Baltistan
Shigar
A green valley of orchards, heritage and cold desert
Overview
Shigar is a quiet, green valley a short drive from Skardu, known for its historic fort, old wooden mosques and the cold-desert dunes at Sarfaranga.
Shigar feels a world away from Skardu despite being close by. Fields and orchards line the valley floor, and the village keeps much of its traditional wood and stone architecture.
It is an easy place to slow down: walk through the old village, see the restored fort and historic mosques, and spend an afternoon on the Sarfaranga dunes. The road through Shigar also leads towards Askole, the starting point for treks on the Baltoro Glacier.
Highlights
- Shigar Fort and the old village
- Historic wooden mosques, including Amburik Mosque
- The Sarfaranga cold desert
- Orchard and village walks
- The road towards Askole and the Baltoro
Things you can do
- Heritage visits
- Village walks
- Desert excursions
- Riverside picnics
- Photography
Practical considerations
Draft for review: seasonal and operational details are being confirmed by Ragasha before publication.
- Entry arrangements for heritage sites are confirmed before your visit.
- Heritage accommodation in the valley is limited and can fill early. We advise on options for your dates.
Conditions in the mountains change. We confirm current access, timings and any requirements when we plan your trip.
Experiences
Journeys that include Shigar
Packages3 Luxury Nights in Skardu
Three nights at PC Skardu with breakfast, return flights from Islamabad, and a 3-day luxury tour of Skardu's lakes, valleys, desert and Deosai in a Toyota Prado with your own driver.
- Length
- 3 nights
- Price
- PKR 130,000 per person
Packages3 Luxury Nights in Skardu for Two
For couples: three nights at PC Skardu with breakfast, return flights from Islamabad and a 3-day luxury tour in a Toyota Prado with your own driver. A child under 5 comes free.
- Length
- 3 nights
- Price
- PKR 250,000 for two people
Luxury escapesBaltistan in Comfort
A slow, comfortable journey through Skardu, Shigar and Khaplu, with characterful stays, a private vehicle and time to enjoy each valley.
Flexible. This sample runs over about a week.Sample itinerary
Adventure & trekkingK2 Base Camp and Concordia Trek
A fully supported expedition along the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia and K2 Base Camp, for experienced, well-prepared trekkers.
- Length
- A long expedition. Duration is confirmed during planning.
- Price
- Price on request
Sample itinerary
