Skardu is a town in Gilgit-Baltistan region which has long been the main tourist and trekking base to the western Karakoram range. A place for all the nature lovers and adrenaline junkies, offering snow-caped large altitudes to see-through pools. Close, Climbers also arrive aboard treks to these peaks like Baltoro Glacier trek and K2 Base Camp trek. In addition to the land scapes Skardu is blessed with rich culture full of colours and local festivals ans wovation music. Get ready to immerse yourself in this mesmerizing world and embark on the most thrilling escapade
Culture
The culture of Skardu is a colourful tapestry crafted with plentiful traditions and the age-old custom of generous hospitality. The Shandor Polo Festival and Navroz are local festivals conservation at the hand of this cultural area. This is a spectacle of the Shandor Polo Festival, which takes place on the top 9th highest polo ground in the world where fast-paced matches are played against majestic backdrop amidst traditional music and dances along with local delicacies etc. Whereas Navroz, celebrated on or around 21 March, is a day for family reunion and feasting that also represents the look of spring.
Skardu also has a rich folklore with its own unique type of music. To enhance the cultural spectrum of Skardu tradition handicrafts, delicious local food and snacks make visits a lot more interesting as well. The folks of Skardu dress in pretty traditional clothes that part the vivid culture demonstrated withinside-and-this-side.
Adventure Awaits
Skardu is a complete treat for adrenaline junkies! In the area are a large number of leisure activities, such as trekking or hiking and even rock climbing -or paragliding. Trek to some of the iconic trekking route know as K2 Base Camp Trek, Baltar Glacier Trek, Hushed Valley Treks and Nanga Parbat Ice Wall & Footprints provide a fascinating experience amidst Karakoram range.
Tips for Hiking
Having an insight of the tough K2 Base Camp trek is very important to prepare oneself for a successful adventure. Specific training cues are:
1. Endurance: Get on that treadmill, stairs and run to increase your stamina for long treks.
2. Strength Training: For leg strength, core strength and upper body do exercises such as squats, lunges, planks.
3. Altitude Training: Introduce altitude training opportunities to make your body get used to the high altitudes and cut down on risks of height sickness as much as you can.
4. Hiking Training: Get plenty of miles under your boots on varied terrain while carrying a weighted pack to prepare for the physical demands of trekking.
5. Psychological readiness: Start by visualizing success and do not lose sight of what you are aiming for.
Traditional Dances in The Celebration of Culture
Skardu, being a city full of picturesque views also holds a strong cultural background which is most probably viewed through its traditional dances. At the festivals, weddings and fairs you will find lively ballet
Balti Dance
Balti Dance — The Baltistan region gives place to another dance common natural piece of the colourful attire and rhythmic movements are seen in this lively activity And so we enjoy a joyous celebration of dancers who come together and embody the spirit of unity in Baltojung village.
Shimshal Dance
Coming from the Shimshal Valley, this cultural display is an eye-catcher as well with its name being the Shimshal Dance. The dance is performed during festivals and comprises of synchronised movements. The traditional attire provides a sense of identity to the community. It is a beautiful joy of being together and you will not be able to help but feel spell-bound.
Chilam Joshi Dance
Chilam Joshi Dance is a colourful dance performed by Kalash people at the time of Chilam Joshi festival. The Costume Participants wear colourful costumes and beaded shells around their bodies, perform dance steps within drum sounds; creates a lively community built on the theme of renewal behind.
Ideal Time to Go in Skardu
The best skiing and mountaineering trip to Skardu is to visit it in the summer days from June up till September. Regardless of the season though, you can always expect visiting during this period that offers more pleasant conditions (hence better for scenic shots) with milder weather and clearer skies. Remember to dress for the weather (the climate can change quickly) and enjoy how incredibly beautiful it is out there on those trails.
Accommodations and Camping
Planning your stay, there is accommodation ranging from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotels for all types of preferences. Stay: Camping: Make your stay memorable by camping under the stars at Fairy Meadows, a way to enjoy breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and come close with nature. Baltistan, with its never-ending beauty can be a lil piece of heaven for your memorable memories.
To summarize whether you are after some adventure and a little bit of thrill in the K2 Base Camp trek or just wanting to wander around scenic Hushe Valley, Skardu provides all kinds experiences that is only right for this heart-warming blending between nature’s spectacle with rich cultural background. Get ready for an unforgettable tour to this magical land of Pakistan.
Fruits main source of Income
Gilgit-Baltistan is world known for its tasty fresh & dry fruits. The valley grows variety of fruits including apricot, apple, almond, pear, cherry and walnut.
Muhmmad Ayub, a local resident from Skardu, said fruit is our main source of income as the region yields huge volumes fresh and dry fruits.
There are some people making good money even in the summer tourist season, however.
Islamabad, the present capital, was constructed in the 1960s to replace Karachi. The area had been mostly used for agriculture and was a part of Punjab province prior to then. A number of causes led to the decision to build a new capital: first, to give complete access amenities for the government site; second, to lessen the administrative load in Karachi; and third, as a possible course of action for national integration strategy.
Nowadays, Islamabad has gained recognition for its natural beauty and greener atmosphere due to the abundance of parks and the stunning Margalla Hill to the north of the city. In addition to housing several significant government offices and foreign embassies, it serves as Pakistan’s political and administrative capital and is home to numerous vital federal institutions. The city’s extensive contemporary educational and infrastructure amenities blend in perfectly with Pakistanis’ tendency to be both culturally conservative and inherently intelligent.
Must See Attractions
If you want to travel Islamabad and have an interest to visit the most beautiful attractions of this capital city of Pakistan, then I will suggest these beautiful places to visit.
1- Faisal Masjid
The Faisal Mosque which is one of the beloved asset and atypical design in itself. Constructed by Turkish architect Vedat Dal okay, the mosque is a remarkable example of modernist design, distinguished by its distinct tent shape combined with four sharp minarets rising to a height of almost 40 meters. The white marble of the mosque glints in the sunlight, creating the impression of cleanliness. The enormous prayer hall indoors, which can accommodate up to 100,000 worshippers (this year, the capacity is barely hundreds due to the epidemic), is decorated with intricate geometric patterns and has enormous chandeliers that create a stately yet serene ambiance. The mosque is surrounded by lovely, well-kept grounds with reflecting ponds and fountains that offer tranquilly and breathtaking views.
2. Daman-e-Koh
Islamabad, home to the Capital View Point of Daman-e-Koh. At a height surround by the Majestic Margalla Hills National Park, this is perfect because it gives you an actual breath of fresh air away from that Daily Divas Hustle. This viewpoint has decent walk paths and park benches that attract a lot of city dwellers as well tourists. The panoramic views (especially breathtaking during a sunset) all across the cityscape below, can be best enjoyed from Daman-e-Koh. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surrounding makes it a perfect place to take some time out to relaxation.
3. Pakistan Monument
It goes without saying that every Pakistani should advocate visiting the monument, which serves as a reminder of our country, unity, and heritage with its exquisite design of blossoming flowers. The Pakistan Monument is located in Islamabad. The provinces of Confederation are represented by the three smaller petals, which stand for the territories of Canada, and the four bigger, pointed, northward petals, which are capped with points of the compass (Northwest Territories). When combined, they represent harmony throughout all of Canada. A beautifully designed garden honouring Pakistan and symbolising our history and culture has been constructed next to the monument. The monument’s meaning is contextualised by a museum next door that offers an overview of the country.
4. Lok Virsa Museum
Lok Virsa Museum the collection of traditional crafts and ethnic handicrafts from all throughout Indonesia is on display in the museum. POTS AND PAN TRY TO SHOW CULTURE BEHIND THIS; IT IS A CLUMPSY WAY OF DOING A COLLAGE. THESE ARE OLD ARTEFACTS OR PAKISTANI ANTIQUES. This montage illustrates how the museum can seem from various perspectives while giving the impression of the cosmos rather than reality. Furthermore, it provided insight into Pakistan’s extensive, a millennium-old cultural heritage. The Lok Virsa Museum, one of the most significant cultural organisations committed to promoting and conserving art styles indigenous to about one region of Pakistan, is situated in Islamabad, the country’s capital.
5. Shakar Parian Hills
Situated inside the boundaries of Pakistan’s Islamabad You may see a broad overview of the whole city and its environs from Shakar Parian Hills. This is a very tidy, grassy place that offers peaceful surroundings for your visit. Examining a monument that was most likely built during Chinese President Zhuang Zemin’s 1995 visit is typical. The hills in this area make it a popular place for hikes, picnics, and other outdoor activities. Because of its altitude location, photography of Islamabad and the Margalla Hills is superb.
