Usually, any travel for the sake of enjoyment and delight is
considered as tourism. So when we talk about tourism, the northern areas of
Pakistan must be acknowledged. The glory of these areas is worth seeing. Among
these northern areas is Skardu which is renowned as an epitome of nature’s
perfection. Skardu, an essence of exquisiteness and tranquility, is located in
the extreme north of Pakistan along with a numerous splendid regions. It is the
main city of Gilgit Baltistan and also the largest district of north
(Pakistan). The Skardu Valley is approximately 25 miles long and 6 miles wide,
with the altitude of 2500 meters. It resides at the junction of Shigar and
Indus River. By road, Skardu is approx.5 hours’ drive from Gilgit and 10 hours
away from Besham. This town provides path to the adjacent Karakoram Mountain
Ranges because it is situated on Indus River which is in between Himalayas and
Karakoram Mountain Range.
It is known as "Skardu" because it is a low land
between two high places. These two high places are high altitude Satpara Lake
and the Shigar city. It has the four of the world’s 14 Eight-thousander peaks
with the elevation of 8000 meters or more.
The mountains and hills of Skardu have altitude ranges of
about 4500 meters to 5800 meters. While the altitude of Skardu airport is 2230
meters. Some of the leading glaciers of world, Chogo Lungma Glacier, Biafo
Glacier and Baltoro Glacier, are above Skardu and these glaciers are encircled
by world’s highest mountains such as: K2, Masherbrum and Gasherbrum.
The cold semi-arid climate is the characteristic of Skardu
Valley. Due to the mountains of Skardu, its climate remains moderate because
the extreme heat does not reach it. Also the mountains hinder the monsoon which
leads to reduction in rainfall. In summers, these mountains play a beneficial
role. On the other hand, in winters, it leads to drastic and extreme
conditions. The duration between April to October is favorable for tourism due
to friendly temperature. Normally, the temperature range is 8 oC to
27 oC. In December and January, the temperature may falls to below -
10 °C.
Skardu is considered as a major pivot of excursion and
hiking in Gilgit Baltistan. The mountainous tops, the splendid glaciers, the
snowy hills, the sun rise of Indus river, the cold desert, the serene land, the
historic fort, the breath taking water falls, the giants land, the sand dunes,
all enhance the glory of this region and capture attraction from all over the
world. The most eminent tourist attractions of this area include Skardu fort, Deosai
National Park, Shigar fort, Kachura Lake, Satpara Lake, Shangrila resorts, Braldu
River, Indus River and the Kharpocho Fort.
