When it comes to raw, untouched nature, few places in the world compare to Skardu. Located in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, this mountainous wonderland is famous for its lakes, valleys, and forts β but one experience that often goes underrated is camping in Skardu.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a honeymoon couple, or a family traveler from Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, adding a camping experience to your Skardu tour can turn a regular vacation into an unforgettable journey.
π Why Camping in Skardu is Special
Camping in Skardu offers a unique connection with nature. The absence of artificial noise, the clarity of the skies, the sound of gushing rivers, and the surrounding Himalayan and Karakoram peaks β everything feels pure and timeless.
Whether you’re traveling with Skardu Honeymoon Tour Packages or taking a 7 Days Family Tour Package to Hunza and Skardu, camping will give you a taste of Skarduβs soul.
ποΈ Best Camping Spots in Skardu
Here are some of the top places to pitch your tent:
1. Shangrila Resort Area
While the resort itself offers luxury accommodation, the surrounding areas have open green spaces near the lake, ideal for setting up tents. The reflections of the lake at dawn and dusk are picture-perfect.
2. Upper Kachura Lake
This less commercialized area is quiet and scenic β the perfect spot for couples on a Skardu honeymoon tour or solo travelers looking for peace.
3. Deosai Plains
Also known as the βRoof of the World,β Deosai is perhaps the most surreal camping site in all of Pakistan. Wake up surrounded by marmots, wildflowers, and snow-capped mountains. This is a bucket-list spot included in many Skardu Tour Packages.
4. Shigar Valley
Camp near the river, with the majestic Shigar Fort in the background. It’s a blend of culture, nature, and heritage β perfect for a 3-day trip to Skardu from Lahore, Karachi or Islamabad.
5. Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Camping in a cold desert? Absolutely! With white sands and cool winds at night, Sarfaranga offers a rare desert camping experience with mountain views in every direction.
π₯ What to Expect During Your Camping Experience
Crystal-clear skies: Ideal for stargazing and night photography
Bonfires under the stars: Share stories, make chai, and enjoy the silence
River sounds or lake waves as your lullaby
Morning mist and golden sunrise moments youβll never forget
Wildlife sightings (especially in Deosai)
π§³ What to Pack for Camping in Skardu
Tent & sleeping bag (or rent through your tour operator)
Thermal wear & fleece jackets β nights are cold even in July
Flashlights, headlamps, and a power bank
Snacks, water, and a camping stove if going solo
Trash bags β keep the area clean and pristine
Basic first aid kit
Many Skardu Tour Packages by Air and Skardu Tour Packages from Dubai offer all-inclusive camping options with equipment and guides included.
π§ Ideal Time for Camping in Skardu
Camping season runs from late May to mid-September. During these months:
The weather is pleasant
Snow has melted from roads and plains
Wildflowers are in full bloom (especially in June-July)
Deosai is accessible
Clear skies allow for perfect stargazing nights
Avoid camping in off-season due to freezing temperatures and roadblocks.
π Camping in Road vs Air Tour Packages
If youβre traveling by road in one of the many Skardu Tour Packages from Lahore or Islamabad, you’ll have more flexibility to stop and camp at different locations. Road journeys allow you to explore hidden valleys and remote spots.
If flying, youβll save time and enjoy more comfort. Many Skardu Tour Packages by Air include Deosai and Upper Kachura as overnight camping spots with local support.
β€οΈ Is Camping Right for You?
Yes β if you:
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Love nature and peace
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Want to disconnect from digital life
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Crave raw, authentic experiences
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Are okay with basic facilities
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Want to experience the true heart of Skardu
No β if you prefer luxury hotels and room service 24/7. But even then, a one-night glamping experience is worth it during your Skardu tour.
π Final Thoughts
Camping in Skardu isnβt just about sleeping in a tent β itβs about feeling alive. Itβs about watching the sun rise over snow peaks, listening to silence, and connecting with the Earth in one of its purest forms.
Whether youβre a couple on a honeymoon, a group of friends, or a solo traveler, make sure to include at least one night under the stars in your Skardu Tour Package 2025.