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Cascade Resorts  •  Skardu  •  Ghanche

Blind Lake: The Hidden Jarba Zhou Lake Near Skardu

A blue lake with no visible inlet or outlet, set between desert dunes and Karakoram peaks.
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61 KMFrom Resort
1.6 HOURSDrive Time
2,200 MElevation
MAY to OCTBest Season
Stay near Blind LakeCascade Resorts, 61 km awayBook Now

In This Guide

About the Lake

Discover Blind Lake in Shigar, Gilgit Baltistan

Blind Lake, known locally as Jarba Zhou or Zharba Zhou, is a hidden lake in Shigar District, Gilgit Baltistan, between Skardu and Shigar. It lies between the Indus and Shigar rivers, close to the Sarfaranga cold desert, at roughly 2,200 to 2,300 metres.
It is called blind because it has no visible inlet or outlet. The water is believed to come from underground seepage from the nearby rivers. From our resort it is about 61 km, roughly 1.6 hours by road, while from Skardu city it is about a 30 to 45 minute drive.
Blue water, sand dunes and snow capped Karakoram peaks make the lake one of the most photogenic stops on the road to Shigar, which is also the route towards K2. A partial or full loop hike around the area is about 9 km.

Getting There

How to Get There from Cascade Resorts

Drive towards Skardu

Travel about 61 km, around 1.6 hours by road, from Cascade Resorts.

Take the Shigar Road

Follow the Shigar Road from Skardu through the Sarfaranga Desert.

Switch to a jeep track

The road is partly paved, and the final stretch is a rough jeep track.

Walk the last part

The last section is a 20 to 30 minute walk or jeep ride to the shore.

Combine nearby sights

Pair the lake with Sarfaranga Desert and Shigar Fort for a full day out.

Experiences

6 Things to Do at the Lake

01

Lakeside Picnic

Spread out by the blue water with desert dunes on one side and mountains on the other.

02

Loop Hike

Walk a partial or full loop of about 9 km around the area.

03

Seasonal Boating

Boating and rafting are offered in season, so ask locally when you arrive.

04

Fishing

Bring your patience and enjoy a quiet spot of fishing by the shore.

05

Camping

Camp under clear skies, with the Karakoram glowing at sunset.

06

Off Road Jeep Ride

The rough final track through the desert is an adventure in itself.

Plan Your Visit

Visiting Blind Lake? Stay 61 km away.

Return each evening to riverside rooms, fresh meals and mountain views at Cascade Resorts.

Check Availability

Seasons

Best Time to Visit Blind Lake

May to October brings the best weather and access. In winter the lake is partly frozen and access is limited.
May to JunePleasant weather and open access
July to AugustWarm days for picnics and boating
September to OctoberStill within the best season
November to MarchPartly frozen, limited access

Be Prepared

Tips Before You Go

  • Use a jeep or a vehicle suited to the rough final track.
  • Carry water, sunscreen and a hat, as the desert sun is strong.
  • Wear good shoes for the walk to the shore and the loop hike.
  • Ask locally about boating before you go, as it is seasonal.
  • Take all litter with you and keep the lake clean.

In Focus

A Closer Look

Blind Lake blue water between desert dunes and Karakoram peaks near Skardu, Shigar District
Blind Lake, Shigar District

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

It is about 61 km, around 1.6 hours by road.

It has no visible inlet or outlet. The water is believed to come from underground seepage from nearby rivers.

It is in Shigar District, between Skardu and Shigar, near the Sarfaranga cold desert. It is also known as Jarba Zhou.

May to October offers the best weather and access. From November to March the lake is partly frozen.

Yes. Camping is possible, and boating and rafting are offered in season.

Plan Your Stay

Explore Hidden Lakes, Then Rest by the River

Make Cascade Resorts your base for Skardu and Ghanche, with warm rooms, fresh meals and mountain views.