Shigar Fort — 17th-Century Royal Residence

Shigar Fort, restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and now run as a heritage hotel by Serena, is a genuinely rare thing, a 17th-century royal residence you can tour by day or sleep inside overnight. Carved wooden balconies, traditional Balti stone-and-timber architecture, and orchard surroundings make it one of Baltistan's most atmospheric heritage sites.

Shigar Valley blooms with cherry and apricot blossom in April, and turns gold with autumn foliage in late September, two of the most photogenic windows to visit.