Blind Lake Shigar (ZjarbaTso), Everything You Need to Know.

A water boat parked near the shore of Blind lake Shigar.

Are you searching for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination? Look no further than Blind Lake Shigar, a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains of Pakistan. This stunning lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Blind Lake Shigar, from its history to its natural wonders. This article will guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Blind Lake Shigar.

Read more: 4 Most Beautiful Fresh Water Lakes in The Vicinity of Skardu City.

History of Blind Lake Shigar.

Zjarba Tso Lake Shigar has a fascinating history dating back to the 16th century. It was originally discovered by a local herder who was searching for a lost goat. Over time, the lake became an important stop on the ancient Silk Road trade route, with traders stopping to rest and resupply. Today, it remains a vital source of water for the surrounding villages and a popular spot for tourists.

What is Blind Lake Shigar?

Blind Lake Shigar is a high-altitude lake located in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The lake is situated at an elevation of 13,450 feet above sea level and is surrounded by majestic peaks and breathtaking scenery. The lake is named “Zjarba tso” in Balti Language which means “Blind” because it is hidden from view until you reach the top of the mountain ridge that surrounds it.

Personally, I think we did not get enough time to properly admire this scenery from the Blind Lake in District Shigar since we had another destination to reach. It also somehow felt a little different from the other landscapes that we saw around Gilgit-Baltistan, although each of them was beautiful in its own way. Photo by Neha Khatri

Geography & Location of the lake.

Located in the heart of the Karakoram mountain range, Blind Lake Shigar is situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters (13,450 feet) above sea level. The lake is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) long and 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide, with an average depth of 15 meters (50 feet). The surrounding landscape is rugged and rocky, with towering peaks and glaciers visible from the lake’s shores.

Read More: 20 Beautiful Touristic Destinations and Attractions you must Visit in Skardu Baltistan.

How to get there?

To reach Blind Lake Shigar, you will need to travel to Skardu, the main city in the region. Skardu is accessible by air and road, and there are daily flights from Islamabad. Once you reach Skardu, you can hire a jeep or a car to drive to Blind Lake Shigar. The drive will take approximately three hours and will take you through some of the most scenic parts of the Karakoram Range.

When to visit?

The best time to visit Blind Lake Shigar is from June to September when the weather is pleasant, and the lake is accessible. The rest of the year, the lake is frozen, and the region is covered in snow, making it very hard to visit.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Gilgit Baltistan, It Really Depends on Your Taste.

A view of crystal clear blue water at Blind lake Shigar.

Things to Do at Blind Lake Shigar.

There are plenty of things to do at Blind Lake Shigar, regardless of whether you are an adventure seeker or someone who prefers a more relaxed vacation.

Trekking.

Trekking is the most popular activity at Lake. The trek to the lake is a moderate to difficult trek that takes approximately four to five hours to complete. The trek will take you through lush green meadows, rocky terrain, and steep mountain slopes. The views along the way are breathtaking, and you will pass by several small villages where you can stop and interact with the locals.

Fishing at Blind Lake Shigar.

This Lake at Shigar is home to several species of fish, including the Himalayan trout. Fishing is a popular activity at the lake, and you can rent fishing gear from local guides.

Photography.

The natural beauty of Blind Lake Shigar is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and the scenery changes with the light, making it a perfect location for landscape photography.

Local Culture.

Local Culture
The people of the Skardu District are warm and hospitable, and visiting Blind Lake Shigar is an excellent opportunity to experience their culture and way of life. You can visit local homes, taste traditional food, and attend cultural events.

The wonderful Track at Zjarba Tso Shigar.

Natural Wonders:

Blind Lake Shigar is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:

  1. Clear Blue Waters: The lake’s crystal-clear waters are a sight to behold, reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. Take a dip in the cool, refreshing water, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride.
  2. Majestic Mountains: The lake is surrounded by towering mountains, including the famous peaks, which are visible on clear days. Take a hike or trek to explore the surrounding peaks and valleys.
  3. Glaciers: The Shigar valley is home to several glaciers, including the Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest and most impressive in the world. Take a guided tour to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of these natural wonders.
Beautiful surrounding View Blind Lake Shigar
Blind Lake Shigar, locally known as Zjarbatso.

Activities:

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Lake, from hiking and trekking to fishing and boating. Here are some of the top things to do:

  1. Hiking: Take a hike through the rugged terrain surrounding the lake, exploring the nearby peaks and valleys. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
  2. Trekking: For the more adventurous, there are several trekking routes in the area, including the famous K2 base camp trek. These multi-day treks offer a chance to experience the stunning beauty of the Karakoram range up close.
  3. Fishing: The lake is home to several species of fish, including brown trout and snow trout. Bring your fishing gear and try your luck at catching your dinner.

