Skardu City
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
City Landmark
Location
Skardu, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Accessible
Description
Skardu City is the main town in the Skardu Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan. It is a key stop for people traveling to the high mountains. The city is an important center for trade and travel in this area. It sits where the Indus River and Shigar River meet. This place has been important for many years because of its location.
What To Do
- Walk around the main city center.
- Visit the local Skardu Bazaar for shopping.
- See the views of the Indus River from different spots.
- Try food at small local eateries.
- Visit the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Martyrs' Monument) within the city.
- Observe the daily life and local culture.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Hand-woven rugs and wooden items can be found in the markets. Get Directions
- Dried Fruits: Buy local apricots, almonds, and walnuts from the region. Get Directions
- Precious Stones: Find local stones and crystals sold by vendors. Get Directions
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm shawls made from local goat wool are available. Get Directions
- Traditional Caps: Buy local woolen caps that are part of the traditional dress. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Always respect local customs and traditions.
- Dress in a modest way, especially when you are in public places.
- Always ask for permission before taking pictures of local people.
- Follow all local rules and laws.
Health & Safety
- Only drink bottled or filtered water to stay safe.
- If you come from a low altitude quickly, be aware of altitude sickness signs.
- Carry warm clothes even in summer, as evenings can be cool in the mountains.
- Watch your step on uneven paths and roads in the city.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: The weather is mild from March to May. Trees start to grow leaves and flowers. It is good for walking around the city.
Summer: From June to August, it is warm and sunny with clear skies. This is the best time for travel to and from Skardu City.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Light rains happen from July to September. It does not rain heavily like in other parts of Pakistan. Roads can be tricky sometimes.
Autumn: September to November brings cool weather and colorful leaves. The views are clear and beautiful.
Winter: December to February is very cold with heavy snow. Many roads might close. There are fewer visitors at this time.
How to Reach
- By Air: Skardu International Airport (KDU) is the nearest and only active airport. It is very close to the city center.
- By Road: Skardu City is connected by the Jaglot-Skardu Road (S-1) which links to the Karakoram Highway. This is the main road in and out of the city.
- By Train: Pakistan's train network does not reach Gilgit-Baltistan. The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP) in Rawalpindi, which is far away.
- By Public Transport: Local vans, taxis, and rickshaws operate within Skardu City. Buses and vans also travel from major cities like Rawalpindi/Islamabad directly to Skardu.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Lhamo Restaurant: Skardu Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 346 9514757. Get Directions
- PTDC Motel Restaurant Skardu: Airport Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920202. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Skardu: K2 Base Camp Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 455855. Website: Serena Hotels. Get Directions
- PTDC Motel Skardu: Airport Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920202. Website: PTDC Motels. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- DHQ Hospital Skardu: Airport Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920201. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122, national emergency service in Pakistan).
- Police Station: Police Station Skardu City: Skardu Road, Skardu. Phone: +92 5815 920200. Get Directions