# Skardu

> city in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

**Wikidata**: [Q976955](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q976955)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skardu)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/skardu

## Summary
Skardu is a city in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, serving as the capital of Skardu District. Founded in 1970, it is a large human settlement with a population of 112,996 (as of 2021) and is located at coordinates 35.3° N, 75.6167° E, at an elevation of 2,226 meters above sea level. The city is situated along the Indus and Shigar Rivers and is home to significant historical and cultural landmarks, including Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Large human settlement (sitelink count: 252).
- **District**: Capital of Skardu District, established on July 1, 1970.
- **Geography**: Located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, at coordinates 35.3° N, 75.6167° E, with an elevation of 2,226 meters.
- **Population**: 112,996 (as of 2021).
- **Rivers**: Flows through the Indus and Shigar Rivers.
- **Airport**: Skardu Airport serves the city.
- **Historical Sites**: Includes Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock.
- **Country**: Part of Pakistan, sovereign state in South Asia since August 14, 1947.
- **UN/LOCODE**: PKKDU.
- **Territory Claimed By**: India.
- **Elevation**: 2,226 meters above sea level.
- **Twinned Administrative Body**: Cortina d'Ampezzo.
- **Significant Event**: Siege of Skardu.

## FAQs
- **What is Skardu's population?** As of 2021, Skardu has a population of 112,996.
- **Where is Skardu located?** Skardu is located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, at coordinates 35.3° N, 75.6167° E.
- **What rivers flow through Skardu?** The Indus and Shigar Rivers flow through Skardu.
- **What is the elevation of Skardu?** Skardu is situated at an elevation of 2,226 meters above sea level.
- **What is the significance of Skardu Fort?** Skardu Fort is a historic site in Skardu, Pakistan, with a sitelink count of 10.
- **What is the UN/LOCODE for Skardu?** The UN/LOCODE for Skardu is PKKDU.
- **What is the native label for Skardu?** The native label for Skardu is سکردو.
- **What is the significance of the Manthal Buddha Rock?** The Manthal Buddha Rock is an engraved rock in Skardu, Pakistan, with a sitelink count of 8.

## Why It Matters
Skardu plays a crucial role as a cultural and historical hub in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Its strategic location along the Indus and Shigar Rivers, combined with its elevation, makes it a significant geographical and economic point. The city is home to notable landmarks such as Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock, which contribute to its cultural heritage. Additionally, Skardu Airport serves as a vital transportation link, facilitating travel and trade in the region. The city's population and infrastructure support its role as the capital of Skardu District, established in 1970. Skardu's significance is further underscored by its claimed territory status with India and its twinning with Cortina d'Ampezzo, highlighting its international connections.

## Notable For
- **Capital of Skardu District**: Established on July 1, 1970.
- **Historical Landmarks**: Home to Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock.
- **Geographical Significance**: Located at coordinates 35.3° N, 75.6167° E, with an elevation of 2,226 meters.
- **Rivers**: Flows through the Indus and Shigar Rivers.
- **Airport**: Skardu Airport serves the city.
- **Population**: 112,996 (as of 2021).
- **UN/LOCODE**: PKKDU.
- **Territory Claimed By**: India.
- **Twinned Administrative Body**: Cortina d'Ampezzo.
- **Significant Event**: Siege of Skardu.

## Body
### Geography
Skardu is located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, at coordinates 35.3° N, 75.6167° E, with an elevation of 2,226 meters above sea level. The city is situated along the Indus and Shigar Rivers, which play a significant role in its geography and ecosystem. The elevation and river systems contribute to the city's unique environmental characteristics.

### History
Skardu District was established on July 1, 1970, making Skardu the capital of the district. The city has a rich historical heritage, as evidenced by landmarks such as Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock. These sites are integral to the city's cultural identity and attract visitors from around the world.

### Demographics
As of 2021, Skardu has a population of 112,996. The city's population supports its role as a regional hub, providing economic and social services to the surrounding area. The population figure is a key indicator of the city's growth and development.

### Infrastructure
Skardu Airport serves as a vital transportation link, facilitating travel and trade in the region. The airport's presence enhances the city's connectivity and economic prospects. Additionally, the city's infrastructure includes significant landmarks such as Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock, which contribute to its cultural and historical significance.

### Cultural Heritage
Skardu is home to notable cultural landmarks, including Skardu Fort and the Manthal Buddha Rock. These sites are integral to the city's cultural identity and attract visitors from around the world. The cultural heritage of Skardu is a significant aspect of its appeal and significance.

### International Relations
Skardu has twinned administrative bodies with Cortina d'Ampezzo, highlighting its international connections. The city's claimed territory status with India further underscores its strategic importance. These international relations contribute to Skardu's global profile and influence.

### Significant Events
The Siege of Skardu is a significant event in the city's history, contributing to its cultural and historical legacy. The event is a notable part of Skardu's past and continues to be a subject of interest and study.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. GeoNames
4. [Source](https://service.unece.org/trade/locode/pk.htm)
5. Quora
6. [Skardu - Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Skardu/@35.3292904,75.4225187,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x38e46392bac10283:0xc2f7a786f9833d7!8m2!3d35.3246496!4d75.5509186)