[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]You need to refresh yourself, why not visit Gilgit Baltistan? The unique geography of Gilgit Baltistan has made it a global destination. Start planning your tour today, and don’t forget to visit these beautiful and freshwater lakes in Skardu City. These natural lakes, with glittering freshwater in the vicinity of Skardu, adds the beauty of this region. Apart from other natural beauty of Skardu and its surroundings, these lakes in Skardu city provides amazement to you.
Here are the top most beautiful and visited Lakes in Skardu city.
Shangrila Lake, also known as lower Kachura Lake.
Upper Kachura Lake, also known as Frogh Scho.
Sadpara Lake,
Blind Lake, also known as Jarbazoo.
Shangrila Lake Kachura Skardu.
The famous lower Khachura lake, popularly known as Shangrila Lake. It is on a 30 minutes drive from Skardu city, and 20 km away at Kachura Valley Baltistan. Shangrila Lake is home to a luxuriously designed Shangrila Resort. The lake is so pristine that it leaves traces on your mind forever. The lake has gone recreational work and it is a heart shape, which looks very magnificent and beautiful.
Upper Kachura lake is also known as Frogh Scho. This lake is the second most beautiful lake in the vicinity of Skardu city. Upper Kachura lake is at a distance of 27.7km from Skardu city. It is easily accessible on cars. It is a beautiful lake with fresh and clear blue water surrounded by huge mountains and wild trees. The trees are covered with fruits mainly apricots. The temperature in summers can reach up to 20 C and in winters the lake is frozen. The main attractions of the Upper Kachura lake include its breathtaking scenery, trout fishing, boating, and mountain or hill hiking, and trekking.
Nothing can beat the tranquility and spectacular beauty of Sadpara Lake. Sadpara Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Pakistan. At 8 km (5 miles) south of Skardu, 20 minutes drive by jeep, lies the Satpara Lake. Surrounded by high glacial mountains. The lake is considered ideal for fishing. Sadpara Dam is constructed on Sadpara lake, which is the prime source for water and electricity for Skardu city.
The Blind Lake Shigar, locally known as Jarbazoo more accurately Jarbachzoo is a serene freshwater lake in Shigar Valley. The view of Blind Lake Shigar is magnificent and exotic. It is a favorite tourist destination and the best place for photography. The crystal clear blue water of the lake and lush green surroundings make its view more charming. Tourist can enjoy swimming and boating here. The lake is located at 25 minutes drive from Shigar Viewpoint down at the bank of the river.
Attabad Lake was formed as a result of a massive landslide that took place on Jan. 4, 2010, in Gilgit-Baltistan. The Hunza river was blocked, gradually taking the shape of a lake, now famous as the Attabad Lake.
Twenty people died in the incident and 25,000 people of Gojal Valley were stranded. Gradually the lake extended up to 21 km in length and 330 ft in depth. More than six thousand people were displaced and around 170 houses and 120 shops were submerged in the lake. Many high profiles visited the region including Prime Minister, Army Chief, and many parliamentarians.
After four years the affectees are still waiting for the commitments made by the Government. Few people managed to rebuild their homes, but the majority are still hoping that their demands would be fulfilled.
Since the lake was formed the only means of crossing was by loading vehicles onto wooden boats. In 2015 the Chinese built a road tunnel that opened in September 2015.
The lake was formed due to a massive landslide at Attabad village in Gilgit-Baltistan, 9 miles (14 km) upstream (east) of Karimabad that occurred on January 4, 2010.The landslide killed twenty people and blocked the flow of the Hunza River for five months. The lake flooding has displaced 6,000 people from upstream villages, stranded (from land transportation routes) a further 25,000, and inundated over 12 miles (19 km) of the Karakoram Highway.The lake reached 13 miles (21 km) long and over 100 meters (330 ft) in depth by the first week of June 2010 when it began flowing over the landslide dam, completely submerging lower Shishkat and partly flooding Gulmit. The subdivision of Gojal has the greatest number of flooded buildings, over 170 houses, and 120 shops. The residents also had shortages of food and other items due to the blockage of the Karakoram Highway. By June 4 water outflow from the lake had increased to 3,700 cu ft/s (100 m3/s).
