Sarfaranga Desert

Sarfaranga is a cold desert on the floor of the Indus valley, where the Shigar River meets the Indus a short drive from Skardu. Pale dunes spread across the valley at more than 2,000 metres above sea level, with bare rock peaks on every side and snow on the summits for much of the year.

It is one of the easiest landscapes in Baltistan to reach, because the road from Skardu to Shigar runs straight across the sand. Most yatris stop here on the way to Shigar Fort, and stay longer in the late afternoon when the light turns the dunes gold.

Places to visit

• The dunesOpen sand on both sides of the Shigar road, with wide views up and down the Indus valley.
• The meeting of the riversThe Shigar River joins the Indus beside the desert, spreading into channels across the valley floor.
• Blind LakeA small, still lake near the road to Shigar, often paired with the desert.
• Katpana DesertA second cold desert on the edge of Skardu town, closer to the hotels.

Things to do

• A short walk on the dunes
• Sunset photography
• Jeep rides across the sand, where local operators offer them
• A picnic stop on the way to Shigar

Good to know

The sun is strong and there is no shade, and the wind can be cold even in summer. Bring water, sunglasses and a warm layer. The sand is soft, so elders may prefer to stay near the road.