Shigar Valley
Shigar, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
City Landmark
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day to Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Shigar Valley is a large, open valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It sits where the Shigar River joins the Indus River. The valley is known for its green fields and fruit orchards. It has a long history, with many old buildings and a famous fort. People come here to see the mountains, river, and local way of life.
What To Do
- Visit the historical Shigar Fort Residence, also known as Fong-Khar.
- Take walks by the Shigar River and enjoy the peaceful views.
- Explore local villages and see the traditional farming practices.
- See the ancient mosques and other old buildings in the area.
- Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and fruit orchards.
- Visit the nearby Blind Lake (Kharpocho Lake) for its unique beauty.
What To Buy
- Apricots (Dried): Grown locally in the valley. Available at Shigar Bazaar. Get Directions
- Shigar Handicrafts: Wooden items and traditional embroidered clothes. Look for these at local shops in Shigar Bazaar. Get Directions
- Woolen Shawls: Hand-spun and woven woolens, good for cold weather. Found in Shigar Bazaar. Get Directions
- Local Honey: Pure honey from the valley's flowers. Ask local vendors in Shigar Bazaar. Get Directions
- Traditional Caps: Locally made Gilgit-Baltistan caps. Available at small shops around Shigar Bazaar. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Always respect local customs and traditions of the people in Shigar Valley.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local villages.
- Ask for permission before taking photos of local people.
- Do not litter and help keep the valley clean and natural.
- Follow any specific rules posted at historical sites or within villages.
Health & Safety
- Drink plenty of clean water to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.
- Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes as paths can be uneven or rocky.
- Carry warm clothes, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly, even in summer.
- Be aware of the effects of altitude sickness if you are not used to high places. Take it easy on your first day.
- Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March-May): The weather is pleasant and mild. Flowers bloom, and trees turn green. It is a good time for walking and seeing nature wake up.
Summer: (June-August): Days are warm and sunny, with mild nights. This is a very good time for exploring the valley and its mountain views.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy (July-August): Gilgit-Baltistan usually gets less rain than other parts of Pakistan. The weather is still good for travel, but it is wise to check local forecasts.
Autumn: (September-November): The weather becomes cool and dry. Trees change color to beautiful reds and golds. It is a very good time to visit for photos and walks.
Winter: (December-February): It gets very cold, and heavy snowfall is possible. The valley can be covered in snow. It is good for people who like snow, but some roads might be closed.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu Airport (SKD). Shigar Valley is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Skardu Airport.
- By Road: You can reach Shigar Valley by road from Islamabad. Drive along the Karakoram Highway to Skardu, then take a local road to Shigar. The drive can be long and the roads can be rough.
- By Train: There are no train services that reach Gilgit-Baltistan. The nearest major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station, which is very far from Shigar (around 20 hours drive to Skardu).
- By Public Transport: Local vans and shared jeeps are available from Skardu city to Shigar Valley. These are a common way for locals and visitors to travel between the two places.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Shigar Fort Residence Restaurant: Shigar Fort, Shigar. Phone: +92 5815 450143. Get Directions
- Local Dhabas (eateries): Several small, local food places serve traditional Pakistani and Balti dishes around Shigar Bazaar. They do not usually have specific names or contact numbers but are easy to find. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Shigar Fort Residence: Shigar Fort, Shigar. Phone: +92 5815 450143. Website: https://shigar.serenahotels.com/. Get Directions
- Mountain Inn Shigar: Shigar Valley, Shigar. Phone: +92 345 5289947. Website: N/A. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Basic Health Unit Shigar: Shigar Town, Shigar. Phone: N/A (local contact information might be limited). Get Directions
- Ambulances:
- Rescue 1122 (Official Emergency Service Pakistan): Dial 1122
- Police Station:
- Police Station Shigar: Shigar Town, Shigar. Phone: +92 5815 920000 (General Gilgit-Baltistan Police Helpline). Get Directions
