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If you are looking for a peacefuland picturesque destination in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, you might want to visit Kachura Lake(Shangrila). This lake is located near the city of Skardu, in the Skardu Valley, in the Karakoram mountain range. The lake is also known as Lower Kachura Lake or Zharba Tso in the local language.
Shangrila Lake or The Lower Kachura Lake, at 2,450 metres (8,100 ft) in elevation. The lake is in the Karakoram mountain range of the western Himalayas, the greater Kashmir region, and in the Indus River basin. This Lake is has a depth of 30 metres . In summer it has a temperature of 15 °C (59 °F). In winter the surface is frozen solid. The upper Indus River flows nearby at a lower elevation.
Kachura Lake(Shangrila) is a stunning lake that offers a serene and scenic experience for travelers. The lake is situated at an elevation of 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level, which makes it an easy and rewarding destination for adventure seekers. The lake is also a paradise for anglers, as it is abundant in trout fish. The lake and its surroundings are rich in biodiversity, where you can encounter various flora and fauna, such as apricot and cherry trees, golden marmots, and many birds.
Kachura Lake(Shangrila) is about 30 kilometers from Skardu, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. You can reach Skardu by road or by air from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. From Skardu, you can take a jeep ride to the lake, which takes about 45 minutes. The lake is on the way to the Shigar Valley, which is one of the most beautiful valleys in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The best time to visit Kachura Lake(Shangrila) is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is at its most beautiful. The lake’s water level begins to rise in March and reaches its peak in July. In winter, the lake freezes and the area is covered with snow, which offers a different kind of charm. However, the winter season is not recommended for tourists, as the temperature drops below freezing and the road conditions are poor.
Kachura Lake(Shangrila) is a perfect place to enjoy nature and relax. You can admire the amazing views of the lake and the mountains, take photos, have a picnic, or camp by the shore. You can also try your luck at fishing, as the lake is full of trout. However, you need to obtain a fishing license from the Gilgit Baltistan Fisheries Department, as fishing without a license is illegal. You can also explore the nearby areas, such as the Upper Kachura Lake, the Karakoram Highway, and the Sarfaranga Cold Desert.
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