Manthoka is a ~55 m waterfall in the Kharmang valley, 78 km southeast of Skardu on the Indus road toward the old Kargil route — a lush amphitheatre of orchards and trout restaurants around a genuinely big fall, best at midday when spray rainbows form.
It's a long-ish drive for a waterfall, which is exactly why it stays pleasant — the Indus gorge scenery en route is a set piece in itself, and the fall's meadow makes the region's best trout-lunch stop. We pair it with Khaplu for a full eastern day.
78 km / ~2 h from Skardu along the Kharmang road; combine with Khaplu (different valleys, workable in one long day with a private vehicle).
Questions, answered
Is Manthoka worth it compared to Basho?
Different species: Basho is a valley experience, Manthoka a single big-ticket fall with lunch culture. With only one spare day, Basho; with a Khaplu day planned, Manthoka slots in en route.