FAQs.

How do I get to Blind Lake Shigar?

The lake is accessible by road from Skardu, a nearby town. You can hire a taxi or take a public bus to reach the lake.

Is it safe to visit Zjarba Tso Lake Shigar?

Yes, the area is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to check travel advisories before planning your trip.

What’s the best time to visit this beautiful Lake at Shigar?

The best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is milder and the lake is free from ice. However, if you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience, visit between December and February when the lake freezes over and the surrounding mountains are covered in snow.

Are there any accommodations near this Lake at Shigar?

Yes, there are several guesthouses and hotels in the nearby town of Shigar. Some of the accommodations offer stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Gilgit Baltistan a Winter Wonderland, Winter Beauty Through The Lens of GB Photographers.

Finally, winter is here. The beauty of the region can not be expressed in words, but thanks to our talented photographers. Through their lens, you can feel the real beauty of the winter wonderland of Gilgit Baltistan. Here we have collected some of the most beautiful photos and Art of our photographers you might like.

Experience the magnificent winter beauty of Gilgit Baltistan.

Best of Abrar Khawaja.

Winter wonderland Sarfaranga Cold Desert

A Beautiful Golden Hour and Sunset at Indus River.

Frozen Indus River

Shangrila Lake During Winters.

Sunset at Indus River.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8BJ4WCJbP-/

Snowfall at Skardu.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8nt7H4Jxoi/

A local Boy Enjoying Snowfall in Winter.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIhoL0CJOg6/

Snow Covered Shigar Bridge.

Thorgu Bridge –
Near Sarfaranga Shigar

Rattu Astor Valley Gilgit Baltistan.

“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold”

Kharfacho Hill Skardu.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B86fs5ngPhJ/
A BBQ at the bank of Indus river near Chomik bridge Skardu today, in background Kharpocho Hill & fort.

Saling suspension bridge over Shyok river Ghanche District Gilgit-Baltistan

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8WZK1aAmIL/
Saling suspension bridge over Shyok river Ghanche District Gilgit-Baltistan

Shigar Valley in Winter.

Sunset at Skardu City.

Sunset at Skardu in Winters be like.

Jinnah Park, Hussain Abad Skardu.

Traveling to Pakistan? Here is what you should know.

Pakistan has a lot to offer to tourists- no ifs, and, or buts about it. That said, picturesque sceneries, lush green forests, snow-capped mountain peaks, super delicious cuisines, easy on the eye valleys, warm-hearted people, rich culture, historical buildings and much more. If I am being brutally honest, this country has got everything to cater to the needs of any tourist belonging to this world.
If Pakistan is on your bucket list as a peripatetic then you are going to hang your hat in one of the most beautiful destinations of the globe. However, security and safety are things of great import when you pay a call to any place as a backpacker.

Pakistan is the next on your wander list? Here is what a British girl has to say all about her experience in Pakistan.

For this case, we have hand-picked a few tips for the travelers planning a tour to Pakistan. Just give the under-mentioned tips a once-over with a fine-tooth comb to enjoy a trouble-free tour to Pakistan. Without any fuss, let’s get on with this:

Tips for travelers visiting Pakistan.

Food and Water.

Well, Pakistani food is regarded as one of the most finger-licking cuisines in the world. And that’s something not to be missed at any cost while paying a visit to Pakistan. Pakistani cuisines taste same as the Indian food which means your stomach has to put up with extra spice. If you ask me, do try out the street foods of Lahore and Karachi- no ifs, and, or buts about it. With that, the traditional foods of Northern areas of Pakistan are flavorsome. But, don’t dare to eat extra spicy food if your stomach opposes spice.

A Pakistani man preparing food.

If you spend a moment just talking about drinking water, almost every area of Pakistan is facing the issue of clean drinking water. Therefore, keep a filtered water bottle on you and stay hydrated all the time. Don’t drink tap water at any cost. It is recommended not to eat the food open to dust and flies or otherwise you’ll end up suffering from a Delhi belly.

Moving Around.

Thanks to the broad-shoulder network of roads and railways, getting around Pakistan is as easy as falling off a log. Everything is just right in the blockhole to meet the needs of travelers. That said, trains, buses, taxis, flights, autos; everything is available. We recommend to pick out trains for longer journeys (like if you want to travel from Lahore to Karachi). This way, you would be having a great experience while saving lots of bucks. Be that as it may, taxis and autos are your best companions for inter-city travel. It would be fructiferous to keep a map on you (Google maps in case of having a stable internet connection) to single out the most convenient route and bargain for the fares.

You can also take the services of flights to travel around. Almost all the major cities have airports to cater to meet the needs of travelers. But, that’d be costly. And you’ll enjoy traveling on buses and trains in Pakistan. Don’t take my word for it and experience yourself.

