Baltistan Wildlife Sanctuary | Top Sight to visit in Skardu
Skardu | Baltistan Wildlife Sanctuary
Baltistan Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary spanning 415 square kilometers in the Baltistan region of northern Pakistan.
Located in the Skardu District, south of the Indus River, it lies between the settlements of Rondu and Shengus, and is adjacent to the Astore Wildlife Sanctuary to the south and east. Established in 1975, the sanctuary's primary goal is to protect endangered species that inhabit the area. Among the endangered animals found here are the snow leopard, brown bear, lynx, Tibetan wolf, Tibetan sand fox, markhor, bharal, and Siberian ibex. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for these species, making it an important conservation area.
Shangrila Resort, also known as "HEAVEN ON EARTH" nestled amongst some of the worlds highest peaks. It encircles the heart shaped Kachura Lake.
Shangrila Resort, established in 1983, opened the first Resort Hotel in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Founded by the late Muhammad Aslam Khan Afridi, the first commander of the Northern Scouts of the Pakistan Army, the resort is famous for its unique restaurant built inside the fuselage of a crashed aircraft.
Named after the novel "Lost Horizon" by James Hilton, Shangrila Resort's name is inspired by a mythical lamasery, where survivors of a plane crash found refuge among Buddhist monks in a lush, fruit-filled paradise.
Shigar Fort
Serena Shigar Hotel, Shigar, Baltistan, Pakistan, Shigar, Gilgit-Baltistan 16300 • Show on map
Shigar Fort: A Living Heritage in the Karakoram Range
Shigar Fort, a 17th-century marvel in Shigar Valley, Baltistan, has been transformed into a heritage hotel managed by Serena Hotels. Located 30 km from Skardu, the fort offers breathtaking views of the Karakoram Range. Visitors can explore the palace of the Raja of Shigar, alongside modern facilities, blending history with luxury.
Deosai National Park
Deosai Park Rd, Astore, Gilgit-Baltistan • Show on map
Deosai National Park: The Land of Giants
Deosai National Park, situated at the crossroads of Skardu, Astore, and Kharmang districts, is a high-altitude plateau teeming with biodiversity. Known for its Himalayan Brown Bears, golden eagles, and vibrant wildflowers, the park is a nature lover's paradise. Visitors flock to iconic spots like Sheosar Lake, Bara Pani, and Ali Malik during the summer months to witness its unmatched beauty.
Kachura Lakes: A Hidden Gem in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
The Kachura Lakes, located in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, comprise three mesmerizing lakes. Upper Kachura Lake is famed for its crystal-clear water, plunging to a depth of 70 meters (230 feet). Summer temperatures hover around 15°C (59°F), while the lake freezes in winter, creating a serene landscape. The untouched terrain surrounding the lake adds to its exclusivity, with fewer tourists exploring its hidden beauty. The area, rich in Himalayan subalpine conifer forests and wild apricot orchards, offers mountaineering, hiking, and trout fishing adventures.
Manthokha Waterfall
Madhupur - Mantho Road PO Manthokha Kharmang • Show on map
Manthokha Waterfall: A Scenic Marvel Near Skardu
Nestled in Manthokha village, Skardu, the Manthokha Waterfall is a breathtaking destination for travelers. Its pristine beauty attracts both local and international visitors. Accessible via the Kargil-Skardu road, the journey to the waterfall passes through picturesque villages like Hussainabad, Parkutta, and Ghasing. The cascading stream eventually merges with the mighty Indus River, adding to its charm. The scenic route and the surrounding landscape make it a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts.
Skardu Fort, also known as Kharpocho, meaning "The King of Forts," stands as a testament to Baltistan's rich history. Built in the late 17th century by Ali Sher Khan Anchan, the fort offers panoramic views of Skardu's stunning landscapes, including the confluence of the Indus and Shigar Rivers. Throughout history, the fort has witnessed strategic battles and significant events, including annexation by the Dogra rulers. Though damaged during various conflicts, it remains a cultural icon of the region.
Satpara Lake, perched at an elevation of 2,636 meters (8,650 feet), spans an area of 2.5 km². Known locally as Sadda Lake, it serves as a crucial water source for Skardu Valley. Fed by the Satpara Stream, the lake also features a captivating island that visitors can explore by boat. Legends speak of a hidden gold mine beneath its tranquil waters. The lake's proximity to the Satpara Dam highlights its importance to the region’s water infrastructure.
Sheosar Lake, Skardu
Situated in Deosai National Park, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is located at a height of 4,142 meters (13,589 ft). • Show on map
Sheosar Lake, located in Deosai National Park, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a breathtaking alpine lake perched at an elevation of 4,142 meters (13,589 feet) above sea level. This makes it one of the highest-altitude lakes of its kind in the world.
