Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Skardu
– Flight from Islamabad to Skardu (weather-dependent)
– Transfer to hotel with panoramic views of the Skardu Valley
– Relaxation and acclimatization walk along the Indus River
– Overnight in Skardu boutique hotel

Day 2: Skardu City & Satpara Lake Exploration
– Morning visit to Buddhist rock carvings near Manthal
– Guided tour of Kharpocho Fort with views of Skardu town and river junction
– Afternoon excursion to Satpara Lake for a boat ride or shoreline walk
– Overnight in Skardu

Day 3: Journey to Shigar Valley
– Scenic drive through mountain gorges to Shigar
– Guided visit of the 400-year-old Shigar Fort – now a heritage museum and guesthouse
– Explore the old Shigar village, historic mosques, and local Balti homes
– Optional short hike to nearby orchards or viewpoints
– Overnight in Shigar Fort (heritage stay)

Day 4: Shigar to Khaplu (optional extension) or Explore Rural Shigar
Option 1:
– Full-day trip to Khaplu Palace, a former royal residence with Tibetan-style architecture
– Visit Chaqchan Mosque (14th century), one of the oldest in the region
– Return to Shigar for overnight stay

Option 2:
– Stay within Shigar and explore deeper into nearby valleys or visit additional Buddhist relics
– Visit pottery or textile-making workshops in the community
– Overnight in Shigar

Day 5: Return to Skardu & Upper Kachura Lake
– Drive back to Skardu with optional stop at Cold Desert (Sarfaranga)
– Visit Upper and Lower Kachura Lakes — crystal clear alpine waters
– Sunset walk and picnic by the lake
– Overnight in Skardu lakeside lodge

Day 6: Departure from Skardu
– Early transfer to airport for flight to Islamabad
– End of tour