35°21'46.4"N 75°41'48.1"E
Each year a Rafting Competition is conducted at the Blind Lake, Shigar Valley
The Best Time to Visit Gilgit Baltistan Region is Summers. Preferably from April to September. Winters are Extremely Cold and Snowfall blocks most of access. Hence Winters are not recommended.
Blind Lake, or 'Jarba Zhou' as it is known locally, is a beautiful hidden lake situated near the Sarfaranga Desert, Shigar Valley, Gilgit Baltistan. Situated approximately 45 kilometers from Skardu and just 20 kilometers from the Shigar Valley, this tranquil beauty remains largely unexplored and off the beaten track. It is a serene lake that provides an amazing view in contrast with the Sarfaranga desert and the Karakoram range.
According to local sources, the lake acquires its name ‘Blind Lake’ from the fact that there is no known inflow of water in the lake and no discharge as well. This unique characteristic has led the locals to name it Blind Lake.
The journey to Blind Lake is an adventure in itself, involving a breathtaking route along which you can enjoy the awe-inspiring mountains of the Skardu region. You can visit the lake on your journey from Skardu to Shigar Valley or while exploring the famous Safaranga Desert.
Hidden behind the imposing mountain ranges, the sight of Blind Lake emerging into view is a memorable experience. The nearby Shigar River adds to the overall serene environment, making a visit to Blind Lake a must for those who wish to witness the unspoiled beauty of nature in the Skardu region.
The Government of Gilgit Baltistan's Department of Food Security and Research also runs a research facility close to Blind Lake.
Each year a Jeep rally is conducted in the nearby Sarfaranga Desert and a cultural festival including various sports activities are conducted. The rally pays tribute to local customs and traditions with a Zakh competition, essentially a rafting contest held at Blind Lake. This competition is a tribute to Gilgit-Baltistan's traditional practice of constructing ad-hoc boats from logs and sticks for raveling in bodies of water.
Adding a visit to the Blind Lake to your itinerary while exploring the Shigar Valley is highly recommended. This picturesque and serene lake is an unforgettable sight and offers a calm and peaceful environment that one shouldn't miss. The Shigar Valley itself is a vibrant array of beautiful landscapes and historical sites, all begging to be explored.
Among the must-visit landmarks in Shigar Valley is the Shigar Fort, an example of to the Sakrdu region's rich history and culture. This historic fort, built by the Amacha rulers of the Shigar Valley served as seat of power for the rulers of Shigar. It is currently operated as a Luxury resort by the Serena hotels. Another highlight of the valley is the Khilingrong Mosque. This historic mosque, with its beautiful traditional architecture and intricate woodwork, offers a unique glimpse into the local religious practices and heritage.
The Shigar Valley, with its mesmerizing beauty and cultural wealth, is a destination that should definitely feature on your trip to Skardu. Each visit promises a range of engaging experiences, from experiencing the natural beauty of the valley to the rich history and architecture.
Situated within the Karakoram range in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, Blind Lake is positioned at an altitude of 2,230 meters, or around 7,316 feet above sea level. The lake spans a considerable area of approximately 233,626 square meters, and lies to the North of Skardu and South of Shigar.
The geographical location of Blind Lake is noteworthy. To its south, it is embraced by a rugged mountain that forms a natural barrier between the lake and the Safaranga Desert, a striking contrast of landscapes that amplifies the uniqueness of the region. The lake's northern boundary is marked by the Shigar River, a significant tributary that eventually merges with the mighty Indus River further downstream. This combination of diverse geographic elements—ranging from mountains and rivers to deserts and the lake itself—contributes to the unique appeal of Blind Lake. The site presents an opportunity for explorers and nature lovers to appreciate the distinctiveness of Skardu’s landscape. Tourists can also experience boating at the lake.
All Photographs by Syed Noor Hussain and Sania Azhar.
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