Khaplu Valley

Table of Contents

Introduction to Khaplu Valley OR Shyok Valley

In this article you will discover the charm of the Khaplu Valley, nestled in the northern region of Pakistan, and discover its enticing landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Discover the secrets of this hidden gem with its majestic mountains, serene rivers, and charming villages. Khaplu Valley OR Shyok Valley is located in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is situated above sea level at an altitude of 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) and is surrounded by the mountain range called Karakoram. Khaplu is known for its amazing sceneries, ancient forts and cultural heritage. Khaplu is also a popular destination for outdoor fans.

The town is surrounded by a number of trekking trails and visitors can also go fishing in the Shyok River. If you are interested in culture, history, or nature then I am sure that you are to find something to enjoy in Khaplu Pakistan. This valley is a relatively small town, so it is easy to get around on foot.

History

Khaplu valley was discovered by a local ruler named Yabgo Raja of Khaplu in the 14th century. That’s why the town was renamed Khaplu. Number of theories about Khaplu valley that how it was discovered. One theory is that the Raja was hunting in the area when he came across the town. Another theory is that the Raja was looking for a new place to build his capital city.

Religion of People

The majority people in Khaplu Pakistan are Muslims of the Shia sect. But also a small minority of Sunni Muslims and Hindus. The Hindus in Shyok valley are mostly Kashmiri Pandits that migrated from the Kashmir Valley to Baltistan in the 19th century. But all people in this town live together in harmony and respect each other’s beliefs.

Location & Route

Khaplu or Shyok valley is located in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. It is the administrative capital of the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, which is the northernmost region of Pakistan. Skardu to Khaplu distance is 111 km and it can take almost 3 hours to drive from Skardu to Khaplu. From Skardu to Khaplu you should start by heading north on Kargil-Skardu Road and continue on Kargil-Skardu Road for about 80 km. Then turn left onto Shyok River Valley Rd. and continue on Shyok River Valley Road for about 31 km. You will arrive in Khaplu.

Little Tibbet

Khaplu or Shyok valley is also known as Little Tibet. Because of its cultural and linguistic similarities to Tibet. Majority of the people in this town speak Balti language, which is a Tibetic language. The nickname “Little Tibet” is also used to describe the entire Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan because it has a strong Tibetan influence. And more interesting is that Gilgit-Baltistan was once part of the Tibetan Empire and it was ruled by Tibetan kings for centuries.

Khaplu Weather

The weather in Khaplu valley is cold and dry. The temperature in the winter is from -10°C to 5°C and in the summer is from 15°C to 25°C. However, there is a chance of snowfall in the winter and rainfall is heavy in the spring and summer.

Best Time to Visit Khaplu

The best time to visit Khaplu valley is during the spring (April to June) and the autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild.

Attractive Destinations to Explore

A captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural charm awaits you at these destinations in Khaplu Valley.

Khaplu Palace

This palace was built by Yabgo Raja Daulat Ali Khan in 1840 and he was the ruler of Khaplu at that time. It is one of the great existing examples of a royal residence in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is a 19th-century fort and royal residence and is known for its amazing architecture and beautiful gardens.

The palace was constructed with the help of Kashmiri and Balti craftsmen.Four-story building built with timber, mud bricks, clay, and soil mortar. It has an inner small courtyard and a larger garden. Khaplu Palace is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public to visit. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Gilgit-Baltistan and admire the palace’s architecture and gardens.

Some interesting facts about Khaplu fort are here:

Site Chosen Story:

It is an interesting story about how they choose the site of this palace. They rolled a large stone from a nearby cliff and the stone came to stop at that site and was interpreted as a sign that this location was fortunate.

Dogra Invasion:

Once this palace had a large collection of royal antiquities including paintings, carpets, and jewelry. But many of these antiquities were looted during the Dogra invasion in the 19th century.

Restoration:

This palace was again restored in the 1990s by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan. It took several years to complete and repair the palace’s architecture, gardens, and interiors.

Palace Museum:

Palace Museum is a museum located inside the Khaplu Palace and was established in 2011, after its restoration. The museum’s collection includes a variety of Paintings, Carpets, Jewelry and Weapons. It is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM seven days a week and entry to the museum is free.

Palace Hotel:

Khaplu Palace Hotel is a member of the Serena Hotels group including a restaurant and located within the Khaplu Palace. It has a variety of room types and all decorated in a traditional Balti style. The rooms also have modern amenities including free Wi-Fi. They have a number of dining options and also serve traditional Balti cuisine, as well as have a bar that serves a variety of drinks.

Chaqchan Mosque

The Chaqchan Mosque is a 17th century mosque located in the town. It is one of the oldest mosques in Gilgit-Baltistan and is popular for its unique architecture and beautiful surroundings. The mosque was built by Yabgo Raja Ali Sher Khan in 1647 and was constructed with the help of Kashmiri and Balti craftsmen.

