How deep is Upper Kachura Lake?

Around 70 metres (roughly 230 feet), making it one of the deepest lakes in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Is Upper Kachura the same as Shangrila Lake?

No. Shangrila is Lower Kachura Lake inside a private resort. Upper Kachura is a separate, larger and much deeper lake about 2 km further along the same road.

Lakes

Upper Kachura Lake

Cold, clear and glacially deep — Skardu's most photogenic water

Altitude: 2,500 m / 8,200 ft
Distance: 22 km from Skardu city
Drive time: 40 minutes plus a 10-minute walk
Best season: May to October
Entry: Small local entry ticket
Category: Lakes

A short walk beyond Shangrila, Upper Kachura is the serious lake of the pair: around 70 metres deep, fed by snowmelt, and so clear that boulders are visible far below the surface.

The approach path drops through willow and apricot trees before opening onto a long stretch of turquoise water hemmed by scree slopes. Wooden boats are available, and the small tea stalls at the head of the lake serve chai and trout.

Because the water stays close to freezing all year, Upper Kachura is a favourite of cold-water swimmers, but it is not a casual swim — the drop-off is immediate and there is no lifeguard.

Come early in the day if you want the water still enough for reflections. By mid-afternoon a valley wind usually picks up.

Highlights

Water clarity that rivals any alpine lake in Asia
Wooden boat rides across the deepest section
Trout served fresh at the lakeside stalls
Quiet walking trail through orchard land from the car park

How to get there

Same road as Shangrila — continue past the resort gate and park at the marked lot, then walk ten minutes downhill to the shore.

Not sure how to reach the region itself? See how to reach Skardu by air and road.

Where to stay nearby

Kachura village guest houses are the closest option; most travellers stay in Skardu city and visit as a half-day trip.

Where to stay near Upper Kachura Lake

Compare hotels, resorts and guest houses in and around Upper Kachura Lake — from budget rooms in the bazaar to heritage forts and lakeside resorts.

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