A Complete Travel Guide to Skardu: Things to Do & See

Skardu, located in the middle of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a paradise to any tourist who wants to enjoy scenic views and calm lakes and mountainous ranges. Located at the base of the great Karakoram Range, Skardu is the access point to some of the highest mountain ranges in the world, including K2. The area is known to be the natural beauty of the world with its crystal clear lakes, huge glaciers, and green valleys that render it the best place to visit by adventure travelers and those who love nature. Skardu is also an unforgettable place whether you are trekking, mountaineering or enjoying the serene environment. Our Guide to Skardu will show the way to the best attractions, activities, and travelling tips in the area to people intending to visit this beautiful part of the planet.

A visit to Skardu should be carefully planned since both the terrain and weather of the area can be difficult. To enjoy the most of your stay you would want to know more about the major attractions, local culture and the logistics of travelling. Starting at the hustling Skardu Bazaar and ending with the quiet Shangrila Resort, there is something different around every turn of Skardu. This Guide to Skardu will give us all the details about when to go, what to see, adventure sports, and where to stay. Travelers between Oman and the rest of the world, Skardu Tour Packages at GoKite Oman will allow them to explore the region without any inconvenience, and they will have a pleasant and smooth time.

Best Time to Visit Skardu

Ideally, Skardu should be visited during May- September when the seasons are mild and the roads are accessible. Outdoor activities like trekking, hiking and boating are some of the activities that tourists can engage in during this season without the threat of extreme cold and snowfall. The summers are also sunny and the weather is favorable to photography and sightseeing. The winters of November to March cause heavy snowfall covering some of the areas. But to those who appreciate winter sporting and want to relax in a quiet setting there is some beauty in this season.

Top Attractions in Skardu

• Shangrila Resort: Known to be the Heaven on earth, the Shangrila Resort is characterized by the magnificent lake and scenic views. It is an ideal place to take pictures and have a rest.
• Satpara Lake: This is a natural lake in the neighborhood of Skardu which is quite suitable to spend time boating in its serene waters amidst mountains.
• Sheosar Lake: Sheosar Lake is located at the Deosai National park with amazing sceneries of the plains and snow covered mountains.
• Deosai National Park: This park is referred to as the land of giants due to the presence of various wildlife varieties such as the Himalayan brown bear and it has great trekking locations.
• Skardu Fort (Kharpocho Fort): This ancient fort gives a view of the town of Skardu and the river Indus.
• Shigar Fort: It is an adequately renovated fort that has been turned into a hotel and provides an understanding of the local architecture and culture.
• Upper Kachura Lake: this lake is known by its crystal clear water and it is ideal place to have a peaceful picnic or a quiet boat ride.
• Manthokha Waterfall: This falls is found close to Kharmang Valley and is enclosed by a green vegetation and is an ideal location to the nature lovers.

Adventure Activities in Skardu.

Skardu is the heaven of the lovers of adventures. The following are some of the common activities:

• Trekking: Trekking in Skardu is a memorable experience with trails that go up to the K2 base camp, Baltoro Glacier, and Concordia.
• Mountaineering: The location of Skardu is a cozy base of the mountaineer who want to reach some of the highest peaks of the world.
• Boating and Fishing: There are Satpara and Upper Kachura lakes where boating and fishing are available.
• Camping: The deosai national park and other valleys offer perfect places where people can do star camping.
• Photography: Skardu is a paradise of photographers with its dramatic landscapes.

Local Culture and Cuisine

The citizens of Skardu are also hospitable and have a rich culture. The tourists may visit local bazaars where they can find traditional handicrafts, woolen clothes and jewelry. The food of Skardu is also rich and distinctive consisting of such dishes as Gustaba, Chapshuro, apricot-related delicacies. It is necessary to try local food so as to get the real flavor of the area.

Accommodation Options

There are various types of accommodation available in Skardu including luxury resorts and budget guest houses. Popular options include:

• Shangrila Resort: 5 star lake side resort.
• Serena Hotel Skardu: Four-star hotel.
• Local Guesthouses: cheaper and relaxed places to stay and feel like home.

Booking ahead is advisable particularly on high tourist season so as to cover availability and good rates.

Travel Tips for Skardu

Permits: It might have to be permitted in some places; enquire with local authorities or tour operators.

• Transportation: Terrain is problematic and it is better to pay a local guide or Skardu Tour Package.
• Dress Codes: Dressing in layers is very necessary since the climate changes significantly.
• Health and Safety: Pack a simple medical first aid kit and prepare to be in high-altitude conditions.
• Connection: There is poor coverage of mobile networks in isolated places; take this into consideration.

Skardu Tour Packages GoKite Oman.

To the travelers in Oman, GoKite Oman has detailed Skardu Tour Packages that comprise of transportation, accommodation, guided tours, and adventure activities. The packages are meant to offer a hassle-free experience and the tourists are able to tour the beauty of Skardu in a comfortable manner. These Skardu Tour Packages serve different tastes with family-friendly tours and adventure tours.

Itinerary Skardu Tour Sample.

Day 1: Arrival, Skardu, check in hotel, visit Skardu Bazaar.

Day 2: Visit to Shangrila Resort and Satpara Lake.

Day 3: Full day tour of the Deosai National Park and Sheosar Lake.

Day 4: Shigar Fort and Upper kachura lake.

Day 5: Adventure activities such as trekking, boating or camping.

Day 6: Departure from Skardu.

This is an itinerary that can be modified to suit an individual preference in terms of interest, time, and season.

Conclusion:

Skardu is a place that mesmerizes any tourist visiting the destination with the beauty of the landscapes and the rich culture and adventure. The place is home to all kinds of people, either you are attracted to its beautiful lakes, mountainous landscape, or its historical places. In order to have a good and easy time, then be sure to plan your trip and book Skardu Tour Packages that are reliable. In the case of GoKite Oman, the exploration of Skardu would be hassle-free, and the tourists could devote their time to the natural beauty and adventure that the area has to offer. Whether one has to do the easy paddle across Satpara Lake or the tough hikes at Deosai National Park, Skardu is a place that creates a lasting impression. Adhering to this Guide to Skardu, the tourists will be able to orient in the area with ease and enjoy their adventure. Therefore, in case you would need to find adventure, relaxation or cultural immersion, GoKite Oman Skardu Tour Packages prove to be a perfect entry point, to experience the marvels of this Himalayan paradise.