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Cascade Resorts  •  Skardu  •  Ghanche

Haldi Cones: Dramatic Granite Peaks Near Khaplu

Sharp granite spires of the Karakoram, about an hour from Cascade Resorts.
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42 KMFrom Resort
1 HOURDrive Time
25 KMFrom Khaplu
JUN to SEPBest Season

In This Guide

About the Peaks

Discover the Haldi Cones in Ghanche, Gilgit Baltistan

The Haldi Cones are a group of dramatic granite peaks in the Karakoram range, rising above Haldi village in Ghanche District, Gilgit Baltistan. Sharp spires, ragged ridges and towering cliffs make them one of the most photogenic mountain scenes you can reach from Cascade Resorts.
From our resort it is about 42 km, roughly 1 hour by road. Haldi village lies about 25 km from Khaplu town, where the Saltoro and Hushe rivers meet, and the peaks border the Masherbrum mountains.
Most of the towers and cones have never been climbed because the terrain is steep and technical, so what you see is largely untouched rock. Nearby villages add a cultural side to the visit, with traditional Balti homes, mamtu and butter tea.

Getting There

How to Get There from Cascade Resorts

Drive from Cascade Resorts

Travel about 42 km, around 1 hour by road, towards the Haldi area.

Head to Haldi village

The village sits where the Saltoro and Hushe rivers meet, about 25 km from Khaplu.

Choose your viewpoint

Machulu village is known as an excellent place to view the cones and the surrounding landscape.

Take care at stream crossings

Access can involve crossing a rocky stream with few footbridges, so ask local people about the safest route.

Make it a full day

Combine your visit with Hushe Valley and Khaplu Fort, which are both on the same side of the valley.

Experiences

6 Things to See and Do Here

01

Photography

Dark granite spires against bright blue sky make a striking contrast, especially in clear autumn light.

02

Machulu Viewpoint

The village of Machulu is highlighted by photographers as an exceptional place to see the cones.

03

Trekking and Hiking

Alpine meadows, streams and snow covered ridges surround the area, with plenty of trails to explore.

04

Camping

Camp beneath the granite towers and enjoy dark skies far from city light.

05

Balti Village Culture

Visit nearby settlements to see traditional homes and try local food such as mamtu and butter tea.

06

Mountain Watching

The cones border the Masherbrum mountains, so the whole skyline rewards a slow look.

Seasons

Best Time to Visit the Haldi Cones

June to September is the best window, and September brings clear skies that suit photography.
June to AugustSummer, best for trekking and outdoor activities
SeptemberClear skies and colourful landscapes
NovemberA photographer reported a visit on 4 November, so autumn access is possible
WinterSnow and cold, check conditions first

Be Prepared

Tips Before You Go

  • Plan for morning or late afternoon, because the sun's position changes how the peaks look.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the route can include a rocky stream crossing.
  • Carry water and warm layers, since mountain weather changes quickly.
  • Ask local people or our team about the best route and current conditions.
  • Treat the peaks as a viewing destination unless you are an experienced mountaineer with a guide.

In Focus

A Closer Look

Haldi Cones granite spires in the Karakoram near Khaplu, Ghanche, Gilgit Baltistan
Haldi Cones, Ghanche District

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

They are about 42 km away, around 1 hour by road.

They are a group of granite peaks in the Karakoram range, above Haldi village in Ghanche District, Gilgit Baltistan.

June to September is the best time. September offers clear skies, which suits photography.

Most of the towers and cones have not been climbed, and the terrain is technical. Enjoy them as a viewing and photography destination unless you are an experienced mountaineer with a guide.

Machulu village is known as an excellent viewpoint for the cones and the surrounding landscape.

Plan Your Stay

Stay Close to the Karakoram

Make Cascade Resorts your base for Skardu and Ghanche and return each evening to the river and the mountains.