Shigar, Gilgit-Baltistan
ShigarTravel Guide: Hotels, Car Rental & Tours
Shigar is a green valley about 30 km north of Skardu. Its 17th-century fort palace, restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is one of the landmark heritage stays of Baltistan.
The valley is also the road head for Askole, where the trek up the Baltoro Glacier to K2 Base Camp and Concordia begins.
Shigar at a glance
- From Skardu
- About 30 km, under 1 hour
- Altitude
- About 2,250 m
- Best time
- April–October
- Gateway to
- Askole, Baltoro Glacier, K2 Base Camp
Things to do in Shigar
Shigar Fort (Fong Khar)
The “palace on the rock”, a restored royal residence now run as a heritage hotel and museum.
Sarfaranga Cold Desert
High-altitude sand dunes on the way from Skardu, used for jeep rallies.
Blind Lake
A small, clear lake in the valley, a short drive from Shigar town.
Amburiq Mosque
A small historic wooden mosque in Shigar.
Best time to visit Shigar
April to October. Treks to K2 run in June to August.
How to get to Shigar
Shigar is under an hour from Skardu by road. Jeeps continue to Askole for treks.
Travel tips
- Visit as a day trip from Skardu or stay a night at the fort.
Car rental in Shigar
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Shigar FAQs
How far is Shigar from Skardu?
About 30 km, less than an hour by road.
Is Shigar on the way to K2?
Yes. The road to Askole, the start of the K2 Base Camp trek, runs through Shigar valley.