It is a two-story building built with timber, mud bricks, clay, and soil mortar. It has an inner small courtyard and a larger garden. The Chaqchan Mosque is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public for prayers and visits.

The Chaqchan Mosque is 1.6 km far from the Khaplu Valley. It will take 7 minutes’ drive from the valley to the Mosque.

Some interesting facts about the Chaqchan Mosque:

The mosque is built on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the Shyok River and the Karakoram Mountains.

The mosque has a wooden roof and is supported by massive wooden pillars which are considered to be one of the great examples of Balti woodworking.

The mosque’s interior is decorated with a variety of paintings.

Kharfaq Lake

Kharfaq Lake is a high altitude natural lake located in the Karakoram mountain range in Kharfaq. The lake is known for its natural water, amazing scenery and trout fish. This Lake is 22 km away from Khaplu Valley and it will take around 40 minutes’ drive from Khaplu Valley to Kharfaq Lake.

The best time to visit Kharfaq Lake is during the summer (June to August), when the weather is mild and the lake is accessible by road. You can also visit this lake during the winter but then you should be prepared for cold weather and snow.

Some popular activities you can enjoy at Kharfaq Lake are:

Fishing:

Kharfaq Lake is a home of trout fish and this makes it a popular destination for visitors. You can fish from the lakeside or for deeper water you can rent a boat to fish.

Trekking:

Number of trekking trails are available for you that lead you to Kharfaq Lake. The treks range in difficulty from easy to challenging and offer you stunning views of the Karakoram mountain range.

Camping:

It is a popular camping spot and there are a number of campgrounds available near the lake.

Boating:

If you like boating and have courage to go in deep water then you can rent a boat to explore the lake and enjoy the amazing scenes.

Photography:

Kharfaq Lake is a paradise for photographers; it has natural waters, snow capped mountains, and lush green meadows.

Khaplu Waterfall

Khaplu Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall and it is a popular spot for hiking, picnic and photography. It is approximately 100 feet high and is surrounded by high mountains and lush green grounds. The water is crystal clear and falls down the rocks into a pool at the bottom. The waterfall is amazing and impressive during the spring and summer months.

Khaplu Waterfalls is 2.2 km from the valley and it will take 6 to 7 minutes’ drive from Khaplu Valley to Khaplu Waterfalls. When you reach the waterfall, you must take a short hike. The hike is very easy and takes about 25 minutes. Once you reach the waterfall, you can enjoy the amazing views and you can also take a dip in the pool or simply relax and enjoy the peace.

Shyok River Barah

Shyok River Barah Khaplu Skardu is a beautiful spot on the Shyok River, and is 20 kilometers far from Khaplu town and it will take around 1 hour drive from Khaplu Valley to Shyok River Barah. It is easily accessible by road and is a popular destination for tourists.

The Shyok River is a prime river in Gilgit-Baltistan and is famous for its clear waters and fish including trout, mahseer, and carp. At this spot you can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, fishing and picnic.

Kharkoo Waterfalls

Kharkoo Waterfalls is located in Kharkoo Valley and it is about 10 kilometers far from Khaplu Valley and it will take around 30 minutes’ drive from Khaplu Valley. The waterfall is approximately 100 feet high and the water is crystal clear. It is impressive during the spring and summer months. You can hike here which is relatively easy and it will take about 30 minutes. It is a beautiful and refreshing spot to escape from heat and enjoy the amazing scenery of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Saling Khaplu

Saling Khaplu is an impressive valley in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is a valley in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It has many attractions such as a lake, a fish farm, a hot spring, a wooden bridge, and a historical fort. It is also a gateway to the Hushe Valley, famous for its trekking and mountaineering opportunities.

Here are some details you might like:

Sogha Lake

Saling Khaplu’s lake is called Sogha Lake. It is an exceptional and amazing lake with clear, bright water. You can see the plants at the bottom of the water and the reflection of the surrounding mountains and trees. The lake is also home to the famous Gilgit-Baltistan trout.

Natural hot springs

The fish farm in Saling Khaplu is a wonderful place to enjoy fish feasts. The farm has many natural springs, including a hot spring that is suitable for bathing in the winters and summer. This spring’s water is hot in winter and cool in summer, which is rare.

Wooden bridge

The wooden bridge in Saling Khaplu is charming and adventurous. It is one of the longest and highest suspension bridges in the world, and it can only accommodate one vehicle at a time. The bridge crosses the Hunza River, a tributary of the Indus River.

Historical Fort

The historical fort in Saling Khaplu is a remnant of the royal Amacha empire. The Amacha family ruled Khaplu and other parts of Baltistan for centuries. The fort is smaller than Khaplu Town’s, but it still has its own unique appeal and heritage.

Hushe Valley

The Hushe Valley in Saling Khaplu is a paradise for trekkers and mountaineers. It has some of the highest and most challenging peaks in the world, such as Masherbrum, K6, K7, and Laila Peak. The valley also has beautiful glaciers, meadows, and villages.