1. Margalla Hills National Park
2. Rawal Lake
3. Centaurus Mall
4. Saidpur Village
5. Pakistan Museum of Natural History
6. Lake View Park
7. Rose and Jasmine Gardens
8. Saidpur Village
9. Margalla Hills
These are also the top attractions of Islamabad that makes this city very stunning
Culture of Islamabad
Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, was designed and developed to have both a distinct character and to mix in with influences from across the world. The city is well-known for housing a sizable number of foreign diplomats and white-collar workers from the public and private sectors; other communities include diplomats, media professionals, and multinational business employees, who confront difficulties such as scarce housing alternatives. The abundance of cultural events and festivals that are held throughout the year is striking proof of this variety. Food festivals are one instance of this, showcasing the diverse range of flavours and cuisines from the various countries that now call this town home.
Cuisine of Islamabad
Islamabad is a multicultural city, hence the food featured both foreign and traditional Pakistani foods. The following foods are commonly eaten: Chapli Kebab (spicy ground meat patties), Halwa Poori (deep-fried flatbread with sweet semolina), Nihari (a slow-cooked meat stew), and various types of rice, such as pulao and biryani.
Market and Shopping’s:
The greatest locations to shop in Islamabad include both traditional bazaars and large malls. Blue Area: This area consists of business districts with stores, eateries, and Wi-Fi-equipped services. There are several shopping centres with both domestic and foreign brands, such Centaurus Mall and Safa Gold Mall. Additionally, there are a few neighbourhood shopping centres with a large selection of items, such Jinnah Super Market and Aab Para Market.
What about Weather and Best time to go in Islamabad
The three main seasons in Islamabad are spring, summer, and winter, with occasional transitions in between. The city has a humid subtropical climate. Forecasts indicate that Islamabad’s summertime temperatures will be milder. The best time to go in Islamabad is late September or early November when the weather is usually clear and the temperature is acceptable. The weather in early October is great, with mostly temperate temperatures. But monsoon rains in July and August might cause travel delays.
Accommodations: Accommodations are available in Islamabad from luxury hotels to guesthouses on a different budget.
Some of the top cheap hotels in Islamabad as per various categories can be rated on —
Hotel in Rawalpindi
Hotel H6 – This hotel offers affordable accommodations and is popular among travellers looking for budget options.
Villa Vista Suites – Another economical choice, Villa Vista Suites provides comfortable stays at a reasonable price.
Hotel in Islamabad
Islamabad Travelodge Guest House – Located near Islamabad International Airport, this guest house offers budget-friendly rates for travellers
1. Zaib Guest House for Families – Situated in E-11 Islamabad, this guest house is known for its family-friendly environment and affordable pricing.
2. Citymax Hotel – This hotel on I.J.P. Road provides economical lodging options with good amenities
Why Islamabad Should Be on Your Travel List
The reason is that Islamabad offers
Stunning Natural Landscapes
Architectural Marvels
Cultural and Historical Riches
Culinary Delights
Modern Amenities and Ease of Travel
Its culinary delights and modern amenities enhance the travel experience, making it a great option to travel in Islamabad
Conclusion:
To sum up, Islamabad holds the perfect blend of nature, culture and mordern lifestyle which makes it one of best places to visit not just only for adventure lovers but also foodies. The attractive architecture of the Faisal Mosque and the mesmerizing Daman-e-Koh panorama are a few attractions that make Islamabad delightful for everyone.
There is a modicum of autonomy but it remains an administrative region like that in Azad Jammu and Kashmir too. It is in the north of Pakistan, and shares a border with Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir to the immediate southeast. Though AJK has a president and prime minister of its own, it is still technically under the authority of Pakistan.
The area is famous as it has a lot of natural landscapes to offer like the rivers, mountains and green valleys. It is the CM of Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Being home to a rich culture, tradition and distinct language that is spoken by farmers from the Punjab province and locally-born linguists/Muhajirs, AJK has quite high populations in two divisions of it going into agriculture and tourism business respectively.
Political history is complexly linked to the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan, with both countries participating in a long-standing dispute over its status. The region is central to a longstanding dispute over the neighbouring Kashmir valley. As a part of self-governing state, but also one whose political situation is too closely intertwined with broader Kashmir opportunity.
Beautiful Attractions of Azad Kashmir
1. Neelum Valley
Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan -Unbelievably beautiful location of Neelum Valley. It has beautiful natural surroundings like tall mountains, lush green valleys and clear rivers. For nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and people wanting to relax in the lap of greenery around serene environment valley town offers life. Neelum Valley is quite popular for its rich green forests, crystal-clear streams of pure water and rivers as well as hills lakes from typical landscapes to beautiful spots.
