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Tour de Skardu

Created with Sketch. Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
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Duration

7 days 6 nights

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Tour Type

Daily Tour

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Group Size

12 people

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Languages

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Overview

A tour to Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, and Deosai offers a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in northern Pakistan. Skardu Valley, located in Gilgit-Baltistan, is surrounded by the mighty Karakoram Range and sits at the confluence of the Shigar and Indus Rivers. This region is a major hub for adventure tourism, particularly for mountaineers and trekkers aiming to reach the Baltoro Glacier, K2 Base Camp, and Concordia. The valley’s dramatic mountains, pristine lakes, and vast landscapes make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Shigar and Khaplu are ancient towns within the Baltistan region, rich in history and culture. The Shigar Fort, a restored 17th-century palace, offers a glimpse into the region’s royal heritage, while Khaplu Fort stands as another architectural marvel in the valley of Khaplu. These areas are not only known for their cultural significance but also for their serene beauty. Both towns are gateways to trekking routes and high-altitude adventures, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the unspoiled wilderness of the Karakoram Mountains and the rich traditions of the Balti people.

The Deosai National Park, known as the “Land of Giants,” is another highlight of the tour. Located at an elevation of over 4,000 meters, it is one of the highest plateaus in the world, home to diverse wildlife including the Himalayan brown bear. In summer, Deosai transforms into a lush green expanse filled with wildflowers, making it a stunning destination for nature enthusiasts. The park’s Sheosar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, provides a serene backdrop, offering visitors a peaceful respite amidst the rugged beauty of the region. The combination of Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, and Deosai presents a well-rounded tour that blends adventure, culture, and natural wonder.

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HIGHLIGHTS

  • Stunning aerial views of the Karakoram Range.
  • A direct 1-hour flight from Islamabad, bypassing the long road journey.
  • Visit Shangrila (Lower Kachura) Lake, known for its serene beauty and famous "Shangrila Resort."
  • Experience the crystal-clear waters of Upper Kachura Lake and Sadpara Lake.
  • Explore the Skardu Fort, offering panoramic views of the valley and Indus River.
  • Guided tour of the historic Shigar Fort, a restored 17th-century palace, now a luxury hotel and museum.
  • Walk through the picturesque Shigar village with its traditional Balti homes and apricot orchards.
  • Visit UNESCO awarded Ambirq Mosque and Hashupi Garden.
  • Stopover at the junction of Shyok River and Indus River.
  • Visit the majestic Khaplu Fort, a stunning heritage site with panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
  • Explore the charming Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Baltistan, with rich historical significance.
  • Journey to the Deosai Plains, one of the highest plateaus in the world, known for its wildflowers, Himalayan brown bears, and rich biodiversity.
  • Visit Sheosar Lake, a breathtakingly serene lake set amidst the vast open plains.
  • Interact with the local Balti community, renowned for their warm hospitality and unique culture.
  • Enjoy traditional Balti cuisine, including local dishes like “Skardu-style trout.”
  • Opportunities for trekking, hiking, and photography in some of the most remote and rugged landscapes on Earth.

Itinerary

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Day 1 – Islamabad – Skardu

Departure from Islamabad airport and reach Skardu Airport by enjoying the areal views of the Karakorum Mountains. Transfer to a hotel for check in and Lunch. Afternoon visit lower and upper Kachura Lakes. Overnight stay at a hotel

Day 2 – Skardu Sightseeing

After breakfast, visit Kharpocho Fort that provides scenic views of Skardu town and Indus River. Proceed to Chunda Valley view point that provides another jaw-dropping view of the entire Skardu town and surrounding mountains. Finally, drive to Katpana Cold Desert for an amazing sunset view. Return to the hotel for meals and overnight stay.

Day 3 – Excursion to Deosai National Park

After an early Breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Prado TZ and drive towards Deosai National Park (“LAND OF GIANTS “). En route stopover at Manthal Buddha Rock and Sadpara Lake. Enjoy the scenic drive at Deosai Plains by visiting Bara Pani, Kala Pani and Sheosar Lake. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 4 – Skardu to Shigar Valley

Shigar at 45km has been a princely state and houses key landmarks including the Shigar Fort Palace, Amburiq Mosque, and the Khanqah. En route, stopover at Sarfaranga Desert for engaging activities (motor gliding, horse riding, desert biking etc) and proceed to the Blind Lake for boating. After lunch explore local attractions and visit Hashupi Garden. Overnight stay at a hotel.

Day 5 – Shigar to Khaplu

Morning, drive to Khaplu Valley. Upon arrival in Khaplu, visit Chaqchan Mosque and Khaplu Fort Palace. Overnight stay at a hotel in Khaplu.

Day 6 – Khapulu to Skardu

After breakfast, drive from Khaplu to Skardu with en route visit to Manthoka Waterfall. Upon arrival in Skardu, transfer to the hotel for meals and overnight stay.

