Discover the Mystique of Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Explore the breathtaking Sarfaranga Cold Desert, a serene oasis of sand and mountains in the heart of Skardu, Pakistan's stunning northern region.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Skardu, Sarfaranga Cold Desert offers tourists a unique experience of stark beauty and serene tranquility. This extraordinary desert, surrounded by majestic mountains, features stunning sand dunes and an otherworldly atmosphere that captivates visitors. The clear blue skies and stark contrasts of the sandy terrain against the rugged peaks create a picturesque environment perfect for photography and exploration. Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking, while those looking for peace can relish the desert's quietude, making it a must-visit destination in Pakistan's northern region.
A brief summary to Sarfaranga Cold Desert Shigar
- Skardu, Sarfaranga, 16100, PK
- +923223548634
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert can be harsh during the day.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and learn about the area's history and ecology.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sand.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as temperatures can vary significantly.
Getting There
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Bus
Start your journey from Gilgit city. Head to the Gilgit bus terminal where you can find local buses heading towards Skardu. Make sure to confirm with the bus staff that they are going to Skardu, as some buses may go to other destinations. The bus ride to Skardu will take approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions.
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Walk
Once you arrive in Skardu, you will need to make your way to the Sarfaranga Cold Desert. From the Skardu bus terminal, walk towards the main road and look for local transport options. The Sarfaranga Cold Desert is located about 30 kilometers from Skardu, so you can either find a local jeep or hire a taxi. If you prefer walking, you can ask locals for directions and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
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Local Transport
After getting to the Sarfaranga area, you may need to take a local jeep or a taxi to reach the Sarfaranga Cold Desert specifically. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your ride. The journey from the main road to the desert should take around 30 minutes, and you will pass through beautiful landscapes, so be prepared for some great photo opportunities.
Discover more about Sarfaranga Cold Desert Shigar
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Himalaya Hotel Skardu
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality of Himalaya Hotel Skardu, your perfect retreat in Pakistan's northern paradise.
Jarba Zhou Lake
7.1 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Jarba Zhou Lake, a tranquil escape perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures in nature's embrace.
Chumik Bridge
8.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chumik Bridge in Skardu, where nature meets architectural brilliance amidst the stunning landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan.
XPLORE THE NORTH
9.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Skardu with XPLORE THE NORTH, your trusted travel partner in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Visit In Pakistan Treks, Tours & Expeditions
9.3 km
Explore the unparalleled beauty and adventure of Skardu with expert-guided tours and activities at Visit In Pakistan Treks, Tours & Expeditions.
Mehman Sarai مہمان سرائے
9.6 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and stunning views at Mehman Sarai, your perfect guest house in the heart of Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Grind Cafe and Eatery, Skardu
9.7 km
Discover a culinary gem in Skardu with diverse menus featuring breakfast delights, aromatic coffee, and authentic Chinese dishes at The Grind Cafe and Eatery.
Deosai Travel service Skardu
10.0 km
Discover the beauty of Skardu with Deosai Travel Service, your local expert for unforgettable adventures in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Apricot Tours Pakistan (Skardu Field Office)
10.0 km
Explore Skardu's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture at Apricot Tours Pakistan, your ultimate tourist information hub in northern Pakistan.
Baltistan Tours Pakistan
10.6 km
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Shaheen Playground Skardu
10.7 km
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Wazir Guest House Skardu
10.7 km
Experience the warmth and beauty of Skardu at Wazir Guest House, your perfect retreat in the majestic mountains of Pakistan.
Dewan-e-Khas Hotel & Restaurant
10.7 km
Experience authentic Pakistani cuisine with stunning mountain views at Dewan-e-Khas Hotel & Restaurant in Skardu, a must-visit for all travelers.
Wazir Electronics, New Bazar Skardu
10.9 km
Explore Wazir Electronics in Skardu for all your tech needs, from the latest gadgets to essential travel gear in a vibrant local market.
IMPERIAL PRODUCTION GILGIT BALTISTAN
10.9 km
Explore the artistic heart of Gilgit-Baltistan at Imperial Production, a recording studio blending music with the region's breathtaking landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sarfaranga Quad biking
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of quad biking in the breathtaking landscapes of Skardu at Sarfaranga Quad Biking.
Thorgu Waterfall
2.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Thorgu Waterfall in Gilgit-Baltistan, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Balti Museum
4.4 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Balti people at Balti Museum in Skardu, a treasure trove of history and tradition in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Yousuf Hussainabadi Museum
4.4 km
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Marsur Rock Hussainabad Skardu
4.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Marsur Rock in Hussainabad, Skardu - a natural marvel in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, perfect for adventure and photography.
Hussainabad Waterfall
5.2 km
Experience the breathtaking Hussainabad Waterfall, a serene escape amidst the stunning landscapes of Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, perfect for families and photographers.
Blind Lake Shigar
7.4 km
Explore Blind Lake Shigar, a hidden gem in Skardu, Pakistan, where tranquil waters and majestic mountains create an unforgettable escape into nature.
Halma Ranga
8.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Halma Ranga, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Skardu, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Chumik Farol Desert Skardu
8.8 km
Discover the enchanting Chumik Farol Desert in Skardu, a breathtaking blend of golden dunes and majestic mountains, perfect for adventure and tranquility.
