Baltistan
Skardu
The gateway to Baltistan's lakes, deserts and high peaks
Overview
Skardu sits in a wide valley on the Indus River and is the natural base for exploring Baltistan, from quiet lakes and cold-desert dunes to the roads that lead towards the Karakoram.
Skardu is the main town of Baltistan and the place where most journeys in the region begin. The valley is broad and open, framed by bare mountain walls, with the Indus River running through it.
From here you can visit lakes such as Upper and Lower Kachura, walk on the cold-desert dunes near Katpana, and continue towards Shigar, Khaplu, Deosai or the trekking routes of the Karakoram. We plan the order of your days around travel time, weather and how much you want to see.
Photos
Stargazing at Sarfaranga, Skardu Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura), Skardu, in autumn Skardu from above Campfire in the Sarfaranga cold desert Spring blossom in Skardu
Highlights
- Upper and Lower Kachura lakes
- Cold-desert dunes near Katpana
- Kharpocho Fort above the town
- The Manthal Buddha Rock carving
- An easy base for Shigar, Khaplu and Deosai
Things you can do
- Lakeside stays and short walks
- Cultural and historical visits
- Jeep excursions
- Sunrise and sunset photography
- Starting point for treks and Deosai
Practical considerations
Draft for review: seasonal and operational details are being confirmed by Ragasha before publication.
- Flights between Islamabad and Skardu can be affected by weather. Where it matters, we plan a road alternative or a buffer day.
- Driving times on mountain roads vary with conditions. We confirm realistic timings when we plan your itinerary.
- Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Tell us your preferences and we will suggest suitable options.
Conditions in the mountains change. We confirm current access, timings and any requirements when we plan your trip.
Experiences
Journeys that include Skardu
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
Nature & photographyDeosai and Baltistan in Good Light
A photography-led journey timed for good light: the Deosai plains, Skardu's lakes and the valleys of Ghanche.
Flexible. This sample runs over about six days.Sample itinerary
