Manthoka Waterfall
Gilgit Baltistan (GB) is bestowed with wonderful tourist destinations. Manthoka Fall, Cold Desert, and Askole Village are some of the beautiful places.
Details of beautiful places in GB
| Tourist Site | Location | Main Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Skardu | Skardu city | Shangrila Resort, Shangrila Lake, Deosai National Park |
| Hunza Valley | Hunza region | Karimabad, Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Attabad Lake |
| Naltar Valley | Naltar region | Naltar Lakes, Skiing, Hiking, and Scenic Beauty |
| Gilgit City | Gilgit city | Gilgit River, Karakoram University, Local Bazaars |
| Fairy Meadows | Nanga Parbat Base Camp area | Nanga Parbat view, Hiking, Camping |
| Baltistan Valley | Skardu region | Beautiful landscapes, Mountain scenery |
| Khaplu Valley | Khaplu region | Khaplu Fort, Shyok River, Serene environment |
| Deosai National Park | Skardu region | High Plateau, Wildlife, Scenic Views |
| Shigar Fort | Shigar region | Historical Fort, Shigar River, Culture |
| Rama Lake | Astore region | High-altitude lake, Nanga Parbat View |
Must visit places in GB
1- Manthoka Waterfall / Aab Shar
There is a beautiful waterfall in the Manthoka Nagar area from the right of Madhopur and Mehdiabad. It is located on the highway directed to Kharmang from Skardu. It is claimed that it is the highest waterfall in Pakistan with a height of 180 feet. There is an ideal site for fishing and camping near the fall.
2- Askole – the last village in Pakistan
Askole (also spelled as Askolay), is the last human settlement towards the highest peak of Pakistan’s K-2. The sky-scraping peaks of Karakoram start after this village which is 3048 meters above sea level. Human life is impossible in these mountains.
In the past, this village has a strong relationship with Tibet and Ladakh. The impact of that relations can be seen in the lives of the people of this village. This village looks so beautiful in the summer and seems like a bride in winter.
The only route connecting this village to the world blocks in winter is due to heavy snowfall. The residents of this area shift to the basements of two-floor low-roof houses. And they spend four months in these basements. During this time, they depend on stored dry grains and yak milk.
3- Askole (Askolay) House Museum
A museum has been established at the foothills of sky-high and cold Karakoram mountains to be acquainted with the history, culture, traditions, norms, and information related to hiking. For further queries, you can contact Italian K-2 Museum in Skardu.
4- For Hikers
People fond of hiking and trekking can buy used stuff for hiking from the different shops of Skardu Bazaars. The foreign climbers bring this mountaineering stuff from their countries. After hiking they sell it at cheap prices in the local market or give it as gifts to the local people.
5- Thanda Sehra (Cold Desert)
On the way from Gilgit to Skardu, 35km before Skardu, you will feel as if you are traveling in the desert. You will sense the same while traveling in the suburbs of Skardu like Shigar, Khaplu, and other valleys.
According to some experts, it is the most elevated desert in the World. At the altitudes of 13,000 feet to 16,000 feet, this cold desert is located within the boundaries of Pakistan, Hindustan (India), and China. The snow-clad mount peaks behind the desert enhance its grandeur.
FAQs:
1. Where is Manthoka Waterfall located, and what makes it unique?
Manthoka Waterfall is located in the Manthoka Nagar area, on the highway directed to Kharmang from Skardu. It is claimed to be the highest waterfall in Pakistan with a height of 180 feet. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and camping in the vicinity.
2. What is the significance of Askole Village in Gilgit Baltistan?
Askole is the last human settlement towards the highest peak of Pakistan, K-2. It marks the starting point for the towering peaks of the Karakoram. The village has a unique relationship with Tibet and Ladakh, influencing the lives of its residents. In winter, due to heavy snowfall, the village becomes isolated as the only connecting route to the world gets blocked.
3. Is there a museum related to hiking and mountaineering in Askole Village?
Yes, there is an Askole House Museum established at the foothills of the Karakoram mountains, offering insights into the history, culture, traditions, and information related to hiking. For additional information, visitors can contact the Italian K-2 Museum in Skardu.
4. Where can hiking enthusiasts find gear for their adventures in Skardu?
Hiking and trekking enthusiasts can find used mountaineering equipment in the shops of Skardu Bazaars. Foreign climbers often bring this gear from their countries and sell it at reasonable prices in the local market or give it as gifts to the local community after their treks.
5. What is the Cold Desert in Gilgit Baltistan, and where is it located?
The Cold Desert is located between Gilgit and Skardu, approximately 35km before Skardu. Some experts consider it to be the highest desert in the world, situated at altitudes of 13,000 to 16,000 feet. The snow-covered mountain peaks in the background add to its breathtaking beauty.
6. What are the main attractions for tourists in Gilgit Baltistan, apart from the places mentioned in the article?
Gilgit Baltistan offers a wide range of attractions for tourists, including the Shangrila Resort, Shangrila Lake, Deosai National Park, Karimabad, Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake, Naltar Lakes, Gilgit River, Khaplu Fort, Rama Lake, and more.
7. How can visitors access Gilgit Baltistan and these tourist destinations?
Visitors can access Gilgit Baltistan by air through the Skardu and Gilgit airports or by road from major cities in Pakistan. Once there, various modes of transportation, including buses and jeeps, are available to reach the different tourist destinations.
Wind Up Lines
Manthoka Waterfall, Askole, and Cold Desert are well-known among hikers for trekking areas. They are ideal places for holidaymakers too.