Khaplu Palace
The restored palace of the Yabgo rulers, with traditional rooms, a museum and views over the valley.
Ghanche · Gilgit-Baltistan
Khaplu Valley
Palaces, mosques and Balti hospitality
May – October
2,600 m
Custom trips only
The place
About Khaplu Valley
Khaplu is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich valleys of Baltistan, in Ghanche district along the Shyok River. Once the seat of the Yabgo royal family, it is known for Khaplu Palace, traditional Balti wooden architecture, terraced fields and apricot orchards.
It is a longer drive from Skardu, so many travellers stay a night or two. Add the Chaqchan Mosque, the villages of Thalle and Machulo and, for trekkers, the Hushe Valley.
What to see
Places to visit
Chaqchan Mosque
A 14th-century mosque and landmark of Tibetan-Islamic architecture in the old part of Khaplu.
Thalle Valley
A quiet side valley of villages, terraces and mountain views, good for a short walk and local food.
Hushe Valley
The road toward Hushe village and the peaks of the Masherbrum range, a base for treks and climbing.
Logistics
Getting there
Routes, roads and timing
Khaplu is about 100 km east of Skardu along the Shyok River, roughly 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road. Many groups overnight in Khaplu and return via Shigar.
Trip options
Ask for a custom route
Trips to Khaplu Valley
No listed trip at the moment
We still run private journeys here. Share your dates and we will quote a route with current road and weather conditions in mind.
Good to know
Questions about Khaplu Valley
How long does it take to reach Khaplu from Skardu?
About 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road, roughly 100 km. We recommend staying at least one night to enjoy the valley without rushing.
Can Khaplu be combined with Hushe?
Yes. Hushe is reached by a side road from Khaplu and can be a day trip or an overnight stay for trekkers.
When is the best time to visit Khaplu?
May to October is the most comfortable window. Spring brings blossom, summer is green, and autumn is quiet and colourful.
Keep exploring
Add another valley to the route.
Most journeys here link two or three destinations. We can connect Khaplu Valley with Deosai, Hunza, Shigar or Khaplu in one sensible loop.