Located in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Skardu sits at 2,228 metres above sea level and serves as the starting point for expeditions to K2 (8,611m), Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum. For non-trekkers, Shangrila Resort and the upper Katpana Desert offer scenery that rivals anything in Central Asia.
The Skardu Fort overlooks the Indus River and is one of the best-preserved historical sites in northern Pakistan. Kachura Lakes — a pair of glacial lakes connected by a narrow channel — sit just outside the town and are popular for boat rides and lakeside camping.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
May – September
HIGHLIGHTS
- K2 and Baltoro Glacier base camp treks
- Shangrila Resort and Lower Kachura Lake
- Skardu Fort and Buddhist rock carvings
- Katpana Cold Desert
- Deosai National Park — the world’s second-highest plateau
