The Serena Shigar Fort is a unique heritage boutique hotel located in Skardu. The landscape of this resort is embraced by the majestic KK Mountain Range in Skardu. Experience comfort in a 450-year-old fort and a 17th-century palace.
Shigar Fort is a splendid destination for travellers, enveloped by lush green vistas and towering mountain peaks. The ethereal presence of billowing clouds, majestic mountains, and a serene ambience makes this place a true paradise. It stands as one of the most meticulously preserved forts in the region.
Furthermore, Shigar Fort is a magnificent tourist destination, surrounded by lush green landscapes and towering mountains. It is one of the most well-maintained forts in the country, with 20 Balti-inspired rooms and suites and the more recent “Old House” and “Garden House.”
Graana.com has prepared a comprehensive guide on Serena Shigar Fort Skardu, including its history, accommodation prices, and more.
Shigar Fort History
Shigar Fort, a majestic historical landmark in Gilgit Baltistan, was built over 400 years ago under the reign of the Amacha Dynasty. After the king and his descendants died, the fort remained abandoned for many years. In the mid-20th century, the rulers abandoned the fort, leaving it to deteriorate severely. The harsh weather conditions of Skardu, including heavy snowfalls, also contributed to the fort’s destruction.
Additionally, in 2004, the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan restored the fort and transformed it into a luxury hotel, also known as a heritage guesthouse, to boost cultural tourism in the region. Serena Hotels, an international chain of luxury hotels, currently manages the fort as both a museum of Balti culture and a hotel. Since its restoration, the fort has become a prominent attraction, drawing over 20 thousand visitors or hotel guests annually.
The Architecture of Shigar Fort Skardu
The architectural design of the fort resembles many of the ancient forts in the region. The use of square stone blocks and long wooden structures are distinctive features. The walls of the fort are mostly made out of mud and are extremely thick. The use of square stone blocks throughout the various sections of the fort gives the fort its strength. The fort has different sections which were used by the royal family for hundreds of years. To ensure the proper flow of air throughout different parts of the fort, small windows were constructed.
The windows served to control the flow of air but also provided plenty of sunlight, illuminating the interior of the fort during that time. The doors of the fort are of medium height and are decorated with several geometrical shapes. Wood has been used extensively on the interior as well as the exterior of the fort. The use of wooden blocks on the exterior of the fort gives the fort its unique look. The wooden blocks are pasted on the wall horizontally, resembling a staircase. Unique wood carvings are present throughout the interior of the fort, particularly on doors and windows.
Moreover, the Shigar Fort stands out for its beauty, boasting an expansive garden rarely found in other forts in the region. Visitors can now enjoy meals on the fort’s balconies.
The restoration team has meticulously preserved all the original architectural features, ensuring extreme caution in the process. Also, visitors to the fort experience a unique stay in an ancient fort restored to its original form, offering a distinctive blend of modern comfort and ancient architecture.
Accommodation Options
The hotel offers a total of 20 rooms, which come in five different categories:
Garden House Standard Rooms
The spacious Garden House Rooms, also non-smoking, present double or twin bed options and comprise a lobby area, cable television, and a private wooden balcony that overlooks the picturesque Baradari monument and Amacha Garden. Moreover, it’s important to note that all rooms at Serena Shigar Fort are non-smoking.
Royal Suites
This non-smoking suite, once Raja’s royal summer quarters, includes a king-sized bed, an adjoining sitting area (formerly Raja’s Baithak), a “Shah-e-Nasheen,” and an airy wooden lattice work balcony. Additionally, adorned with period antiques and splendid views of the Shigar stream, the suite has a working desk, an exquisite bathroom, and a powder room.
Standard Rooms
These heritage rooms, designated as non-smoking, offer a choice of double, single, or twin beds and feature well-appointed bathrooms with showers.
Garden Suites
Garden Suites, which are non-smoking, provide more space than our Garden Rooms. They include a king-sized bed, a comfortable sitting area with a Diwan, an in-room cable television, a modern bathroom, and a private balcony with a view of the stunning Baradari monument and Amacha Garden.
Heritage Suites
The hotel’s three Heritage Suites, initially serving as chambers for royal women and the Raja’s mid-season quarters, offer spacious and luxuriously decorated accommodations. Furthermore, these suites feature a king-sized bed in the main bedroom, a single bed in a separate anteroom and/or Shah-e-Nasheen, and a sitting area. Unique characteristics of these suites include beautifully panelled ceilings and intricate carvings on the Shah Nasheen.
