Marsur Rock: The Trolltunga of Baltistan

If you’re craving awe-inspiring sceneries of Skardu town and its picturesque surroundings, the hike to the Marsur Rock is what you are exactly looking for. All you need is energy and determination to climb a steep moraine that takes at least 3 hours to hit the rock. It is an amazing hike providing fascinating views of the entire Skardu and surrounding attractions including the Hussainabad Valley and Broq in the immediate backdrop, Sarfaranga Desert, Kharpocho Fort, Nansoq Valley, the meandering Indus River, the convergence of Indus and Shigar rivers, and the Shigar Valley in the background. Marsur Rock is accessible by an adventurous drive from Skardu to the Hussainabad Broq located on a fair altitude followed by an uphill hike providing magnificent views.

An Emerging Tourist Attraction

Situated on the verge of mountains of Hussainabad, Shigar, Baltistan, Marsur Rock (also known as Hussainabad Rock) stands as a remarkable geological wonder in this region. The famous rock is celebrated for its distinctive geological features. At an elevation of 3,757 meters, Marsur Rock is a towering rock spire perched majestically on a mountain ridge high above the Hussainabad Valley. It bears a striking resemblance to Norway’s famous Trolltunga. What sets it apart is that out of its 38-foot total length, a whopping 25 feet extends dramatically into thin air, offering daring adventurers the opportunity to savor a mesmerizing bird-eye-view of the valleys below and capture daring photographs.

Remarkably, Marsur Rock remained hidden from the world until 2018 until it was noticed by locals. A captivating picture of this rock shared on social media suddenly thrust this hidden gem into the tourist limelight. What makes this rock so exceptional is its multi-faceted appeal. It is, without a doubt, the finest bird’s-eye viewpoint in Skardu, offering unrivaled scenery in the entire town. The trail is adventurous, can be conquered by individuals of all ages yet requires vigor and resolve. It’s a perfect day activity whether you’re in Skardu or exploring the enchanting Shigar Valley.

How to Reach Marsur Rock

Accessing Marsur Rock involves an exhilarating jeep ride to Hussainabad Village and then Broq followed by an invigorating hike. Drive from any part of Baltistan to the southeastern part of Hussainabad Valley. Hussainabad itself is conveniently situated on the Kargil-Skardu Road, merely 24 kilometers from Skardu town, with a journey time of approximately 35 minutes. Take the side road that commences near Karakoram International University Campus in Hussainabad, branching off from the main Kargil-Skardu Road. The jeep track meanders through the valley, passing by the enchanting Hussainabad Waterfall, and ascends along a zigzagging uphill path leading to the summer pasture. From this point onward, a scenic hike leads to the captivating Marsur Rock. Depending on your pace, the hike typically takes around 3 hours. Remarkably, you don’t require a guide to navigate to this remarkable spot.

Important Tips for Your Visit

Here are some key considerations for planning your journey to Marsur Rock:

• Mobile signals are not available in the vicinity of Marsur Rock, so plan accordingly.
• You are traversing a culturally sensitive area, so wear appropriate clothing that respects local customs.
• Preserve the pristine beauty of the area by avoiding littering and demonstrating responsible travel behavior.
• Be sure to carry essential supplies, including water, some food, an umbrella or raincoat, a cap or hat, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
• Exercise caution, especially when taking photographs, particularly during inclement weather conditions.

Explore Nearby Attractions

While Marsur Rock itself is a shining gem, there is a treasure trove of attractions waiting to be explored in the immediate vicinity and throughout the remote valleys of Baltistan. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Hussainabad Valley, Baltistan, Pakistan. Some other captivating attractions in the vicinity include:

Skardu District Attractions

• Nansoq Organic Village
• Kharpocho Fort
• Katpana Desert & Lake
• Satpara Lake
• Lower Kachura Lake
• Upper Kachura Lake
• Deosai Plains
• Chunda Valley
• Soq Valley
• Basho Valley

Shigar District Attractions

• Shigar Fort Palace
• Amburiq Mosque
• Hashupi Garden
• Shigar Riverside
• Sarfaranga Desert
• Blind Lake

Khaplu District Attractions

• Khaplu Valley
• Khaplu Fort Palace
• Chaqchan Mosque
• Blind Lake Keris
• Thallay Valley
• Machulu Village
• Hushey Valley

Kharmang District Attractions

• Manthoka Waterfall
• Khamosh Waterfall

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