Skardu travel guide for first-time visitors

Group nearby sights such as Kachura and Shangrila, then leave time for Shigar, Basho or Deosai depending on conditions.

Plan with flexibility

Mountain conditions can change quickly. Confirm route access, transport and accommodation before departure and keep time for unexpected scenic stops.

How first-timers should plan Skardu

Skardu town is the natural base for Baltistan. Start with the lakes at Kachura — including the famous Shangrila resort lake — then add the old forts and apricot orchards of Shigar, and Khaplu’s palace and riverside views if you have a spare day. Manthoka Waterfall and the cold desert are easy half-day trips from town.

Most visitors either fly into Skardu airport or drive the Skardu road from the Karakoram Highway; both can be affected by weather, so keep your first day light. From Skardu, the high plains of Deosai and the meadows of Basho Valley make the two most popular longer excursions in the summer season.

Keep reading

Our full Skardu tour packages and itinerary guide covers prices and day plans, and the Deosai trip planner explains the Land of Giants. You can also browse all Skardu tour packages.