Sarfaranga Desert (), alternatively spelt as Sarfranga, and also known as Safaranga Cold Desert, is a high-altitude cold desert located at the confluence of Shigar River with Indus River, where Shigar Valley opens into Skardu Valley, in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is located at an altitude of .
The name of the desert is derived from Safaranga village consisting of some 1,500 people, located at its eastern corner along the banks of Shigar River.
Annual festival
Since 2017, Safaranga Jeep Rally is annually conducted at the desert. The festival also features local music and traditional food. In 2023, the annual festival generated 0.825 million USD in business.
Climate
During summer, the weather is mild and dry, but winters are harsh, with temperatures dropping below -25 °C (-13 °F).
See also
Katpana Desert, separated by Indus River on its left bank
References
External links
Sarfaranga – Cold Desert Rally | Tourism and Culture Department Gilgit Baltistan, Government Of Pakistan