Sand dunes beneath snow capped peaks, minutes from Skardu Airport.
Katpana is a high altitude cold desert about 15 minutes from Skardu town, near the airport. Visit at sunset for golden dunes against snow peaks, or in winter when snow dusts the sand. It’s open year round and takes one to two hours.
Reviewed by ToursInPakistan Travel Team Last updated September 2026 ← Back to the Skardu Travel Guide
About 15 minutes.
1 to 2 hours.
Late afternoon and sunset.
Year round snow in winter.
Dune lines and golden light.
Walking, jeep rides, photos.
Drive times and access vary with season and road conditions.
Katpana’s dunes sit at over 2,000 metres, surrounded by the Karakoram. The contrast of sand and snow is unlike anywhere else in Pakistan.
Arrive an hour before sunset, walk up the higher dunes and watch the peaks turn pink.
Tell us your dates. We’ll fit it in at the best time of day.
Kids love running down the dunes.
Sunset and winter snow.
Golden-hour walks.
View from the vehicle.
Close to the airport.
Private tours with transport, hotels and a flight backup plan.
Near Skardu Airport, about 15 minutes from town.
Late afternoon and sunset, year round.
Yes, in winter the dunes are often dusted with snow.
Yes, it’s one of the most child friendly places in Skardu.
Send us your travel dates, number of travellers, departure city, hotel preference and whether you prefer flight or road. We’ll suggest the best Skardu plan for your group and explain what to include or avoid.
