KHARMANG!
Kharmang is one of the 14 districts administered by Pakistan in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, located along the border where the River Indus enters from Leh Deh district in India. The name “Kharmang” is derived from the Balti words “Khar” (fort) and “Mang” (abundant), reflecting the area’s historical significance during the reign of Ali Sher Khan Anchan, who built numerous forts due to its strategic importance. Situated about 127 km from Skardu—the capital of Baltistan and the region’s main air travel hub—Kharmang can be reached in roughly 45 minutes via Airport Road. This district holds both historical and geographical significance, serving as a key entry point and cultural landmark in Gilgit-Baltistan.
ROUTES OF KHARMANG!
BY ROAD:Kharmang is accessible by road from Skardu, which is the central hub of the Baltistan region. The journey covers approximately 126 kilometers via the scenic Skardu–Kargil Road, running along the Indus River. It usually takes around 3 to 4 hours by car, passing through beautiful landscapes and villages such as Tolti, Mehdiabad, and Ghandus. Popular stops along the way include the famous Manthokha and Khamosh Waterfalls. Although the road is mostly paved, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to the mountainous terrain and occasional rough patches.
FOR AIR ROUTES:There is no airport in Kharmang itself, but the nearest and most convenient air access is through Skardu Airport, which is well connected to major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Once in Skardu, travelers must continue their journey to Kharmang by road. The flight to Skardu offers breathtaking aerial views of the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges, making it a scenic start to the journey. From the airport, the drive to Kharmang takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
PLACES TO VISIT IN kharmang
Here are some amazing places to explore in Kharmang Valley, Gilgit‑Baltistan:
Sermik Valley
Manthokha Waterfall
Broq Valley
Mehdiabad
Kharmang Valley
Taisar Valley
Must-know things!
Things to pack for traveling to Kharmang?
- 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 Kharmang
– The Valley situated in between the huge Karakoram mountains exhibits extraordinary and mystic waterfalls, which one cannot afford to miss the sight of.
-Manthoka Waterfall
-Khamosh Waterfall
Both these waterfalls have their importance for the tourists visiting them as, being the highest waterfalls in Kharmang, they provide the freshest, mesmeric scenes. The sides of these waterfalls offer a good eatery to tourists by offering them freshly caught and cold trout fish.
- The main source of income is livestock and agriculture. Tourists can enjoy the livestock freely roaming around the farms with great agricultural land spread across the region, especially in Khamosh Waterfall area.
- Apples are very famous in Kharmang, with the local name ‘Saspolo’, So when you go, don’t miss getting your hands on this special, organic, and juicy fruit.
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.