Photo: Government of Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism DepartmentField guides / Baltistan Division / Khaplu & Ghanche / Khaplu Valley
Field guide · Nature
Baltistan Division
Ghanche District · Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Khaplu Valley
Ghanche's main town, with the restored Khaplu Palace, orchards, and the road into the Hushe valley.
Khaplu is the administrative and market centre of Ghanche District, and the gateway to the Hushe valley and its peaks, glaciers and treks.
Why go
- ✦Khaplu Palace, now a heritage hotel
- ✦Chaqchan Mosque
- ✦Orchards and mountain views
- ✦The gateway to Hushe
About
Its landmark is the old royal residence, Khaplu Palace, restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and now run as the Serena Khaplu Fort hotel, which serves Balti food. Also in the town is the Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest in Baltistan. There are orchards everywhere, and places to stay from the PTDC motel and the PWD guest house to the palace hotel.
How to Reach
About 100 km east of Skardu along the Shyok.
Responsible Travel
Use Leave No Trace principles, carry out all rubbish, avoid disturbing wildlife and livestock, and respect private/community land.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, April to October; spring for blossom.
Getting there, About 100 km east of Skardu along the Shyok.
Allow, One to two nights.
What to Do
Nearby
Straight-line distance from Khaplu Valley, within 5 km.