Water levels continued to rise on June 18, 2010, caused by a difference in the outflow and inflow of the new lake. As bad weather continued, the supply of food, medicine, and other goods was stopped as all forms of transportation including helicopter service to Hunza could not resume.
Victims of the landslide and expansion of the lake staged a sit-in protesting the lack of government action and compensation payments to them.
As a result of the damming of Hunza River, five villages north of the barrier were flooded. One village, Ayeenabad, was completely submerged. Major portions of another village, Shishkat, was also submerged. Around 40% of the village of Gulmit, which also serves as the headquarters of Gojal Valley, was also submerged. Significant portions of land in Hussain and Ghulkin villages of Gojal also got submerged as a result of the surging lake.
The entire population of Gojal valley, up to 25000 individuals, was affected as a result of the lake, due to difficulties of road access and reaching business markets and loss of land, houses, and agricultural products.
Attabad has been visited by both current and former Prime Ministers Yousuf Raza Gillani and Nawaz Sharif, and by the Chief Minister of Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, Sharif announced Rs100 million of aid for the victims of the Punjab government and Rs0.5 million for the relatives of those who died in the landslide.
Areas downstream from the lake remained on alert despite some officials believing that a major flood scenario was less likely as the river began flowing over the landslide dam during the first week of June 2010.Many people have been evacuated to 195 relief camps. Two hospitals downstream, the Kashrote Eye Vision Hospital and the Aga Khan Health Service, evacuated both their staff and equipment Some officials had incorrectly predicted that as soon as the lake began flowing over the landslide dam, a 60 feet (18 m) wave would hit the areas immediately downstream.
As of 14 June 2010, the water level continued to rise. Dawn News reported that “242 houses, 135 shops, four hotels, two schools, four factories, and several hundred acres of agricultural land” had been flooded, and villagers were receiving food and school fee subsidies. They reported that 25 kilometers (16 mi) of the Karakoram Highway and six bridges were destroyed. A special documentary on this issue Hunza Kahani by Waqar Ahmed Malik was on aired on Express news.
Frontier Works Organization blasted the spillway of the lake first on March 27, 2012, and then on May 15, 2012, lowering the lake’s water level by at least 33 feet (10 m). Now it has become one of the most beautiful touristic place & tourism asset for Pakistan.
Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan is one of the most beautiful national parks in Pakistan, located in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan. The park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, unique ecosystem, and diverse flora and fauna. Deosai National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience the mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas.
Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan: A Breathtaking Natural Landscape.
Deosai is Located at a distance of 32 km from Skardu, is one of the highest plateaus in the world standing at 4100m, and is spread over 3000sq.km. The spectacular scenery that Deosai offers from mid-June to mid-September is highlighted by some 342 species of vegetation.
Top Five Places/Tourist Attractions at Deosai.
The landscape is covered with wildflowers that make Deosai radiant with bright colors through the summer. The diverse vegetation supports wildlife and an ecosystem that is a unique example of adaptation to high altitudes.
In addition to the Himalayan brown bear, Deosai and the surrounding valleys are home to the Himalayan Ibex, Red Fox, Golden Marmot, Wolf, snow leopard & over 125 residents, and migratory birds. This area is a place of attraction for those who are interested in Trophy Hunting.
Location and Access to The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan.
Deosai The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan is located in the northeastern region of Pakistan and covers an area of about 3,000 square kilometers. The park is easily accessible from the Skardu and Astore districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Visitors can reach the park by road, and the journey is a thrilling adventure in itself, as the road winds through the majestic Himalayan mountains.
Drive and visit the remarkable Plateau at 4000m above sea level. The Deosai plain (4000 m), a vast high-altitude plateau covering an area of over 400 square km, south, and west of Skardu, borders Indian Kashmir. In Balti, the region is known as “Bhear Sar” which means place of flowers. Nowhere lower than 4000 m, this uninhabited alpine grassland has numerous clear streams with unusual snow trout, a large brown bear population, and a multitude of golden marmots.
Flora and Fauna of Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan.
Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan is a unique ecosystem, home to an array of flora and fauna. The park is known for its stunning wildflowers, which bloom in the summer months and create a colorful carpet of flowers across the landscape. The park is also home to several species of birds, including the Himalayan griffon vulture, golden eagle, and peregrine falcon. The park is also home to several species of mammals, including the Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, ibex, and red fox.
