UncategorizedThe Journey: Road vs. Air
The most significant decision for a Skardu tour is whether to travel by road or air.
- By Road: The journey from Lahore typically involves a night stay in Chilas or Naran (in summer) to break up the long drive. This option offers a scenic adventure along the Karakoram Highway, with stops at picturesque locations like Babusar Top and Lulusar Lake (when open). It’s a longer commitment but ideal for those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
- By Air: Direct flights from Lahore to Skardu are available, significantly reducing travel time. This is a great choice for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their days exploring the valley itself. The flight itself is an attraction, offering unparalleled aerial views of the mountains.
A Sample 6-Day Itinerary
A typical 6-day tour package from Lahore is carefully crafted to cover the most iconic sights. Here is a possible itinerary:
- Day 1: Departure and Journey to Chilas The journey begins with an overnight departure from Lahore. After a scenic drive with stops for breakfast and rest, you will reach Chilas for your first night’s stay.
- Day 2: The Gateway to Skardu After breakfast, the journey to Skardu continues. The drive is spectacular, with opportunities for short stays at locations like Junction View Point. Upon arrival in Skardu, the day often includes visits to the famous Shangrila Resort and the serene Lower and Upper Kachura Lakes. Dinner and overnight stay in Skardu.
- Day 3: Shigar Valley and the Cold Desert This day is dedicated to exploring the Shigar Valley. Highlights often include the historic Shigar Fort, the centuries-old Amburiq Mosque, and the magnificent Sarfaranga Cold Desert, one of the highest cold deserts in the world. Visitors can often enjoy activities like quad biking or simply taking in the unique landscape of sand dunes against a mountain backdrop.
- Day 4: Manthokha Waterfall and Khaplu Valley A trip to the Khaplu Valley and Manthokha Waterfall is a must. The stunning Manthokha Waterfall is a sight to behold, and the Khaplu Valley itself offers cultural and natural beauty, including the Khaplu Fort and the Chaqchan Mosque.
- Day 5: The Return Journey Begins After breakfast, the trip begins its return journey. The long drive back to Chilas allows for one last look at the stunning landscapes before dinner and an overnight stay in Chilas.
- Day 6: Back to Lahore The final day involves the drive back to Lahore, with the trip concluding in the late evening or early morning hours, leaving you with a lifetime of memories.
What’s Included and Excluded
Most tour packages from Lahore include:
- Transportation: Luxury booked transport (like a Saloon coaster or Grand Cabin) for the entire trip, including driver expenses.
- Accommodation: Hotel stays on a sharing basis.
- Meals: Usually include breakfast and dinner.
- Guide: A professional tour guide to assist and inform you throughout the journey.
- Tolls and Taxes: All fuel, tolls, and taxes are typically covered.
However, be aware of what is often not included:
- Jeep Charges: For off-road tracks to places like Basho Valley or Deosai, jeep charges are often separate.
- Entry Tickets: Entrance fees for resorts, forts, and other attractions.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal meals, shopping, or other activities like boating or trekking gear.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Skardu is from late April to early October. During these summer months, the weather is pleasant (temperatures between 15°C to 30°C), and all major roads and attractions, including Deosai National Park, are accessible. The valleys are lush and green, and the lakes are at their most vibrant.
A 6-day Skardu tour package from Lahore is an unforgettable experience, offering a perfect balance of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion
