Katpana Desert Skardu – The Cold Desert of Pakistan
In the local tongue, the Katpana Desert is known as Biama Nakpo or Katpana Biana. It is one of the most stunning tourist destinations in the northern areas of Pakistan. Located in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, this unique place is also called the Cold Desert of Skardu because of its chilly nights and mesmerizing sandy landscape.
The desert’s beauty lies in its contrasts — golden sand dunes surrounded by snow-covered peaks of the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges. The strong winds constantly reshape the dunes, giving the desert a new look every time you visit. The combination of snow, sand, and mountains makes Katpana Desert one of the most unique natural wonders in the world.
Katpana Desert Location
The Katpana Desert is a high-altitude cold desert located in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It mainly spreads across Shigar Valley and Skardu city, while some parts extend towards Khaplu and even reach Nubra Valley in Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Due to its height and geographical position, the weather remains cold throughout the year — making it different from any other desert on Earth.
Specialty of Katpana Desert
At an altitude of about 2,226 meters above sea level, Katpana Desert is considered the highest cold desert in the world. The large white sand dunes and surrounding rocky mountains create a breathtaking view that leaves every visitor amazed.
As you travel across northern Pakistan, you’ll see diverse landscapes — from lush green valleys and clear rivers to vast rocky plains and towering mountains. The Katpana Desert stands out for its white sand, which shines like pearls when sunlight hits it. This makes it look like a magical scene, especially during sunrise and sunset.
People are fascinated by the cold climate, moving dunes, and rare combination of snow and sand — things rarely seen together anywhere else in the world.
Economic and Tourism Importance
The Katpana Cold Desert is not only a beautiful tourist attraction but also plays a role in boosting the local economy. Many tourists from Pakistan and abroad visit every year, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and travel businesses. The CPEC route nearby further encourages development and tourism in this region.
Surroundings of Katpana Desert
The Katpana Desert lies at an altitude of around 303 meters, surrounded by small bushes, dark gray rocky mountains, and peaceful suburbs. The Indus River flows nearby, adding charm to the already diverse landscape. During winter, the sand dunes get covered with snow, turning the area into a magical white wonderland that looks more like the surface of the moon than a desert.
Best Way to Reach Katpana Desert
You can reach Skardu — and from there, Katpana Desert — by road or air.
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By Air: Skardu Airport is operational, and direct flights from Islamabad to Skardu take about 1 hour.
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By Road: A road trip from Islamabad to Skardu takes around 13–14 hours, but the journey is full of breathtaking views of valleys, rivers, and mountains.
If you love adventure and nature, traveling by road gives you the chance to experience the true beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Climate of Katpana Desert
Despite being a desert, Katpana experiences extremely cold temperatures due to its elevation.
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In summer, temperatures range from 8°C to 24°C.
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In winter, temperatures can drop to -17°C or even lower.
Because of these cold conditions, survival is tough, and water and food resources can be limited during the harsh winter months.
Best Time to Visit Katpana Desert
The best time to visit the Katpana Desert is from April to October.
During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the desert glows under the bright sun.
However, winter is also a magical time to visit if you want to witness snow-covered dunes. The white sand mixed with snow creates an unreal sight — something you’ll never forget. Make sure to check the weather forecast before planning your trip, as temperatures can drop very low.
Glamp Pakistan Katpana Skardu
Located about 2.4 km from the center of Skardu, Glamp Pakistan Katpana offers luxury camping facilities in the heart of the Katpana Desert.
There are two types of accommodations available:
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All-weather tents – These comfortable tents let you enjoy panoramic views of the desert right from your bed. The washrooms are separate and powered by solar energy, providing hot water for guests.
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Wooden houses – Built from local wood with large windows, these huts offer stunning views of the surrounding nature. The interiors are decorated with pebbles from the Indus River, giving an authentic local touch.
Both options combine comfort with adventure — perfect for travelers who want a blend of luxury and wilderness.
Katpana Desert Festival
Every year, the Katpana Desert Jeep Rally takes place here — a thrilling event that has become the second-largest desert racing competition in Pakistan, right after the Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally. It attracts local and international racers, photographers, and adventure lovers.
Katpana Lake
Just 4 km from central Skardu, you’ll find the stunning Katpana Lake, located at the entrance of Katpana town. The lake is surrounded by trees and offers peaceful reflections of the mountains and skies. It’s a great place to relax, take pictures, and enjoy nature before or after visiting the desert.
Why Visit Katpana Desert
The Katpana Desert is one of the most remarkable places in the world — where snow meets sand. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience. The breathtaking scenery, cold breeze, and golden dunes create a perfect mix of adventure and peace. Whether you love nature, photography, or just want to see something extraordinary, Katpana Desert Skardu deserves a place on your travel bucket list.
Contact Us to Visit the Place
We are Repeatrip Tours, and we organize customized trips across Skardu, Hunza, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
If you’re planning to explore the Katpana Desert, Katpana Lake, or other scenic destinations in the north, contact us to plan your visit.
Our professional guides and tour packages make your journey comfortable, safe, and unforgettable.