Travel Guide to Skardu Fort, Skardu, Pakistan

Getting There

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:

By Air

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.

By Road

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:

• Islamabad to Skardu via KKH and Skardu Road.

Travelers often stop at cities like Besham, Chilas, or Gilgit for an overnight stay before continuing on to Skardu.

By Public Transport

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.

After Reaching 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.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Skardu Fort is from April to October when the weather is more favorable for trekking and hiking.

Additional Tips

• Check flight availability and weather conditions before traveling as flights to Skardu can be subject to cancellation due to weather.
• Ensure you have valid travel documents and permits for travel within Gilgit-Baltistan.
• For road trips, it's essential to have a reliable vehicle and an experienced driver familiar with the mountainous terrain.
• Acclimatize to the altitude, as Skardu is at an elevation of approximately 2,500 meters above sea level.

Enjoy your journey to Skardu Fort!