Skardu

Skardu is the capital of Baltistan, the newly formed province of Pakistan. It is situated at the border of Chinese Xinjiang region and Indian-occupied Kashmir at an altitude of 2438 meters in the Karakoram mountains. The native people of this marvelous place are a mixture of Tibetan and Caucasian stock and speak the ancient Balti language. Due to Baltistan's closeness to the Tibetan culture it is also referred to as Tibet-e-Khurd meaning the Little Tibet. The everyday life of the people of Skardu is very similar to that of “Land of Lamas”.

The tourist attractions of Skardu include Kharpocho fort (King of Forts) situated on a hill overlooking the town, Kachura lake famous for its brown trout located at a distance of 32km from Skardu, the Sadpara lake with a fairy-tale island at is center 8km away from the town, the valleys of Khaplu and Shigar and the famous Buddha rock carvings dating back to 8th century A.D. Baltistan is known for its "Pattu" - hand woven woollen cloth for jackets, coats etc. You can also pick up colorful intricately embroidered "Chugas" (Baltistani gown) and wooden spoons at Skardu bazaar.

The tourist season is from April to October. The maximum temperature is 27 C and minimum (October) 8 C. Skardu can be reached by plane. Pakistan International Airlines fly daily from Islamabad (Pakistan's capital city). The air journey is full of thrills and would itself be regarded as the highlight of the visit. It can also be reached via Karakorum highway using daily bus services offered by Nothern Area Transport Company from Islamabad. Its very hilly drive. 20 hours from Islamabad.

Another big city of Gilgit is four to five hours drive away from Skardu. You can go to Pakistan - China border via Gilgit. You may visit most famous Khunjrab Pass, K-2 Mountain base camp etc.

Mountains surrounding Skardu

Indus river near Skardu

Flight to Skardu