Guide to Sarfaranga Cold Desert, Skardu 2025
“On your journey to your dream, be ready to face oasis and deserts. In both cases, don’t stop.”
— Paulo Coelho
As a foreigner or traveler in Pakistan, if you are looking for beautiful places to visit in the North, then Sarfaranga Cold Desert is a must-visit. It lies nestled in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan’s Shigar district, at a breathtaking elevation of 7,500 feet, and is also known as the Skardu Cold Desert. This otherworldly landscape is unlike any desert you’ve ever imagined: here, golden dunes meet the mighty Karakoram Mountains, while the roaring Indus River flows close by.
Why is Sarfaranga Desert Unique?
When you think of a desert, the first images that come to mind are scorching heat, endless sand, and an unforgiving, dry landscape. But Sarfaranga flips this script entirely. Instead of relentless sun, you’re greeted by cool, crisp air, even in summer. Instead of a barren wasteland, you’ll find a mosaic of sand dunes, a freshwater lake (Blind Lake), and dramatic snow-capped peaks soaring over 6,000 meters.
The Indus River, Pakistan’s largest, skirts the desert’s edge, feeding thousands of acres from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab all the way to the Arabian Sea. The result? A breathtaking blend of desert, river, and mountains, an Instagrammer’s dream and an adventurer’s paradise.
Getting There
The Sarfaranga Cold Desert is easily accessible, a mere 30-minute scenic drive from Skardu city along the Shigar road. Whether you’re heading to Shigar Fort or exploring the valley, the desert’s golden expanse is impossible to miss.
What to Do in Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Sarfaranga is not just a place for sightseeing, it’s a playground for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and culture explorers alike.
Adventure Activities & Ticket Prices
| Activity | Price (PKR) |
| Horse Riding | 600-800 |
| Paramotoring | 8,000+ |
| Dirt Bike Motoring | 8,000 |
| ATV Ride | 8,000 |
| Jeep Safari (20 min, up to 4 people) | 8,000 |
| Paragliding | 10,000 |
| Quad Bike Safari | 1,500 |
- Jeep Safari: Traverse the dunes in a 4×4, feeling the adrenaline as you cross sandy and rocky terrain.
- Paragliding & Paramotoring: Soar above the desert for panoramic views—an unforgettable way to witness the grandeur of Skardu.
- Horse Riding: Experience the soft golden light from horseback, adding a traditional touch to your adventure.
- Quad Biking & Dirt Biking: Speed across the open desert with the Karakoram as your backdrop.
Camping & Glamping
As the sun sets over the dunes, the desert transforms into a stargazer’s paradise. Camping under the stars, or “glamping” in luxury tent, lets you witness dazzling night skies and the Milky Way in its full glory.
Group Activities
- Bonfire Evenings: Gather around a fire, swap stories, and enjoy local folklore, trout, and yak for dinner.
- Photography: Capture epic group photos against the surreal blend of sand, river, and snow-draped peaks.
In recent months, Sarfaranga Cold Desert has gained attention from international vloggers and travel influencers, who describe it as a surreal blend of Moroccan dunes and Dubai adventures — but in freezing temperatures. As foreign travelers Glen and Mado put it,“It’s the highest and coldest desert in the world… really cool because it’s cold!”
The Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally
Perhaps the most famous event here is the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Jeep Rally, a motorsport extravaganza that has put this hidden gem on the adventure map. Every year, 80–100 vehicles and bikers from across Pakistan and beyond compete in a challenging race across 75 kilometers of sandy, rocky, and powdery terrain. The rally not only showcases the region’s natural beauty,but also its vibrant culture, with polo matches, food stalls, local handicrafts, and musical nights.
Upcoming Event:
Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally 2025
Dates: October 6–8, 2025
If you’re an adrenaline junkie or a culture enthusiast, plan your visit to coincide with this spectacular event!
Climate & Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June–September): Daytime highs are 8°C to 24°C—pleasant for all activities.
- Winter: Nights can drop to -17°C; pack warm clothing if visiting in winter!
- Tip: Even in summer, evenings can be chilly, so always bring layers.
Quick Tips for Visitors
- Duration: Perfect for a half or full-day trip from Skardu.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothes (even in summer), snacks, and plenty of water.
- Photography: Early morning or sunset for the best light and colors.
- Book in Advance: For activities like Jeep Safari and paragliding, book ahead during peak season or rally dates.
Sarfaranga Cold Desert is a natural wonder that must be seen to be believed. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a glimpse of Pakistan’s vibrant culture, this high-altitude desert offers it all.
Stay tuned with Hello Salam PK for more!
