Upper Kachura lake

Quick facts

• Height above sea level: 8,200 ft (about 2,500 m)
• Nearest city: Skardu — About 22–30 km (about 35–45 minutes by road)
• Summer (Jun–Aug): 12°C to 28°C
• Winter (Dec–Feb): -10°C to 4°C (lake surface freezes)

Famous for: A deep, clear lake about 70 m deep above Kachura village, known for boating and trout fishing, and quieter than the nearby Shangrila Resort on Lower Kachura.

Upper Kachura Lake

Upper Kachura Lake, locally known as Foroq Tso, is a breathtaking alpine glacial lake nestled in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Located approximately 28 kilometers from Skardu city at an elevation of around 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), the lake is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, which reach depths of nearly 70 meters.

Encircled by pine-covered mountains, wild apricot orchards, and the spectacular rugged peaks of the Karakoram, Upper Kachura offers a peaceful and untouched escape into nature. Unlike its more developed neighbor, Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila), Upper Kachura retains a serene and authentic atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy traditional wooden boat rides, trout fishing, lakeside camping, and photography while taking in the stunning mountain scenery. From spring through autumn, the lake's surroundings are especially beautiful, with pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes. During the colder winter months, the lake can freeze over, creating an entirely different and magical landscape.

Reaching Upper Kachura Lake involves a short, scenic walk from the parking area through local fruit orchards. Its natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and easy accessibility make it one of the must-visit attractions on any Skardu itinerary.