Katpana Desert Tourism

Type of destination: Desert

Ideal visit duration: 1-2 days

The Katpana Desert, often referred to as the 'Cold Desert,' is located in Skardu, Pakistan. It's a high-altitude desert situated at an elevation ranging between 2,226 and 2,297 meters above sea level. The desert stretches from the Khaplu Valley to Nubra in Ladakh and is one of the world's highest deserts. The unique landscape of Katpana Desert is characterized by its sand dunes that are surrounded by snow-capped peaks and set against deep blue skies, providing a stunning and unusual contrast. Local vegetation is sparse and mainly consists of scrubs and some endemic flowers that bloom at certain times of the year. The desert experiences extremely cold temperatures during the winter, with the dunes often blanketed in snow, which is a rare sight for a desert region. Katpana Desert is accessible via the nearby Skardu Town, which is a major hub for people planning to explore the various natural wonders and embark on treks in the Karakoram Range. The desert is becoming increasingly popular among tourists who seek to witness its unique beauty and take part in night camping under the starlit sky.

Katpana Desert Tourism

Katpana Desert Tourism

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