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Khaplu
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About the tour
Khaplu, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is a picturesque and enchanting destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Nestled amidst the towering Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges, Khaplu is often referred to as the “Gateway to Baltistan” and is a gateway to some of the world’s highest peaks and stunning landscapes.Khaplu has a rich history and is home to several historical sites that showcases its importance as a cultural and trade hub along the ancient Silk Road. The Khaplu Palace, also known as Yabgo Khar or Khaplu Fort, is a prominent landmark. This majestic palace, built in the 19th century, stands as a testament to the region’s architectural and historical significance.
Travel Tips:
- Weather: Khaplu experiences a wide range of temperatures, with cold winters and mild summers. It’s advisable to pack appropriate clothing according to the season of your visit.
- Permits: Check the latest travel advisories and permit requirements for the Gilgit-Baltistan region before your trip.
- Accommodation: Khaplu offers a range of accommodations, including guesthouses and hotels that provide basic amenities. It’s a good idea to book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Respect Local Customs: While exploring the area, respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and seek permission before taking photographs of people.
- Health and Safety: Ensure you have the necessary medications, travel insurance, and a basic first aid kit. Altitude sickness can be a concern in high-altitude areas, so acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.
01
Khaplu Fort:
From Khaplu Bazaar, a road goes up to the Khaplu Fort. This fort was constructed in 1840 by Raja Daulat Ali Khan of
Khaplu, who was from the Yabgu family.
The Yabgu family made it to Khaplu from Central Asia and ruled this place for over 700 years. The fort-cum-palace has now been turned into Serena Hotel. Once this palace was full of virtuoso architectural masterpieces, every facility on to the next door; this palace had all public dealing offices inside.
The Yabgu family made it to Khaplu from Central Asia and ruled this place for over 700 years. The fort-cum-palace has now been turned into Serena Hotel. Once this palace was full of virtuoso architectural masterpieces, every facility on to the next door; this palace had all public dealing offices inside.
02
Shyok River:
One addition to the landscape is River Shyok. In the local language, River Shyok translates into ‘River of Death.’ This river, originating from Rimu Glacier (next to Siachen Glacier) in Ladakh, enters Gilgit-Baltistan from Machlu, a village in Ghanche.
Going a little ahead from Khaplu, the curvy road takes one to the delta of River Shyok, where it splits up, flowing through the gravel-filled river plain. The peak of Mashabrum Mountain can also be seen in the backdrop.
Going a little ahead from Khaplu, the curvy road takes one to the delta of River Shyok, where it splits up, flowing through the gravel-filled river plain. The peak of Mashabrum Mountain can also be seen in the backdrop.
03
Hushe Village:
To the farthest side is Hushe Valley one of the organic places in Baltistan. Hushe Valley is very close to nature with very little influence on the modern lifestyle. Hushe is known to be the home of ibex and snow leopards (endangered species). Located at the brink of Mashabrum peak, Hushe is the most scenic place in Khaplu Valley. It is also known to be the hub of foreign tourists of Ghanche.
04
Saling Spangtoq:
A beautiful grassland lush green in summers this valley is about 20 minutes drive from Khaplu Valley. Saling is famous for its scenic view and abundance of fresh springs. Tourists can enjoy fishing and camping here.
Saling Spangtoq is a wonderful place to visit and landscape photography. It is situated within a 20-minute drive from Khaplu Valley. District Ghanche is home to some of the most attractive rivers mainly Shyoke and Saling Rivers. Alongside these rivers are beautiful settlements.
Saling Spangtoq is a wonderful place to visit and landscape photography. It is situated within a 20-minute drive from Khaplu Valley. District Ghanche is home to some of the most attractive rivers mainly Shyoke and Saling Rivers. Alongside these rivers are beautiful settlements.
05
Kharfaq Lake:
Kharfaq Lake is also called Riochug Tso in the local language. It is located at an altitude of approx 13000 ft in the southeast of Kharfaq Village, 22 km short of Khaplu. It’s a fascinating lake that is surrounded by high mountains from all sides. One has to start the climb for the lake from Kharfaq village in the southeasterly direction. It is a 2-4 hours steep climb that would require a good standard of physical fitness. Not recommended for cardiac patients.
06
Haldi Cones:
Haldi Cones are a group of mountains located in the Karakoram range in the Ghanche district of Gilgit Baltistan in
Pakistan. The granite peaks are located in Haldi village located at a distance of 25 km from Khaplu town. Most of
these towers and cones have not been climbed yet and are considered to be the unexplored jewel of Khaplu,
Pakistan.
07
Saltoro Valley:
Traveling side-by-side with River Shyok, another wooden bridge upon a river, on the left side, is the path to Saltoro Valley. when you cross the bridge to find yourself in a grand plain, filled with countless round gravels. In the
backdrop, the Saltoro mountain range stands like a wall. Mountaineers on their way to Mashabrum (K1) usually take
this path. Saltoro valley is known as Siachen as well, this valley is located at the neck of the world’s highest battlefield
between Pakistan and India.