MCQ Detailed View

The Katpana Desert, also known as the **Cold Desert**, is located in the northern region of Pakistan, near the city of Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. This desert is one of the highest cold deserts in the world, sitting at an elevation of approximately 2,226 meters (7,303 feet) above sea level.

Unlike typical hot deserts, the Katpana Desert experiences cold temperatures throughout the year, with snowfall in the winter. It is surrounded by snow-covered peaks of the Karakoram Range, including some of the highest mountains on Earth. This desert is a geographical marvel because of its combination of high altitude and desert-like terrain.

Key facts about Katpana Desert:

• Location: Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan


• Altitude: Approximately 2,226 meters (7,303 feet)


• Type: Cold desert


• Climate: Extremely cold winters, dry and mild summers


• Nearby landmarks: Skardu Airport, Indus River, Karakoram Range

Tourists are increasingly drawn to the Katpana Desert for its breathtaking views of snow-dusted dunes and the dramatic contrast between white sand and towering mountains. It is also located near Skardu Airport, making it more accessible than many other high-altitude locations in the region.

The Katpana Desert is not only unique in its climate and elevation, but it also holds ecological and geological significance. Its sand dunes shift over time, and during clear days, visitors can see peaks such as K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, in the distance.

This desert showcases the diverse geography of Pakistan, combining alpine features with dry, desert-like conditions, making it a truly rare and valuable natural environment.