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Sarfaranga Cold Desert – The World's Highest Desert in the Heart of Skardu!

Located just outside Skardu City, the Sarfaranga Cold Desert is a magical high-altitude wonderland of wind-sculpted sand dunes, set against a dramatic backdrop of the Karakoram and Himalaya mountain ranges. Unlike typical hot deserts, this one features cold temperatures year-round, making it a rare and surreal contrast — especially in the early mornings or under moonlight.

With its wide, open space and incredible natural lighting, Sarfaranga has become a hotspot for adventure sports, jeep rallies, cultural festivals, and dreamy travel photography.

Why Visit Sarfaranga Cold Desert?

FeatureHighlights
🏜️ Golden Sand DunesSurrounded by mountains — a rare, high-altitude desert
🪂 Adventure SportsATV biking, paragliding, sandboarding
🏍️ Jeep RallyAnnual Sarfaranga Desert Rally – off-roading event
📸 Dream PhotographySunset, stars, and mountains meet sand
🧘 Peaceful & VastMeditate or stargaze in complete silence
🐫 Camel RidesLocal experience with desert-style vibes

Routes to Sarfaranga Cold Desert

Location & Accessibility

  • 📍 Region: Sarfaranga Village, Skardu District, Gilgit-Baltistan

  • 🚗 Distance from Skardu City: ~20–25 minutes drive (~8–10 km)

  • 🛣️ Access Road: Skardu → Sarfaranga via Airport Road or through Shigar side

  • 🕰️ Best Time to Visit: April to October

💡 The desert is completely accessible by car, jeep, or motorbike. Easy to combine with trips to Shigar Fort, Skardu Airport Viewpoint, or Shangrila Resort.

Best Time to Visit

SeasonWhat to Expect
April – JuneMild temperatures, perfect for photography and riding
July – AugustFestival season (Desert Rally), warm and energetic
September – OctoberCalm, clear weather – ideal for camping or quiet sunsets
❄️ Winter (Nov – Mar)Extremely cold, but surreal snowy-dune photography possible

 

Top Things to Do in Sarfaranga Desert

ActivityExperience
🏍️ Jeep or ATV Ride on Sand DunesOff-roading fun with panoramic views
🏕️ Camping on the DunesSpend the night under a sky full of stars
🪂 Paragliding & Dune ClimbingAvailable during special events or festivals
📷 Sunset & Sunrise PhotographyCapture golden light on the dunes
🐫 Camel Ride (Local Experience)Optional and scenic for short rides
🎉 Attend the Desert RallyUsually held in summer – music, racing, culture

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!

Things to pack for traveling ? 
  • 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

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