Top Skardu tourist attractions in 2025 include Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake) for its heart-shaped lake and fairytale setting, and Upper Kachura Lake for its untouched alpine beauty. Nature lovers can explore the Deosai Plains, one of the world’s highest plateaus and home to the Himalayan brown bear, or visit the Katpana Desert, a rare high-altitude cold desert. Satpara Lake, with its turquoise waters and central island, offers boating, fishing, and scenic views, making it a perfect stop before heading to Deosai.
Tucked away in the heart of Gilgit Baltistan, Skardu is a place where snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and centuries-old forts come together to create a destination that feels straight out of a fantasy novel.
Serving as the gateway to some of the world’s highest mountains, including K2 and the Gasherbrum range, Skardu, Pakistan, is a magnet for trekkers, photographers, cultural explorers, and honeymooners.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets across the Katpana Desert or exploring the ancient carvings of Buddha Rock, the region’s rich mix of nature and history offers something unforgettable for every traveler.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top Skardu tourist attractions you shouldn’t miss, covering everything from iconic lakes like Kachura Lake to remote wilderness areas like the Deosai Plains.
Skardu Tourist Attractions
1. Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake)
Known affectionately as “Heaven on Earth,” Shangrila Resort is one of the most iconic and photogenic Skardu tourist attractions. Located just 20 minutes from Skardu Airport, the resort sits beside the stunning Lower Kachura Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.
Built in 1983 on the site of a former Buddhist monastery, the resort was named after the mythical paradise “Shangri-La” described in James Hilton’s novel Lost Horizon. It quickly gained fame for its fairytale setting—complete with red-roofed cottages, a lake-front restaurant, and panoramic views of the Gilgit Baltistan mountains.
The highlight of Lower Kachura Lake is its heart-shaped silhouette, best viewed from above. The water reflects the surrounding trees and snow-covered peaks, making it a dream spot for photographers and honeymooners. The resort’s floating restaurant, built inside an actual airplane fuselage, is a favorite among tourists.
Things to Do at Shangrila Resort:
- Boating: Rent a paddle boat or rowboat and glide across the crystal-clear lake.
- Dining: Enjoy Balti and continental cuisine at the lakeside café or airplane restaurant.
- Strolling the grounds: Manicured gardens, cherry blossom trees (in spring), and quiet pathways.
- Relaxing: Ideal for couples, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat.
Best Time to Visit:
May to October is the best time to experience the full bloom of flowers and pleasant weather. Autumn brings golden leaves, while spring offers a burst of color from flowering trees.
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
- It’s one of the most peaceful tourist attractions in Skardu, Pakistan.
- Great for honeymooners, photographers, and families.
- Offers excellent accommodations and scenic views within easy reach of town.
2. Upper Kachura Lake
Just a short distance from its more famous sibling, Upper Kachura Lake remains one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Skardu. While Lower Kachura Lake and Shangrila Resort are beautifully landscaped and visitor-friendly, Upper Kachura Lake offers a more wild and untouched experience—ideal for nature lovers and off-the-beaten-path explorers.
Situated at an elevation of over 2,500 meters, this alpine lake lies hidden among towering pine forests, rugged hills, and rocky cliffs. Its deep blue waters plunge over 70 meters deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in Gilgit Baltistan. The scenery is raw and pristine, with no commercial development along its shores, preserving its natural beauty.
Reaching Upper Kachura Lake requires a 15–20-minute uphill walk from the roadside. The trail is well-trodden but can be steep in parts, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Along the way, you’ll pass through fruit orchards and small local houses, giving you a glimpse into the daily life of the mountain communities.
What to Do at Upper Kachura Lake:
- Boating: Small rowboats are available for rent, offering a quiet glide across the lake’s still waters.
- Hiking: Several forest trails begin from the lake’s edge, perfect for light trekking.
- Photography: Best shot in the early morning or golden hour when reflections are sharp and undisturbed.
- Swimming: The lake is swimmable in summer, but the water remains ice-cold year-round—only for the brave!