Packing your Bags.

Regardless of the place you travel to, packing appropriately is something really important. I mean, why filling your rucksack with all the stuff when everything is available at the destination place you are going to hang your hat in? Yes, everything is easily obtainable in Pakistan so you need to take only the super necessary things with you. Also, it’d be hard to take care of all the luggage on you. For this case, fill your traveling bag with the important things to minimize your burden. Keep a pair of shoes and jeans, medications (prescribed by your doctor), chargers and power bank, earphones, soap, towel, important documents, credit cards and anything that you think would be necessary to pack and that’s that.

However, thanks to plenty of Cargo Companies from the UK to Pakistan these days which can take care of your excess luggage if you have extra stuff more than permitted by the airline you are traveling with.

Bargaining while shopping around.

It might seem a bit weird to you but you’ll spot people bargaining while purchasing from the local shops. Yes, you heard it right. And this can too save you quite a lot of bucks. This is due to the reason that the local shopkeepers sometimes tend to make extra money by doubling up the actual price if they find you a foreigner. To keep safe against this, you can bargain to buy the things at actual price. That’s not a big ask, is it? Thus, bargaining while shopping around from the local shops would save you thumping great amount of money.

Places that must be on your bucket list while visiting Pakistan.

Rama Meadows.

Rama Valley is regarded as one of the grandiose places to pay a visit to. You can soothe your eyes by watching lush green pastures, crystal clear water lakes, beautiful high-altitude forests, and mountain views, this place has got everything that a picturesque destination is supposed to offer to its tourists. Surprisingly pulchritudinous!

Rama Meadows.

This marvel of nature is located at an altitude of about 3300 meters above sea level. The valley is enriched with refreshing air and most of the time gets wrapped in snow. If you are fixing your gaze on witnessing the real beauty of Rama Valley, then the summer season is the most suitable time to visit this place. It doesn’t matter whether you are on a solo trip or romantic retreat, Rama Meadows possesses magic in its air to make you feel joyous and happiest. Just imagine standing at such high altitude, stretching your arms and taking long breaths. It will surely take you far away from all worries of life. No kidding!

Gojal Valley.

The next must-see place on our bucket list is Gojal Valley. If you are an adventurer and questing for a place with tranquil life, then your search ends with Gojal Valley.

Gojal Valley.

Gojal Valley has been spotlighted from years and an exceptional number of tourists visit this amazing place each year. This perfect Valley is home too conspicuous sceneries, rich culture, wildlife, pristine water lakes, snow-capped mountains, glistening glaciers, fruit-laden gardens, lush green woods, and amazing pastures. The inhabitants of Gojal Valley are loving and hospitable. They are so humble and caring that they won’t care about themselves in serving their unknown guest. Almost everyone in the Valley is sophisticated and life is far away from the hassle and bustle.

Shangrila Lake & Resort.

Shangrila Resort, also known as the “Heaven on Earth”, is another place that must be on your bucket list. This place is truly a hidden gem and Mother Nature has decorated this place amidst easy on the eye landscapes and mountains. Having whereabouts in Gilgit Baltistan, the Shangrila Resort lies within earshot of some of the sky-high mountain peaks of the globe.

Read also: 4 Beautiful fresh-water lakes in the vicinity Skardu city/

Beautiful flower-filled gardens and picturesque fruit-laden orchards add to the beauty of this resort. Just a single look can make the onlooker fall in love with the Shangrila Resort. In the heart of the resort, a Lake named Kachura Lake can be found which works like icing on the cake. Moreover, a restaurant built on the fuselage of an aircraft that had crashed nearby hits the nail on the head. Truly sensational, isn’t it?

Shangrila Lake & Resort Skardu.

If you ask me to define the Shangrila Resort in a single word, I would say a single word to beat drums for this hidden gem and that’s “Magic”. Don’t worry, you’d say the same after visiting this place for once. I kid you not.

Ranikot Fort.

Having whereabouts in Sindh province of Pakistan, Ranikot Fort is another historical place that you must pay a call to. Also known as the great wall of Sindh, Ranikot Fort is the largest Fort of the Globe (with the circumference of around 26km). However, this hidden gem still needs the focus of authorities for its upraise. You can make the even-handed approach that lending eyes to the walls, rocks, and sands inside the Fort will make you leave your heart right thereafter your first visit.

Ranikot Fort.

Lime cut sandstone and gypsum is used in the walls of the Fort. Travelers can find a lot of ditches, building structures, pools, watch-towers, bastions, streams, hills, ammunition depots, valleys, and ponds inside the Fort. Overall, Ranikot Fort is a place worth visiting.