Khaplu Palace

Khaplu Palace, also known as Yabgo Khar, dates to the nineteenth century. It belonged to the local ruling house and preserves a different chapter of Baltistan’s architecture from the fort at Shigar. Timber balconies, carved entrances and the building’s relationship to the settlement are central to its character.

Aga Khan Trust for Culture’s restoration programme ran from 2005 to 2011. Reuse as a heritage hotel helped give the restored palace an economic purpose alongside its cultural value. This is a modern conservation decision, not evidence that the palace always functioned as a guesthouse. The Baltistan history explains why Khaplu, Shigar and Skardu should be understood as distinct centres with interconnected pasts.