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Blind Lake Skardu

Blind Lake Skardu

If you are looking for a tranquil and scenic destination in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, you might want to visit (froq zhou) Upper Kachura Lake. This lake is located near to Skardu city, in the Karakoram mountain range. The lake is also known as Froq Tso in the local language. This lake is located at various elevations in the Karakoram mountain range, within the western Himalayas, and the River Indus basin in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Read Time: 15 min
Updated On: 2025-04-24

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Blind Lake Skardu: A Fearless Journey

Blind Lake, located in Shigar Valley near Skardu city, is a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains of Pakistan. This stunning lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Blind Lake Shigar, from its history to its natural wonders.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Blind Lake Skardu.

Stunning View of Blind Lake Skardu

Blind Lake Shigar History;

Zjarba Tso Lake Shigar has a fascinating history dating back to the 16th century. It was initially discovered by a local herder who was searching for a lost goat. Over time, the lake became a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road, where traders would rest and replenish their supplies. Today, it remains a vital source of water for the surrounding villages and a popular spot for tourists.

Where is Blind Lake Shigar?

Blind Lake Shigar is a high-altitude lake located in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The lake is situated at an elevation of 13,450 feet above sea level and is surrounded by majestic peaks and breathtaking scenery. The lake is named “Zjarba tso” in Balti Language, which means “Blind” because it is hidden from view until you reach the top of the mountain ridge that surrounds it.

Location of the lake.

Located in the heart of the Karakoram mountain range, Blind Lake Shigar is situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters (13,450 feet) above sea level. The lake is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) long and 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide, with an average depth of 15 meters (50 feet). The surrounding landscape is rugged and rocky, with towering peaks and glaciers visible from the lake's shores.

How to get there?

To reach Blind Lake Shigar, you will need to travel to Skardu, the central city in the region. Skardu is accessible by air and road, with daily flights available from Islamabad. Once you reach Skardu, you can hire a jeep, car, or a paradoto to drive to Blind Lake Shigar. The drive will take approximately three hours and will take you through some of the most scenic parts of the Karakoram Range in the Baltistan Region.

Best time for a visit?

The best time to visit Shigar's Blind Lake is from April to September, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is accessible. For the rest of the year, the lake is frozen, and the region is covered in snow, making it difficult to visit, but winter lovers can also visit from October to March.

Bird Eye view of Blind Lake, Skardu

Natural Wonders;

Blind Lake Shigar is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:

  • Clear Blue Waters: The lake’s crystal-clear waters are a sight to behold, reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. Take a dip in the cool, refreshing water, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride.
  • Majestic Mountains: The lake is surrounded by towering mountains, including famous peaks that are visible on clear days. Take a hike or trek to explore the surrounding peaks and valleys.
  • Glaciers: The Shigar valley is home to several glaciers, including the Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest and most impressive in the world. Take a guided tour to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of these natural wonders.

Activities you can do in Blind Lake Shigar.

  1. Camping
  2. Swimming
  3. Boating
  4. Fishing
  5. Trekking
  6. Photography
  • Camping

Camping in this area is a great experience. An ideal camping site is next to Blind Lake, where you can watch the stars come out after a spectacular sunset. You can have a great time at the campsite with a barbecue, bonfire, and tea. However, keep an eye on the weather forecasts, as they can change quickly. We also recommend packing light but warm clothing for the camping trip.

  • Swimming

Swimming in the clear waters of Blind Lake is a pleasure for tourists. Here you can swim in the freshwater and take pictures of the beautiful surroundings. Some parts of the lake are shallow, while others are surprisingly warm, offering excellent opportunities to explore the lake's beauty through swimming.

  • Boating

Daytime activities at the lake include boating in the calm, cool water, and it excites visitors enough to explore the lake closely. Being closer to water can make you happier and feel more refreshed. So, whenever you visit Blind Lake, get on the boat and breathe life.

  • Fishing

Blind Lake offers a variety of recreational activities, and fishing is one of the most enjoyable things to do in the area. The Pakistani government has set up a small fish farm here. The lake offers tremendous opportunities for trout fishing.

Skardu is famous as the "Queen of the Alps, and it's easy to see why because its snow-capped mountains, crystal clear rivers, and lush forests create some of the world's most iconic landscapes.

  • Treaking

The lake is surrounded by towering mountains, including the famous peaks. You can take a hike or trek to explore the surrounding peaks and valleys.

  • Photography

You can take stunning photos of yourself with the clear crystal water of blind lake and make videos for your memories that make you fall in love with Lakes of Skardu valley.
Sunset in Blind Lake, Skardu
Summer view of Blind Lake Shigar, Skardu

If you want to explore the untouched beauty of Skardu beyond the well-known lakes, Blind Lake is a must-visit destination.

The serene environment and stunning landscape make it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. So, make your plan and head to Skardu - don't miss out on the Blind Lake, the hidden beauty of Shigar Valley.

Similar Tour Packages and Pricing

Note: Below in the related Tours, the prices mentioned at Standard and Premium blocks are calculated keeping 2 persons in mind. To get the price for more than two Pax, please visit their relative pages by simply clicking on them.

Tour and Trekking

Tour NameStandard PricePremium Price
Skardu Valley and Fairy Meadow Tour (9-days)$ 793$ 895