Daily Times

Pakistan is the land of beauty and unparalleled scenic views. While many international travel bloggers have recently started praising Pakistan’s northern areas, we have always appreciated the natural beauty that has been bestowed upon us. This year, I had the opportunity to explore Baltistan through one of Pakistan’s most coveted destinations, Skardu.

It is one of the six odd cold deserts of the world alongside destinations like Antarctica, Gobi Desert, Great Basin, Namib, Taklamakan Desert and Turkestan.

WHEN TO VISIT — the best time to visit Skardu is anywhere from April to August. However, if you, like me are not a big fan of huge crowds and are looking to enjoy serenity, then April and May are perfect to visit. Moreover, if you love cherry blossoms, visit first and second week of April. If you are a big fan of enjoy the fresh fruit like cherry, apricots and apples, visit second week of May. June, July and August tend to attract a larger crowd.

HOW TO GET THERE — Skardu is located in the heart of one of Pakistan’s most scenic provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan approximately 647 kilometres from Islamabad. There are two primary routes you can use to reach this incredible destination; via road or via air. Both approaches have their benefits and their drawbacks.

If you chose to come by road, you are most likely to reach your destination via Mansehra – Naran – Jalkhad – Chilas in approximately 16 hours. If you decide to stay the night in Chilas it will take you about 26 hours. Take in the stunning views as you toss and turn through numerous gems the northern areas have to offer. However, be warned. Travelling via road is definitely not for the faint hearted or the delicate. The journey is long and arduous. There will be impromptu blockages that can last hours. The road is bumpy and there are not a lot of options for people who love stopping constantly for food.

The second option is via air. If you chose this option, try your best to get a window seat to enjoy the full view of the beautiful snowy peaks of Nanga Parbat. You will reach Skardu in about an hour. Pakistan International Airlines is the only airlines that operates this flight and only via Islamabad. The plane is scheduled to go daily. However, the weather conditions can be rough, sometimes even in the summers as the plane passes through the snowy cones where air pressure and even a slight shadow can delay your flight. With Skardu flights, you can expect lots of delays. Sometimes, you will arrive in Skardu but will be unable to fly back on your scheduled flight. Thus, beware!

WHERE TO STAY — Skardu has plenty of options you can consider for accommodation. The two top ones are Shigar Fort operated by Serena Hotels and Hotel One. Hotel One is a relatively cheaper option and is closer to the airport. It is a comfortable stay albeit you will have to compromise slightly on the view from your room.

Skardu is located in the heart of one of Pakistan’s most scenic provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan approximately 647 kilometres from Islamabad. There are two primary routes you can use to reach this incredible destination; via road or via air. Both approaches have their benefits and their drawbacks

Shigar Fort was built in the 17th century by the Raja of the Amacha Dynasty. It has been renovated into a hotel by Serena Hotels offering a contemporary and comfortable stay while preserving the rich heritage of the fort. If you want a taste of five-star stay in the mountains, this is your best bet! The downside, of course, is that the Shigar Fort will set you back anywhere between Rs 16,000 to Rs 25,000 for a single night. Moreover, the Fort is located a little far from the main city and the airport.

PLACES TO SEE — when in Skardu, be prepared to wake up early if you want to explore. The small city, 10km wide and 40km in length, is rich in natural beauty and there are many sites nearby that are worth exploring. There are some that should not be missed at any cost! Among the must-visit is Satpara Lake with its crystal blue waters, featuring snowy cones of the Himalayas as the backdrop. Spend some time near the lake and breathe in beauty like you have never seen before.

As mentioned earlier, Shigar Fort cannot be missed even if you are not staying there. The 17th Century fort boasts its beautiful heritage through its stunning gardens and an incredible architecture. When you visit, you will want to stay there forever. The serenity of the mountains will tug at your heartstrings unlike anything else ever before.

Shangri La resort is another destination worth your time. Located approximately 40 minutes from the airport, Shangri La resort features a beautiful lake amidst the mountains and is full of greenery. They have high end restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Shangri La Resort is also a good place to spend a day and if you like, even stay the night.

Skardu is one of the few cold deserts of the world which makes Sarfaranga Desert a must-visit. Sarfranga Desert or the Katpana Desert is one of the highest altitude deserts of the world at 7303 ft above sea level. In winter season, it can also be seen covered in snow. Sarfaranga Desert is known to successfully host a jeep rally each year.

If you are feeling adventurous and are open to making longer trips; Deosai plains, Gilgit and Hunza are also great options to add into your trip.

EXPECTED BUDGET — a trip to Skardu from Islamabad will cost you according to your choice of travel and stay. For approximately five days and four nights, via air, will be anywhere from Rs 60,000 to Rs 130,000 for two people. Most of the sites to visit are for free or have negligible costs so the major chunk will be that of travel and accommodation.

VERDICT — among some of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan, Skardu definitely stands among the top destinations on the list. It is scenic, serene and incredibly awe-inspiring. It is no less than any Swiss Alps you may have seen in your life. Be sure to pack lots of warm clothing, sunscreen and a generous will to explore!

The writer is a freelance journalist. She can be reached at foha.raza@gmail.com