Skardu Cold Desert & Lakes

Overview

A varied Baltistan journey through the cold desert of Katpana, the lakes of Shangrila and Upper Kachura, the heritage village of Shigar and the high plains of Deosai.

Destination: Skardu travel guide

Highlights

• Katpana cold desert
• Upper Kachura Lake
• Shigar Fort
• Deosai day safari

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1: Arrive in Skardu

   Transfer to your hotel and visit Kharpocho Fort for sunset over the Indus.

2. 2

   Day 2: Shangrila and Upper Kachura

   Walk around the heart-shaped lake and hike down to Upper Kachura.

3. 3

   Day 3: Shigar Valley

   Explore the restored Shigar Fort, the old mosque and the Sarfaranga cold desert.

4. 4

   Day 4: Deosai Plains

   Full-day jeep safari to Sheosar Lake and Bara Pani in search of brown bears.

5. 5

   Day 5: Manthokha Waterfall

   Drive through the Kharmang valley to the thundering Manthokha waterfall.

6. 6

   Day 6: Departure

   Transfer to Skardu airport or begin your road journey home.

What's included

• Airport transfers
• 4x4 jeep for Deosai
• Hotel stays with breakfast
• Local guide