Day 7 - Fly from Skardu

After breakfast, proceed to the airport and fly back to Islamabad/Karachi. End of services

Included/Exclude

  • All domestic flights and ground transportation including airport transfers.
  • All accommodation (hotel) on a twin sharing basis during the tour
  • Single supplement as per demand or for single female participant
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and coffee/green tea/hot water during treks
  • Professional tour guide and support staff
  • Fresh and packed meals as per itinerary (if required)
  • Basic First Aid Kit
  • Visa assistance
  • International flight ticket
  • Personal clothing (shoes, trousers, etc.)
  • Personal Insurance of foreign participants
  • Visa fee
  • Extra hotel stays
  • Tips and gratuities to staff
  • Miscellaneous expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in the “services included section” above

Tour's Location

Created with Sketch. Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

FAQs

Who is Tour De Skardu program suitable for?
The Tour De Skardu program is a journey that takes you to the enchanting valleys of Baltistan division of Gilgit-Baltistan region. It allows you to explore key attractions in Skardu and surrounding districts including Shigar, Khaplu and Kharmang besides an adventurous excursion to Deosai National Park. It is both a cultural familiarization tour and adventurous experience.
How do I register for this tour?
Please share your plan, dates and other people planning to travel with you so that we can arrange accordingly.
How to prepare for this tour?
This tour is not as physically demanding. Most of the journey involves driving to the scenic valleys and to the national park in Deosai. It’s simply making up mind for this amazing tour.
What is the maximum altitude on the tour?
The maximum altitude on the tour is Deosai National Park at 4,114 meters (13,497 ft) above sea level.
What clothes or equipment's should I bring on the tour?
There is a detailed list of must-carry and optional equipment’s which covers the required equipment and baggage to carry.
● Important medicine/first aid kit
● Sunglasses
● Sunblock and lip balm
● Water bottle
● Glows and warm pairs of socks
● Warm cap, hat, and scarf (to avoid scorching sun)
● Full sleeves shirt
● Camera with additional batteries (optional)
● Cell phone with charger and charging bank (optional)
● Binoculars (optional)
What are the rescue plans in case of emergency?
We are a Member Company of Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO) and helicopter rescue plan is part of the program we offer.
How do I pay for the rescue?
For any rescue mission we are required to deposit advance payment in favor of PATO out of which a small percentage is non-refundable (will be discussed at the time of confirmation) while rest is refundable (in case service was not availed). This entire amount is required to be paid by the client in advance. If there is any insurance policy on part of the client that can cover the impending bill, that needs to be submitted.
Do you organize treks for private groups?
We do. We can organize customized tours/treks for solo trekkers and groups of any volume, but we prefer not more than 12. All we need is the information on the interest, dates, and number of persons with special instructions if any.
What is the minimum/maximum size of your groups?
The maximum size of our groups is 20 persons. The average size of our groups is 10 members.
What types of meals should I expect?
During this tour, all three meals (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be served to the participants. A combination of foreign and Pakistani meals will be included in our food plan. Breakfast will be taken at the hotel where stay is arranged. Lunch is usually taken at a suitable location during the journey while dinner is taken either at the hotel where accommodation is arranged or at a decent restaurant in the vicinity.
What is the accommodation like?
On this particular tour, accommodation is arranged at various hotels in Skardu, Shigar and Khaplu. We always strive to provide the best available accommodation services to our clients. Currently, there is a limited provision at some locations and leaves us with a limited choice. However, the type of accommodation to be provided will be informed in advance and if need be, pictures of rooms and surroundings of the property will be shared along with access convenience and nearby local attractions.
What is a typical day like?
During the tour, the day starts with breakfast at your hotel restaurant. Our guide provides morning briefing about the day activity either at breakfast of immediately after. The briefing involves distances, weather conditions, type of attractions to visit, lunch break, refreshment, and inquires participants about their preferences for the day. Most of the day is usually spent by driving to the destinations and exploring local attractions as per the pre-agreed itinerary.
How and where can I apply for Pakistani visa?
All nationalities must obtain a valid visa for entry into Pakistan. Tourists are advised to contact the nearest Pakistan Embassy/High Commission/consulate in their respected country/city. For the detailed information on visa, please refer to https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ Pakistan does have visa on arrival facility for a number of countries. Please check the details here https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/visa-on-arrival-tourist/
Do I need batteries and accessories on the trek?
Portable chargers, storage cards and extra batteries may be required during the trekking holiday. We advise you to make a relevant list of adapters, sockets and any other kind of electrical items you might require keeping your devices function as long as possible.
How much to tip porters?
Tipping in Pakistan is not obligatory; it is entirely at one’s own discretion. Staff generally expects to be tipped at the end of the tour. If the staff during the trip performed well, a good tip is considered well-deserved. However, there is no defined amount as it depends on the situation, number of days spent and performance of the staff. With groups clients can join in to add to an amount.

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