No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Skardu, Pakistan is not recommended for drinking due to uncertain quality and treatment processes.
Local authorities often warn tourists to avoid consuming tap water to prevent waterborne illnesses.
Bottled or filtered water is a safer option to ensure a healthy and safe drinking experience in Skardu.
Pakistan is ranked as number 136 globally with a score of 28.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Skardu's tap water sources include the Indus River and surrounding mountains' natural springs and streams.
These sources are treated at the Skardu Water Treatment Plant, which has limited capacity and infrastructure.
Additionally, some areas rely on uncovered wells and springs, which can be contaminated with bacteria and other pollutants.
There are few safe drinking fountains in Skardu, and their water quality is often uncertain.
Most public fountains and springs are not regularly tested or treated, making them risky for consumption.
It's best to stick to bottled or filtered water to ensure a safe drinking experience in Skardu.
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Skardu. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.