Deosai is surprisingly rich in plants and animals, bursting into life during the brief spring and summer months. The plateau is home to the Himalayan Brown Bear, unique to this part of the world. Other mammals found on Deosai included Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Red Fox, Himalayan Ibex, etc. Deosai Plateau offers several opportunities for trekking and is easily accessible from Skardu.
Things to Do at Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan.
Deosai The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan offers visitors a range of activities to enjoy. From hiking and trekking to camping and wildlife watching, there is something for everyone. Some of the top things to do at Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan include:
Trekking: The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau is a paradise for trekkers, with several scenic trekking routes to choose from. The trek to Sheosar Lake is one of the most popular routes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Camping: Deosai National Park is the perfect destination for camping, with several designated campsites located throughout the park. Camping is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty and wildlife up close.
Wildlife Watching: The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau is home to several species of wildlife, including the Himalayan brown bear and snow leopard. Visitors can go on wildlife safaris to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
FAQs about The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan.
What is the best time to visit Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan?
The best time to visit Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan is between June and September when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Is there any accommodation available at The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan?
Yes, there are several accommodation options available at Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan, including campsites and guesthouses.
Is it safe to visit Deosai The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan?
Yes, Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan is a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors are advised to follow all safety guidelines and regulations issued by the local authorities and to take necessary precautions while exploring the park.
Can I bring my own food and camping gear to The World’s 2nd Highest Plateau Gilgit Baltistan?
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own food and camping gear to the park. However, it is important to dispose of all waste properly to ensure the preservation of the park’s delicate ecosystem.
Are there any guided tours available at Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan?
Yes, there are several guided tours available at Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan, which can be arranged through local tour operators or the park authorities.
Conclusion.
In conclusion, Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan is a breathtaking natural landscape that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Himalayas up close. With its unique ecosystem, diverse flora and fauna, and range of activities, the park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Pakistan. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Deosai National Park is sure to leave you mesmerized and inspired. So pack your bags, and head out to Deosai National Park Gilgit Baltistan for an unforgettable experience in the lap of nature.
Shigar is a beautiful village just a few miles North of Skardu its a picturesque village with beautiful terraced fields growing all sorts of crops. Shigar was once a small kingdom and the Shigar fort was once the residential fort of the local ruler. Recently the Aga Khan has shown interest in the fort which has now been renovated and is open for tourists. The Shigar fort has been made to be a residential fort once again. The Shigar Valley, 32 km (20 miles) from Skardu and 2 hours by jeep, is watered by the Shigar River. It forms the gateway to the great mountain peaks of Karakoram, including Mount K-2. The valley has an extremely picturesque landscape and abounds in fruit such as grapes, peaches, pears, walnuts, and apricots.
Shigar Fort is at a distance of 32 Km from Skardu. This meticulously restored 400 years old fort is an outstanding example of the wealth of architectural and cultural heritage in Baltistan. One may stay in the restored suites and experience what kings and queens experienced 400 years ago.
Shigar View PointDiscovering Shigar Valley: A Guide to the Baltistan Region of Pakistan
Shigar Valley: Discover the Hidden Gem of Pakistan
Geography and Climate
Shigar Valley is located in the Baltistan region of Pakistan, nestled in the Karakoram mountain range. It is surrounded by towering peaks, including K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. The valley is known for its glaciers, rivers, and lakes, and experiences a temperate climate with cool summers and cold winters.
Culture and History
The Balti people are the indigenous inhabitants of the Shigar Valley, and their culture and traditions are an important part of the region’s identity. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Shigar Fort and various mosques and shrines. Traditional music, dance, and handicrafts are also a significant part of the local culture.
Tourism and Recreation
Shigar Valley is a popular destination for adventure tourism, offering opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and skiing. Visitors can also explore local villages and learn about traditional ways of life. Accommodation options range from camping to luxury hotels, and local cuisine is a unique blend of Tibetan, Pakistani, and Central Asian flavors.
Conservation and Sustainability
Efforts are underway to protect the natural environment and biodiversity of Shigar Valley, and promote sustainable tourism practices that support local communities and economies. Visitors can learn more about these initiatives and contribute to their success by minimizing their environmental impact, supporting local businesses, and respecting local customs and traditions.
