Skardu, Astore, Kharmang and Khaplu Valley Tour
A Comprehensive Journey Through the Heart of Baltistan's Landscapes and Culture
Skardu, Astore, Kharmang and Khaplu Valley Tour
A Comprehensive Journey Through the Heart of Baltistan's Landscapes and Culture
A Comprehensive Journey Through the Heart of Baltistan's Landscapes and Culture
Baltistan is a breathtaking mountain region often called the “Land of Giants,” home to towering peaks, glaciers, and some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. This tour explores its four iconic valleys—Skardu Valley, known for lakes, deserts, and access to K2; Astore Valley, famous for its alpine meadows beneath Nanga Parbat; Kharmang Valley, a hidden gem of waterfalls and traditional villages; and Khaplu Valley, rich in history and gateway to peaks like Masherbrum. Blending natural beauty with cultural heritage, this journey offers lakes, meadows, deserts, and centuries-old architecture, making it a complete exploration of Baltistan’s diverse landscapes and timeless mountain culture.
Trip Stats
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude
4,142 meters
Wind Speed
15-25 km/h
Temperature
5°C to 25°C
Overview
The valleys of Skardu, Astore, Kharmang, and Khaplu form the heart of Baltistan, a region often described as the "Land of Giants" for its towering peaks and vast high-altitude plateaus. Skardu sits at 2,200 meters, cradled by the Indus River and surrounded by some of the world's highest mountains, including K2, the second highest peak on earth . This is a land of dramatic contrasts—golden sand dunes meet snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes reflect ancient forts, and lush green valleys give way to the stark beauty of the Cold Desert . Astore Valley stretches at the eastern face of Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world, at an altitude of 2,600 meters . Its meadows, including the famous Rama Meadow, offer some of the most accessible alpine beauty in Pakistan, with wildflowers carpeting the landscape in summer and views of the mighty "Killer Mountain" accompanying you at every turn . Kharmang Valley remains one of Pakistan's best-kept secrets, tucked between the Deosai Plains and Shandur Pass . Approximately 95 kilometers southeast of Skardu, this valley features cascading waterfalls like the spectacular Manthoka Waterfall, turquoise streams, and traditional villages like Haldi and Chaqchan where life continues as it has for centuries . Khaplu Valley, often called the "Shangri-La of Pakistan," lies in the Ghanche District and serves as the gateway to the mighty peaks of the Karakoram, including Masherbrum at 7,821 meters . The valley is renowned for its historical significance, with the 19th-century Khaplu Palace (now a Serena heritage hotel) and the 14th-century Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest in Pakistan . This comprehensive tour weaves together these four magnificent valleys, each offering its own unique character—from Skardu's lakes and deserts to Astore's meadows, Kharmang's hidden waterfalls, and Khaplu's cultural treasures. Whether you're a photographer chasing the perfect shot, a history buff exploring ancient forts, or a nature lover seeking pristine landscapes, this journey through the valleys of Baltistan will leave you spellbound. Alpine Karakoram Adventure has spent years building relationships with local families across these valleys. We know the shepherds who will guide you to hidden meadows, the guesthouse owners who serve the best apricot soup, and the perfect viewpoints where the morning light hits the peaks just right. This is local knowledge, local hospitality, and a deep appreciation for the valleys that make Baltistan a world unto itself.
Trip Highlights
What makes this trekking special
Explore Skardu Valley with its iconic Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura), Upper Kachura Lake, and the unique Katpana Cold Desert where sand dunes meet snow peaks
Climb to Kharpocho Fort, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views of Skardu city and the Indus River winding below
Visit Satpara Lake, a stunning alpine reservoir with crystal-clear blue waters perfect for boating and photography
Drive through Shigar Valley to see the restored 400-year-old Shigar Fort and the famous Cold Desert
Discover Kharmang Valley and its crown jewel, Manthoka Waterfall, a spectacular 100-foot cascade surrounded by rugged cliffs
Walk through traditional villages in Kharmang like Haldi and Chaqchan, where wooden houses cling to steep slopes and locals welcome visitors with warm hospitality
Explore Khaplu Valley, the "Shangri-La of Pakistan," visiting the magnificent Khaplu Palace and the 14th-century Chaqchan Mosque
Trek into Hushe Valley, the gateway to Masherbrum Mountain at 7,821 meters, with opportunities to see traditional Balti villages and dramatic mountain scenery
Experience the vast expanse of Deosai National Park, the second-highest plateau in the world at over 4,000 meters, home to Himalayan brown bears and wildflowers
Visit Rama Lake and Rama Meadows in Astore Valley, a 25-minute trek through pine forests leading to stunning alpine beauty
Stand at the confluence of the Indus and Shyok Rivers near Khaplu, where the meeting of waters creates a spectacular vista
Taste traditional Balti cuisine including Mamtu (steamed dumplings), Balay (noodle soup), and fresh apricot-based desserts prepared by local families
Day by Day Itinerary