Amenities
- Complimentary Airport Transfers
- 24-hour Wi-Fi
- Daily Newspaper
- Mini Bar
- Resident’s Lounge for private parties and snacks
- Room service, valet, and laundry
- Fresh fruit
- Historical garden with seasonal BBQ
- Welcome drinks
- Fongkhar Restaurant offers Pakistan, Local, Chinese, and Continental specialties
- Conference Room
- 24-hour Business Centre
- Doctor on call
- Complimentary breakfast
- 24-hour forex
- Concierge Service
- Car Rental Services
- On-site Parking
- Event and Wedding Facilities
Shigar Fort Prices
The following are the per-night room charges at Shigar Fort:
- Garden House Standard Room: PKR 38,000-48,000 per night
- Royal Suite: PKR 68,000-78,000 per night
- Standard Room: PKR 28,000-38,000 per night
- Garden Suite: PKR 48,000-58,000 per night
- Heritage Suite: PKR 58,000-68,000 per night
Skardu Airport To Shigar Fort
Getting to the Shigar Fort from the Skardu airport is quite convenient. It is about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive from the airport. The airport access road is well-paved and devoid of congested traffic for both incoming and outgoing journeys. The main route is about 44 kilometres in length.
The route passes through the main Skardu city, so you can stop by if you need to buy anything from the market. Moreover, the Shigar Road, which connects Skardu city to the Shigar Valley, is very picturesque, traversing through the popular Sarfaranga Cold Desert.
Attractions
Serena Shigar Fort offers a variety of attractions to its visitors, including:
- Restored Rooms With Native Stone
- A View Of Bardari And Amacha Garden
- An Al Fresco Garden
- A View Of The Roaring Shigar Stream
- A Cherry And Apricot Garden, A Museum
- The Raja’s Mosque
- Preservations Of Old Relics
- Visitors can also learn about the royal family’s history and culture by viewing their personal belongings, such as pots and cooking utensils.
Serena Shigar Fort Contact Information
Location: Shigar, Baltistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Phone: +92 5815 467108
Fax: +92 5815 467288
Email: reservation.ssf@serena.com.pk
FAQs
What is Shigar Fort, and where is it located?
Shigar Fort is a historic fort and now a luxury heritage hotel located in Shigar, a picturesque town in the Baltistan region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.
What is the historical significance of the Shigar Fort?
Shigar Fort, dating back centuries, symbolises the region’s rich heritage and history. It was once the residence of the local rulers and has witnessed the passage of time and various dynasties.
What kind of accommodations does Shigar Fort offer?
Shigar Fort offers a variety of rooms and suites, including Standard Rooms, Garden House Standard Rooms, Garden Suites, Heritage Suites, and Royal Suites.
Are the rooms at Shigar Fort air-conditioned?
The rooms at Shigar Fort are not air-conditioned; however, their good insulation and the cool mountain air guarantee a comfortable stay.
What are some of the attractions within Shigar Fort?
Shigar Fort boasts several attractions, including its beautifully restored rooms, open terraces with views of Bardari and Amacha Garden, an Al Fresco garden, the mesmerising Shigar Stream, a cherry and apricot garden, a museum showcasing historical artefacts, and more.
Can visitors explore the local culture and traditions in Shigar?
Yes, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions of Shigar. The fort itself is a testament to the region’s heritage, and you can also explore the nearby town to experience the Balti culture.
Is there a restaurant at Shigar Fort?
Yes, Shigar Fort has an on-site restaurant called Fongkhar Restaurant, offering a range of Pakistani, local, Chinese, and Continental specialities.
What are some outdoor activities one can enjoy around Shigar Fort?
Guests can engage in various outdoor activities, including exploring the beautiful landscape, trekking, hiking, and visiting nearby attractions like Shigar’s cherry orchards.
How can I make a reservation at Shigar Fort?
You can make reservations at Shigar Fort by contacting them directly through the provided contact information or their official website.
Is Shigar Fort suitable for weddings and special events?
Shigar Fort is a popular venue for weddings, special events, and corporate gatherings. Its historic charm and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal location for such occasions.
What is the best time to visit Shigar Fort?
The best time to visit Shigar Fort is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is pleasant and the gardens are in full bloom.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Shigar Fort?
There may be an entrance fee to visit certain parts of Shigar Fort, such as the museum. It’s best to check with the fort’s management for the latest information on fees and access.
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