Best Places to Visit in Skardu | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Skardu Travel Guide
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Skardu, Pakistan, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Karakoram," is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. This picturesque town is surrounded by towering mountains, including the world's second-highest peak, K2. Skardu is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient Buddhist rock carvings. Adventure enthusiasts flock to this destination for its thrilling opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and paragliding. Additionally, Skardu offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Balti people, with their unique language, traditional music, and vibrant festivals. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures or a serene escape into nature, Skardu is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
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Best Places To Visit in Skardu
1. Skardu, Pakistan: Skardu is a beautiful city located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous K2 mountain and the Shangrila resort. Visitors can enjoy trekking, mountaineering, and camping in the surrounding mountains, as well as exploring the local culture and cuisine. Skardu is also home to several historic sites, such as the Kharpocho Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock.
2. Kyoto, Japan: Kyoto is a historic city in Japan that is known for its traditional architecture, temples, and gardens. Visitors can explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Kinkaku-ji Temple, and the Nijo Castle. Kyoto is also famous for its traditional Japanese cuisine, including sushi, ramen, and matcha tea.
3. Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona is a vibrant city located on the coast of Spain. It is known for its stunning architecture, including the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, including tapas and paella, and explore the city's many museums and galleries.
4. Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town is a beautiful city located on the southern tip of South Africa. It is known for its stunning beaches, including Clifton and Camps Bay, as well as its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. Visitors can also explore the local wildlife, including penguins and seals, and take a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views of the city.
5. Paris, France: Paris is a romantic city known for its stunning architecture, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, including croissants and macarons, and explore the city's many parks and gardens.
6. New York City, USA: New York City is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, including pizza and bagels, and explore the city's many museums and galleries.
7. Sydney, Australia: Sydney is a beautiful city located on the coast of Australia. It is known for its stunning beaches, including Bondi and Manly, as well as its iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Visitors can also explore the local wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas, and enjoy the local cuisine, including seafood and meat pies.
8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant city located on the coast of Brazil. It is known for its stunning beaches, including Copacabana and Ipanema, as well as its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. Visitors can also explore the local wildlife, including monkeys and toucans, and enjoy the local cuisine, including feijoada and caipirinhas.
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam is a beautiful city known for its stunning canals, museums, and galleries. Visitors can explore the famous Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum. Amsterdam is also famous for its local cuisine, including stroopwafels and bitterballen.
10. Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai is a modern city known for its stunning architecture, including the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, including shawarma and falafel, and explore the city's many shopping malls and luxury hotels. Dubai is also home to several cultural sites, including the Dubai Museum and the Jumeirah Mosque.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Skardu
1. Balti Cuisine: Skardu is known for its delicious Balti cuisine, which is a traditional cooking style originating from the Baltistan region. Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic Balti dishes such as Balti Chicken, Balti Lamb, or Balti Vegetables. These dishes are cooked in a wok-like pan and are full of rich flavors and aromatic spices.
2. Apricot Delights: Skardu is famous for its apricot orchards, and you must try the various apricot-based delicacies available in the region. Apricot jam, apricot tarts, and apricot pies are some of the must-try treats that showcase the natural sweetness and tanginess of the local apricots.
3. Chapshuro: Chapshuro is a popular street food in Skardu that you shouldn't miss. It is a savory pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. The pastry is then baked until golden and crispy, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
4. Butter Tea: Butter tea, also known as "gurgur cha," is a traditional drink in Skardu. It is made by churning tea leaves with yak butter and salt. This unique beverage is not only a warming drink but also provides energy and helps combat the cold weather in the region.
5. Skardu Trout: Skardu is blessed with numerous freshwater streams and lakes, making it an ideal place for trout fishing. You can enjoy freshly caught and cooked Skardu trout in various restaurants in the area. The trout is usually marinated in local spices and grilled to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish.
6. Sattu: Sattu is a nutritious drink made from roasted barley or wheat flour. It is a popular beverage in Skardu, especially during the summer months. Sattu is known for its cooling properties and is often mixed with water, milk, or yogurt to create a refreshing and healthy drink.
7. Apricot Juice: Another way to savor the deliciousness of Skardu's apricots is by trying the refreshing apricot juice. Made from freshly squeezed apricots, this juice is a perfect thirst quencher on a hot day. It is often served chilled and can be enjoyed at local juice stalls or restaurants.
8. Sheermal: Sheermal is a traditional sweet bread that is popular in Skardu. It is made with flour, milk, sugar, and saffron, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor. Sheermal is often served with tea or enjoyed as a dessert after a meal.
9. Kahwa: Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri green tea that is also popular in Skardu. It is infused with various spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron, giving it a unique and fragrant taste. Kahwa is often served hot and is believed to have several health benefits.
10. Mulberry Delicacies: Skardu is known for its mulberry trees, and during the mulberry season, you can find a variety of mulberry-based treats. From mulberry jams and mulberry pies to mulberry ice cream, these delicacies showcase the natural sweetness and vibrant color of the local mulberries.
Overall, Skardu offers a diverse range of food and drinks that highlight the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions. From savory Balti dishes to sweet apricot treats, exploring the local cuisine is a must-do when visiting Skardu, Pakistan.
Best Time To Visit Skardu
The best time to visit Skardu, Pakistan is during the summer months of June to September. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The snow has melted by this time, making it easier to explore the beautiful landscapes and mountainous regions surrounding Skardu. Additionally, the Karakoram Highway is open during these months, allowing for easy access to Skardu. However, it is important to note that July and August can be crowded with tourists, so if you prefer a quieter experience, it is advisable to visit in June or September.
Flight Calendar For Skardu
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Transportation To Skardu
There are several transportation options to Skardu, Pakistan.
1. By Air: The easiest and fastest way to reach Skardu is by taking a domestic flight from Islamabad. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates regular flights to Skardu. The flight duration is approximately one hour.
2. By Road: Skardu is also accessible by road. You can take a bus or hire a private car from Islamabad. The journey takes around 20-24 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. The Karakoram Highway is the main route to Skardu.
3. By Jeep: If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can opt for a jeep safari to Skardu. This option is popular among tourists who want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Karakoram Mountains. Jeep safaris usually start from Gilgit and take around 10-12 hours to reach Skardu.
It is important to note that road conditions in the mountainous regions can be challenging, especially during winters. It is advisable to check weather and road conditions before planning your trip.