Skardu: The Gem of the Karakoram Range

• Helloآداب
  [aadab]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [khuda hafiz]
• Yesہاں
  [haan]
• Noنہیں
  [nahin]
• Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم
  [barah e karam]
• Thank youشکریہ
  [shukriya]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کیجیے
  [maaf kijiye]
• How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
  [theek hoon. aap?]
• Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap angrezi boltay hain?]
• I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آیا
  [mujhe samajh nahi aya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
  [barah e karam menu dekhna chahta hoon]
• I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [mein gosht nahi khaata]
• Cheers!خوش رہو
  [khush raho]
• I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم میں ادا کرنا چاہتا ہوں
  [barah e karam mein ada karna chahta hoon]

• Help!مدد کرو!
  [madad karo!]
• Go away!چلے جاؤ!
  [chale jao!]
• Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
  [police ko bulao!]
• Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
  [doctor ko bulao!]
• I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
  [mein gum ho gaya hoon]
• I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [mein bemar hoon]

• I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں
  [mein khareedna chahta hoon]
• I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
  [mein sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?یہ کتنا ہے؟
  [ye kitna hai?]
• That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [ye bohat mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
  [waqt kya hua hai?]
• It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [aik baje hain]
• Half past (10)دس بج کر پندرہ منٹ ہوں
  [das baj kar pandra mint hoon]
• Morningصبح
  [subah]
• Afternoonدوپہر
  [dopehar]
• Eveningشام
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayکل
  [kal]
• Todayآج
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowکل
  [kal]
• 1ایک
  [aik]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3تین
  [teen]
• 4چار
  [chaar]
• 5پانچ
  [paanch]
• 6چھ
  [chhe]
• 7سات
  [saat]
• 8آٹھ
  [aath]
• 9نو
  [no]
• 10دس
  [das]

• Where's a/the...?...کہاں ہے؟
  [...kahan hai?]
• What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap mujhe dikhha sakte hain?]
• When's the next (bus)?اگلی (باس) کب ہے؟
  [agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (تک ...)
  [aik ticket (tak ...)]

Skardu, nestled in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Archaeological findings suggest that the region was inhabited during the Bronze Age. The early settlers were believed to be of Tibetan and Central Asian descent, contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.

Skardu was an important center for Buddhism during the early centuries CE. The region is dotted with ancient Buddhist rock carvings and stupas, signifying its historical significance. One notable site is the Manthal Buddha Rock, which features a large image of Buddha carved into a granite boulder, dating back to the 8th century.

The 14th century marked the arrival of Islam in Skardu, brought by Sufi missionaries from Persia and Central Asia. The region gradually embraced Islam, which significantly influenced its culture, architecture, and way of life. The Chaqchan Mosque in Khaplu, built in 1370, is a testament to this era and remains one of the oldest mosques in the region.

From the 15th to the 19th century, Skardu was ruled by the Maqpon Dynasty. This period was marked by the construction of several forts and palaces, including the iconic Skardu Fort (Kharpocho Fort) and the Shigar Fort. The Maqpons were instrumental in uniting the various tribes of the region and establishing Skardu as a significant political and cultural hub.

In the mid-19th century, Skardu came under the influence of the British Empire as part of its larger colonial administration in the Indian subcontinent. The British period saw the introduction of modern education and infrastructure, although the region retained much of its traditional culture and autonomy.

Post-independence, Skardu became part of Pakistan in 1947. The region has since developed into a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning landscapes, including the majestic Karakoram Range, the serene Shangrila Lake, and the Deosai National Park. Skardu continues to be a melting pot of cultures, with a rich heritage that attracts history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Skardu is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Shandoor Polo Festival and the Nowruz celebrations. These events showcase the region's unique traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. The local Balti culture, with its distinct language and customs, adds to the area's charm and allure.

Skardu is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. The nearest international airport is Islamabad International Airport. From Islamabad, you can take a domestic flight to Skardu Airport. Flights are subject to weather conditions and can be delayed or canceled. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway and Skardu Road, a journey that takes around 20-24 hours. Private taxis and buses are available for this route.

Within Skardu, you can use local taxis, which are the most convenient mode of transportation for tourists. Auto-rickshaws are also available for shorter distances. For a more immersive experience, you can hire a jeep to explore the rugged terrain and remote areas. Buses and minibuses operate between Skardu and nearby towns and villages. Renting a car is another option, but be prepared for challenging driving conditions.

The official currency in Skardu is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and rural areas. ATMs are available in Skardu, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote locations, as ATM services can be unreliable.

Skardu is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas, but it is always best to stay vigilant. Be cautious when trekking or hiking, as the terrain can be challenging and weather conditions can change rapidly.

In case of emergency, dial 15 for police assistance or 1122 for medical emergencies. Skardu has a local police station and medical facilities, including a district hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Skardu where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques and shrines. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Skardu like a local, visit the local bazaars where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Skardu Fort and the beautiful Shangrila Resort. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Satpara Lake. If you enjoy trekking, the Deosai National Park offers stunning landscapes and wildlife.