Skardu

Skardu is a mountain town in Skardu District, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, sitting at 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) where the Indus and Shigar rivers meet. Flat valleys open between jagged rock walls, while the settlement spreads along dusty main roads lined with shops, teahouses, and small guesthouses.

The Maqpon Dynasty ruled this region for seven centuries and built the fort on a rock above town around 1500. In the 20th century the area became part of Pakistan and developed into a supply point for expeditions into the Karakoram.

The Balti community speaks a Tibetan language in daily life and serves traditional steamed dumplings in local teahouses. Street vendors along the main roads sell handwoven woolen blankets and dried apricots from nearby valleys.

A small airport east of town connects it to larger Pakistani cities, and local jeeps run to surrounding lakes and valleys. Visitors should bring warm clothing since temperatures remain cool throughout the year and weather can shift quickly.

The town serves as the main access point to K2, the second-highest mountain on Earth, and to trekking routes along the Baltoro Glacier. Climbers from around the world begin their journey here into the highest peaks of the Karakoram.