Overview

Shigar Fort Residence has been open since June 1, 2005, following an intensive six-year restoration undertaken by Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan. Originally known as Fong-Khar, which in the local Balti language means "Palace on the Rock", this 400-year old Raja fort-palace has been brought back to life following a careful strategy of adaptive re-use and restoration. The result is a combination of authentic original 17th century architecture together with the modern amenities and services of a luxury guest house.

History of Shigar Fort Residence

The original Shigar Fort Palace (known as Fong-Khar, which in the local Balti language means, "Palace on the Rock"), was built by Hassan Khan, the 20th ruler of the Amacha Dynasty, in the early 17th century. The Amacha family claims to have ruled Shigar for thirty-three generations, with origins in the "Hamacha" tribe of Ganish, Hunza. When the Hamacha tribe was massacred in Hunza, a few of its members managed to flee to Shigar across the Hispar glacial pass, where they gained power and were recognized as the Amacha Dynasty in the 13th century. Fong-Khar is the last remaining structure associated with the ruling Amacha family.

Accommodation

13 rooms in total

Heritage Royal Suite
Originally the Raja’s royal summer quarters, this 1-bedroom suite features either 1 king size bed or 2 single beds, an adjoining large reception room, a “Shah-e-Nasheen” and an airy hanging balcony of wooden lattice work. Decorated in period antiques with a splendid view of the Shigar River, Cherry Orchard and Amacha Garden.

Heritage Suites
2 suites which originally served as the chambers of the royal women and 1 suite which was the Raja’s mid-season quarters. Large suites featuring 1 king size bed in the main bedroom, with adjoining room and 1 single bed in a separate Anteroom and/or Shah-e-Nasheen as well as a sitting area. Special features include beautifully carved doors and paneled ceilings. Decorated with period antiques and views of the Shigar River, Cherry Orchards or Amacha Garden.
 

Heritage Premiere Rooms

Spacious historic rooms featuring either 1 double bed or 2 twin beds as well as Shah-e-Nasheen or sitting area. Rich original architectural details, decorated with period antiques with views on either the Cherry Orchards or Amacha Garden.

Heritage Deluxe Room

Historic rooms with varied original architectural details, featuring either 1 double bed or 2 single beds, beautifully carved doors and windows with views of the Cherry Garden and/or Shigar River.

Heritage Studio Room

Cozy historic rooms with numerous original details and traditional wood furnishings, featuring 1 single bed and views of the Shigar River or the Cherry Orchard.

The newly built Garden House (using traditional materials and building techniques in keeping with the historical architecture of Shigar Fort )has 7 rooms.

Garden Suite

Extra spacious suite featuring 1 king bed, sitting area, in-room satellite television, modern ensuite bathroom, balcony facing the beautiful Baradari monument surrounded by the lush Amacha Garden.

Garden Balcony Rooms

Spacious rooms featuring either 1 double bed or 2 twin beds, in-room satellite television, modern ensuite bathroom, balcony facing the beautiful Baradari monument surrounded by the lush Amacha Garden.

Standard Garden Room

Spacious rooms featuring either 1 double bed or 2 twin beds, in-room satellite television, modern ensuite bathroom.

Dining

Zamana Restaurant

Al Maghreb Restaurant

Lobby Lounge

Rakaposhi(Pastry and Ice-Cream Parlor)

Baradari BBQ

Recreation

Mosque

Our historic mosque is located on the second level of the Old Fort-Palace and is available for quiet individual prayer and reflection. Individual prayer mats are available in each guest room and are located in the closet/armoire. Non Muslims are able to view the mosque from the veranda when not in use.

Museum and Grounds

Guests are encouraged to explore the rich cultural and historic heritage of Shigar Fort Residence. A guided museum tour through the Old-Fort Palace, Old House, Garden House, and traditional Amacha Garden is complimentary for our overnight guests.

Activities

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