In our travel diaries, we have an adventurous and thrilling destination “Skardu”, with mind blowing history, eye opening scenery and bumpy ride. Let me tell you the whole story of this challenging quest.
Our journey began with a burst of excitement as we set off from Islamabad at precisely 12:40 PM, eager to embark on our Skardu adventure. The anticipation of exploring the untamed beauty of Pakistan’s northern frontier filled us with a sense of wonder. As the day unfolded, we made our way through the picturesque landscapes of Pakistan, and by 7:00 PM, we arrived in the charming Kaghan Valley.
We spent our first night at the Hotel Chateau de North, in Kaghan Valley. While the hotel offered a comfortable stay, the dining experience was below average, ultra spicy food, setting a somewhat ordinary and bad tone for the beginning of our adventure. We avoid that food and slept as we were dead tired.
The following day, we embarked on the drive to Skardu, a journey that would test our patience and resilience. Winding roads offered breathtaking vistas at every turn, while the anticipation of what lay ahead kept spirits high. To transform the bumpy rides into moments of joy, we listened Punjabi music.
First Night in Skardu
Arriving in Skardu felt like stepping into a different world. The towering mountains, pristine lakes, and vast plains created a surreal landscape. Our base for the next few days was the Safeena Hotel, which provided a comfortable stay amidst the stunning surroundings. This was also an average hotel but comparatively clean with good service and reasonable food.
And our first experience of sighting a circular rainbow. How Fantastic? Not one But two parallel.
Day 2 in Skardu
1- Manthoka Waterfall
Our first adventure took us to the enchanting Manthoka Waterfall. A two-hour journey along a winding, bumpy road tested our patience, but the promise of the waterfall’s grandeur kept us going. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a bustling crowd of visitors, all eager to witness the natural spectacle. The path leading to the waterfall was crowded, and finding a spot to fully appreciate the view was a challenge. Despite the crowds, the waterfall’s magnificence was undeniable. Its thundering roar and refreshing mist created a captivating atmosphere, and my kids managed to capture a few moments of solitude amidst the chaos, while I back in the car (being disabled) enjoyed the far scenes of the waterfall.
2- Sarfaranga Desert
One of the most unforgettable experiences was our visit to the Sarfaranga Desert. This unique desert landscape offered a stark contrast to the mountainous terrain. My children were thrilled to try paragliding, soaring high above the golden sands. They took like 12,000 rs per person that’s quite high. My daughter also had the opportunity to experience the thrill of horse riding across the desert. I back in the car saw too many para-gliders in the sky easily spotting my own kids. Jeep and bike rides were also available for those seeking a different kind of adventure.
3- Shangrilla Resort
My dream destination to the north of Pakistan, Shangrilla Resort was the highlight of this trip. Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, the resort offered a serene escape from the world. The tranquil lake, surrounded by gigantic, rugged mountains, was a sight to behold. Although it’s a long track down to the resort, but with MMD, I did manage and walked down.
I spent countless hours simply relaxing by the water, soaking in the beauty of my surroundings. With evening tea we also enjoyed the food that’s of high quality, taste amazingly great. I recommend you people to just visit “Shangrilla Resort” with your family for a relaxing family time.
Day 3 in Skardu
1 – Deosai Plains
One of the most adventurous experiences was exploring the Deosai Plains. A vast, treeless plateau at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, (4114 meters) Deosai offered a unique and challenging adventure. As we ventured into this remote wilderness, we were rewarded with breathtaking views, variety of floral vegetation and the thrill of spotting marmots, the adorable inhabitants of this high-altitude ecosystem. Winding roads offered breathtaking vistas at every turn, while the anticipation of what lay ahead kept spirits high. To transform the bumpy rides into moments of joy, my daughter and I became masters of impromptu entertainment, creating funny faces and videos to lighten the mood, until we have reached the top of deosai where we took a break with a cup of tea. Oh! the weather was classy, cold breeze and beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to take a ride instead of going in your own sedan.
2 – Manthal Buddha Rock
It was late but somehow we succeeded in reaching Manthal Buddha Rock, an old rock with buddha carvings, preserved by a local Skardu family. The route wasn’t good enough but my kids and husband got a chance to watch this gigantic rock. Our rider offered us with a local dish called “Mantu”, which we usually known as Dumplings. These were juicy, steamed to perfection and taste a little tangy due to vinegar topping. I loved the taste.
While Skardu is a paradise for adventure seekers, it also presents its challenges. The road conditions can be demanding, and amenities are limited compared to urban areas. However, the rewards of exploring such a pristine and untouched region far outweigh the inconveniences.
Final Days
Our return journey proved to be the most challenging. Our excitement for the return was momentarily dampened when we heard the news of a broken bridge in Naran, forcing us to take the longer and more challenging Chillas road. In addition the traffic congestion caused by the construction of the Dassu Dam resulted in long delays, almost 3-4 hours wait in road block area, testing our patience and endurance. We spend those hours in a nearby “Dhabba” where we encounter the crowd. Despite the setbacks, (not the setbacks as these gives you more confidence of traveling) the memories of Skardu’s natural beauty and the adventures we shared will forever hold a special place in my heart.
While returning from Skardu, we stumbled upon a family-run gemstone mining business nestled amidst the nearby mountains. My son, captivated by the allure of these natural treasures, purchased a piece of quartz as a souvenir. The experience provided a fascinating glimpse into the local economy and allowed us to bring home a unique memento of our adventure.
Skardu is undoubtedly a destination for the adventurous spirit. While it may not be the most comfortable option for families seeking a relaxed vacation, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and experience the thrill of exploration. For those who crave adventure and are willing to embrace the challenges, Skardu is a must-visit destination especially if you are with good company. Last but not the least Skardy by road is not for older unhealthy people.
Image Credit: Main Image (Destinations) Others (my Iphone)
