Altit Fort & Royal Garden
Altit Fort is an ancient 1000-year-old fort in Altit village, Hunza Valley, featuring the lush Royal Rose Garden, Kha Basi Cafe, and rich cultural heritage overlooking the Hunza River
ExploreKharpocho Fort
Skardu City, Gilgit-Baltistan
Overview
Perched dramatically on a steep mountain cliff overlooking Skardu town Kharpocho Fort also known as the King of Forts is an ancient architectural masterpiece built in the late sixteenth century by King Ali Sher Khan Anchan of the Maqpon dynasty. Built as a strategic military stronghold at the confluence of the Indus and Shigar Rivers the fort features ancient timber architecture thick stone masonry defense watchtowers and an underground secret passage. A short energetic hike up the mountain trail from Skardu bazaar rewards visitors with magnificent panoramic vistas overlooking the entire Skardu valley sprawling sand dunes and the winding Indus River below. Rich in royal Balti history and ancient defense engineering Kharpocho Fort serves as a primary cultural symbol and historical landmark in Baltistan.
Highlights
- Historic 16th century mountain fortress built by the famous Maqpon dynasty
- Panoramic 360 degree aerial views overlooking Skardu city and Indus River
- Ancient Balti timber architecture thick stone defensive walls and watchtowers
- Historic military stronghold located at the strategic river confluence
- Popular destination for heritage exploration city photography and sunset viewing
Things To Do
- Hike up the scenic stone step trail from Skardu bazaar to the fort entrance
- Explore ancient wooden royal quarters defense towers and interior chambers
- Capture panoramic wide angle photographs of Skardu city and Indus River
- Watch breathtaking sunsets over the surrounding Karakoram mountain peaks
- Learn about Balti history royal Maqpon heritage and regional folklore
Local Transportation
Located directly adjacent to central Skardu bazaar, reachable by a short walk or taxi drive to the trail head.
Accommodation
Numerous hotels and inns available nearby in main Skardu city including Serena Shigar Fort, Hotel One Skardu, and local city guesthouses.
Food & Cuisine
Skardu city market at the base offers traditional Balti dishes like Mamtu, Chapshuro, fresh fruit juices, and hot tea.
Safety Information
The trail is a moderate uphill walk. Take care near cliff edges and wear shoes with good rubber traction.
Travel Tips
Visit in the late afternoon when the sun lights up the valley floor for optimal cityscape and river photography.