Why Upper Kachura Stands Out:
- Far less crowded than Lower Kachura Lake, making it peaceful and meditative.
- Its depth and clarity make it visually striking, especially in aerial or drone footage.
- No noise, no shops—just pure nature.
Best Time to Visit:
Late May to September is ideal, when trails are dry, weather is clear, and wildflowers are in bloom. In winter, the lake may freeze over partially, and trails can become slippery.
Nearby Spots to Combine in One Trip:
- Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila Resort) – Only 15 minutes by car.
- Skardu town – For food, shopping, or cultural sites after a half-day trip.
- Katpana Desert – Visit later in the day for a sunset dune experience.
3. Deosai Plains– Land of the Himalayan Brown Bear
Sprawling across an altitude of over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), the Deosai Plains are not just one of the most unique Skardu tourist attractions, but also one of the highest plateaus on Earth. Often called “The Roof of the World,” Deosai is a wild, untamed wonderland that stretches as far as the eye can see—lush green meadows, vibrant wildflowers, and snow-covered peaks in the distance.
Located in Gilgit Baltistan, just 30 km from Skardu town, Deosai National Park covers around 3,000 square kilometers. It’s a protected area established to conserve the endangered Himalayan brown bear, which still roams freely here, along with snow leopards, golden marmots, ibex, and countless migratory birds.
The landscape here is otherworldly—flat grasslands merge into glacial streams and mirror-like lakes, including the spectacular Sheosar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.
What to Do in Deosai Plains:
- Wildlife Spotting: Deosai is the only place in Pakistan where you can spot Himalayan brown bears in their natural habitat.
- Camping: Ideal for overnight stays under the stars; the Milky Way is jaw-droppingly visible here.
- Photography: Landscapes change colors with the light, making every hour a new photo opportunity.
- Visit Sheosar Lake: A glacial lake set against the backdrop of Nanga Parbat, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Why Deosai Is Unmissable:
- One of the top tourist attractions in Skardu, Pakistan, is for raw, untouched nature.
- Perfect for adventure travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and landscape photographers.
- Offers a unique contrast to the mountainous terrains of nearby valleys.
Accessibility:
- Best Time to Visit: July to September (The plains are snow-covered and closed the rest of the year).
- A 4×4 vehicle is a must to access the park—jeep tours from Skardu are readily available.
- The road to Deosai via Sadpara Lake and Ali Malik Pass offers incredible panoramic views.
Tips for Visiting:
- Bring warm clothes—even in summer, temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
- No commercial restaurants or shops—pack food and water.
- Entry fees apply; check with local tourism authorities for updated rates.
Nearby Spots You Can Visit Together:
- Satpara Lake – En route to Deosai, a great place for a quick stop.
- Sheosar Lake – Located deep inside the plains, about 1–2 hours from the park entrance.
- Ali Malik Top – One of the highest points, offering 360° panoramic views of the plateau.
4. Katpana Desert (Cold Desert)– The Jewel at Skardu’s Gate
Cradled at an elevation of about 2,636 meters (8,650 feet), Satpara Lake is often the first breathtaking sight that greets travelers entering Skardu Valley. Fed by the melting waters of the Deosai glaciers, this glacial lake is not just a scenic marvel but also the primary water source for Skardu town, making it both vital and beautiful.
Spanning across an area of nearly 2.5 square kilometers, Satpara Lake is one of the most accessible tourist attractions in Skardu, located just 8 km (20 minutes) south of the main town. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by rolling hills and rugged terrain, offer a tranquil retreat for both adventure seekers and casual tourists.
What makes this lake especially captivating is the small island floating in its center. During a boat ride, you can glide close to this tiny islet and soak in views of the surrounding Gilgit Baltistan landscape—snow-capped mountains in the distance, fluttering prayer flags, and the cool alpine breeze.
What to Do at Satpara Lake:
- Boating: Paddle boats and motorboats are available for rent, ideal for families and couples.
- Fishing: Trout fishing is common, and locals often sell freshly caught fish nearby.
- Picnicking: There are grassy spots and shaded areas to enjoy a peaceful lunch with a view.
- Photography: The lake changes color with the sky—expect blues, emeralds, and even silvery reflections near sunset.
Why Satpara Lake Is a Must-Visit:
- It’s the gateway to Deosai Plains, making it a perfect stopover before your plateau adventure.
- Offers a serene escape just minutes from Skardu town.
- A favorite for both early-morning calm and dramatic evening skies.
Accessibility:
- Easily reachable by paved road from Skardu city—no off-roading required.
- Open year-round, although the best views are in late spring through early autumn.
- Winter brings a frozen version of the lake, with snow covering the surrounding hills.
Tips for Travelers:
- Bring your snacks or a tea thermos—limited shops nearby.
- Best lighting for photos: early morning (sunrise) or late afternoon (golden hour).
- Boating prices vary by season—always negotiate politely.
Nearby Spots You Can Explore:
- Deosai Plains – Begin your journey from Satpara onward.
- Kharpocho Fort – Located nearby on a hill overlooking the Indus River.
- Skardu Bazaar – Head back into town for local food and shopping after your lake visit.
5. Satpara Lake– The Cold Desert of Skardu
Yes, you read that right—a desert in the mountains! Welcome to the Katpana Desert, also known as the Cold Desert of Skardu—a surreal, high-altitude landscape that defies expectations. Nestled in the heart of Gilgit Baltistan, this desert sits at an altitude of around 2,226 meters (7,303 feet) above sea level and is considered one of the highest deserts in the world.
Unlike the scorching dunes of Sindh or Balochistan, Katpana Desert remains cool even in the summer, thanks to its location in the northern mountain ranges. In winter, the entire area transforms into a frozen wonderland, with dunes covered in snow—a rare sight that leaves visitors stunned.
Just 5–6 km from Skardu city, the desert is extremely accessible, making it a favorite for tourists who want to experience something out-of-the-ordinary without traveling too far. Whether you’re into photography, off-roading, or simply soaking up the silence of the vast sandy plains, Katpana delivers a unique adventure.
What to Do in Katpana Desert:
- Photography: Dunes framed by snow-covered peaks? It’s a dream for content creators and landscape lovers alike.
- Camel or Horse Riding: Available seasonally, adding a desert-safari twist to your northern escape.
- ATV Rides / Off-Roading: Some tour providers offer guided off-roading tours through the dunes.
- Camping: Pitch a tent and stargaze in total silence—no traffic, no city lights, just the Milky Way.
Why Katpana Desert is a Top Pick:
- A rare combination of desert and mountain scenery in one place.
- Extremely photogenic—frequently featured in travel documentaries about Skardu tourist attractions.
- A great short trip from town if you’re tight on time but craving a big view.
Accessibility:
- Only a 15-minute drive from Skardu Airport, located on the way to Shigar.
- No 4×4 required in summer; paved roads lead up to the main dune area.
- Winter visits are possible but can be chilly—dress appropriately and check road conditions.
Tips for Visitors:
- Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and shadow patterns on the dunes.
- Bring water and snacks—no major shops around the main dune field.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Kharpocho Fort or Shigar Fort for a fuller day trip.
Nearby Attractions:
- Skardu Valley – Continue exploring nearby lakes, forts, and valleys.
- Shigar Fort – A restored heritage fort just a short drive away, great for culture and history buffs.
- Skardu Airport Viewpoint – Popular among photographers to catch a unique aerial feel of the desert and runway.
Conclusion
From serene lakes and golden deserts to ancient forts and Buddhist relics, Skardu is a land of contrast and wonder.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a culture buff, or someone looking to disconnect from the chaos of city life, these Skardu tourist attractions promise an experience that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
As tourism continues to rise in Gilgit Baltistan, Skardu remains an essential destination for anyone exploring northern Pakistan.
