If you are planning a trip to the mountains in 2026, Skardu shouldn’t just be on your list—it should be at the very top. Located in the extreme north of Pakistan, Skardu is often called “Heaven on Earth,” but honestly, that description doesn’t do it justice. It is a place where golden sand dunes meet snow-capped peaks, and where history lives inside 400-year-old forts.
For a long time, getting to Skardu was a challenge. Flights were famously unreliable, and the road journey was exhausting. However, 2026 is the best year to visit because the infrastructure has completely changed. With the Skardu International Airport now upgrading its navigation systems to reduce weather-related flight cancellations and the Jaglot-Skardu road being wider and safer than ever, this paradise is finally accessible to everyone.
Whether you are a student on a summer break, a family looking for a relaxing vacation, or an adventure lover, this guide covers the best places to visit in Skardu and the most exciting things to do in Skardu. Let’s explore the top 10 spots you simply cannot miss this year.
1. Upper Kachura Lake
While many people talk about the famous Shangrila Resort, the real magic lies just 20 minutes away at Upper Kachura Lake. Unlike other popular spots that have become concrete jungles, Upper Kachura remains natural, wild, and incredibly peaceful.
The water here is a deep, emerald green and is so clear you can see the rocks at the bottom. The lake is surrounded by wild apricot trees and towering cliffs. In 2026, the boating facilities here have been upgraded, making it safer and more fun for families.
This is the best place for boating and swimming. The water is cold, but refreshing on a hot July afternoon. You can also hike around the lake through small village paths to see how the locals live. If you want to experience pure nature without loud crowds, this should be your first stop.
2. Deosai National Park
No list of things to do in Skardu is complete without Deosai. Known as the second-highest plateau in the world, Deosai sits at a massive height of 4,000 meters above sea level. When you arrive here, you will feel like you are standing on the roof of the world.
For most of the year, Deosai is buried under snow. But in summer (July to September), the snow melts to reveal lush green grass and millions of wildflowers. It is also home to the Himalayan Brown Bear. If you are lucky and bring a pair of binoculars, you might spot one from a distance!
Inside the park lies Sheosar Lake. It is one of the most unique lakes because of its shape and the view behind it. On a clear day, you can see the Nanga Parbat mountain reflecting in the water. It is the perfect spot for a picnic, but remember: the wind here is icy cold, even in summer, so bring a warm jacket.
3. Shigar Fort and Valley
About an hour’s drive from Skardu city is the majestic Shigar Valley. The crown jewel of this valley is the Shigar Fort (Fong-Khar), which translates to “The Palace on the Rock.”
Built in the 17th century, this fort was once the home of the Raja (King) of Shigar. Today, it has been converted into a museum and a luxury hotel. You don’t have to stay there to see it; you can buy a ticket for a guided tour. The architecture is a mix of wood and stone, showing the incredible craftsmanship of the Balti people hundreds of years ago.
Walking through Shigar feels like time travel. The valley is filled with cherry and apricot orchards. If you visit in October 2026, the entire valley turns golden and orange with autumn leaves, making it a photographer’s dream.
4. Soq Valley
A few years ago, not many tourists knew about Soq Valley. However, updated travel logs and adventurer blogs have put this hidden gem on the map. Located just 30 minutes upstream from Kachura, Soq Valley is quickly becoming one of the favorite places to visit in Skardu.
The valley is defined by the turquoise water of the river flowing aggressively through smooth, colorful river rocks. The contrast of the blue water against the white sand and green grass is unreal.
This is the best spot for fishing and camping. The locals here are very friendly and often cook fresh trout fish for visitors. Unlike the busy city bazaar, Soq Valley is quiet. It is the perfect place to sit by the river, dip your feet in the freezing water, and read a book.
5. Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Have you ever seen a desert with snow-capped mountains in the background? The Sarfaranga Cold Desert offers exactly that. Located on the way to Shigar, this is one of the highest cold deserts in the world.
The sand here is soft and white. In 2026, tourism here has developed to include dune bashing in jeeps and dirt biking. For those who want a slower pace, you can take a walk on the dunes during sunset. As the sun goes down, the sand turns gold and the mountains turn purple—a sight you will never forget.
It gets very windy here in the afternoon. It is best to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the flying sand.
6. Shangrila Resort
You have probably seen this photo on postcards or currency notes: a red, pagoda-style building sitting next to a heart-shaped lake. This is Shangrila Resort, also known as “Heaven on Earth.”
