Skardu Fort

Skardu Fort, also known as Kharpocho, is a historic military stronghold located in Skardu within the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. Perched atop the Kharpocho hill, the site commands a strategic vantage point overlooking the confluence of the Indus and Shigar rivers as well as the Rock of Skardu. The original structure was commissioned in the late 16th century by King Ali Sher Khan Anchan of the Maqpon dynasty. Serving as the royal center for centuries, the fort housed significant structures including the Mendoq Khar palace of the king's Ladakhi queen. Its name translates to "The king of forts," reflecting its imposing presence and historical importance in the Balti region.

The fortress has witnessed turbulent chapters of regional history, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. In 1840, during the Dogra invasion of Baltistan, General Zorawar Singh stormed the original hilltop structure and razed it to the ground, subsequently constructing a new fort on level ground nearby. Decades later, the site became a focal point during the first Indo-Pakistan War of 1947–1948. The fort endured a prolonged siege by the Gilgit Scouts and Chitral Scouts under Colonel Mata-ul-Mulk, leading to the surrender of Jammu and Kashmir State Forces in August 1948 after exhausting their supplies.

Today, Skardu Fort stands as a prominent archaeological landmark and tourist attraction. While the original 16th-century edifices were largely destroyed during past conflicts, the site retains significant historical value and features remnants such as an ancient mosque. Visitors can explore the entrance and grounds which offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and rivers. The location serves as a tangible reminder of the Maqpon dynasty's legacy and the strategic military conflicts that have shaped the history of northern Pakistan.