Nestled in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, Shigar District stands as one of the most captivating destinations in Pakistan, earning its well-deserved title — “The King of Tourism.” With a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual calm, Shigar is the gateway to some of the world’s highest mountains and most awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re a trekker, cultural explorer, or a nature enthusiast, Shigar welcomes you with open arms and snow-capped peaks.
This detailed travel guide explores the most popular tourist attractions accessible from Shigar, ideal for both local and international travelers looking for authentic adventure and natural wonder in Pakistan.
Why Shigar District is Called the King of Tourism
- Gateway to Karakoram Giants: From Shigar, you access legendary peaks like K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum I & II.
- Cultural and Historical Richness: Home to the ancient Shigar Fort and centuries-old Balti traditions.
- Natural Beauty at its Peak: Crystal-clear rivers, dramatic valleys, alpine lakes, and mighty glaciers await.
- Adventure Capital of Pakistan: From trekking to climbing to jeep safaris, it’s all here.
Top Tourist Attractions in and Around Shigar District
1. Shigar Fort (The Fort on Rock)
A 400-year-old gem built by the Raja of Shigar, now restored and run as a heritage hotel and museum by Serena Hotels. It perfectly blends Balti architecture with modern comforts.
Must-See: Royal living quarters, ancient Quran manuscripts, and the palace gardens.
2. Blind Lake (Zharba Tso)
A stunningly peaceful lake located between Shigar and Skardu, surrounded by towering mountains. Great for picnics, photography, and short hikes.
3. K2 Base Camp Trek (via Askole Village)
Askole, a small village in Shigar, is the last jeep-accessible point before the K2 Base Camp trek begins. The trek takes adventurers deep into the heart of the Karakoram Range, crossing glaciers like Baltoro and Concordia, one of the most beautiful mountain amphitheaters in the world.
Best time: June to August
4. Manthoka Waterfall
Located a couple of hours from Shigar via Skardu, this majestic waterfall offers a refreshing escape. Surrounded by green pastures, it’s a photographer’s paradise and perfect for family outings.
5. Sarfaranga Cold Desert
One of the highest cold deserts in the world, located just outside Shigar. With white sand dunes and a backdrop of snow-covered peaks, it’s ideal for jeep rallies, quad biking, horse riding, and camping.
Don’t Miss: Sarfaranga Jeep Rally (annual event)
6. Basho Valley
Accessible via a rugged jeep track from Shigar, Basho is a hidden alpine gem. Pine forests, meadows, wild streams, and absolute silence make it perfect for camping, stargazing, and off-grid adventures.
7. Khaplu Valley (Day Trip Option)
While Khaplu lies in the neighboring district of Ghanche, it is easily reachable from Shigar. Explore Khaplu Fort, Chaqchan Mosque, and the beautiful Shyok River banks.
8. Deosai National Park (via Skardu)
Though the entry is from Skardu, Deosai is reachable on a day or overnight trip from Shigar. This second-highest plateau on Earth is known for its wildflowers, brown bears, and magical sunsets.
Season: Open from late June to mid-September
9. Katpana Desert & Lake
Located between Shigar and Skardu, this cold desert and its lake offer stunning sunrise and sunset views. Ideal for those looking for an easy yet memorable scenic spot.
10. Hiking & Local Villages
Villages like Arandu, Tisar, and Barah offer a deep look into traditional Balti culture, wooden homes, ancient mosques, and terrace farming — perfect for eco-tourism and homestay experiences.
When to Visit Shigar District?
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spring (Apr-May) | Blossoming apricot trees, greenery |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Trekking season, jeep rallies |
| Autumn (Sep-Oct) | Golden valleys, mild weather |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Snowfall, peaceful landscapes |
Travel Tips for Visiting Shigar
- Altitude Acclimatization is important for treks.
- Warm clothes are a must, even in summer nights.
- Local guides and porters are highly recommended for treks and mountain routes.
- Respect local culture and dress modestly, especially in villages.
- Use reliable travel services for safe and authentic experiences.
How to Reach Shigar?
- By Air: Fly to Skardu Airport (45 min from Islamabad). From Skardu, Shigar is just 1-hour drive.
- By Road: From Islamabad via Karakoram Highway or Babusar Pass (in summer), it takes around 20-22 hours.
Experience Shigar with PakJourney – Your Trusted Travel Partner
Whether you’re dreaming of trekking to K2 Base Camp, staying in a heritage fort, or just soaking in the heavenly scenery, PakJourney provides tailored travel solutions for individuals, groups, and families.
Why Choose PakJourney?
✅ Expert local guides
✅ Comfortable transportation
✅ Trekking and camping gear
✅ Custom tour packages
✅ Responsible and eco-friendly tourism
Plan your unforgettable trip to the King of Tourism – Shigar District – with PakJourney.
Let the adventure begin!