Sarfaranga Cold Desert Shigar
About This Museum
Believe it or not, one of the highest cold deserts on Earth sits right here in Shigar. The museum itself feels like a secret you've stumbled upon, a low-slung stone building that seems to grow right out of the rugged, sandy landscape. Inside, it’s not just artifacts behind glass; you'll find the entire story of this harsh yet beautiful place, from ancient rock carvings of ibex to the intricate leatherwork and woolen pattus that kept generations warm against the biting wind. It tells you how life not only survived here, but thrived with profound ingenuity.
Collection Highlights
Look for the weathered Tibetan manuscripts, a collection of traditional Balti musical instruments carved from local wood, and surprisingly elegant horse saddles decorated with brass and turquoise.
Visitor Information
The desert sun is deceptively strong, so bring a hat and water for the short walk from the main road. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the light turns the surrounding dunes a brilliant gold.
Architecture & Building
A modest, single-story structure built from the same tawny-colored local stone as the desert floor, with a flat roof and deep-set windows designed to withstand the extreme elements.
Contact & Location
Address: Hotel Sarfaranga Skardu, گلگت - سکردو شاہراہ, کمبہ, کمبہ تحصیل, ضلع سکردو, بلتستان ڈویژن, گلگت بلتستان, 16200, پاکستان
Phone: +92 340 5436096
