Top Attractions in Shigar Valley
- Shigar Fort: Detailed exploration of the historic fort
- Amburiq Mosque: Highlighting the architectural beauty
Shigar Valley is home to some of the most fascinating and historic attractions in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Here are two of the top attractions that you should not miss when visiting Shigar Valley:
- Shigar Fort: This is a 17th century fort and palace that was built by the Raja of Amacha Dynasty of Shigar. It is also known as Fong-Khar, which means the Palace on the Rock. The fort is a masterpiece of Balti architecture and art, featuring intricate wood carvings, stone masonry, and paintings. The fort was restored by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan and converted into a museum and a luxury hotel managed by Serena Hotels. The fort offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Baltistan, as well as stunning views of the Shigar River and the surrounding mountains. You can explore the fort’s museum, which displays original carvings, indigenous artefacts, and architectural history. You can also enjoy the fort’s historical garden, which has seasonal BBQ and cherry ice cream. You can even stay at the fort’s hotel, which has 20 rooms and suites that are steeped in Balti culture and furnished with handmade period furniture, fabrics, and antiques.
- Amburiq Mosque: This is a 14th century mosque that is located in the Amburiq village of Shigar Valley. It is one of the oldest mosques in Baltistan and is considered a UNESCO-protected heritage site. The mosque was built by Sayed Ali Hamdani, a famous Sufi saint who introduced Islam to the region. The mosque is made entirely of wood and is built in the traditional Balti style of architecture. The mosque’s prayer hall is divided into two sections, with the front section reserved for men and the back section for women. The walls of the mosque are decorated with colorful frescoes, which depict scenes from Islamic history and tradition. The frescoes are believed to have been painted by local artists, using traditional techniques and natural pigments. The mosque also has a small museum, which helps to create awareness of the historical significance of the site and to instill a conservational approach among the local community. The mosque is a symbol of the Islamic heritage and spirituality of Shigar Valley.
Shigar Valley Attractions:
The valley has an extremely picturesque landscape, and abounds in fruit such as grapes, peaches, pears, walnuts and apricots.
Shigar bears the distinct stamp of its history as the administrative, commercial and cultural valley of Baltistan.
The wild and lush green hauntingly beautiful landscapes of this hidden land are often likened to Tibet – Ladhakh used to be known as ‘Little Tibet’ – and are every bit as dramatic and enticing.
Shigar posses several of the outlying historical and cultural gems of Baltistan, including the 500 year old Khanqah Moalla, Fong Khar, Raja palace and mosques.
A memorable sight of the Shigar bazaar is the group of men , traditionally attired , selling fruits, vegetables and household articles, spinning and knitting, and exchanging gentle banter between themselves and with passers-by.
The mosque ( Khanqah Moalla ), Raja Palace, the bazaar and the hill top monasteries, are all within walking distances of each other. Niali, Churkah and Mamotonma, Jarba zhou lake are quite close while Chutron, Seisko, Gulabpur, and Hashupi are all a day’s touring distance.
Niali, Sharba monasteries and the royal palace at Sharba all of which provide an insight into the rich heritage of the region.
Niali Mirpi top (highest point to see K2 and other peaks) and Thale La offer exciting treks starting from Shigar center, while countless treks and climbs (inlcuding K2, Gashabrum I, II, III, IV, Trango Tower, Broad Peak, Hispar La, snow lake, Spangtik and countless peaks and trek routes) are the best world over for trekking and climbing.
This valley is home to endless numbers of glaciers and small, nameless streams. Both of the upper river valleys, the Basha and the Braldu, that confluence to form the Shigar River are an absolute delight for someone with an adventurous spirit, love of big mountains and the unique cultures that form in their nooks and crannies.
Boating and river running too are possible on the Shigar River.
Lake
Shigar offers the magnificent sight of the lovely lake, Jarba zhou in close proximity near to Lamsa. Soothed by the sound of water lapping against the hull, you can relax around the lake or better still, savour the peaceful ambienceThe beauty of Shigar is that it introduces you best to Balti’s ways while you head out for short walks or drive around. Shigar stands accessible, surrounded by the majesty of the Karakoram enclave. The experience can best be described as a peek into the delights that make up this ancient trade route towards Lhasa Tibet.