Shangrila Resort Skardu

Shangrila Resort occupies a landmark position on the shore of Lower Kachura Lake, approximately 22 kilometres from Skardu city and accessible via a paved road through Kachura village. The lake is one of the most photographed in Pakistan — a turquoise expanse ringed by willow trees, fruit orchards, and snow-dusted ridges that shift colour through the day as the light changes over the surrounding Karakoram peaks. The resort was established in the 1980s and carries the informal national title 'Heaven on Earth,' a phrase that has followed the property through decades of travel writing and domestic tourism.

The most recognisable structure on the property is the aircraft-body restaurant, constructed from the fuselage of a retired Douglas DC-3, which sits over the lake on a floating platform. It remains fully operational and serves Pakistani meals and grills with lake views from every seat — more atmospheric than gastronomically ambitious, but a genuine Skardu experience. The main accommodation block holds standard and superior rooms; superior rooms face the lake directly and justify the small premium over the standard category. Interiors are dated but well-maintained, with local woodwork details and mountain-facing windows.

Gardens spread across several hectares, planted with apple, apricot, and cherry trees that bloom spectacularly in spring and provide shade in summer. Guests can hire pedal boats or row boats from the resort's small jetty. There is no spa facility, but the setting provides ample passive recreation — early morning walks through the orchards, birdwatching along the lakeshore, and evening sunsets over the Karakoram ridgeline.

Service runs at the relaxed pace of a mountain resort: airport transfers from Skardu Airport (approximately 25km away) are available on request, the restaurant is staffed throughout the day, and the front desk can arrange jeep transport for day trips to Shigar Fort, Satpara Lake, or the Cold Desert.