Things To Do
in Skardu
Skardu is a picturesque town located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, surrounded by majestic mountains and stunning landscapes. It serves as the gateway to some of the world's highest peaks, including K2, attracting trekkers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The town is rich in culture and history, with ancient monuments, vibrant markets, and warm hospitality from the local people.
Skardu's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Shangrila Resort, also known as Heaven on Earth, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast with stunning views.
Head to the ancient Skardu Fort, which offers panoramic views of the Skardu valley, and then visit the nearby Buddha Rock, which features ancient carvings.
Wrap up your day with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, tasting the delicious Skardu cuisine while enjoying the serene ambiance.
Begin with an early morning trek to the mesmerizing Deosai National Park, known for its stunning plateaus and diverse wildlife.
After exploring Deosai, return to Skardu and visit the colorful local bazaar for shopping and experiencing local culture.
Spend your evening at the serene Sheosar Lake, where you can enjoy the sunset and take beautiful photographs of the surrounding mountains.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $3-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-30 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $1 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs from the market | $5-10 |
| 🏞️Entry fee to national parks | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with breathtaking landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Adventure opportunities for trekking and outdoor activities
- Remote location with limited access to modern amenities
- Harsh weather conditions in winter
- Limited nightlife options
- "Assalam-o-Alaikum" - Peace be upon you
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Khush Aamdeed" - Welcome
- "Aap kaise hain?" - How are you?
- "Khuda Hafiz" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Skardu
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Kachura Lakes are perfect for capturing breathtaking landscape photos.
An ancient fort surrounded by lush gardens and stunning scenery, offering numerous angles for photography.
Known for its vast grassy plains and wildlife, Deosai is an incredible spot for both landscape and wildlife photography.
Food in Skardu
Skardu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with local spices, often served with tender meat and garnished with dried fruits.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meat dish that is rich in flavors, typically served with naan or rice.
A traditional spread made from the locally grown apricots, perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find various local foods, snacks, and fresh produce, perfect for sampling street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, especially in rural areas, to respect local culture.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property, as this is considered respectful.
A handshake is common, but it is polite to wait for women to extend their hand first.
Safety
Tipping in Skardu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, with about 10-15% of the bill being a common practice.
Cash is widely used in Skardu, while credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect cold temperatures with heavy snowfall in higher altitudes. Skardu becomes a winter wonderland, appealing to snow lovers and those interested in winter sports.
This season brings blooming flowers and relatively milder temperatures. It's a great time for trekking and exploring the lush landscapes.
The peak tourist season with warm weather and clear skies, perfect for trekking and outdoor adventures, especially in Deosai National Park.
Characterized by cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, autumn is a beautiful time to visit for photography and hiking.
Skardu at Night
Hiking in Skardu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning trek that leads to the base of Nanga Parbat, featuring lush meadows and breathtaking views of the mountain.
One of the most famous treks in the world, taking you through the heart of the Karakoram range and offering stunning views of some of the highest peaks.
Airports
How to reach Skardu by plane.
The main airport serving Skardu, offering domestic flights from Islamabad and Gilgit. The airport is situated close to the town, making it convenient for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Skardu, known for their unique culture and dialect, which is different from the mainstream Urdu spoken in Pakistan.
Skardu attracts a diverse range of tourists, including adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the globe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a popular sport in Skardu, with many local teams and matches held, especially during the summer months.
With its proximity to numerous trekking routes, trekking is a favored activity among locals and tourists alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Skardu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check with the staff to ensure no meat products are used in preparation.
All food served in Skardu is halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.