Katpana Desert | | near Skardu, Gilgit | |Baltistan, | | Pakistan Best T...

The Cold Desert, also known as the #katpana Desert or Biama Nakpo, is a high-altitude desert located near #skardu #Gilgit−Baltistan, #pakistanbeautifulplaces #trip #pakistanvlog Situated at the convergence spot of Shigar and Indus Rivers, Skardu is a picturesque valley. It is blessed with the magnificent mountains of Himalaya and Karakoram, captivating glaciers, alluring scenery, pristine lakes, an exotic cold desert and mesmerizing Deosai National Park. Due to its calm yet intricately wild persona, elusive trekking routes, fascinating trailing spots and intriguing peaks, Skardu Valley is the dreamland of travel lovers. The Skardu Valley is located at the altitude of nearly 2500m above sea level in the Gilgit Baltistan province of Pakistan. Surrounded by exquisitely massive mountains, the valley is a gateway to four out of the eight world’s highest peaks including the Gasherbrum I/K5 (8080m), Gasherbrum II/K4 (8035m), Broad Peak (8051m) and the King of Mountains K2 (8611m). Consequently, Skardu Valley is a heaven for Mountaineering Expeditions among trekkers, hikers and mountaineers. Skardu Weather Skardu Valley has a cold semi-arid climate. The summer season in the region is quite pleasant with the temperature varying between 27°C and 8°C. Though, the winters are snowy and cold since the temperature can drop below −10°C during December and January. Language of Skardu People The Skardu Valley is an ethnically diverse and multi-lingual region with a population of nearly 214,848 people. The tribes of Baltis, Monpas, Kashmiris and Tibetans are predominant in the valley. These people speak more than six different languages including Balti, Wakhi, Shina, Ladakhi, Brushaski, Domaki and Khwar. Skardu Culture 1. 2. Dance 3. Architecture The Balti architecture in Skardu Valley is majorly influenced by Moghul and T 4. Sports Polo is the most famous sport of the Skardu Valley. Ali Sher Khan Anchan Maqpoun familiarized this sport to the natives during his rule. Trophy hunting is another popular sport of the valley. Lifestyle of Skardu Valley People The lifestyle of people living in the Skardu Valley is quite traditional and simple. Although, they reside in small homes engraved in the mountains that are equipped with only the basic facilities but their hearts are wider than the oceans. The natives are well-known for their inimitable hospitality. They have a deep respect for their values. The customs of Skardu Valley are exclusive to the region of Gilgit Baltistan and are different than the other cities of Pakistan. Men in the valley wear traditional Shalwar Kameez, while, the women wear long hand-woven Frocks along with Shalwar and Dupatta. During winters, people keep themselves warm by wearing traditional Shawls, Waistcoats, Sweaters and Jackets. Education is not widespread in the region. Hence, only a few people pursue higher education. Religion of Skardu People Formerly, Bön and Tibetan Buddhism were prevalent in the Skardu Valley. With the advent of Islam during the 16th and 17th centuries, the majority of natives converted to Noorbakshia Islam. Nonetheless, some people follow Kubrawiya Sufi order. Nearly 30% residents of Skardu Valley belong to the Noorbakshia sect. Best Time To Visit Skardu Valley The Skardu Valley is accessible in all the four seasons but the ideal time to travel to the valley is between March and November. Expenses/ Travel Guide To Skardu Valley/routes By Air PIA operates a flight from Islamabad to the Skardu Airport on daily basis. The journey itself is the highlight of the visit and is filled with extraordinary adventures. On your flight, you can catch a clear mesmerizing glimpse of Nanga Parbat as well as the K2. The Skardu Airport is a domestic civil airport in Skardu Valley. It is connected to the provincial capital Gilgit besides the federal capital Islamabad. Surrounded by the mighty peaks, the airport also serves as Operating Base of the Pakistan Air Force By Road The NATCO (Northern Areas Transport Corporation) operates commuter buses from Islamabad to Skardu Valley via Gilgit. Initially, the bus reaches Gilgit through the Karakoram Highway. From Gilgit, the bus continues its 200km journey to the Skardu Valley that entails over 5 to 8 hours. NATCO also provide a shuttle service directly from Islamabad to the valley which covers the expanse in 30-36 hours depending upon the weather. The journey cost Rs.1500. Generally, these facilities are available in Islamabad. In case, you want to travel from other any other city to the Skardu Valley then you must reach Islamabad first to avail of these travelling facilities. For bus schedules, please check www.natco.gov.pk If you want to travel to Skardu Valley by yourself. Then, you must proceed t 1. Balay (Noodle Soup with Goat Meat) 2. Prapu (Wheat Noodles with Walnut Paste) 3. Gyal (Buckwheat Cakes) 4. Marzan (Buckwheat with Apricot Oil) 5. Boiled Goat (skinless) 6. Potato Stew (with Goat Meat) 7. Mamtu