Nestled in the heart of the expansive Deosai Plains, Sheosar Lake is a sight to behold. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by the lush green plains of Deosai, offering a striking contrast. The lake also provides a stunning backdrop of the Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-highest peak, adding to the magical scenery.
Each season brings a unique charm to Sheosar Lake. In winter, the lake is frozen, giving it a serene and tranquil appearance. During the summer, the area comes alive with vibrant colors, captivating visitors with the beauty of wildflowers and the crystal-clear reflections on the lake's surface.
The journey to Sheosar Lake is as rewarding as the destination, offering travelers an unforgettable experience of nature's grandeur.
Lower Kachura Lake, also known as Shangrila Lake, is a mesmerizing destination in the Skardu region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Perched at an altitude of 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), this lake is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and has become a symbol of serenity and tranquility.
Since 1983, the renowned Shangrila Resort, often called "Heaven on Earth", has been operating on the lake's banks. Located just a 35-minute drive from Skardu, this picturesque retreat offers unparalleled views and is a popular spot for picnics, relaxation, and adventure. The resort is famous for its heart-shaped lake, which adds a romantic and unique charm to the location.
One of the most unique features of the Shangrila Resort is its restaurant, which is constructed inside the fuselage of a plane that crashed in the area—a fascinating attraction for visitors. The resort also offers activities like boating, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the lake's tranquil waters while enjoying the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Lower Kachura Lake is a must-visit for those seeking to experience nature's untouched beauty and the cultural richness of Skardu.
Sarfarangah Desert
Sarfaranga Desert, Chumik Rd, Chomik, Skardu • Show on map
The Cold Desert, located in Sarfaranga village, Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, is recognized as one of the world's highest deserts, sitting at an altitude of nearly 1,000 feet. This unique and breathtaking destination offers an unparalleled experience, blending the stark beauty of desert sands with the surrounding snow-capped peaks of the Karakoram range.
The Sarfaranga Desert, one of the most famous cold deserts in the region, lies in the Shigar Valley, along the banks of the Shigar River. Its serene and expansive landscape makes it an unforgettable stop for travelers exploring the Shigar area. The smooth sands invite visitors to walk barefoot, immersing themselves in the unusual sensation of cold desert sand. However, caution is advised, as hidden thorns may be buried in some areas.
This desert is not only a natural wonder but also a perfect spot for photography, adventure activities, and moments of quiet reflection. Whether you are captivated by its golden dunes at sunset or its tranquil beauty under the starlit sky, the Cold Desert of Sarfaranga offers a truly unique experience for those visiting Skardu
Skardu
Skardu is a prominent city located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, serving as the capital of both the Baltistan Division and Skardu District. The city acts as a major gateway to the eight-thousanders of the nearby Karakoram mountain range, attracting adventurers, trekkers, and mountaineers from around the world. Situated at an elevation of nearly 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) in the Skardu Valley, it is positioned at the confluence of the Shigar and Indus Rivers, offering a picturesque and breathtaking landscape.
Skardu is renowned worldwide for its mountaineering and climbing opportunities. The region is home to K2, the world’s second-highest mountain and Pakistan’s tallest peak at an altitude of 8,611 meters. Skardu’s traditions, culture, landscape, and hospitality attract millions of tourists every year, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers. Along with Gilgit, it serves as a major hub for trekking, tourism, and expeditions in Gilgit–Baltistan. Tourists, hikers, and mountaineers from across the globe flock to Skardu to experience its high-altitude environment, which is home to four of the world’s 14 eight-thousanders, making it a prime location for outdoor exploration.
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Culture and history
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Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, is a culturally rich city with a diverse population from various backgrounds. The region is home to numerous historic sites and fort ruins, which reflect its ancient heritage. Many of these sites are influenced by Buddhist culture, with Buddha remnants and inscriptions scattered across the area. Baltistan is a melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in the variety of dialects spoken by its residents. While Urdu is widely understood, especially in towns with schools and offices, Balti—a sub-dialect of the Ladakhi language—is the most commonly spoken language in the region. English is also spoken and understood by many, particularly in urban areas.
The Baltis of Skardu are known for their warm hospitality and peaceful nature. Their faces are often adorned with smiles, and they are extremely welcoming, never letting visitors leave without a hearty meal in their homes. Generosity is a common trait, with Baltis offering gifts to guests. Traditionally, Balti males wear a simple shalwar kameez paired with a waistcoat, while Balti females wear a loose woolen salwar kameez. Both men and women wear traditional hats, with male hats being simple and hairy, while women's hats are often black with embroidered edges.
Religiously, Skardu is predominantly Muslim, with the majority of the population being Ithna-Ashri Shia Muslims. There is also a significant presence of Sunni Muslims, along with smaller communities of Ismailis and Nurbakshis.
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