Kharpocho Fort
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Fort
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
2 to 3 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Kharpocho Fort is an old fort located in Skardu. It was built in the 16th century by Raja Ali Sher Khan Anchan. The fort stands on a large rock overlooking the Skardu Valley. From here, you can see the Indus River and the city below. It was once an important defense point for the region. Parts of the fort are now in ruins, showing its long history.
What To Do
- Walk along the old fort walls.
- Enjoy the wide views of the Skardu Valley.
- See the Indus River winding through the land.
- Take photos of the historic ruins and mountains.
- Learn about the fort's past.
What To Buy
- Dry Fruits: Apricots, almonds, and walnuts from local farms at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Pattu: Hand-woven woolen cloth, used for shawls and coats, found in local shops at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Balti Caps: Traditional woolen caps worn by locals, available in many shops at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Handicrafts: Small wooden items and pottery made by local artists, sold at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Local Herbs: Traditional medicinal plants and spices from the region, found at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Respect local customs and people.
- Dress modestly, especially for women.
- Photography is generally allowed. Ask permission before taking photos of local people.
- Do not leave any trash behind to keep the fort and area clean.
Health & Safety
- Wear strong, comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths and climbing.
- The path to the fort is uphill and can be steep in some parts.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated due to the altitude and physical activity.
- Be careful when walking near cliff edges or ruined structures.
- The air is thinner at this altitude; take your time and do not rush.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (April-May) The weather is mild and pleasant. Flowers bloom, and the valley turns green. It is a good time to visit.
Summer: (June-August) Days are warm and nights are cool. Skies are usually clear, making it the best season for travel.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July-August) Skardu gets less heavy monsoon rain than other parts of Pakistan. Still good, but be ready for some light showers.
Autumn: (September-November) The weather is cool and clear. Trees turn golden and red, offering beautiful views. It is a very popular time to visit.
Winter: (December-March) It gets very cold and snows a lot. Access can be hard, and the fort might be less comfortable to explore.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu Airport (SKD), located within Skardu. The fort is a short drive from the airport.
- By Road: You can reach Skardu by road via the Karakoram Highway and Skardu Road. Kharpocho Fort is on Chumik Road in Skardu city.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. It is approximately 600 km away from Skardu.
- By Public Transport: From Skardu city, you can take a local taxi, rickshaw, or hired car directly to Kharpocho Fort on Chumik Road.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Dewan-e-Khaas Restaurant: Near Skardu Bypass Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 345 5000000. Get Directions
- Baltistan Cuisine Restaurant: Skardu Main Bazaar, Skardu. Contact: +92 346 5971485. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Hotel One Skardu: K2 Road, Near Skardu Airport, Skardu. Contact: +92 5815 450550. Website: hotelone.com.pk. Get Directions
- Serena Hotel Skardu: Shangrila Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 5815 450066. Website: serenahotels.com. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- DHQ Hospital Skardu: Hospital Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920002. Get Directions
- Ambulances: Official local emergency number for Pakistan: 1122
- Police Station: City Police Station Skardu: Main Skardu Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920021. Get Directions