Chumik hotong Dunes Skardu
8.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chumik Hotong Dunes in Skardu, where golden sands meet stunning mountain vistas for an unforgettable adventure.
K2 PAKISTAN
8.9 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and thrilling treks of K2 Pakistan, a gateway to the world's second highest peak in the heart of Skardu.
Twilight View Point Skardu
9.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Twilight View Point in Skardu, where vibrant sunsets and majestic mountains create an unforgettable experience.
Italian K2 Museum Skardu
9.7 km
Explore the Italian K2 Museum in Skardu, a captivating tribute to the history of mountaineering and the legendary K2 mountain.
Rabbit Springs
10.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Rabbit Springs, a hiker's paradise in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kharphocho Fort
10.3 km
Discover Kharphocho Fort, a historical fortress in Skardu, where stunning views and rich heritage await every traveler in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Essential places to dine
Candlelight Dinner in Skardu
8.8 km
Indulge in an enchanting dining experience at Candlelight Dinner in Skardu—where romance meets breathtaking mountain views.
K2 Mess
8.9 km
Discover comfort and local cuisine at K2 Mess in Skardu – your gateway to adventure in breathtaking Gilgit-Baltistan.
Yak and Bull Cafe Skardu
9.4 km
Discover the flavors of Skardu at Yak and Bull Cafe - where authentic cuisine meets cozy ambiance.
Cafe De North
10.0 km
Discover delicious meals and breathtaking views at Cafe De North, the perfect family-friendly restaurant in Skardu's stunning landscape.
Food Street Apixoq
10.0 km
Discover the flavors of Gilgit-Baltistan at Food Street Apixoq – a vibrant culinary haven in Skardu offering authentic Pakistani cuisine.
Mezbaan Restaurant & Catering
10.1 km
Experience authentic Gilgit-Baltistani flavors at Mezbaan Restaurant & Catering in Skardu – where culinary tradition meets stunning mountain views.
Hotel Reego
10.2 km
Experience unparalleled comfort at Hotel Reego in Skardu - your gateway to adventure in Gilgit-Baltistan's stunning landscapes.
Arish Luxury Suites
10.3 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Arish Luxury Suites in Skardu – your gateway to adventure in nature's paradise.
Deliso
10.3 km
Discover Deliso in Skardu: A unique cloud kitchen offering delicious local and international cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.
Chaiology Skardu
10.4 km
Experience authentic Pakistani flavors at Chaiology Skardu, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking mountain views.
wok chef
10.5 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors at Wok Chef in Aliabad, Skardu - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking scenery.
The Food Corridor
10.5 km
Discover Skardu's vibrant culinary scene at The Food Corridor – where family-friendly dining meets exquisite flavors.
Krakarom Restaurant and Tikka Center
10.6 km
Experience authentic Pakistani flavors at Krakarom Restaurant & Tikka Center in Skardu – where delicious meets affordable.
Cool Hill restaurant Skardu
10.6 km
Experience authentic Pakistani cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Cool Hill Restaurant in Skardu.
BFC
10.7 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Skardu at BFC - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a vibrant market setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shazday Fruits
5.3 km
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salajeet.online
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Al Baraka Books skardu
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High Mountain Shop Skardu
10.0 km
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Shagri Bala Cloth House
10.0 km
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Utility Store
10.1 km
Discover the Utility Store in Skardu for a unique shopping experience that blends local culture with convenience, perfect for every traveler.
CSD Skardu
10.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of CSD Skardu Market, where local crafts, delicious food, and vibrant culture converge in the heart of Skardu.
Askari Plaza
10.3 km
Explore local flavors and essential goods at Askari Plaza, Skardu's vibrant supermarket in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Ali Handicafts
10.4 km
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Mondoq Palace
10.4 km
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Karakorum Adventures
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Long Life Mountaineering Equipment Shop Skardu
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Bismillah Dry Fruit
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Musa's Collection and Boutique Centre
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Peridot Super Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Indus Lodges Skardu
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The Northern Cultural Foods Street Skardu
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Hassan Hussain Restaurant
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BB Student Biryani And Bar BQ Center
10.6 km
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Taste point skardu
11.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Skardu at Taste Point, where every dish tells a story of local heritage and culinary excellence.
Rising star Cricket club
13.0 km
Immerse yourself in the local cricket culture at Rising Star Cricket Club in Skardu, the ultimate sports bar experience in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Sundus Guest House Skardu
13.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skardu at Sundus Guest House, where family-friendly comfort meets adventure in the heart of the mountains.
Nazara Hotel & Boating service
31.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Upper Kachura Lake at Nazara Hotel & Boating Service, where adventure meets culinary delight.
Khadim resort
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Discover the flavors of Pakistan at Khadim Resort, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking views of Upper Kachura Lake in Skardu.
Arshad house
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Discover the unique charm of Arshad House, a cozy bar in Ghorikot, Gilgit-Baltistan, perfect for unwinding with local beverages and stunning views.
Rama Valley Hutt
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Discover the beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan at Rama Valley Hutt, a serene hotel retreat surrounded by nature's splendor.
AVR Hotel & Restaurant
93.7 km
Discover the flavors of Gilgit-Baltistan at AVR Hotel & Restaurant, where stunning views meet delectable dishes in a serene setting.