While it is a private hotel, tourists can visit the park and the lake for a small entry fee. The gardens are beautifully manicured, filled with colorful flowers and apple trees. There is also an old aircraft fuselage that has been turned into a coffee shop, which is a quirky and fun attraction for kids.
Is it worth it? Some travelers argue it is too “artificial” compared to Upper Kachura, but for first-time visitors, it is iconic. It is a great place to stop for lunch and take that classic Skardu photo.
7. Manthoka Waterfall
If you are willing to drive a bit further towards the Kharmang district, you will find the Manthoka Waterfall. This waterfall is unique because it isn’t hidden deep in a forest; it falls gracefully over a massive scenic rock face into a clear pool below.
The area around the waterfall has been developed into a lovely camping and picnic site. The water spray creates a mist that keeps the area cool, even on the hottest days.
ou can dip your feet in the stream or enjoy fresh pakoras from the small canteen nearby. It is a very family-friendly spot where children can play safely near the shallow waters.
8. Blind Lake (Zharba Tso)
For travelers looking to escape the crowds in 2026, Blind Lake (locally called Zharba Tso) is the answer. It is located near the Shigar Valley but is often missed by tour buses.
The lake is called “Blind Lake” because it is a panoramic bowl of water surrounded by sand dunes and mountains, appearing hidden from the main road. The water is deep blue and very still, acting like a giant mirror.
To get here, you might need to hike a short distance down from the road or take a jeep ride. Because it is less accessible than Satpara or Kachura, it is incredibly quiet. It is a fantastic spot for swimming if you are a strong swimmer, but be careful as the water is deep.
9. Satpara Lake
Satpara Lake is crucial to Skardu because it supplies fresh water to the entire city. But beyond its utility, it is breathtakingly beautiful. The lake is vast, and expansive, and features a bright turquoise blue color that looks almost fake.
In the middle of the lake, there is a small island that creates a picturesque view. You can stop at the viewpoint on the road to Deosai to take pictures.
There are boating options available here as well. Nearby, you can visit the ancient Manthal Buddha Rock, a huge granite rock with carvings of Buddha dating back to the 8th century. This adds a nice touch of history to your nature trip.
10. Kharpocho Fort
If you want to see the entire Skardu valley in one frame, you must climb up to Kharpocho Fort. The name means “King of Forts,” and it stands on a mountain looking over the city and the Indus River.
Getting there requires a bit of a hike. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to trek up the path, but the reward is worth the effort. From the top, you can see the Indus River slithering through the sand like a snake, the city lights, and the surrounding mountains.
The path can be narrow and steep. Wear good gripping shoes and take water with you. The best time to hike is late afternoon so you can catch the sunset from the top.
Practical Travel Tips for Skardu
Now that you know the best places to visit in Skardu, here are some practical tips to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
1. Best Time to Visit
- Summer (May to August): This is the peak season. The weather is pleasant (around 25°C), and all roads, including Deosai, are open.
- Autumn (October-November): This is the season of colors. The cherry and apricot trees turn gold, red, and orange. It is colder, but very romantic and photogenic.
- Spring (April): The season of blossoms. The valley is covered in pink and white apricot flowers.
2. How to Get There
- By Air: Skardu International Airport operates flights from major cities like Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. The flight offers spectacular views of K2 and Nanga Parbat. In 2026, flights are more frequent, but they are still weather-dependent.
- By Road: The Jaglot-Skardu road has been fully constructed and carpeted. What used to be a dangerous 8-hour journey is now a smooth 3-4 hour scenic drive from the Karakoram Highway turnoff.
3. What to Pack
Even if you visit in summer, the nights in Skardu are cold.
- Warm jacket and hoodie.
- Good hiking shoes or sneakers (heels/sandals are not practical).
- Sunblock and sunglasses (the sun is very strong at high altitudes).
- Power bank (electricity can be unpredictable in remote areas).
Conclusion
Skardu is more than just a destination; it is an experience that stays with you forever. From the silence of Blind Lake to the vastness of the Deosai Plains, every corner of this valley offers something new.
Whether you are sipping tea by the Soq Valley river or climbing the steps of Shigar Fort, you will find peace and adventure here. So, pack your bags, charge your cameras, and get ready to explore the top things to do in Skardu. The mountains are calling!
