Tour Description
Journey through the living heritage of Baltistan — “Little Tibet” — where ancient Buddhist rock carvings, centuries-old forts and royal palaces sit beneath the snow giants of the Karakoram. Raikot Tours’ Baltistan Heritage & Buddhist Trail is a gentle cultural odyssey through Skardu, Shigar and Khaplu, tracing the region’s Silk Road and Buddhist past alongside its warm Balti hospitality.
From the 7th-century Manthal Buddha Rock to the restored Shigar Fort and the majestic Khaplu Palace, this tour reveals a side of the mountains few travellers ever see — perfect for culture lovers, photographers and families.
Key Points
- Region: Skardu, Shigar & Khaplu — Baltistan
- Theme: Heritage, Buddhist history & Balti culture
- Duration: 8 Days (Islamabad to Islamabad)
- Difficulty: Easy — comfortable, low-altitude touring
- Best Season: April – October
- Highlights: Manthal Buddha Rock, Kharpocho Fort, Shigar Fort, Khaplu Palace, Nansoq organic village
Tour Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrive Islamabad — welcome and briefing.
Day 2: Fly to Skardu; evening at leisure by the Indus.
Day 3: Skardu — Kharpocho Fort, Manthal Buddha Rock, Skardu bazaar.
Day 4: Shangrila & Upper Kachura Lakes; Balti village life.
Day 5: Drive to Shigar — Shigar Fort (Serena) and old wooden mosque.
Day 6: Drive to Khaplu — Khaplu Palace and Chaqchan Mosque; Nansoq organic village.
Day 7: Return to Skardu; fly to Islamabad (weather buffer).
Day 8: Islamabad sightseeing and departure.