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Pakistan · National Parks
The journey
Discover the dramatic landscapes and cultural heritage of Baltistan on this 5-day journey through Skardu and its surrounding valleys. Visit the enchanting Lower and Upper Kachura Lakes, explore the vast wilderness of Deosai National Park and Sheosar Lake, and travel along the Shyok River to the historic town of Khaplu. Admire the heritage architecture of Khaplu Palace and the ancient Chaqchan Mosque, experience the unique Sarfaranga Cold Desert in Shigar Valley, and witness the beauty of Manthokha Waterfall. The adventure concludes with panoramic views from Kharpocho Fort and time in Skardu Bazaar.
Discover the dramatic landscapes and cultural heritage of Baltistan on this 5-day journey through Skardu and its surrounding valleys.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Transfer smoothly from the airport to begin the journey.
Visit the iconic Shangrila Resort at Lower Kachura.
Continue to Upper Kachura Lake, a hidden gem surrounded by mountains.
Enjoy a boat ride or take a peaceful walk along the lakeside while acclimatizing to the altitude of 2,230 meters.
Travel across the world's second-highest plateau at an altitude of 4,114 meters.
Visit Sheosar Lake and observe the mirror-like reflections of the surrounding landscape.
Stop at Bara Pani and observe Himalayan marmots in their natural habitat.
Experience the vast and treeless wilderness that defines the Deosai plains.
Explore Khaplu, once known as a small kingdom in the region.
Visit Khaplu Palace, an architectural masterpiece and a Serena Heritage property.
Discover the 700-year-old Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the region.
Explore Shigar Fort, known as The Palatial Residence.
Visit Manthokha Waterfall and observe one of the tallest waterfalls in the region.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Indus River winding through Skardu.
Visit Skardu Bazaar to purchase local dried apricots and gemstones.
Transfer to the airport for the return flight to Islamabad.
Where this trip takes you
Sheosar Lake, Deosai National Park, Sarfaranga Cold Desert, Khaplu Palace
The route
The fine print
Transport: Private 4x4 Prado or Land Cruiser for all days, including Deosai
Meals: Daily traditional breakfast
Guide: Professional local driver-guide
Transfers: All airport pick-up and drop-off services
Meals: Lunch and dinner (unless specified in a "Full Board" package)
Entry fees: Tickets for forts, resorts, or national park permits
Activities: Boating, desert jeep safaris, or paramotoring at Katpana
Pack 3-4 moisture-wicking T-shirts as a base layer and avoid heavy cotton fabrics.
Carry 1-2 warm fleece jackets or wool sweaters for the mid layer for cooler evenings.
Bring 1 lightweight down jacket or windbreaker as the outer layer, especially for the cold winds in Deosai Plains.
Pack 2 pairs of comfortable trekking pants or jeans, as shorts are generally not recommended due to local cultural norms.
Carry a light scarf or dupatta for visiting mosques or rural villages.
Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes or joggers with a good grip, suitable for the tour.
Carry slippers or sandals for use inside the hotel or during short walks.
Use SPF 50 or higher sunblock to protect your skin at high altitudes.
Carry lip balm to prevent dry or chapped lips.
Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare from bright sunlight and snowy peaks.
Wear a hat or cap for additional sun protection.
Carry a power bank, since cold weather can drain phone batteries faster.
Bring a camera with extra SD cards for capturing landscapes and experiences.
Pack a universal adapter for different electrical plug types.
Carry altitude sickness medication such as Acetazolamide after consulting a doctor, or ginger candies or gur for nausea.
Pack basic medicines such as Panadol, Imodium, and ORS.
Bring a reusable water bottle to refill instead of purchasing plastic bottles.
Carry the original CNIC for hotel check-ins and security checkpoints.
Bring sufficient cash in PKR, as ATMs in Skardu may run out of cash, and remote areas such as Khaplu and Shigar have limited ATM access.
The "Deosai" rule: Deosai National Park is only fully accessible from June to September. If you are visiting in spring (April/May) or autumn (October/November), ensure your tour operator has an alternative plan, such as Basho Valley or Chunda Valley.
Local cuisine: do not leave without trying Mamtu, Balay, and the local apricot cake. Ask your driver to take you to a local restaurant rather than just eating at the hotel.
Packing: even in summer, carry a light jacket. The weather in the mountains changes rapidly, especially when you head toward high-altitude areas like Deosai.
Logistics
Your 5 days finish where they began, in Skardu.
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