Skardu works well for families who plan around altitude and travel time. The easiest things to do in Skardu with family are the Kachura and Satpara lakes, Shigar Fort and the Katpana cold desert. Deosai is spectacular but sits above 4,000 m, so it needs more caution with young children.
This guide sorts Skardu’s attractions by how easy they are for children and older relatives, and suggests how to pace a family trip. It draws on our Skardu guides and the sources at the end. Last checked: October 2026. Flights, roads, fees and conditions change, so confirm locally.
Quick answer: best things to do in Skardu with family
- Easiest: Satpara Lake, about 7 km from town, and the Kachura lakes for a half day with boating.
- Best culture stop: Shigar Fort, a restored 17th century fort that is now a museum and heritage hotel, about 30 km and 45 to 60 minutes from Skardu.
- Most unusual: the Katpana cold desert, with sand dunes beneath snowcapped peaks.
- Short hike: Kharpocho Fort, a brief but steep climb to a view over the Indus.
- Best months: roughly May to October.
Easy lake stops
The lakes are the simplest family activity. Satpara Lake is only a short drive from town, with rowboats and motorboats for rent. The Kachura lakes take about half a day. Lower Kachura, also called Shangrila Lake, is the easier of the pair, with a garden setting and boating, while Upper Kachura needs a short uphill walk. See our lakes in Skardu comparison and the Kachura Lakes guide.
Good for: toddlers to grandparents, apart from the Upper Kachura walk.
Shigar Fort and Shigar Valley
Shigar Fort, also called Fong-Khar, was built in the early 17th century and restored by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan. It now operates as a museum and heritage hotel. Day visitors pay a small fee at reception, and the valley’s orchards make a pleasant walk. The Katpana cold desert can be added on the same day.
Good for: families with school age children who enjoy history and a slow day out.
Katpana cold desert
Katpana, also called Sarfaranga, is a patch of sand dunes below the Karakoram. Children tend to enjoy the dunes, and the contrast with the mountains is unusual. Go in the morning or evening, because midday is hot and bright. Dress warmly if the wind is up.
Kharpocho Fort
Kharpocho, meaning King of Forts, sits on a ridge above Skardu. The climb is short but steep, and our itinerary guide describes it as roughly a 40 minute climb. Go in the late afternoon for the best light. It is probably too steep for toddlers or older relatives, so decide on the spot.
Deosai National Park with children
Deosai sits at about 4,100 m on average, and altitude sickness is possible. It is snowbound for roughly seven months and reported to open around mid May to mid September, if the road is passable. The drive from Skardu takes around three to four hours on a rough, unpaved road. For very young children or anyone with health concerns, the altitude and bumpy road may not be worth it, so speak to a doctor first. If you do go, read the Deosai National Park guide and spend a few days in Skardu before going up.
Sample family itineraries
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive, rest, short walk or Satpara Lake in the afternoon |
| Day 2 | Kachura lakes and Shangrila |
| Day 3 | Shigar Fort and Katpana cold desert |
| Day 4 | Optional Deosai day trip, or a rest day with Kharpocho in the evening |
Our 5 days in Skardu itinerary has a fuller version.
Getting there with family
Flying is quicker than driving, at about an hour from Islamabad, but flights can be cancelled in bad weather, so keep spare days. The road is long and tiring for children. See road trip vs flight to Skardu for the trade offs, and book a hotel from our best hotels in Skardu list.
Best time to visit Skardu with family
May, June and September are the most comfortable months, with warm days and cool nights. July and August are hot and busy, and winter is very cold. Our best time to visit Skardu guide has the month by month table.
Practical tips for families
- Skardu sits at about 2,230 m, so take the first day easy.
- Carry cash. ATMs are unreliable outside central Skardu.
- Pack layers, sun protection and basic medicines.
- Hire a driver with a reliable vehicle for the day trips.
- Try the local dishes in our Skardu food guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Skardu good for families?
Yes, if you plan for altitude, long drives and flights that depend on the weather. The lakes and Shigar are the easiest parts.
Is Deosai safe for young children?
It sits above 4,000 m and the road is rough, so many families skip it with very young children. Ask a doctor first.
How many days do I need?
Four to five days is comfortable for most families.
What is the best family activity in Skardu?
A boat ride at Satpara or Lower Kachura is the simplest, followed by Shigar Fort.
Can I visit Skardu in winter with children?
Winter is very cold and snow can disrupt flights and roads, so it is not an easy family trip.
Roads, flights, fees and conditions change. Confirm them locally before you travel.