Manthokha Waterfall – Gilgit-Baltistan’s Majestic Cascade in Kharmang Valley!
Located in the Manthokha village of Kharmang District, about 80 km from Skardu, Manthokha Waterfall is a soaring 180-foot-high waterfall that gushes down from the mountains into a serene valley surrounded by lush greenery. It’s not just a visual spectacle — the sound of the water crashing, the cool breeze, and the traditional vibe make this an unforgettable nature escape.
The site is also home to a beautiful trout fish farm, a local restaurant, and peaceful walking paths, making it a great family-friendly stop.
Why Visit Manthokha Waterfall?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 💧 180 ft Waterfall | Massive drop, clear glacial water |
| 🏞️ Lush Meadows | Surrounded by greenery, perfect for relaxing or picnicking |
| 🐟 Trout Farm & Restaurant | Enjoy fresh-cooked local trout |
| 🧘 Peaceful Atmosphere | Ideal for meditation and family outings |
| 📸 Incredible Photography | Waterfall, mountains, and nature in perfect balance |
| 🐏 Local Culture | Meet villagers, see yaks, goats, and traditional Balti homes |
Routes to Manthokha Waterfall
Location & Accessibility
📍 Region: Manthokha, Kharmang District, Gilgit-Baltistan
🚗 Distance from Skardu City: ~80 km (~2 to 2.5 hours by car)
🛣️ Route: Skardu → Mehdiabad → Tolti → Manthokha
🛤️ Road Condition: Mostly paved with some rough patches (accessible by car/jeep)
🕰️ Open Season: April to October (snowfall may block road in deep winter)
💡 A great destination for day trips from Skardu.
Top Things to Do at Manthokha Waterfall
| Activity | Experience |
|---|---|
| 📷 Photography | Waterfall shots, landscape frames, wildlife |
| 🧺 Picnic in Meadows | Spread a mat, enjoy views and mountain air |
| 🐟 Eat Fresh Trout | Visit the restaurant serving trout from the farm |
| 🧘 Relax or Meditate | Serene environment with the soothing sound of water |
| 🐐 Cultural Exploration | Walk around nearby villages, interact with locals |
| 🥾 Short Hike | Explore area around the falls or nearby hill trails |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Features |
|---|---|
| May – June | Full water volume, fresh greenery |
| July – August | Peak season, clear skies and warm days |
| September – October | Quieter, golden grass, stunning light |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov – Mar) | Frozen beauty but hard to access due to snow |
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- 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.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually