Skardu is a base more than a single sight. Its charm lies in the variety of places within a day's drive. These are the highlights, grouped in a way that works on the ground.
Lakes near town
The Kachura Lakes lie a short drive from Skardu. Lower Kachura, often known by the name of the resort beside it, is surrounded by orchards, and Upper Kachura sits slightly higher in a rockier setting. Both are most beautiful in the early morning, before day-trippers arrive. Satpara Lake, on the road toward Deosai, is a good stop on the way up or down.
Katpana cold desert
Dunes surrounded by snow peaks are one of Skardu's strangest sights. The desert is best at sunrise or sunset, when the sand ripples are sharp and the air is still. Take a scarf for blowing sand.
Deosai National Park
The high Deosai Plains lie above 4,000 metres for much of their extent and are normally open only in summer. Expect wildflowers, streams, marmots and, with luck, a distant bear. Start early, take warm clothes and allow a full day.
History and heritage
Kharpocho Fort, above the bazaar, offers views over the Indus valley and a glimpse of Skardu's royal past. At Manthal, a Buddha carved on a boulder reminds us of the region's Buddhist heritage.
Suggested day combinations
- Day 1: Skardu bazaar, Kharpocho Fort, Katpana at sunset.
- Day 2: Kachura Lakes and a village walk.
- Day 3: Satpara Lake and Deosai, in summer.
- Day 4: A day trip to Shigar for its fort and lanes.
Read the full Skardu destination guide, or see how Skardu fits into a longer route in our suggested itineraries.