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Home›Nearby Attractions›Kharpocho Fort

Cascade Resorts  •  Skardu  •  Ghanche

Kharpocho Fort: The King of Forts Above Skardu

A 16th century hilltop fort with sweeping views over Skardu and the Indus River.
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54 KMFrom Resort
1.3 HOURSDrive Time
2,300 MElevation
20 to 40 MINHike Up
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In This Guide

About the Fort

Discover Kharpocho Fort in Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan

Kharpocho Fort, also spelled Kharphocho and known as Skardu Fort, stands on a rocky hill above Skardu city in Gilgit Baltistan, at about 2,300 metres. Its Balti name means the King of Forts, and it overlooks the meeting point of the Indus and Shigar rivers.
From our resort it is about 54 km, roughly 1.3 hours by road. From the bazaar in Skardu, a marked stone paved trail climbs to the fort in around 20 to 40 minutes.
King Ali Sher Khan Anchan of the Maqpon dynasty built the earliest fort at the end of the 16th century. In 1840 the Dogra general Zorawar Singh stormed and destroyed it, and in 1948 it was the site of a long siege during the first Indo Pakistani war. Today you can explore its ruins, including an ancient mosque, and enjoy views across the whole Skardu basin.

Getting There

How to Get There from Cascade Resorts

Drive to Skardu

Travel about 54 km, around 1.3 hours by road, from Cascade Resorts to Skardu city.

Start from the bazaar

The trail to the fort begins from the bazaar area of Skardu.

Climb the stone path

A marked, stone paved trail of moderate difficulty leads up the hill in about 20 to 40 minutes.

Pay the small fee

A small entry fee is reported to be collected locally, so carry some cash.

Stay for the view

Time your visit for early morning or late afternoon for cooler air and softer light.

Experiences

6 Things to Do at the Fort

01

Hike to the Top

Enjoy the short but rewarding climb up the stone paved trail above the city.

02

Skardu Basin Views

Look out over Skardu city, the Indus River and the distant Karakoram peaks.

03

Ancient Mosque

See the old mosque that still stands among the fort's ruins.

04

Royal History

Learn the story of the Maqpon kings, the Dogra conquest and the 1948 siege.

05

River Meeting Point

Spot where the Indus and Shigar rivers come together below the fort.

06

Sunset Photography

Late afternoon light turns the valley golden, a favourite time for photos.

Plan Your Visit

Visiting Kharpocho Fort? Stay 54 km away.

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

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Seasons

Best Time to Visit Kharpocho Fort

Late spring to early autumn is the best season. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times of day.
Late SpringMild weather for the climb
SummerLong days, start early to avoid the heat
Early AutumnClear skies and golden light
WinterCold, check the trail before you go

Be Prepared

Tips Before You Go

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail is uphill and moderate in difficulty.
  • Carry water and a little cash for the local entry fee.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler air and the best light.
  • Watch your step near the edges of the ruins.
  • Combine your visit with Katpana Desert or Blind Lake on the same day.

In Focus

A Closer Look

Kharpocho Fort walls and old mosque with views over Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan
Kharpocho Fort, Skardu

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Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

It is about 54 km, around 1.3 hours by road.

Kharpocho means the King of Forts in the Balti language.

King Ali Sher Khan Anchan of the Maqpon dynasty built the earliest fort at the end of the 16th century.

The marked stone paved trail from the Skardu bazaar takes around 20 to 40 minutes uphill.

A small entry fee is reported to be collected locally. Carry some cash.

Plan Your Stay

Climb the King of Forts, Then Rest by the River

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