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Our representative meets you with an Alpine Karakoram Adventure signboard and transfers you to your hotel. Islamabad sits at 540 meters, with the Margalla Hills rising behind the modern capital. In the evening, your guide meets you for a briefing about the journey ahead—what to expect in the valleys of Baltistan, how to prepare for the altitudes, and answers to your questions. We recommend an early night. The adventure begins tomorrow. • Distance: 30 km from airport • Altitude: 540 meters • Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad • Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Early morning transfer to Islamabad Airport for the 50-minute flight to Skardu. This flight alone is worth the journey—weather permitting, you'll see Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram giants from your window . On arrival at Skardu Airport (2,228 meters), our local team meets you. Check into your hotel and allow time to acclimatize. Afternoon visit to Kharpocho Fort, a 16th-century fortress perched on a rocky hill above Skardu city. The 30-40 minute moderate hike offers panoramic views of Skardu Valley and the Indus River winding below—best visited at sunset for golden light . Overnight in Skardu. • Distance: Flight 320 km, local driving 30 km • Altitude: 540m to 2,228m • Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day exploring Skardu Valley. Morning visit to Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake), the famous heart-shaped lake surrounded by red-roofed cottages and orchards . Boating options available. Continue to Upper Kachura Lake, a pristine natural lake quieter than Shangrila with crystal-clear blue waters perfect for photography and swimming . Afternoon at Katpana Cold Desert, one of the world's highest cold deserts at 2,300 meters, where golden sand dunes meet snow-capped peaks . Enjoy optional jeep rides, ATV tours, or sandboarding on the dunes. Sunset photography from the desert is unforgettable. Overnight in Skardu. • Distance: 50 km local driving • Altitude: 2,228m to 2,300m • Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Shigar Valley after breakfast (40 minutes). Visit Shigar Fort, a 400-year-old palace restored as a heritage hotel and museum by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, showcasing exquisite Balti architecture . Walk through Shigar's old town with traditional stone-and-timber houses. Visit Amburiq Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the region with unique wooden architecture. Continue to the famous Cold Desert viewpoint. Afternoon excursion to Basho Valley, known for its pine forests, streams, and peaceful camping spots . Return to Skardu for overnight. • Distance: 100 km round trip, 4-5 hours • Altitude: 2,228m to 2,300m • Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early departure for Kharmang Valley, approximately 95 kilometers southeast of Skardu . The drive offers stunning mountain scenery as you follow the Indus River upstream. En route, visit the spectacular Manthoka Waterfall, located around 120 kilometers from Skardu in the Kharmang Valley . This breathtaking 100-foot waterfall cascades down rugged cliffs, with a wooden suspension bridge offering thrilling access and excellent photo opportunities. A small tuck shop and restaurant serve local products and fresh trout . Continue into Kharmang Valley, visiting traditional villages like Haldi, with its ancient wooden homes and views of the snow-capped peaks of Haramosh . Overnight in a local guesthouse in Kharmang. • Distance: 120 km, 4-5 hours driving • Altitude: 2,228m to 2,400m • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kharmang • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day exploring the hidden gems of Kharmang Valley. Visit Chaqchan Valley, famous for its fruit orchards, glacial streams, and terraced farms . Walk through Mehdiabad, located near the confluence of rivers, known for trout fishing and panoramic landscape views. For the adventurous, a 3-4 hour trek to Rama Lake leads through pine forests to a pristine alpine lake perfect for camping . Alternatively, explore hidden waterfalls and streams throughout the region, with opportunities for riverside picnics and photography. Evening with a local family, sharing traditional food and stories around a bonfire. Overnight in Kharmang guesthouse. • Walking: 2-4 hours optional treks • Altitude: 2,400m to 3,200m • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kharmang • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning departure from Kharmang, returning via Skardu (approximately 4-5 hours). From Skardu, continue east on the scenic drive to Khaplu Valley, which takes another 4-5 hours through stunning river valleys and mountain passes . En route, stop at the confluence of the Indus and Shyok Rivers for spectacular photography. Arrive in Khaplu Valley by evening. Check into your hotel. Overnight in Khaplu. • Distance: 220 km, 8-9 hours total driving • Altitude: 2,400m to 2,600m • Accommodation: Hotel in Khaplu • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day exploring Khaplu Valley, often called the "Shangri-La of Pakistan" . Morning visit to Khaplu Palace (Serena Khaplu Palace), a 19th-century fort that once served as the residence of the Raja of Khaplu. Restored by the Aga Khan Trust, it now operates as a luxury heritage hotel and museum where you can experience royal Balti culture . Continue to Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Pakistan, built in the 14th century with distinctive Tibetan-influenced architecture . Afternoon visit to Thoqsikhar Fort, a lesser-known but historically significant site offering panoramic valley views . Walk through local villages to experience Balti culture and traditional wooden architecture. Overnight in Khaplu. • Walking: 3-4 hours gentle exploration • Altitude: 2,600m throughout • Accommodation: Hotel in Khaplu • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early morning departure for Hushe Valley, the gateway to some of the Karakoram's mightiest peaks. Approximately 1.5-2 hours drive from Khaplu, Hushe sits at an elevation of 3,050 meters and serves as the base for treks to Masherbrum (7,821 meters, the 24th highest