdoor electric fire for their guests.
Services
- Good free WiFi (23 Mbps)
- Room service
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Free Parking
Location
Near NCHD Office, Kargrong, Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan 16100, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
+92 355 5906097
Skardu Saraye Hotel & Resort
This Hotel has a garden and terrace situated in Skardu. Guests can park here complimentary and enjoy a meal at the hotel’s Chinese restaurant or have it delivered to their room.
Services
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle (free)
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Free Parking
- Breakfast
Location
New Rangah, Skardu, 16100 Skardu, Pakistan
Contact
+92 346 8484422
Traditions, People, and Culture of Skardu District
Being situated in a geographically superior location on the confluence point of the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia, Skardu benefits from abundant cultural exchanges. The town’s residents are a collage of races and religions that mesh together to create a cultural picture that transcends the essence of harmony and unity. Each festival in Skardu reflects the essence of the unique culture of this region. Local congregations showcase traditional dances, music, and rites that act as the tie between the vibrant present and the fascinating past. There is dialectical variety in Skardu, as Balti is predominantly a spoken language. English, Urdu, and Shina echo exemplify former contacts and cultural transactions with the neighboring regions.
Wildlife of the Skardu District
Birds
There is a list of 198 bird species in the district, of which the most well-represented order is Order Passeriformes, with 107 species. This group comprises mainly crows, finch, and pipit, some warblers, bunting, flycatchers, redstarts, and larks. Fen waterfowl migrates in mass as well as several 16 species of ducks & geese, 12 species of waders, 9 species of gulls & terns of migratory waterfowl, and also some 11 species of coots, grebes, egrets, and herons. The bird composition of birds of prey includes 14 species of hawks and eagles, 3 species of vultures, one owl, and 4 varieties of falcons. Elsewhere in the region, there are 3 species of pheasants, 4 species of pigeons and doves, and some woodpeckers, swifts, and such species.
Mammals
Himalayan Brown Bear
- Inhabiting Deosai National Park, this endangered predator is one of the biggest mammals in this ecosystem.
Snow Leopard
- Snow leopards which have become a symbol of the wilderness of the Skardu, are hardly seen.
Ibex
- Noteworthy for their remarkable curved horns, these wild goats are easily seen even on craggy mountainsides.
Marco Polo Sheep
- This species is originally from the high-altitude plains and has beautiful spiral horns that hunters covet.
Golden Marmot
- These Large rats are highly fond of burrowing and also seen in very high frequency at Deosai Plains.
Final thoughts on the District Skardu
A part of the Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan, Skardu District is still undiscovered. This valley offers a breathtaking mix of nature, adventure, and culture to everyone. Be it the imposing mountains and beautiful lakes or the fascinating past and rich culture of Skardu, the region has places to allure each.
Be it extreme sports, faint archaeological research, or just enjoying the atmosphere in Skardu, one is not likely to be disappointed. Due to the most popular K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, and the spectacular Kachura Lakes, this district is also described as an oasis of peace in the heart of the mountains. It is best for those who want adventure and serenity.
Also, Let us know which fact about the Skardu District you liked the most. Your opinion does matter!
Questions and Their Answers about the Skardu District
Where does the Skardu District lie?
It is a district of Gilgit-Baltistan in the Pakistan-administered Kashmir region. Located at the confluence of the Indus River and Shayok River, leading to the ancient tourist destination of the greatest peaks of the world.
How many tehsils is the Skardu District divided into?
The Skardu District has the following four tehsils:
- Kharmang
- Gultari
- Rondu (Formerly part of Skardu District and upgraded to a district in 2019)
- Shigar
What does the Skardu District offer?
This district is a complete package as it offers majestic mountains, gorgeous lakes, cultural heritage, and various adventure activities.
What are the recommended places when one visits this district?
Following are the must-visit places when one visits this district
- Skardu City
- Kharpocho Fort
- Manthal Rock (Buddha Rock)
- Kachura Lakes
- Sadpara Lake
- Chunda valley
- Basho valley
- Khaplu valley
- Deosai National Park
- Bilamik Valley
- Sheosar Lake
What is Khaplu also known as?
This Valley is also known as Shyok Valley or Little Tibet.
How many lakes lie in the Kachura region?
There are two Kachura Lakes
- Lower Kachura Lake
- Upper Kachura Lake
Which is the second-highest plateau in the world?
Deosai plains, lying in the Skardu District, Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan, is the second-highest plateau in the world.
How many bird species lie in the Skardu District?
There is a list of 198 bird species in the district, of which the most well-represented order is Order Passeriformes, with 107 species.
