A 9-day tour with return flights to Skardu, covering Shangrila, the Kachura Lakes, Basho Valley, Khaplu, Shigar, Deosai Plains and Manthoka Waterfall.
Gilgit-Baltistan9 Days / 8 NightsFrom PKR 155,125 per person
Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Difficulty
Moderate
Best season
May to October
Start / end
Islamabad → Islamabad
Trip type
Multi-day tour
Tour overview
Skardu, nestled in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, is a breathtaking valley surrounded by majestic peaks, sparkling lakes, serene deserts and ancient villages. Known as the gateway to some of the world’s highest mountains, including K2, Skardu offers unmatched beauty and cultural richness.
This itinerary takes you through Skardu and its surrounding areas, including Shangrila, Kachura, Basho Valley, Khaplu, Shigar and the Deosai Plains, each offering a unique experience of nature, culture and adventure.
Highlights
Scenic flight: Fly over the Himalaya and Karakoram mountains.
Shangrila Resort & Kachura Lakes: Serene lakeside beauty on your first day in Skardu.
Basho Valley & Bilamik Waterfall: Adventure and tranquillity in an untouched valley.
Khaplu Palace & Chaqchan Mosque: Cultural insights in one of Baltistan’s most beautiful valleys.
Shigar Valley: Ancient villages, mosques and the restored Shigar Fort.
Manthoka Waterfall: A peaceful retreat at a famous waterfall.
Hidden villages: Daghoni, Barah and Sailing villages.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 01Arrival in Islamabad
You will be welcomed at Islamabad International Airport by our driver and transferred to your hotel, where you can check in and settle in after your journey. Enjoy a restful evening in the capital. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 02Fly to Skardu – Shangrila Resort & Kachura Lakes
After breakfast, fly from Islamabad to Skardu, where your driver and guide will receive you at the airport. Your first stop is the famous Shangrila Resort, also known as ‘Heaven on Earth’. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings before continuing to Lower Kachura Lake, then drive to Upper Kachura Lake, a serene spot ideal for photography and short nature walks. If time allows, an optional hike to the historic Kharpocho Fort can be arranged. Overnight stay in Skardu.
Day 03Basho Valley & Bilamik Waterfall
After breakfast, set out for Basho Valley, known for its untouched natural beauty, green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The drive crosses the Indus Bridge on a bumpy yet adventurous route. Later, head to Bilamik Village, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, and take a short hike to Bilamik Waterfall, a scenic and peaceful spot. Enjoy the sunset before returning to Skardu for the night.
Day 04Khaplu Valley, Sailing Village & Chaqchan Mosque
Head east towards Khaplu, one of Baltistan’s most beautiful valleys, with a short break in Barah Valley on the way. Continue to Sailing Village, a peaceful settlement known for its views and riverbank serenity. Visit the historic Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest in the region, then explore Khaplu Palace and the surrounding village life. Return to Skardu for the night.
Day 05Shigar Valley, Cold Desert & Blind Lake
Drive to Shigar Valley with a brief stop at Daghoni Village. Visit the magnificent Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored 17th-century palace, and the historic Amburiq and Khilingrong mosques. Then drive to the Sarfaranga Cold Desert for camel rides, jeep safaris and horse riding, and visit the stunning Blind Lake nearby. Overnight stay in Shigar.
Day 06Deosai National Park & Sheosar Lake
A full-day trip to Deosai National Park, one of the highest plateaus in the world. Stop at Satpara Lake and Manthal Buddha Rock for sightseeing and photos. As you ascend towards Deosai, pass Bara Pani and continue to Sheosar Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by wildflowers and snow-covered peaks. Return to Skardu for the night.
Day 07Day trip to Manthoka Waterfall
Drive to the famous Manthoka Waterfall, with stops for photos and tea along the way. Enjoy time by the water, walk the surrounding trails or simply relax, then return to Skardu for your final night in the valley.
Day 08Fly back to Islamabad
In the morning, transfer to Skardu Airport for your flight to Islamabad. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, with free time in the evening to explore the local markets or relax. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 09Departure
You will be dropped off at Islamabad International Airport as per your flight schedule, marking the end of a memorable adventure in the north.
Price & what's included
FromPKR 155,125per person
Price per person sharing a twin room. The final price depends on group size, travel dates and hotel category; we confirm it before you pay anything.
What's included
Round-trip airfare (Islamabad–Skardu–Islamabad)
All local transportation with fuel and tolls
Hotel accommodation (twin sharing)
Daily breakfast at hotels
Services of an experienced local driver
Driver’s food and accommodation
All parking fees and permits
What's not included
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Entry tickets to forts, museums and parks
Lunch and dinner (available at local restaurants)
Tips for guides, hotel staff and drivers
Personal clothing, trekking gear or equipment
Emergency medical expenses or evacuation
Professional guide (available on request at extra cost)
Airport transfers in Islamabad (unless arranged in advance)
Accommodation & transport
Accommodation
Mid-range hotels with attached bathrooms, twin sharing (upgrades on request)
Hotel in Islamabad (2 nights)
Hotel in Skardu (5 nights)
Hotel in Shigar (1 night)
Transportation
Return flights Islamabad–Skardu–Islamabad
Local transport in Baltistan with an experienced driver