2. Muzaffarabad
Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is situated about 84 km from Islamabad; above sea level on the junction point of River Neelum and Jehlum. A city buzzing with a rich history and culture, surrounded by the most amazing scenery in Spain.
It is a blend of history with sites such as Red Fort (Chak fort), Pir Chinasi alongside scenic beauty like the confluence point where Jhelum and Neelum rivers meet. Be it energetically strolling the historical sites, relishing mouth watering cuisine or admiring beauty and charm of nature at every footstep- Muzaffarabad beckons all.
3. Rawalakot
Rawalakot is a beautiful town of Azad Kashmir, due to its natural beauty it attracts tourists. It is frequently referred to as the “Pearl Valley” due to its beautiful scenery and abundance of green cover in very calm environment. Rawalakot is such a place to find peace forme city life and busy routines, where everything called as natural beauty. Rawalakot is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers as it offers you diverse landscapes with lush green forests to rolling hills.
4. Ratti Gali Lake
Ratti Gali Lake, an alpine glacial lake in Azad Kashmir located near Neelum Valley is a wonderful place. The picturesque blue waters are wrapped around lush green meadows amidst snow-capped Himalayan mountains — a hidden gem. The journey to Ratti Gali Lake is the adventure you crave, with these that looks so wow from far away,I’ll say it was worth the trek. Whether you have a soft corner for the trek, nature photography or want to go on tranquility seeking advisable of it all then Ratti Gali lake is one good place to visit.
5. Toli Pir
Toli Pir is situated in Tehsil Rawalakot which lies abode an area of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Not only does it have some of the best panorama views over valleys and mountains in the surrounding area but it is a haven for all nature enthusiast or keen mountain goat.
It has green land all around with pleasant breeze The 2nd night stay /Punjab House and Toli Pir offers a peaceful break away escape from busy day life.
6. Pir Chinasi
Another tourist spot in Azad Kashmir is Pir Chinasi – a place that holds incredible views of scope and peaceful solitude. Muzaffarabad: Pir chinasi lies near muzafferabad and offers her eye catching view with surrounding mountains, valleys shores & beauty of the area. The journey to Pir Chinasi is beautiful in itself as the winding road and lush green surroundings make it nothing short of a pleasant ride. The top is offering you gorgeous views which make it an ideal spot for nature lovers along with photographers and a soothing environment in the mountains.
7. Ramkot Fort
Ramkot Fort is an ancient fort on the banks of Mangla Dam in Azad Kashmir. An interesting place to be with a lot of history which shows in the ruins and architecture. The fort is situated just by the side of the dam, serene water all around make it a great viewpoint.
8. Keran
Keran is a lovely village situated beside the Neelum River in AJ&K The area is prized for its picturesque character, complete with natural landscape and clear river waters parting gently through the village. Keran- A serene place to visit in midst of mother nature With the stunning view around with mountain in the background and sound of a river flowing, it makes you sit back relax and get touch nature.
9. Banjosa Lake
It is a calm, beautiful lake we have got in our region; located near Rawalakot of Azad Kashmir. It is a well known place for people who love nature, and wish to relax and enjoy the majestic beauty of its surroundings. Perched in the middle of sequestered green hills, Banjosa Lake has a tranquil ambience to it perfect for those leisurely strolls around or whether you have come here only to boat around and gulp down the beautiful views.
Weather and Climate of Azad Kashmir
Azad Jammu and Kashmir, in the winters (from December to February), are often painfully cold at higher altitudes. Areas such as Neelum Valley and Muzaffarabad are covered in heavy snow, making the entire region a winter wonderland. Bring warm clothes to the drafty elevations where nights drop well below freezing. Anyhow, summer (June to August) is cool throughout in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Weather is very pleasant and you will experience a cool atmosphere, which has made the well-known valleys of Azad Kashmir such as Rawalakot and Keran to be ideal for hiking experiences. The weather is generally sunny, at a comfortable to warm temperature and if you are interested in exploring the natural beauty of the area, this could be an ideal time.
Local Culture and Cuisine
The local culture of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is as diverse as its history reflecting the traditions. Check Out Some Inquisitive of Local Culture and Cuisine
1. Culture:
Hospitality: The inhabitants of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, are famous for their hospitable behavior with the public to other members.
Music and Dance: Folk music forms an inseparable part of the culture with performances and instruments which are a mix of conventional ones, blended into colorful dances.
