Satpara Lake – Skardu’s Shimmering Blue Jewel!
Satpara Lake is a glacial-fed freshwater lake located at an elevation of 2,636 meters (8,650 feet), just a 20-minute drive from Skardu. Its crystal-clear blue water, set against the rugged Karakoram backdrop, offers stunning natural beauty, boating opportunities, and a peaceful retreat from the busy world.
Not just a scenic destination, the lake also serves as a water reservoir for Skardu through the Satpara Dam, making it a vital part of both the landscape and local life.
Why Visit Satpara Lake?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 💧 Crystal-Clear Water | Deep turquoise color that changes with the sky |
| 🛶 Boating Available | Paddleboats and rowboats in tourist season |
| 🏔️ Mountain Reflections | Perfect for landscape photography |
| 🌅 Golden Hour Views | Beautiful sunrises and sunsets |
| 🧘 Peaceful Atmosphere | Ideal for meditation, journaling, or quiet time |
| ❄️ Snowy Magic in Winter | Frozen beauty and solitude |
Routes to Satpara Lake
Location & Accessibility
📍 Region: Skardu Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
🏞️ Elevation: 2,636 meters (8,650 ft)
🚗 Distance from Skardu City: ~9 km (~20 minutes by car)
🛣️ Road Type: Paved road; easily accessible by car, jeep, or bike
🕰️ Open Year-Round (beautiful in all seasons!)
💡 Quick stop or half-day visit — easy for all types of travelers.
Things to Do at Satpara Lake
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| 📸 Photography | Reflections, long exposures, drone shots |
| 🛶 Boating | Enjoy the calm waters (in summer) |
| 🥾 Short Walks & Exploration | Stroll the shoreline or climb nearby hills |
| 🧘 Relax & Unwind | Sit quietly by the water — excellent for mindfulness |
| 🐟 Fishing | Trout fishing possible with permit (rare) |
| 🏕️ Picnic by the Lake | Bring snacks, tea, and enjoy the view |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| May – June | Full lake, snow on mountains, calm weather |
| July – August | Boating season, lush greenery |
| September – October | Fall colors and fewer crowds |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov – Mar) | Frozen lake, very cold, but uniquely beautiful |
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