Overview
Khaplu lies on the Shyok river, about 100 km east of Skardu, in a fertile valley with fields, apricot trees and steep, bare mountains on both sides. It was once the seat of a local ruling family, and the town still has some of the best-preserved traditional buildings in Baltistan.
The Chaqchan Mosque, dated to 1370, is one of the oldest in the region, with a timber structure and carved details. Khaplu Palace, also called Yabgo Khar, has been restored and now operates as a heritage hotel. The Hushe valley beyond Khaplu leads towards the base of Masherbrum and other peaks.
Highlights
- The Chaqchan Mosque, a wooden mosque dated to 1370
- Khaplu Palace (Yabgo Khar), restored as a heritage hotel
- Views along the Shyok river and the Saling valley
- The road to Hushe and views towards Masherbrum
Best time to visit
May to October is the best time, with warm days, green fields and apricot season in summer. Autumn colour in October is beautiful. Winters are cold, with snow on higher roads.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Skardu (KDU) or drive there along the Karakoram Highway, then continue by road to Khaplu, roughly 100 km and about three hours. Hotels in Skardu can arrange a car and driver. The road follows the Indus and then the Shyok river.
What to expect
Easy. Most sights can be reached on foot, and the pace is slow. Accommodation is limited, so book ahead in the busy summer months. Cash is useful, as cards are not widely accepted.
Practical tips
- Give yourself at least one night in Khaplu: the drive from Skardu is long.
- Dress modestly and ask permission before entering the mosque or photographing residents.
- Book the palace or a guesthouse early for June to September.
- Carry cash and medicines, as supplies are limited outside Skardu.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Khaplu from Skardu?
About 100 km, usually three hours by road.
What is the Chaqchan Mosque?
A wooden mosque dated to 1370, with traditional timber work, in the old part of Khaplu.
Can I trek from Khaplu?
Yes. The Hushe valley is the start for treks towards Masherbrum and other peaks. Hire a licensed operator and check permit rules first.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Nazarhussain (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Nasirabbas431 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Aftab1201 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
