Shangrila Resort
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Luxury Resort
Location
Skardu, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day to Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Shangrila Resort is a famous resort located by Lower Kachura Lake in Skardu. It is known for its beautiful setting and peaceful environment. The resort was established in 1983 and sits next to a clear blue lake. It offers different types of rooms and cottages for visitors. People come here to relax and enjoy nature away from city life. The area is also called 'Heaven on Earth' by many.
What To Do
- Enjoy boating on Lower Kachura Lake.
- Walk around the resort's beautiful gardens and pathways.
- Visit the famous Plane Wreck Cafeteria for snacks and drinks.
- Go fishing in the lake (arrangements can be made with the resort).
- Take photos of the lake, mountains, and unique resort buildings.
- Relax by the lakeside and enjoy the peaceful views.
- Eat local and international food at the resort's restaurants.
What To Buy
- Dry Fruits: Skardu is known for apricots, walnuts, and almonds. You can find these at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Local Handicrafts: Look for handmade wooden items, pottery, and embroidered fabrics. Available at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm and soft shawls made from local wool are popular. Find them at shops in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Local Gemstones: Skardu is known for precious and semi-precious stones like aquamarine and topaz. Look for them in specialized shops in Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
- Woolen Items: Buy warm woolen caps, gloves, and sweaters, especially useful for colder months. Available at Skardu Bazaar. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Please show respect for local culture and customs. Dress modestly when outside the resort area.
- Keep the resort and its surroundings clean. Do not litter.
- Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of local people.
- Follow any specific rules given by the resort management during your stay.
Health & Safety
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when arriving at high altitude.
- Wear sunscreen and sunglasses as the sun can be strong at this altitude.
- If you plan to hike, wear strong shoes and inform someone of your route.
- Be aware of changing weather conditions and carry appropriate clothing.
- In case of any medical need, contact the resort staff or emergency services.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (April to May) The weather is cool and pleasant. Trees start to green, and flowers bloom around the lake. Good for walking and outdoor activities before it gets too warm.
Summer: (June to August) The weather is mild and comfortable, not too hot. This is the busiest time for tourists. The lake is perfect for boating and relaxing by the water.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July to early September) Skardu gets less monsoon rain than other parts of Pakistan. Still, some rainy days can happen. Roads might be tricky. The landscape becomes very green and fresh.
Autumn: (September to November) The mountains turn into shades of gold, orange, and red. The weather is cool and clear. It is a very beautiful time for photography and quiet trips.
Winter: (December to March) It gets very cold with heavy snowfall. The lake might freeze, and the entire area is covered in snow. Many parts of the resort might close. Good for those who like extreme cold and snow views.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Skardu Airport (KDU). It is about 30-40 minutes drive from Shangrila Resort.
- By Road: You can drive to Skardu from Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway and then the Jaglot-Skardu Road. The journey can take 18-24 hours. The road to Shangrila Resort from Skardu city is well-marked.
- By Train: Pakistan does not have train service to Gilgit-Baltistan. The nearest major active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). This station is roughly 600-700 km by road from Skardu, taking about 18-24 hours by car or bus to reach Skardu from Rawalpindi.
- By Public Transport: From Skardu city, you can hire local jeeps or taxis to reach Shangrila Resort. Shared vans or buses also run to areas near the resort, from where you might need a short walk or taxi ride.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Kamran Hotel & Restaurant: Skardu Main Bazaar, Skardu. Contact: +92 5815 454321. Get Directions
- PTDC Motel Skardu Restaurant: K2 Road, Satellite Town, Skardu. Contact: +92 5815 452243. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Skardu: K2 Road, Skardu. Contact: +92 5815 455980. Website: www.serenahotels.com/serenaskardu. Get Directions
- PTDC Motel Skardu: K2 Road, Satellite Town, Skardu. Contact: +92 5815 452243. Website: tourism.gov.pk/hotels_motels_details/71. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- DHQ Hospital Skardu, Skardu City. Phone: +92 5815 452525. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122, Pakistan's emergency service).
- Police Station: Skardu Police Station, Skardu City. Phone: +92 5815 920023. Get Directions