basho valley
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Valley
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Basho Valley is a high-altitude area found near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is known for its green fields, thick pine forests, and clear water streams. The valley sits at a high elevation, offering open views of the natural surroundings. It is a quiet place away from the city noise, popular with people looking for calm and simple beauty. The area is home to different kinds of plants and animals, making it a good spot for nature lovers.
What To Do
- Walk around the green fields and along the streams.
- Set up a camp for the night under the stars.
- Take photos of the tall trees, mountains, and flowers.
- Go fishing in the Basho River (you need a permit for this).
- Watch for local birds and other wildlife in the forests.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Small items made by local people, often found in Skardu Main Bazaar. Get Directions
- Dried Apricots: A local specialty of Gilgit-Baltistan, available at shops in Skardu city like Alamdar Road Market. Get Directions
- Woolen Shawls: Warm shawls made from local wool, sold in different colors at Skardu Main Bazaar. Get Directions
- Balti Caps: Traditional woolen caps worn by local men, found in local stores around Skardu. Get Directions
- Handmade Jewelry: Simple jewelry items often made with local stones, available at small stalls in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when interacting with locals.
- Do not litter; keep the valley clean by taking your trash with you.
- Ask for permission before taking photos of local people.
- Camping is generally allowed but be mindful of local land ownership.
Health & Safety
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at high altitude.
- Carry warm clothes even in summer, as weather can change fast.
- Wear good walking shoes for uneven paths and trails.
- Be careful of wild animals; do not approach or feed them.
- Inform someone about your travel plans if you are going for long treks.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is cool and pleasant. The valley starts to turn green, and flowers begin to bloom. Good for walks and enjoying fresh air.
Summer: Days are warm but not too hot, and nights are cool. This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities like camping and trekking, as all roads are clear.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: This region gets less heavy rain than other parts of Pakistan. Roads might be tricky sometimes. Still green, but some paths can be slippery.
Autumn: The trees change color, turning golden and red, which looks very nice. Weather is cool and calm. Good for photography.
Winter: Very cold with heavy snowfall. Many roads might be blocked. Access can be hard, and most services may close. Not recommended for general travel.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu International Airport (KDU). Basho Valley is about 30-40 km from the airport, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
- By Road: From Skardu city, take the road towards Jaglot, then turn off onto a specific road that leads to Basho Valley. The final part of the road is unpaved and can be rough.
- By Train: There is no train service to Skardu. The nearest major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station, over 600 km away. From there, you would need to travel by road for about 20-24 hours to reach Skardu.
- By Public Transport: You can hire a private jeep or taxi from Skardu city to reach Basho Valley. Shared public transport options are very limited or may not go all the way into the valley directly.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Dewane Khas Restaurant: Located in Skardu City Center. Phone: +92 346 9513333 Get Directions
- Baltistan Cuisine: Located on Main Bazar Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 345 5966952 Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Shangrila Resort Skardu: Located near Lower Kachura Lake, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 458010 Website: shangrilaresorts.com.pk Get Directions
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Located on Airport Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 458021 Website: www.serenahotels.com Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- DHQ Hospital Skardu (District Headquarters Hospital), Skardu City. Phone: +92 5811 920021 Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122 for Gilgit-Baltistan)
- Police Station: Skardu City Police Station, Skardu. Phone: +92 5811 920015 Get Directions
