Skardu Fort, also known as Kharpocho Fort, is a historical fortress located in Skardu, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Skardu is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers due to its proximity to the Karakoram mountain range. Here are the primary ways to reach Skardu Fort:
Skardu Airport (IATA: KDU) is the nearest airport to Skardu Fort. There are direct flights to Skardu from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The flight offers breathtaking views of the mountain ranges, including Nanga Parbat and the mighty Karakorams.
Skardu can be reached by road from Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway (KKH). It is approximately 600 kilometers and can take about 20-24 hours due to the mountainous terrain. The most common route is:
Travelers often stop at cities like Besham, Chilas, or Gilgit for an overnight stay before continuing on to Skardu.
Buses and coasters run regularly from Islamabad and Rawalpindi to Skardu. Companies like NATCO (Northern Areas Transport Corporation) and PTDC (Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation) offer services to and from Skardu.
Upon arrival in Skardu city, Skardu Fort can be accessed via local transport. Shared jeeps and taxis are commonly used for this short trip.
Location: Skardu Fort is situated on a hill overlooking the Skardu town. The hill provides a vantage point for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, Indus River, and Skardu city itself.
Getting to the Fort: Visitors will have to hike up a pathway for about 20 minutes to reach the entrance of Skardu Fort. The walk is relatively steep, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
The best time to visit Skardu Fort is from April to October when the weather is more favorable for trekking and hiking.
Enjoy your journey to Skardu Fort!