Chunda 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
Chunda Valley is a calm and green area located in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan. It is known for its natural beauty and quiet surroundings. The valley offers open fields and views of the mountains around it. It is a good spot for people who want to see simple village life and enjoy nature away from the city.
What To Do
- Walk around the wide, open fields and enjoy the fresh air.
- Take pictures of the mountain views and the green landscape.
- Meet local people and see their way of life in the valley.
- Find a quiet spot for a picnic with family or friends.
- Watch local animals grazing in the fields.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Handmade items like wooden crafts and embroidered cloths can be found in small shops around Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Skardu is known for its apricots, walnuts, and almonds. You can buy these fresh from local vendors in Skardu city. Get Directions
- Woolen Shawls: Warm, locally made shawls are available, especially useful for cooler weather. Look in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Gemstones: Some shops in Skardu sell local gemstones found in the region. Ask around the main market area. Get Directions
- Pashmina Products: Although less common, some quality pashmina items can be found if you ask local shopkeepers in Skardu. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Always respect local customs and traditions. People in the area are often conservative, so dress modestly.
- Do not litter; keep the valley clean. Take all your trash with you.
- Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of local people, especially women.
- Avoid making loud noise that might disturb the peace of the valley.
Health & Safety
- Carry enough drinking water and snacks, as there are limited shops directly in the valley.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven ground.
- Apply sunscreen and wear a hat, even on cloudy days, as the sun can be strong at this altitude.
- Inform someone about your plans if you are going for a long walk or hike.
- Be aware of local wildlife, although most are harmless.
- If you feel unwell due to altitude, take it easy and drink plenty of water.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is cool and pleasant (March to May). Fields start to turn green, and flowers begin to bloom. Good for easy walks and enjoying fresh air.
Summer: Weather is mild and comfortable (June to August). This is the best time to visit as it's not too hot. The valley is fully green, and the skies are often clear.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Limited monsoon rains (July to September). Rain can make roads slippery, but the valley becomes very lush and green. Be prepared for occasional rain.
Autumn: Weather is cool and dry (September to November). The leaves on trees change color, making the valley look very different and golden. Good for photography.
Winter: Weather is very cold, with heavy snowfall (December to February). The valley gets covered in snow and can be hard to reach. Roads might be closed. Only for those who like extreme cold and snow activities.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu Airport (KDU). Chunda Valley is about 30-40 minutes drive from Skardu Airport.
- By Road: You can reach Skardu city by road via the Karakoram Highway and then the Skardu Road. From Skardu city, local roads lead to Chunda Valley, which is a short drive away.
- By Train: The nearest active major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). From Rawalpindi, you would need to take a bus or flight to Skardu, which is about a 15-20 hour drive.
- By Public Transport: From Skardu city, you can hire a local taxi or jeep to reach Chunda Valley. There are no regular bus routes directly to the valley, so private hire is the main option.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Dastan Cafe & Restaurant: Located in Skardu City, serves local and Pakistani food. Phone: +92 344 8000088. Get Directions
- Mountain View Restaurant: Offers Pakistani and Continental dishes, good views. Phone: +92 344 8000000. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Skardu: A well-known hotel with good services. Located near Skardu Fort. Phone: +92 5815 450500. Website: https://www.serenahotels.com/skardu. Get Directions
- Hotel One Skardu: Offers comfortable rooms and services. Located in Skardu City. Phone: +92 5815 450300. Website: https://www.hotelone.com.pk/hotel/skardu. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Skardu: Main hospital in Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 450015. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Official emergency number for Pakistan)
- Police Station:
- Skardu Police Station: Located in Skardu City. Phone: +92 5815 450200. Get Directions
