Skardu Valley Travel and Tour Guide: Best Things to Do, See, and Stay

Getting to Skardu Valley

Skardu Valley is located in the northern part of Pakistan, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. The easiest way to get to Skardu Valley is by air. Skardu Airport is served by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and is connected to major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. The flight duration from Islamabad to Skardu is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The airport is located just 7 kilometers away from the main town of Skardu.

Alternatively, you can also reach Skardu Valley by road. The Karakoram Highway (KKH) is the main road that connects Pakistan to China and passes through Skardu Valley. The journey from Islamabad to Skardu by road takes around 18 hours and is a scenic one, with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

Things to Do in Skardu Valley

1. Visit Shangrila Resort

Shangrila Resort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Skardu Valley. Located just 25 kilometers away from Skardu town, the resort is famous for its serene location and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The resort also features a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking.

2. Explore Satpara Lake

Satpara Lake is a beautiful lake located just a few kilometers away from Skardu town. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers breathtaking views of the landscape. You can go boating or fishing in the lake or simply enjoy a picnic with your friends and family.

3. Hike to K2 Base Camp

K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world and is located just a few kilometers away from Skardu Valley. The base camp for K2 is located at an altitude of 5,150 meters and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. The trek to K2 base camp takes around 10-12 days and is a challenging one, but the views of the mountains and glaciers are worth the effort.

4. Visit Khaplu Palace

Khaplu Palace is a historic palace located in the Khaplu Valley, which is just a few hours away from Skardu town. The palace was built in the 19th century and was the residence of the Raja of Khaplu. Today, the palace has been converted into a museum and is open to the public. The museum features a variety of exhibits on the history and culture of the region.

5. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Skardu Valley is famous for its delicious cuisine, which is a mix of Pakistani, Tibetan, and Chinese flavors. Some of the popular dishes in Skardu include Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (dumplings), and Yak meat dishes. You can try these dishes at local restaurants and cafes in Skardu town.

Where to Stay in Skardu Valley

Skardu Valley offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Skardu Valley:

1. Shangrila Resort

Shangrila Resort is one of the most popular accommodation options in Skardu Valley. The resort features comfortable rooms, stunning views, and a range

of activities for guests to enjoy.

2. Serena Shigar Fort

Serena Shigar Fort is a historic palace located in the Shigar Valley, just a few hours away from Skardu town. The palace has been converted into a hotel and features beautifully decorated rooms, a restaurant, and a spa.

3. Baltistan Continental Hotel

Baltistan Continental Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located in Skardu town. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the mountains.

4. Skardu Sarai Resort

Skardu Sarai Resort is a luxury resort located just a few kilometers away from Skardu town. The resort features spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a variety of activities for guests to enjoy, including hiking and boating.

5. Hilltop Hotel

Hilltop Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Skardu town. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.