let's travel north

LET'S TRAVEL NORTH

GHANCHE!

Ghanche is one of the most remote, culturally rich, and breathtaking districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, located in the extreme northeast of Pakistan. Bordering Ladakh (India) to the east and Skardu District to the west, Ghanche is often referred to as the “Land of Glaciers” because it hosts some of the largest and highest glaciers outside the polar regions, including the legendary Siachen Glacier.

The district’s name “Ghanche” comes from the Balti word “Ghanche” meaning “abundance of glaciers.” True to its name, the region is home to towering peaks of the Karakoram Range, ice-covered mountains, and cold deserts. The Shyok River, a tributary of the Indus, flows through the region, shaping its valleys and sustaining life in its otherwise harsh terrain.

Routes to ghanche

Ghanche District, with Khaplu as its main town, is accessible primarily by road via Skardu, making Skardu the key gateway to the region. The most common route begins from Islamabad, from where travelers can either drive or take a direct flight to Skardu Airport. From Skardu, a scenic drive of around 100 kilometers leads to Khaplu via the Skardu–Khaplu Road, passing through stunning landscapes, including the towns of Ghanche Bala, Machulu, and Daghoni. This road journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours and runs alongside the Shyok River, offering panoramic views of cold deserts, granite cliffs, and villages. During the summer, the route remains open and accessible, though in winter months, heavy snowfall may temporarily block roads, especially in higher villages like Hushe. For trekkers or climbers heading to peaks like Masherbrum, Laila Peak, or Gondogoro La, the road continues further up the Hushe Valley beyond Khaplu. Although no direct flights are available to Khaplu or Ghanche, the combination of air travel to Skardu and road travel to Ghanche makes the region reasonably accessible for domestic and international travelers seeking remote adventure and cultural richness.

PLACES TO VISIT IN Ghanche

Here are some amazing places to explore in Ghanche, Gilgit‑Baltistan:

Surmo & Bara Villages

Machulo Valley

Khaplu Valley

Saling Valley

Hushe Valley

Thoqsikhar Village

Kanday & Pari Valleys

Must-know things!

Things to pack for traveling to Ghanche? 
  • Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
  • Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
  • Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
  • Toiletries.
  • Snacks.
  • Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
  • Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser. 
  • Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
  • Refillable Water Bottle.
  • Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.

Must-know things!

Things to pack for traveling to Gupis-yasin? 
  • Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
  • Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
  • Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
  • Toiletries.
  • Snacks.
  • Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
  • Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser. 
  • Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
  • Refillable Water Bottle.
  • Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.

Activities in Ghanche

Cultural & Historical Exploration

  1. Visit Khaplu Palace (Yabgo Fort)

    • A beautifully restored heritage site offering a glimpse into Balti royalty.

  2. Explore Chaqchan Mosque (700+ years old)

    • One of the oldest mosques in the region, with Tibetan-Islamic architecture.

  3. Tour Khaplu Village

    • Stroll through narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and meet local Balti families.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

  1. Trekking in Hushe Valley

    • Gateway to treks like Masherbrum Base Camp, Gondogoro La, K6/K7 Base Camps, and Laila Peak.

  2. Glacier Walks

    • Guided walks on parts of Siachen Glacier (restricted zone, but parts are visitable with permits).

  3. Camping & Bonfire Nights

    • Perfect spots along the Shyok River, Saling, or Machulo.

  4. Fishing & River Picnics

    • In Khaplu and Dumsum riverside areas.

Scenic & Nature Exploration

  1. Drive to Saling Valley

    • Known for panoramic views of Masherbrum and colorful villages.

  2. View Laila Peak

    • Famous for its sharp, curved shape — visible from Hushe side.

  3. Shyok River Valley Photography

    • Majestic views of turquoise waters, cold deserts, and villages clinging to rocky cliffs.

  4. Machulo Valley Visit

    • A quiet valley with natural beauty and cultural depth.

Seasonal Activities

  1. Snow Hiking & Ice Exploration (Winter)

    • In areas like Khaplu and Hushe (if roads are open).

  2. Apricot Blossom Viewing (Spring)

    • March to April is stunning with blooming trees across Khaplu and surrounding villages.

  3. Cultural Festivals

    • Participate in Balti traditional events if you’re lucky with timing.

Others

  1. Stargazing

    • Clear skies over Ghanche are perfect for night photography and skywatching.

  2. Bird Watching

    • Especially around rivers and valley outskirts.

Must remember!

You should take your CNIC (if nationals) to visit Kharmang district since the location is borderline of the country while a valid VISA and a passport are must-bring-along for tourists.  

Please keep Kharmang clean, as the government is taking a strict stance on maintaining the hygiene standards of the area.