Things To Do
in Skardu
Skardu sits in the heart of Baltistan in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, a gateway to the Karakoram's towering peaks. The town lies near the Shyok and Indus rivers, framed by snow-capped giants like K2 and Broad Peak. It is a gateway for treks to Deosai, Rakaposhi, and the greater Karakoram range, and is home to historic forts such as Baltit and Altit.
Visitors are drawn by dramatic mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and the warm hospitality of Baltistan's people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Skardu Airport and soak in the breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountain range. After check-in at your hotel, enjoy a hearty breakfast while admiring the stunning landscape. Take some time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude before heading out.
Explore the vibrant local market where artisans showcase traditional crafts and goods. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. Have lunch at a local eatery and savor traditional Skardu cuisine, such as Ghawa and Dum Pukht.
Visit the historic Skardu Fort, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the town and the Indus River. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a palette of colors that reflect off the mountains. Return to your hotel for a quiet dinner under the stars.
After breakfast, head to Shangrila Resort, famously known as 'Heaven on Earth'. Enjoy a stroll through the lush gardens and take in the serene atmosphere surrounding the lake. You can opt for a boat ride on Upper Kachura Lake for an unforgettable experience.
Have lunch at the resort while enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the lake. Spend the afternoon exploring the tranquil environment or relax by the water, watching the world go by. Capture beautiful photographs of the picturesque scenery.
Return to Skardu and enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the Indus River. The sound of flowing water creates a calming ambiance perfect for reflection. Dine at a local restaurant and relish a meal made with fresh, local ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚕Local taxi fare (per km) | $0.25-0.50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧭Souvenir local crafts | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and turquoise lakes
- Warm hospitality and rich culture
- Limited nightlife and amenities in remote areas
- Altitude and weather can affect access to some routes
- "Assalam-o-Alaikum" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Yeh kitnay ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Aapka naam kiya hai?" - What is your name?
- "Mujhay madad ki zaroorat hai" - I need help
Places to Visit in Skardu
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient fortress perched above Skardu with sweeping valley and snow-dusted peaks.
Turquoise lake framed by pine trees and surrounding mountains; best light at dawn or dusk.
Round lake with reflections of a remote valley and the distinctive Shangrila Resort.
Ancient ruins offering dramatic mountain backdrops and panoramic town views.
Scenic hike leading to a powerful waterfall and surrounding cliffs near Skardu.
Food in Skardu
Skardu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Balti-style mutton curry slow-cooked with spices and served with rice or flatbread.
Must-Try!
Fragrant rice studded with dried apricots, nuts, and subtle spices—a Baltistan favorite.
Flatbread stuffed or topped with local yak cheese and herbs, ideal for a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample snacks, buy apricots, dried fruits, nuts, and handicrafts.
A weekly market offering fresh produce, spices, street bites, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wear modest clothing; shoulders and knees covered in public; remove shoes when required in mosques.
Ask for permission before photographing people, homes, or religious sites; respect privacy.
Be mindful of prayer times; greet locals with polite phrases such as 'Assalam-o-Alaikum'.
Safety
Tipping in Skardu
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is customary; for guides and porters, consider 200-500 PKR per day depending on service.
Cash (PKR) is widely used; ATMs are available in Skardu; some hotels accept credit cards; not all markets take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise from chilly to mild; apricot blossoms and wildflowers appear; road access improves after winter snow.
Long days, clear skies, and prime trekking in Deosai and Karakoram; be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
Crisp air with golden light; harvest festivals occur; some high passes begin to close as snow approaches.
Very cold with potential snowfall; many routes and passes may be closed; limited services and possible flight disruptions.
Skardu at Night
Hiking in Skardu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular trek with dramatic granite walls and sweeping valley views; suitable for day or overnight trips.
High-altitude plateau trek ending at a pristine alpine lake; best in summer months.
Scenic hike leading to a powerful waterfall and surrounding cliffs near Skardu.
Airports
How to reach Skardu by plane.
Domestic flights connect with Islamabad and occasional services; weather can disrupt service, so plan extra time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main ethnic group in Baltistan; primarily Shina-speaking with distinctive customs and dress.
Ethnic group in some valleys with their own language and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baltistan is a gateway to the Karakoram; guided treks and expeditions are popular.
Local events occur in some valleys during festivals.
Fishing in rivers and lakes like Satpara is enjoyed by locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Skardu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available; rely on lentils, vegetables, rice, and dairy; inform cooks in advance about no meat.