Located in the heart of the Karakoram mountain range, Skardu is a breathtakingly beautiful city in Pakistan that attracts tourists from all over the world. The city is surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and lakes, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. However, there are many more places to visit near Skardu that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and offbeat destinations near Skardu that you shouldn’t miss.
Places To Visit Near Skardu
Skardu is a great base to explore the surrounding region, which is dotted with picturesque valleys, snow-capped mountains, and ancient monasteries. Here are some of the most popular places to visit near Skardu:
Shangri-La Lake
Located about 20 kilometers from Skardu, Shangri-La Lake is a serene and picturesque lake that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular spot for camping and trekking.
Deosai National Park
Deosai National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is located about 30 kilometers from Skardu and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Shigar Valley
Shigar Valley is a beautiful and remote valley located about 50 kilometers from Skardu. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks and is home to several ancient monasteries and villages. It is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure seekers.
Thalle La Pass
Thalle La Pass is a high-altitude pass located about 50 kilometers from Skardu. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure seekers.
Kachura Lake
Kachura Lake is a beautiful and serene lake located about 20 kilometers from Skardu. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is a popular spot for camping and trekking.
Saif ul Malook Lake
Saif ul Malook Lake is a beautiful and picturesque lake located about 70 kilometers from Skardu. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks and is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure seekers.
Skardu Valley
Skardu Valley is a beautiful and picturesque valley located in the heart of the Karakoram mountain range. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks and is home to several ancient monasteries and villages. It is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure seekers.
In conclusion, Skardu is a great base to explore the surrounding region, which is dotted with picturesque valleys, snow-capped mountains, and ancient monasteries. The places to visit near Skardu offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, there is something for everyone near Skardu. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Marrakech Morocco)
Places To Visit Near Skardu
Skardu is a breathtakingly beautiful city in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and adventure opportunities. If you’re planning a trip to Skardu, there are several places to visit near the city that are a must-see. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:
Shangri-La
Located about 70 kilometers from Skardu, Shangri-La is a picturesque valley surrounded by towering mountains and lush green meadows. The valley is home to the ancient Shangri-La monastery, which is believed to be over 1,000 years old. Visitors can explore the monastery, take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and enjoy trekking and camping in the valley.
Kachura Lakes
The Kachura Lakes are a series of three lakes located about 40 kilometers from Skardu. The lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lakes, enjoy fishing, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Deosai National Park
Deosai National Park is a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve located about 30 kilometers from Skardu. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan brown bear, ibex, and snow leopard. Visitors can take a guided trek through the park, enjoy camping, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Shigar Valley
Shigar Valley is a scenic valley located about 90 kilometers from Skardu. The valley is home to the ancient Shigar Fort, which dates back to the 17th century. Visitors can explore the fort, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and enjoy trekking and camping in the valley.
Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake is a stunning lake located about 100 kilometers from Skardu. The lake was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide blocked the flow of the Hunza River. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, enjoy fishing, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Batura Glacier
Batura Glacier is the 36th longest glacier in the world, located about 100 kilometers from Skardu. The glacier is known for its stunning views and is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure seekers. Visitors can take a guided trek to the glacier, enjoy camping, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Other Places to Visit
In addition to the above-mentioned places, there are several other attractions to visit near Skardu, including:
- Saif ul Malook Lake
- Payee Lake
- Spantik Peak
- Uli Biaho Tower
- Hispar Pass
Getting There
To get to Skardu, you can fly into the Skardu Airport from major cities in Pakistan, including Islamabad and Lahore. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from Islamabad or Lahore to Skardu, which takes around 20-24 hours depending on the road conditions. (See Also: Nearby Places To Visit Near Bangalore)
Accommodation
Skardu has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and camping sites. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel season.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Skardu is during the summer months of June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the region is also popular during the winter months of December to February, when visitors can enjoy skiing and other winter sports.
As we conclude our journey through the breathtaking destinations near Skardu, it’s clear that this region is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure.
In this article, we explored the top places to visit near Skardu, from the majestic Deosai National Park to the serene Shangri-La Lake, and from the ancient Buddhist monastery of Altit to the picturesque village of Rama.
We delved into the rich history and culture of the region, highlighting the significance of the ancient Silk Road and the impact of the region’s unique geography on its people and traditions.
We also touched on the outdoor activities and adventure opportunities that await visitors, from trekking and camping to horseback riding and paragliding.
In conclusion, Skardu and its surrounding areas offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities that make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Pakistan’s northern regions.
We hope this article has inspired you to plan your trip to Skardu and explore the many wonders that this incredible region has to offer. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Harihareshwar)
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Skardu”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit near Skardu for trekking?
Skardu is a trekker’s paradise, and there are many amazing places to visit near Skardu for trekking. Some of the most popular options include the Fairy Meadows, Nanga Parbat Base Camp, and the Deosai National Park. These treks offer breathtaking views of the Karakoram range and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
What are the best places to visit near Skardu for sightseeing?
If you’re looking for places to visit near Skardu for sightseeing, you should definitely check out the Shangri-La Lake, the Skardu Fort, and the Upper Kachura Lake. These places offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and are a great way to experience the culture and history of the region.
Are there any good places to visit near Skardu for adventure activities?
Yes, there are many great places to visit near Skardu for adventure activities. The Indus River offers world-class rafting and kayaking, while the surrounding mountains offer excellent opportunities for rock climbing and paragliding. You can also go horseback riding or take a Jeep safari to explore the region’s rugged terrain.
What are the best places to visit near Skardu for wildlife enthusiasts?
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you should definitely check out the Deosai National Park, which is home to the Himalayan brown bear and the ibex. You can also visit the Shangri-La Lake, which is a great spot for birdwatching. The surrounding mountains are also home to many other species of animals, including the snow leopard and the markhor.
Are there any good places to visit near Skardu for photography?
Yes, Skardu is a photographer’s paradise, with its stunning mountains, lakes, and valleys offering endless opportunities for capturing amazing photos. Some of the best places to visit near Skardu for photography include the Shangri-La Lake, the Skardu Fort, and the Upper Kachura Lake. You can also take a Jeep safari or go trekking to capture the region’s rugged beauty from different angles.