mountain in the world) and other great peaks . Walk through traditional villages, see the culture and living style of the Balti people, and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains . Picnic lunch in Hushe. Optional short hikes for closer mountain views. Return to Khaplu by evening. • Distance: 120 km round trip, 3-4 hours driving • Altitude: 2,600m to 3,050m and back • Accommodation: Hotel in Khaplu • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early departure for the journey to Astore Valley. Drive back to Skardu (4-5 hours), then continue toward Astore via the Deosai Plains route if conditions permit (July-September) or via the Karakoram Highway through Jaglot. The Deosai route crosses the second-highest plateau in the world at over 4,000 meters, with opportunities to spot Himalayan brown bears, golden marmots, and wildflowers in summer . Arrive in Astore Valley by evening. Check into guesthouse. Overnight in Astore. • Distance: 240 km, 7-8 hours driving • Altitude: 2,600m to 4,100m to 2,600m • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Astore • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day exploring Astore Valley. Morning drive to Rama Meadow, approximately 10-11 kilometers from Astore town . From the meadow, a 25-minute trek through pine forests leads to Rama Lake, a stunning alpine lake with emerald-green waters surrounded by wildflowers . The view of Nanga Parbat looming in the background is unforgettable. Explore the meadows, perfect for photography and picnics. Afternoon visit to other local attractions including Minimerg Valley with its waterfalls and flower-filled meadows . Experience the famous hospitality of the Astore Valley's Shina-speaking communities, who are renowned for welcoming visitors . Overnight in Astore guesthouse. • Walking: 2-3 hours gentle trekking • Altitude: 2,600m to 3,300m • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Astore • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early morning drive from Astore to Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway (approximately 11-12 hours). The route passes through Jaglot, where you can see the confluence monument marking the meeting point of the three great mountain ranges—Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush . Continue through Besham and Abbottabad, arriving in Islamabad by evening. Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your international flight, or to a hotel for those extending their stay. The journey through the valleys of Skardu, Astore, Kharmang, and Khaplu ends here, but the memories of turquoise lakes, ancient forts, and warm Balti hospitality stay with you. • Distance: 550 km, 11-12 hours driving • Altitude: 2,600m to 540m • Transfer: Islamabad International Airport • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
For travelers wishing to fully experience the "Land of Giants," an overnight camping extension in Deosai National Park can be added. Spend two days exploring the plateau, camping near Sheosar Lake at 4,142 meters, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and experiencing the vast silence of the world's second-highest plateau. This option is available from July to September only.
For spring departures (mid-March to end April), the itinerary can be adjusted to focus on cherry and apricot blossom viewing in Shigar and Khaplu valleys, which are particularly acclaimed for their bloom season. This is the most delightful climate for photography and cultural experiences during the brief but stunning blossom window.
Note: Travel in these valleys requires flexibility. Flights to Skardu are weather-dependent and can be delayed or cancelled, especially in winter—we recommend building buffer days into your schedule . Road conditions vary by season; the Deosai route is only open from July to September . Kharmang Valley has limited mobile coverage, so inform someone before disconnecting . ATMs are scarce beyond Skardu—carry sufficient cash for the entire journey . Accommodation in Kharmang and Astore is simple but welcoming, with guesthouses offering home-cooked meals . Your guide has authority to modify routes for safety or weather conditions. Alpine Karakoram Adventure plans for reality so that you can focus on the beauty of these magnificent valleys.
What's Included
Included
12 items included
- Twin-sharing accommodation in hotels and guesthouses throughout
- Domestic flight Islamabad-Skardu-Islamabad
- All land transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers
- 4x4 vehicles for Kharmang, Deosai, and valley excursions
- English-speaking licensed guide with Alpine Karakoram Adventure
- Local specialist guides in Kharmang and Astore
- All meals as specified (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the tour
- All entrance fees to forts, museums, and national parks
- Deosai National Park permits
- Bottled drinking water during the tour
- Letter of invitation for Pakistan visa application
- All taxes and service charges
Not Included
11 items not included
- International airfare to and from Pakistan
- Pakistan visa fee
- Travel insurance with medical coverage and evacuation (mandatory)
- Lunches and dinners not specified in inclusions
- Photography fees at sites with additional charges
- Personal expenses including laundry, souvenirs, phone calls
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Single room supplement
- Costs from unforeseen circumstances beyond our control
- Optional activities not specified
- Horse hire for treks (available locally)
We understand that every traveler has unique interests. The inclusions above represent our standard touring package. However, Alpine Karakoram Adventure can customize your plan based on your preferred focus—photography, cultural immersion, trekking, or blossom viewing.
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