9 Days Skardu Tour – Explore the Beauty of Skardu Valley
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
- Arrival at Islamabad Airport: Meet and greet with a representative, followed by transfer to the hotel.
- Afternoon: Rest and relax, preparing for the active days ahead.
- Evening: Briefing on the trip itinerary during the welcome dinner.
- Overnight stay: Islamabad.
Day 2: Journey to Chilas via Lulusar Lake and Babusar Top
- Departure: Begin the journey toward Mansehra, making a stop at Lulusar Lake to take in its crystal-clear waters and untouched surroundings.
- Babusar Top: Reach the famous elevated peak, accessed through one of the world’s most scenic, winding roads, with stunning views of the lush Kaghan Valley.
- Evening: Arrive and check into the hotel in Chilas.
- Overnight stay: Chilas.
Day 3: Scenic Drive to Skardu
- Morning: Start the journey to Skardu, following the Indus River and crossing the iconic Alam Bridge.
- Arrival: Check into the hotel upon reaching Skardu.
- Overnight stay: Skardu.
Day 4: Exploration of Shangrila, Kachura Lakes, Cold Desert, and Shigar Fort
- Shangrila Resort: Discover the resort, set around a heart-shaped lake surrounded by orchards of apples, pears, and cherries.
- Kachura Lakes: Visit both Lower and Upper Kachura Lakes for captivating views of the rustic and pristine landscapes.
- Cold Desert: Experience the world’s highest desert, where temperatures drop as low as -25°C in winter.
- Shigar Fort: Tour the 17th-century fortress-palace that was once home to the Raja of Baltistan.
- Optional Hike: For adventure seekers, a hike to Kharpocho Fort provides stunning views of Skardu and its historical Mughal-era architecture.
- Overnight stay: Skardu.
Day 5: Ghanche and Khaplu Valley Adventure
- Morning: Head to Ghanche district, known for its high peaks, clear blue waters, and beautiful valleys.
- Khaplu Valley: Interact with locals and experience their famous hospitality.
- Khaplu Fort: Visit this restored heritage site, once home to the Raja of Khaplu.
- Chaqchan Mosque: Marvel at one of the region’s oldest mosques, with architecture influenced by Persian, Tibetan, and Mughal styles.
- Manthoka Waterfall: Conclude the day with a visit to this scenic and refreshing sanctuary.
- Overnight stay: Skardu.
Day 6: Deosai National Park and Sheosar Lake Excursion
- Deosai National Park: Known as the “Land of the Giants,” this high-altitude plateau offers views of the Himalayas and diverse flora and fauna.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for endangered species such as Himalayan brown bears, golden marmots, and Tibetan wolves.
- Sheosar Lake, Kala Pani, and Bara Pani: Enjoy breathtaking views at each stop before heading back to Skardu.
- Overnight stay: Skardu.
Day 7: Scenic Journey to Besham or Naran
- Departure: Begin the journey towards Besham or Naran, depending on road conditions.
- Besham Route: Explore Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mansehra along the Karakoram Highway, riding parallel to the Indus River.
- Naran Route: Discover the glaciers, lakes, and lush forests of the Kaghan Valley.
- Overnight stay: Besham/Naran.
Day 8: Return to Islamabad and Capital Sightseeing
- Morning: Complete the journey back to Islamabad, enjoying the stunning mountain scenery and rural hospitality.
- Arrival in Islamabad: Check into the hotel and rest before setting out to explore the capital’s sights.
- Sightseeing: Visit Faisal Mosque, nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills.
- Farewell Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Monal restaurant in Pir Sohawa, with panoramic views of Islamabad.
- Overnight stay: Islamabad.
Day 9: Departure from Islamabad
- Breakfast: A hearty breakfast to conclude the journey.
- Airport Transfer: Guests will be transferred to Islamabad Airport for departure, marking the end of the tour.
