Areena Hotel

A peaceful hotel and garden in Skardu We stayed in Skardu at The Areena Hotel for 4 days. The owner, Arif, was welcoming right from the time of booking, using booking.com, I was given helpful responses and an immediate offer of collection and transfer to the hotel as well as assistance with a driver. It was my second visit to Pakistan and I wanted the freedom of not feeling I was ‘on a tour’ for my stay, yet have assistance with getting about. Arif and Zohaib offered exactly what I required. The hotel is in a beautiful setting with Mountain Views and a tranquil garden in which to relax. Arif and Zohaib spoke good English and we could discuss local culture and history. Their welcome was friendly and nothing was too much trouble. Skardu is stunningly beautiful with views of the Karakoram and Himalaya ranges. We enjoyed a hike to the Marsur rock with Mountain Views and looking over the Indus river to the Sarfaranga desert. This requires a local guide to support the area and as an insurance in case of accident. We also hiked to the Organic village and Kharpocho fort with Zohaib which was a pleasant relaxing day. We visited the Katapuna desert which is a stop off for migrating birds and the high, cold Sarfaranga desert. Skardu appeared safe and the locals were always welcoming. The facilities are a good standard for a medium price hotel and meals are available. I highly recommend the Areena Hotel and the experience the staff can offer.

Nothing

The Co owner of the place named Arif bhaii is one amazing person. He is the most genuine and kind person you will meet. He doesn't just run a hotel, he creates a place you can call home. The rooms are clean and the water is always hot. Despite skardu having electricity for only two hours a day, you are provided 24x7 electricity. The staff is exceptionally helpful. Everyone guides you and helps you like they are your family. Your every need is attended and every issue is resolved within minutes. The breakfast in the garden is absolutely lovely with the view of the mountains. The best part of our trip was Arif bhaii. He personally took us sightseeing and gave extensive details of each location and ensured we had amazing photos everywhere. He not only provided transport for us for the entire trip (at the local costs) but also ensured that the drivers were respectful and honest. When we were leaving the hotel we told him about the car we were renting for the hunza trip ahead. He informed us that it was overpriced and went out of his way to find a car on a very reasonable price for us by connecting us to his friend - saving us over 30k. We stayed there for three days but leaving felt like leaving home. I cannot recommend this place enough. We made lifelong memories.

Polite helpful welcoming staff. Room was pleasantly decorated, cozy comfy bed. Food was tasty and good choice. After long travel we needed all this. Good location, would recommend.

I loved their Breakfast.. location is very nice.