Skardu is a mountain town in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is the capital of the Baltistan region of the Kaakorm Mountains, with an elevation of approximately 2,438 metres (7,999 feet). Known for its beautiful scenery and greenary view, Skardu is a popular tourist destination, especially for mountain climbers and hikers who want to explore the Karakoram mountains, glaciers and lakes.
Importance of Skardu Tours :
Skardu serves as the central hub for trade and transportation in the Baltistan region. Nestled at the confluence of the Indus and Shigar Rivers, it is framed by iconic peaks like Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and II, and K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, featuring historical sites such as Bhudha Rock and Kharpocho Fort, a 16th-century fortress that offers a stunning view of Skardu from its hillside perch. Additionally, Skardu is renowned for its exquisite handicrafts, particularly its intricate wood carvings and embroidery.
Skardu has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. This region has been inhabited for thousands of years and has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous empires and kingdoms. In the 8th century AD, the Tibetan Empire conquered Skardu, introducing Buddhism to the local population. Over time, Islam also spread throughout the area, leaving a lasting impact that can still be seen today in various mosques and religious sites, such as the Fort Capojo Mosque, one of the region’s most significant landmarks.
Geography of Skardu:
Skardu became a crucial trading hub between Central Asia and India and was later integrated into the Dogra Empire, which governed much of northern India and the Himalayan region. Following the creation of Pakistan, Skardu became part of the new nation. Today, it is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and proximity to the Karakoram mountains, drawing visitors from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. Its rich history and cultural heritage make Skardu a major destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Skardu is a lovely city with many amazing places to see. Here are some popular tourist spots:
Kharpocho Fort: This fort, built in the 16th century, sits on a hill and offers great views of the Indus River and the surrounding area.
Shigar Fort:Located in the nearby village of Shigar, this 17th-century fort has been turned into a hotel and museum, showing off its beautiful architecture and history.
Satpara Lake:Just a few kilometers from Skardu, Satpara Lake is a stunning clear lake. It provides drinking water for the city and is a great spot for boating, picnics, and fishing, surrounded by the impressive Karakoram Mountains.
Deosai National Park: About 28 kilometers from Skardu, this national park is the second highest in the world. It is known for its beautiful views and wildlife, including brown bears and snow leopards.
K2 Base Camp: Skardu is the starting point for many hikes, including the trek to K2 Base Camp, which is at the foot of the world’s second-highest mountain. This trek is one of the most exciting in the world and is best done from June to September.
K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek:This popular trek takes you to K2 Base Camp and across Gondogoro Pass, where you can see breathtaking mountain views. Many hikers also choose to climb Pastore Peak for an amazing three-week adventure in the Karakoram Mountains.
Upper Kachura Lake: also know as kachura lake kilometers from Skardu, this beautiful lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Its clear waters are perfect for boating, picnics, fishing, and camping.
Lower Kachura Lake: Also known as Shangrila Lake, this lovely spot is about 16 kilometers from Skardu. It is surrounded by green meadows, small hotels, and restaurants, making it a great place for picnics and photography.
Best Season to Visit Skardu
The best time to visit Skardu depends on what you like to do. The peak tourist season is from May to September, when the weather is nice and roads and trails are open. During these months, the days are longer, and the skies are clear, making it easy to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
In May and June, the weather is mild, with temperatures between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (65 to 77 deg rees Fahrenheit). This is a great time for trekking and exploring the area.
July and September:
From July to September, it gets a bit warmer, with temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). This is perfect for hiking, mountain climbing, boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Winter lasts from November to March. During this time, many roads and trails may be closed. However, if you like winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, this could be a good time to visit.
Overall, the best time to visit Skardu is in the summer, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are easy to enjoy.
Skardu is in the northern areas of Pakistan. The easiest way to get there is by air, but you can also travel by road. Here’s how:
By Air: The fastest way to reach Skardu is to take a flight. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Air Blue have daily flights from Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore to Skardu. A flight from Islamabad takes about one hour and offers great views of the Himalayas and Karakoram mountains.
By Road: You can also drive to Skardu, but it takes a long time. The distance from Islamabad to Skardu is about 570 kilometers, and it can take 18 to 20 hours by car or bus via the Karakoram Highway. The road goes through mountains and can be difficult in some places.
