The Kharpocho Fort, perched majestically atop a mountain, is a testament to the region’s rich history. With breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, this ancient fort has become a popular tourist destination. Graana.com tells you about its history, magnificent architecture, stunning location, and fascinating attractions making the Kharpocho Fort a perfect destination for travellers.
History of Kharpocho Fort
Ali Sher Khan, a local ruler, built the Kharpocho Fort in the 16th century to protect the kingdom of Ladakh from invasions by the Mughal and Tibetan Empires. The fort remained under constant military control and nobody ever captured it, making it the only fort in Pakistan with such a distinction. It stands as a testament to its defensive capabilities and strategic significance.
Magnificent Architecture of Kharpocho Fort
The Kharpocho Fort, one of the most famous forts in Pakistan, is renowned for its architectural brilliance, showcasing a fusion of Tibetan, Islamic, and Kashmiri influences. With its seven-story monumental building, the fort exemplifies astounding craftsmanship in carpentry and artistic techniques. The structure seamlessly blends with the mountain itself, creating an illusion of being forged from the rocks it stands on.
One of the distinctive features of the Kharpocho Fort is its small window entrance that accommodates only one person at a time. This unique design enhances the fort’s defensive capabilities, making it more challenging for potential invaders to breach its walls.
Location
The Kharpocho Fort is situated on a mountain approximately 14,000 metres above Skardu City. From its lofty perch, it overlooks the confluence of rivers and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This strategic location allowed the fort to serve as a vantage point for protecting and monitoring the city’s entrance.
The fort provides a breathtaking view of the Skardu Valley and the mighty Indus River. It is particularly famous for offering a mesmerising sight during full moon nights when the moonlight bathes the valley in an ethereal glow. The Kharpocho Fort is a sight to behold, surrounded by nature’s grandeur.
How to Reach Kharpocho Fort
Here is complete detail about the route for the convenience of tourists travelling on the route of Islamabad to Gilgit.
Journey from Islamabad
You have two options to reach the Kharpocho Fort from Islamabad: a one-hour flight or a scenic road trip lasting approximately 20 to 24 hours. The road trip takes you through the iconic Karakoram Highway, offering awe-inspiring views of the majestic mountains and picturesque valleys.
Route from Gilgit
If you are coming from Gilgit Baltistan, the journey time to reach the fort is around five hours. The route passes through an intersection that separates the road to Rawalpindi and Skardu. The journey is filled with thrilling experiences, including crossing the Indus River bridge, traversing captivating valleys, and crossing suspension bridges.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit the Kharpocho Fort is from June to September. During these months, the Skardu Valley experiences pleasant temperatures, and the landscapes transform into lush green beauty. Additionally, if you are an enthusiast of wildlife, visiting in September provides an opportunity to witness polar bears in their summer habitat.
Places Near Kharpocho Fort
Following are the popular places you should visit when going to Kharpocho Fort.
Katpana Desert
Located merely 4.3 km from the Kharpocho Fort, the Katpana Desert, also known as the Cold Desert, offers a unique landscape with vast stretches of white sand dunes. The juxtaposition of the desert against the surrounding mountains creates a mesmerising panorama, further accentuated by the strong winds that sweep across the dunes.
Shangrila Resort
Approximately 18 km from Skardu City, the Shangrila Resort is a picturesque retreat that surrounds the heart-shaped Kachura Lake. Sitting at an altitude of 2500 metres, the resort is often called the “Roof of the World.” The orchards filled with fruits and flowers add to the resort’s charm and create a serene ambience.
Satpara Lake
A short 20-minute drive from Skardu City will take you to the breathtaking Satpara Lake, one of the most visited lakes in Pakistan. The lake’s crystal-clear waters mirror the snow-capped mountains that encircle it, creating a scene of majestic beauty. Local folklore even speaks of gold mines at the bottom of the lake, giving the water a mystical, glowing effect.
Kachura Lake
Located 29 km from the Kharpocho Fort, Kachura Lake is a hidden gem nestled in the Skardu Valley. With its clear, icy waters, the lake provides an opportunity for boating and trout fishing. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning surroundings make it a perfect spot for those seeking solace in nature’s embrace.
Activities at Kharpocho Fort
The Kharpocho Fort itself offers a spectacular view of Skardu City. During sunrise and sunset, the fort becomes an enchanting vantage point from which to witness the interplay of light and shadow on the landscape, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.
Places to Stay Near Kharpocho Fort
Following are some of the hotels to stay near Kharpocho Fort.
Dewan-e-Khas Hotel
Located within walking distance from the fort, the Dewan-e-Khas Hotel in Skardu offers comfortable and spacious rooms. From its premises, you can enjoy picturesque views of the Indus River and the Kharpocho Fort. The hotel also serves local Skardu Balti foods, allowing you to savour the flavours of the region.
Kharpocho Viewpoint Guest House
Situated in Khushu Bagh Skardu, the Kharpocho Viewpoint Guest House provides breathtaking views from its rooftop and balconies. The guest house offers comfortable rooms and a friendly environment, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. The exemplary hospitality and welcoming staff ensure a memorable stay.
Conclusion
The Kharpocho Fort stands as a magnificent architectural marvel in the Skardu Valley. Its rich history, unique fusion of architectural styles, and stunning location make it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking both adventure and cultural exploration.
FAQs
Q1. What is the history behind the Kharpocho Fort?
Ali Sher Khan built the Kharpocho Fort in the 16th century to protect the kingdom of Ladakh from Mughal and Tibetan invasions. The fort remained under constant military control and no one ever captured it, making it the only fort in Pakistan with this distinction.
Q2. What architectural styles can be seen in the Kharpocho Fort?
The Kharpocho Fort exhibits a fusion of Tibetan, Islamic, and Kashmiri architectural styles. The craftsmanship and intricate designs showcase the skill of the artisans who built the fort.
Q3. How can I reach the Kharpocho Fort?
You can reach the Kharpocho Fort by taking a one-hour flight from Islamabad or embarking on a road trip that takes 20 to 24 hours. The road trip offers scenic views via the Karakoram Highway.
Q4. What are some nearby attractions to visit along with the Kharpocho Fort?
The Skardu Valley offers several attractions, some popular ones include the Katpana Desert (Cold Desert), Shangrila Resort, Satpara Lake and Kachura Lake. Each place offers its own unique charm and natural beauty.
Q5. What activities can I enjoy at the Kharpocho Fort?
There are various activities to enjoy including trekking along the mountain trails, sightseeing with panoramic views of Skardu city, and trout fishing in nearby lakes such as Kachura Lake and Satpara Lake.
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