Khaplu Hotels and Restaurants

Here are some of the most famous hotels and restaurants in Khaplu Valley:

Hotels

Serena Khaplu Palace

Serena Hotel is a luxury hotel located in a 19th-century restored palace in Khaplu Valley. It offers amazing views of the mountains, valleys and also provides a variety of amenities and activities. Average price of a one night stay costs you 24k rupees.

North Khaplu Palace

It is a boutique hotel located in Khaplu Valley. It is a beautiful setting, surrounded by huge mountains and lush green grounds. It offers a variety of Pakistani and International cuisine. It also has a bar, lounge and garden. Average price of per night cost of this hotel is 12k rupees.

Geyari Resort Khaplu

It is a luxury resort located a bit outside the Khaplu Valley. It is 2.1 km far from the center of Khaplu Valley and it will take about 8 minutes’ drive from the center of Valley to Geyari resort khaplu. It offers the tourists a chance to experience the best of Balti culture and hospitality. Average per night price of this resort is 12k rupees.

Royal Resort

If you are looking for a budget friendly resort to stay then this is a best fit hotel for you. It is located near Kharkoo waterfall in Saling Valley and a bit outside from Khaplu. It is 10.9 kilometers away from the center of Khaplu Valley and it will take 30 minutes’ drive from the center of Khaplu Valley to Royal Resort. It serves a variety of traditional Pakistani and international cuisine and also has a bar and terrace with stunning views. Average per night cost of this hotel is 3.2k rupees.

Rehaish Inn Hotel

If you are looking for a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Khaplu Valley then this can be a best choice for you. The hotel is a walking distance from the Khaplu Fort and the Chaqchan Mosque and offers an affordable place to stay while you are exploring the valley. Average per night cost of the Rehaish Inn Hotel is 4.5k rupees.

You can Book Hotel online from Here

Restaurants

Sarfa Khar Restaurant

It is a fine-dining restaurant situated in the Serena Khaplu Palace. Sarfa Khar Restaurant serves a variety of Pakistani and international food, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The menu has a wide range of dishes including traditional Balti dishes such as mamtu and harissa, to international dishes such as steak and pasta.

Chaqchan Restaurant

This restaurant is located in the heart of the Valley and provides a variety of traditional cuisine, such as mamtu, tandoori chicken, and harissa. It is also famous for its apricot cake and walnut cake.

Sarif Restaurant

This restaurant is located near the Khaplu Fort and provides a variety of Pakistani and international food. The restaurant is also famous for its drinks like fresh juices and smoothies.

MoonLight Cafe

This cafe is located in the heart of Khaplu or Shyok Valley and provides a variety of coffee, tea, and snacks.

Famous Cuisines

Khaplu Valley is famous for its delicious and unique cuisine, which is a mix of different flavors like Balti, Tibetan, and Central Asian. Here are some of the most famous:

Mamtu: Dumplings are steamed and filled with minced meat, vegetables and spices. Typically served with spicy chutney.

Balti Tandoori Chicken: It is a popular dish in Khaplu Valley, chicken is marinated with yogurt, spices and cooked in a tandoor oven.

Harissa: A slow-cooked dish made with wheat, rice, meat and a variety of spices.

Khambir: It is a traditional bread in Khaplu and made from whole wheat flour, baked on a stovetop or tandoor. Slightly sour taste and has a dense texture.

Gyaling: A soft, fluffy bread and is typically prepared in a tandoor oven. We can simply eat it or can serve it with a variety of dishes.

Apricot Cake: Apricot Cake is a delicious and soft cake made with fresh apricots, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. It is usually served with apricot jam or ice cream.

Walnut Cake: Walnut Cake is a soft and nutty cake made with walnuts, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. It is usually served with chocolate or vanilla icing.

FAQS

What is the Khaplu famous for?

The Hushe valley of Khaplu is a base for trekking which leads to the high peaks of Masherbrum, K6, K7, and Chogolisa. Khaplu has a 700-year-old mosque, Chaqchan, constructed by Ameer Kabeer Syed Ali Hamadani (RA). And also has many other sites to visit.

What do you mean by Khaplu?

Khaplu also known as “Shyok Valley” and “Little Tibet” is the administrative capital of Ghanche district. It is at a distance of 112 kilometers towards the east from Skardu.

What is the name of the fort in Khaplu Valley?

Khaplu Palace locally known as Yabgo Khar. It is an old fort and palace located in Khaplu Valley, a city in Gilgit−Baltistan, Pakistan.

Where did they shoot the film Diyar e Dil?

Film Shoot was done in hilly areas of Pakistan and they chose Khaplu Palace for shooting location, in Skardu, Gilgit–Baltistan which was set as a Mansion.

Is Skardu Located in India?

No, Skardu is a city located in Pakistani administered Gilgit−Baltistan in the disputed Kashmir region.

Which is the greatest fort in Pakistan?

The Rainkot Fort in Pakistan. The Ranikot Fort is also known as The Great Wall of Sindh and is believed to be the world’s largest fort.

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