The Serenity in The Royal Khaplu

The journey to Khaplu Valley begins the moment you leave Skardu, as the road winds through the majestic mountains of Baltistan. The drive itself feels like a meditative experience — jagged peaks on one side, the shimmering Shyok River on the other, and scattered villages blending into the dramatic landscape. With each turn, the air grows cleaner, the sounds quieter, and your heart a little lighter. After an hour or two, the mountains open up to a wide valley, and you’re greeted by the Derwaish Gate, an entrance that feels like stepping into another realm — a realm of Sufi calm and timeless peace.

There’s something mystical about the air of Khaplu. It carries a stillness that slows down your thoughts, almost as if the valley itself whispers a Sufi hymn to your soul. Life here moves at a gentle rhythm. The people of Khaplu, living simple and honest lives, welcome travelers with a warmth that is rare and genuine. You will find that their hospitality is not a courtesy — it is a part of who they are. Sitting with a local family over a cup of butter tea or freshly baked bread makes you feel like you’ve been a neighbor all along.

And then, there’s the food of Khaplu — a hidden treasure of Gilgit-Baltistan. For those who know, the best chefs in Pakistan’s top hotels — from Avari and Marriott to PC — often hail from Khaplu. Their mastery comes from generations of homegrown cooking, using pure ingredients and recipes passed down like family heirlooms. From rich, slow-cooked mutton stews to locally baked breads, every bite in Khaplu has an unmatched depth of flavor.

Travelers who stay long enough discover that the valley is not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the soul and the palate.

Khaplu is also the gateway to adventure. Beyond its quiet streets and riverside serenity lies a network of valleys and villages waiting to be explored. A short drive takes you to Hushe Valley, the last human settlement before some of the world’s highest peaks, including Masherbrum. Villages like Machulo, Haldi, and Marzigone each hold their own unique charm — from the sharp Haldi Cones standing like natural spires, to the peaceful meadows where you can walk for hours without hearing a single engine.

Spending a few days in Khaplu is transformative. The mornings begin with soft golden light over the mountains, the days are filled with slow riverside walks or spontaneous village explorations, and the nights bring a silence so deep it feels sacred. Many travelers come here for a couple of nights and end up staying longer, captivated by a sense of belonging they didn’t expect.

In Khaplu, nature, culture, and spirituality meet effortlessly. It is a place that doesn’t just offer you sights to see — it offers you a feeling to carry home, one that lingers long after you leave.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE?

When to visit Khaplu Valley

Experience the vibrant colors of spring at the Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Marvel at millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in bloom, creating a stunning tapestry of colors and fragrances.