Exploring Pakistan’s High-Altitude Cold Desert
near Skardu in Pakistan’s northern Gilgit-Baltistan region. Unlike typical deserts, the Katpana is situated at an altitude of around 7,500 feet (2,300 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest cold deserts in the world. Despite the harsh and freezing temperatures during winter, the desert presents an unexpected sight with vast stretches of sand dunes surrounded by snow-capped mountains. What makes the Cold Desert particularly fascinating is its weather contrast. In winter, temperatures drop drastically, often reaching below freezing. The sand, coated with frost or sometimes even snow, takes on a surreal, icy appearance that contrasts sharply with the surrounding mountains. During summer, however, the desert transforms, and the sand dunes glisten in the sunlight, set against the clear blue skies and dramatic mountain peaks. The landscape of the Cold Desert is sparsely dotted with wild shrubs and hardy plants that can withstand the extreme conditions, giving the area a rugged charm. For visitors, it’s a rare experience to witness a desert that defies conventional expectations, offering a blend of both beauty and mystery.
