Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, is situated on the banks of the mighty river Indus, just 8 km above its confluence with the river Shigar. Around it are high peaks, deep gorges and some of the most beautiful mountain scenery on the planet.
During the summer, Skardu attracts a large number of trekkers and mountaineers from all parts of the world. In fact, the entire region is known as mountaineers' paradise. Nowhere in the world does one find such a large collection of lofty peaks, including K-2 the world's second highest peak, and huge glaciers like Baltoro, Biafo and Siachen, some of the largest in the world outside the Polar region, as in this 16,283 square km (10,118 square miles) of wonderland. The classic trek to K2 Base Camp up the Baltoro glacier starts from villages a few hours' drive northeast.
There are five main valleys in the district Baltistan, Shigar, Khaplu, Rondu, Skardu and Kharmang. All of them produce apricots, peaches, pears and apples in such profusion that this region is known as the land of apricots and apples. In Skardu itself, the Kharpocho fort above the town and the Manthal Buddha Rock at the south edge of the valley are the main historical sights, with Satpara and Upper Kachura the most popular lakes. The high Deosai Plateau south of Skardu is one of the great summer destinations of the region.