2. Cuisine:
Kashmiri Cuisine:The cuisine found in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is greatly inspired by the kashkari cuisine that also come from rich flavors and arromatic spces.
Wazwan: JAMMU AND KASHMIR – Originated from Kashmiri, it is a multi-course meal hijacked especially during occasions of ceremony It affects your health in various way as Wazwaan includes two to three include mainly Chicken Lamb Fish Beef etc.source(Data stolen).JsonProperty.
Kashmiri Tea (Noon Chai): Pink salt tea, a beverage of the region.
Kashmiri Bread (Kandahari Naan) — A kind of specific bread baked in tandoor and savored generally with regional dishes.
Adventure Activities
Azad Jammu and Kashmir is a vibrant place offering many adventure pursuits to spoil the thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Some of the activities you can do in that region include;
1. Trekking & Hiking: To explore the scenic beauty of Azad Jammu, and Kashmir go for trekking or hiking in appropriate valleys. It is home to trails such as the Neelum valley trek which overlooks these crystal-clear valleys in a lush green surrounding with snowy peaks encompassing them on all sides.
2. White-Water Rafting: Go for the Riveres but they also have a lot on white-water and experience it yourself with rivers like Neelum), Jhelum And, those flowing waters are a visual delight and one can definitely feel the rush riding over them.
3. Paragliding: Take on the valleys and mountains of Azad Jammu & Kashmir in brave paragliding encounters.With the sun on your face and wind in hair, you fly high across from a bird’s perspective over sensational landscapes.
4. Night Camping: Relax under an open sky in Azad Jammu and Kashmir by setting a camp at places like Ratti Gali Lake or Arang Kel. Relax in bucolic rural surroundings.
5. Rock Climbing: Experience the thrill of a lifetime and break out from your comfort zone with exciting offerings in Muzaffarabad. It provides diverse rock structures for climbing lovers.
Mountain View Deluxe Luxury suite
1. Pearl Continental Hotel Bhurban, 5-star hotel with luxury facilities and beautiful view of the mountains; a wonderful location for those tourists who prefer scenic beauty.
For a luxury stay with mountain views: $150-$300 per night
2. Neelum View Hotel Sharda: This boutique hotel is located close to Neelum River and offers opulent rooms with the view of lush green mountains that will surely make you closer this enthralling area.
Price-ranges for premiums room with amazing mountains views 100$ to 200$.
Not only is this a luxury property with mountain sights as far as the eye can see, it makes for an incredible place to stay.
Reasonable Accomodation Options
Located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir All you need is to find affordable guest houses, hostels or budget-friendly hotels that offer comfort similar without spending a lot. Please see the following paths that may suit you:
1. Neelum Valley Guest House: A warm guesthouse located in the picturesque Neelum Valley where budget rooms with stunning views of surrounding mountains are available.
20$ to 50$ per Night that will save your bucks for wanderlust accommodation as you travel.
2. Jhelum Riverside Hostel — This budget hostel beside the Jhelum River is ideal for backpackers or travelers who wants a no-frills, yet safe and comfortable place to stay.
Cost: $10–$30 per evening for essential digs (a fantastic, inexpensive technique if you would like to wish in order).
Shopping in Azad Kashmir
Azad Jammu and Kashmir has a rich diversity of products which serve as souvenirs from the region. Some popular souvenirs to take back with you.
1. Pashmina shawls, soft and warm, are a luxurious souvenir of your moments spent in the hills.
2. Handicrafts–Look out for fine woodwork and papier-mâché items that reflect some of the finest handiwork in kashmir.
3. Kashmir saffron is widely regarded as one of the best varietals across the earth. For food connoisseurs and people who want to put a touch of that unique kashmiri flavor into what they cook at home this intelligent gift might be just right.
4. Kashmiri Tea Sets: Take Kashmir for example; you may bring a lovely-cut tea set with cups and kettles back to Kashmir in your home, so that provides changed into exercising spa cashmere hospitality at domestic.
These also not only serve as great mementos but allow you to support local artists and businesses.
Best Time To Visit
The best Time for Azad Jammu and Kashmir is most often in a from April to September spring-summer. There is blooming flowers, green gardens and bright sunny skies around without the coldirt weather or even too much of warm. If you are heading to some regions with heavy winter snowfall, the harshness of winter can close-off roads and limit access. Your trip to Azad Jammu and Kashmir is not even worth it if you do not visit during its best months.
