Shigar Valley

A day trip to Shigar Valley offers a perfect blend of culture, heritage, and scenic beauty in Baltistan. Just a short drive from Skardu, this enchanting valley lies along the Shigar River and is the gateway to the great Karakoram range, including treks towards K2. With its ancient forts, wooden mosques, and lush green orchards surrounded by towering mountains, Shigar makes for a peaceful and culturally rich excursion.

Morning
Start your journey early from Skardu and drive toward Shigar Valley (approx. 45-minute drive). Enjoy the beautiful road along the Indus River before turning towards the valley. Upon arrival, visit Shigar Fort, a restored 17th-century fort-palace now operating as a heritage museum and boutique hotel. Wander through its stone corridors, gardens, and exhibits that reflect Balti architecture and royal history.

Late Morning
Head to the nearby Amburiq Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the region and a fine example of Tibetan-Islamic wooden architecture. Its peaceful ambiance and historic structure are perfect for photos and reflection.

Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Balti lunch at a local guesthouse or at the restaurant inside Shigar Fort. Afterward, take a stroll through the village, where you’ll see apricot orchards, stone houses, and friendly locals going about their daily life.

Late Afternoon
Drive to the riverside for a peaceful walk or some time to relax by the Shigar River. If you’re interested, you can also take a short off-road detour to the Sarfaranga Cold Desert for some quick photos of this unique white sand landscape.

Evening
Return to Skardu by sunset, bringing back memories of timeless heritage, local warmth, and mountain serenity.