Shigar Valley is a beautiful valley in the surroundings of Skardu. The Shigar Valley is famous for its history, culture, and traditions. It is located at the bank of Shigar River and 32 km northeast from Skardu. This valley is also very popular for hiking, trekking and mountaineering, and the gateway to the high mountains of the Karakoram including the second highest mountain k2. The valley is 170 km long from Skardu to Askoleand at an elevation of 2,291 m above the sea level.
Famous places to visit in Shigar Valley
Following is the list of Top attractions to visit in Shigar Valley.
Shigar Fort
If you are looking for some unique and historic place in Shigar valley then the Shigar fort is one of the Best historical sights for visitors. It is awarded as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shigar’s historic fort was converted into a museum and heritage hotel after restoration by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan and is now managed by Serena Hotels.
The fort was built in the early 17th century by Hassan Khan that is the 20th ruler of the Amacha Dynasty. Shigar Fort, also known as Fong Khar (the Palace on the Rock), in the local Balti language. The fort is surrounded by lush green orchards and many fruit trees such as cherries, apricots, apples, and grapes, etc. This is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Shigar valley.
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Amburik Mosque
The Amburik mosque is another historical place to visit in Shigar valley. This 700 years old mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Gilgit-Baltistan. The mosque is the heart of Shigar Valley that was built in the early 14th century by Sayed Ali Hamdani who helped spread Islam in this region.
The Amburik mosque is a two-storied building with wooden architecture which is a beautiful combination of Kashmiri, and Tibetan architecture. A small museum established inside the mosque. In 2005, UNESCO has awarded a heritage award for this mosque.
Blind Lake
Zharba tso or Blind lake is an extensive Lake near Shigar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan. It is located at 25 minutes’ drive from Shigar Viewpoint. Zharba tso is a screen freshwater lake in Shigar Valley. The lush green surroundings and crystal clear blue water of the lake makes it very charming. Tourists can enjoy swimming and boating here. It is a favorite tourist destination and the best place for photography. The Lake uses as a water reservoir for the residents of Shigar Valley. It is fed by the Indus River.
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Sarfaranga Cold Desert
The Sarfranga cold desert of the Shigar valley is one of the highest cold deserts in the world. It is located at a height of 7,500 feet above sea level. In 2017, the Gilgit-Baltistan Government organized International jeep rally at the highest altitude, which became Sarfaranga cold desert more famous. The dunes of the “Sarfaranga” cold desert presents a wonderful view. This cold dessert is extended from Khaplu Valley to Nubra Ladakh and Shigar Valley to Zanskar in India.
Hashupi Bagh
Hashupi Bagh is a beautiful garden in Shigar Valley with a variety of fruits, especially apples. This garden is the best tourist spot for relaxing and have some rest. The garden is beautifully maintained with lush green landscapes and colorful fresh flowers. People especially visit Hashupi bagh to buy fresh fruits.
Chotrun Hot Spring
Chotrun is a famous place for its hot spring in Shigar. In Balti language ‘”Chu” means water and “tran” means hot. The hot spring water is considered medicinal water. People swim in it to recover from different skin diseases. Click to view the khaplu Valley of Gilgit Baltistan
