Katpana Desert: A Cold Desert in Skardu
The Katpana Desert is also known as the Cold Desert, located in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is a high-altitude cold desert that is situated at an elevation of 2,500 meters above sea level.
The desert is famous for its unique and picturesque landscape, featuring sand dunes and snow-capped mountains. The Cold Desert with its mesmerizing cold nights and exquisite sandy view makes it a glorious place to visit.
Weather Conditions at Katpana Desert:
The weather in this desert can be quite extreme with cold winters. During winter, temperatures can drop as low as -10°C (14°F). During summer months, temperatures tend to be 8°C (46°F) at night and slightly higher during the day, reaching up to 27°C (81°F).
A Tourists Attraction:
Katpana Desert is one of the most attractive tourist attractions of Northern Areas in Pakistan. The area is also known for its adventure sports and adventure enthusiasts from around the world.
Activities to do at Katpana Desert:
The Katpana Desert offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy:
Skiing: The desert is a popular ski destination, attracting skiers from around the world.
Paragliding: The desert offers ideal conditions for paragliding, with its clear skies and breathtaking views.
Trekking: The nearby mountains offer challenging trekking routes for adventurous tourists.
Camping: The desert provides a unique and scenic location for camping, with its sand dunes and snow-capped mountains.
Camping at Katpana Desert
Sightseeing: Visitors can explore the nearby town of Skardu and its historical landmarks, such as the Shigar Fort and the Kharpocho Fort.
Photography: The desert's unique landscape makes it a popular destination for photography enthusiasts.
Star Gazing: Visitors to the Katpana Desert are often captivated by the breathtaking starry nights, particularly during the summer months when the weather is clear. The sky sparkles with an abundance of stars, making it a popular spot for star-gazing.
A starry Night at Khatpana Desert
Cherry Picking: When traveling to the Katpana Desert in spring, tourists pass by cherry trees that are often ripe for picking. This can be a fun and delicious activity, especially if traveling with a local who can assist in obtaining as many cherries as desired.
How to Get There:
The Katpana Desert is located in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, and is just a few kilometers away from the city center. Skardu can be reached by road from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Gilgit, with regular bus services available from these cities.
