Overview
Skardu, the heart of Baltistan, is the launchpad for K2 and the great Karakoram giants — but even without trekking, it’s breathtaking: the serene Shangrila (Lower Kachura) and Upper Kachura lakes, the surreal cold desert near the Indus, and the beautifully restored Shigar and Khaplu forts.
This journey begins in Mughal Lahore and continues north to Skardu (usually by a spectacular flight from Islamabad). It’s seasonal and priced on request around routing and duration.
Itinerary
- Days 1–2 · LahoreMughal heritage, Walled City, food.
- Day 3 · Fly to SkarduThe stunning flight over the Karakoram (weather permitting), via Islamabad.
- Days 4–6 · BaltistanShangrila & Upper Kachura lakes, the cold desert, Shigar Fort, Manthal Buddha rock.
- Day 7 · KhapluThe restored Khaplu Palace and valley.
- Days 8–9 · Return & departFly back and depart from Islamabad or Lahore.
Route & logistics
Start & finish: Your Lahore hotel or the airport. Transport: Flight + private 4×4.
Route: Days 1–2 · Lahore → Day 3 · Fly to Skardu → Days 4–6 · Baltistan → Day 7 · Khaplu → Days 8–9 · Return & depart.
A live Google Map with every stop is shared with your confirmation. Driving times are honest estimates and vary with traffic; where a destination is far, we tell you plainly and suggest an overnight if it’s more comfortable.
What’s included
- Licensed English-speaking guide throughout
- Private A/C vehicle for the full route
- Airport pickup & drop-off
- Entrance fees on the itinerary
- Hotel booking assistance
- 24/7 on-trip support
Not included
- Hotel accommodation (quoted separately by category)
- Domestic flights where applicable (quoted at cost)
- Meals unless stated
- Gratuities
Good to know
- Seasonal: roughly April–October; winter access is very limited.
- The Skardu flight is weather-dependent; a road contingency via the Karakoram Highway is long but possible.
- High altitude and rugged roads — 4×4 transport in Baltistan.
- For serious trekkers, we can arrange onward K2 base-camp logistics with specialist partners.
Before you go
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes for uneven old-city ground
- Sun protection in summer (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) or warm layers in winter
- A refillable water bottle
- Modest clothing for mosques and shrines
- Some cash for snacks, tips and small purchases
- Your camera or phone, and any personal medication
- An overnight bag and your passport/ID for intercity travel
Dress & etiquette
Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is best; women need a headscarf inside mosque and gurdwara prayer halls (our guides carry spares) and shoes come off at religious sites. Please ask before photographing people. See what to wear and mosque etiquette.
Accessibility
Parts of this tour involve walking on uneven ground and some steps, and a few heritage sites have limited step-free access. We can adapt the pace and route for reduced mobility, wheelchairs, families with strollers or older travelers — tell us your needs and see our accessible Lahore tours guide.
Cancellation
Flexible, fair terms — the exact conditions for your dates are confirmed in writing when you book. Full details on our cancellation & refund policy page.
FAQs
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Last reviewed: July 2026 · Pak Tours Services · Government Licensed · Licence No. 9883