Shigar Valley, situated in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is a place of historical significance, where the remnants of ancient civilizations still stand tall, narrating their tales of glory and defeat. One such story is of the Amacha Dynasty that founded the valley and their remarkable resilience that led to the construction of the magnificent Fong Khar fort.
The Origins of the Amacha Dynasty.
The valley of Shigar is believed to have been inhabited by a community of Dards, who later became known as the Shina-speaking people. In the 11th century, the Amachas, a family of Dards who ruled over a part of the Hunza Valley, migrated to Shigar Valley to escape persecution by Ganesh, the then-ruler of the area.
The Journey to Shigar Valley.
As the Amachas arrived in Shigar, they faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather, snowstorms, and the perilous Hispar glacier. However, they managed to overcome these obstacles and built the Khar-i-Dong fort to establish their rule in the valley.
The Mughal Invasion.
Several centuries later, the Mughals invaded the region and uprooted the Amacha Dynasty. The war between the two dynasties lasted for many days, but the Mughals emerged victorious. The Amachas, however, were allowed to continue their reign in the area, as they submitted to the Mughals.
The Rise of Fong Khar Fort.
The 20th ruler of the Amacha Dynasty, Raja Hassan Khan, built the Fong Khar fort on top of an enormous boulder after the former Khar-i-Dong fort was destroyed by the Mughals. The new fort was named “Fong Khar,” which means “The palace on the rock.” It remained the center of power and the Raja’s seat in the area until the 1970s.
Following the merger of all states in the region into one administrative unit, the Rajas of Shigar and the surrounding states lost their status. However, the descendants of the royalties still hold a significant influence over the local populace.
The valley of Shigar is not only a place of breathtaking natural beauty but also a testament to the resilience and determination of the Amacha Dynasty. The Fong Khar fort, standing as a witness to the rise and fall of dynasties, is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the region. It continues to be a popular destination for tourists who visit to explore its history and experience its natural wonders.
Accessing Shigar Valley.
The Shigar Valley is located 36 km away from Skardu and is a district that covers an area of 170 km. It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive there via the Shigar road in a jeep from Skardu. PIA flights operate from Islamabad International Airport to Skardu Airport, which is a 45-minute drive from Serene hotel Shigar. The hotel also offers access to private and charter helicopters through the helipad at Shigar, which is only a 10-minute drive away.
The valley has many remote and difficult-to-reach villages. Askole is the last town in the Shigar valley and is far from the massif. It is the starting point for mountaineering expeditions to K-2 “Godwin Austen” and is also known as the gateway to the world’s 14 highest peaks known as Eight-thousanders (peaks above 8,000m). From Askole, it takes 3-4 days to trek through dangerous alleyways, rope bridges, moraines, and glaciers to reach Concordia, the base camp.
Top Tourist Attractions and Things to do at Shigar Valley.
If you ever want to visit Concordia and see the amazing cathedral of four 8,000-meter-high peaks all at once, you’ll likely pass through the ancient kingdom of Shigar. While you no longer have to pay taxes to the Raja of Shigar, it’s still worth stopping for a delicious lunch at the grapevine-covered restaurant at the Shigar Palace.
About a half hour’s drive from Skardu, take a left turn and cross the bridge over the wide basin of the Indus River to enter the Shigar Valley. As soon as you cross the bridge, you’ll find yourself in the world’s highest cold desert, locally known as the Sarfranga Desert, which extends on both sides of the Indus and into Ladakh on the other side of the border.
After passing through a few gorges, you’ll enter the lush green oasis of Shigar, an ancient principality on the banks of the Braldu River, which flows straight from the Braldu glacier at the base of the 8,611 meter-high K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. If you continue on the road beyond Shigar, the road becomes a trek along the roaring Braldu River and takes you to the last frontier: Askole, the final village on the trek to K2.
From Askole, you’ll need to start trekking for 3-4 days over dangerous alleys, paths, rope bridges, moraine, and ultimately over glaciers to reach Concordia, where you can see four of the world’s fourteen 8,000-meter peaks together: Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, Broad Peak, and K2.
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