10 Reasons to Visit Skardu This Summer (And Where to Stay)
If you’ve been dreaming of cooler weather, dramatic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and unforgettable sunrises, Skardu should be at the top of your travel list this summer. Tucked away in Pakistan’s far north, Skardu is a gateway to the Karakoram and Himalayas, offering both peaceful beauty and thrilling adventures.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking serenity, or a family planning a nature-filled getaway, here are 10 compelling reasons to visit Skardu this summer—and why staying at The Indus Escape will make your experience even better.
1. Escape the Heat
Let’s face it—summers in most parts of Pakistan are hot. In contrast, Skardu offers cool, crisp weather with average daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Whether you're sipping tea in the garden or hiking through alpine meadows, you’ll enjoy nature without breaking a sweat.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking serenity, or a family planning a nature-filled getaway, here are 10 compelling reasons to visit Skardu this summer—and why staying at The Indus Escape will make your experience even better.
Skardu, the gateway to the mighty Karakoram and Himalayan ranges, is known for its rugged beauty, serene landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. While many travelers come for the towering peaks and turquoise lakes, the place you choose to stay can shape your entire experience. That’s why more and more visitors are choosing The Indus Escape—a cozy, thoughtfully designed guesthouse nestled in the heart of Skardu.
✅ Pro tip: June to September is the best time for pleasant weather and open mountain passes
2. World-Class Scenery
Few places in the world offer the kind of scenic diversity Skardu does: snow-capped peaks, surreal sand dunes, high-altitude lakes, green valleys, and vast plateaus. From Shangrila Resort’s lake to the wide-open spaces of Deosai National Park, Skardu is a living postcard.
📍 Don't miss: Sunset at Upper Kachura Lake and sunrise from Skardu Fort.
3. Adventure Awaits
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just love the outdoors, Skardu has it all:
- Jeep safaris to Deosai Plains
- Trekking in Shigar and Khaplu valleys
- Boating on Upper Kachura Lake
- Camping under the stars
- Off-road rides in Katpana Desert
And at the end of a long day, nothing beats a bonfire night at The Indus Escape.
4. Rich Balti Culture
Skardu is home to the Balti people, known for their warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and deep-rooted traditions. Visiting Skardu gives you a chance to:
- Try Balti dishes like mamtu, buckwheat bread, and butter tea
- Shop for local crafts at Skardu Bazaar
- Hear stories from locals over a shared meal or campfire
You’re not just visiting Skardu—you’re living it. The Indus Escape is a boutique guesthouse located just minutes from the town center but surrounded by peaceful nature. With its:
- Glass-walled stargazing room
- Bonfire area
- Lush garden & badminton court
- Clean, cozy rooms with local design
…it offers the perfect balance between comfort and authenticity.
Bonus: Wake up to mountain views and birdsong—not traffic
6. Wildlife & Wilderness
If you love spotting animals in their natural habitat, Skardu is the place to be. The Deosai National Park is home to:
- Himalayan brown bears
- Red foxes
- Marmots
- Eagles and vultures
It’s also one of the best places in Pakistan for alpine wildflower spotting, especially in July and August.
7. Instagrammable Moments Everywhere
From the reflective waters of Sheosar Lake to the vastness of Katpana Desert, Skardu is a paradise for photographers and content creators. The lighting, the landscapes, the textures—every corner looks like a dream.
And if you're staying at The Indus Escape, you’ll find dozens of photo-worthy corners, from the glass house to sunset views from the garden.
8. Slow Travel, Deep Rest
Skardu isn’t about rushing from place to place. It’s about slowing down. Whether you’re journaling by the river, meditating in the garden, or enjoying long conversations under the stars, Skardu offers true mental clarity.
At The Indus Escape, guests often say the quiet atmosphere and mindful design help them reconnect—with nature, loved ones, and themselves.
9. Local Markets & Handicrafts
Skardu’s bazaars are full of hidden treasures: handwoven rugs, gemstone jewelry, carved wooden utensils, traditional Balti hats, and organic dried fruits. Shopping here supports the local economy and gives you something meaningful to take home.
10. Easy Access + Unique Stays
With improved air connectivity, daily flights from Islamabad now bring you directly to Skardu in under an hour. Once there, staying at a place like The Indus Escape means you’re not just a tourist—you’re a guest in a home that was built for connection and care.
The staff can help coordinate transport, local guides, and trip planning to make the most of your stay
Final Thoughts: Skardu Is Calling—Will You Answer?
Skardu is more than a destination. It’s a feeling—a mix of wonder, peace, and discovery. Whether you come for the landscapes or the local life, you’ll leave with stories, memories, and maybe even a little part of your heart left behind.
This summer, answer the call of the mountains. Book your stay at The Indus Escape and experience Skardu the way it was meant to be.
