This Skardu travel guide covers the gateway to Baltistan in northern Pakistan, a valley at about 2,230 metres surrounded by some of the highest mountains on Earth. From Skardu you can reach turquoise lakes, the vast Deosai Plains, cold-desert sand dunes and centuries-old forts in Shigar and Khaplu — and it is the starting point for treks towards K2.
The main season is May to October. Deosai is usually open from June to September, when the plains bloom with wildflowers; late October and November bring golden autumn colours, while winters are very cold and some roads close. Plan a buffer day, because mountain weather can delay flights and roads.
Getting to Skardu
The fastest way is a flight from Islamabad to Skardu Airport (KDU), about one hour and one of the most scenic flights in the world. Several airlines fly the route, with extra seasonal flights from Lahore and Karachi. Flights depend on clear weather and are sometimes cancelled, so keep your plans flexible.
By road, Skardu is about 18–22 hours from Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway and the Jaglot–Skardu road, or roughly 14–16 hours in summer via Naran and the Babusar Pass (open around June to September). Comfortable long-distance coaches and private cars run the route; many travellers break the journey in Chilas or Naran. Foreign visitors need a Pakistani visa or online travel authorisation — check the official Pakistani government sources before you travel.
| Islamabad to Skardu | Time | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (Islamabad – Skardu) | about 1 hour | PKR 15,000–40,000 one way |
| Long-distance coach | 18–22 hours | PKR 6,000–9,000 |
| Private car with driver | 14–20 hours | PKR 60,000–100,000 one way |
Popular flights: Islamabad → SkarduIslamabad → Gilgit
Top sights around Skardu
Most sights are a short drive from town, but distances on mountain roads take time. A car or jeep with a local driver is the easiest way to combine several places in a day.
The famous heart-shaped lake with a resort, gardens and boating.
30 minutes from town · small entry feeA quieter, deep-blue lake with walking paths, trout and boat rides.
35 minutes from townOne of the highest plateaus in the world (about 4,100 m), with wildflowers, streams and Sheosar Lake; home to Himalayan brown bears.
Full day by jeep · June–SeptemberHigh-altitude sand dunes beside the airport — beautiful at sunset.
20 minutes from townA beautifully restored 17th-century fort-palace in the green Shigar valley.
1 hour from townA restored royal palace with carved wooden balconies and valley views.
2.5–3 hours from townA reservoir lake close to town, and a high waterfall in the Kharmang valley.
30 minutes / about 2 hoursA hilltop fort above town and an ancient Buddha carving on a granite rock.
1–2 hours eachFood to try in Skardu
Try Balti specialities such as chapshuro (a pie filled with spiced minced meat), mamtu (steamed dumplings), marzan (a hearty flour dish served with butter) and salty butter tea, plus fresh apricots, mulberries and dried fruit sold all over town. Fresh trout from the lakes is a local treat.
Familiar Pakistani dishes — karahi, biryani, daal and naan — are available everywhere. A simple meal costs about PKR 800–2,000 and a resort restaurant PKR 2,500–5,000 per person. Everything is halal, and food is generally simple and hearty.
Getting around Skardu
Public transport is limited to shared minibuses and local taxis around town. For sightseeing, hire a car or jeep with a local driver for the day — around PKR 12,000–25,000 depending on the route, with a 4x4 needed for Deosai and rough valley roads. Agree the price, route and fuel arrangement before you set off.
Driving yourself is possible for experienced mountain drivers, but roads are narrow, landslides can block routes and fuel stations are sparse outside town. Hotels and tour operators can arrange reliable drivers who know the conditions.
Safety and local tips
Skardu is peaceful and welcoming. The main risks are natural: altitude, sudden weather changes and mountain roads. Rest on your first day, drink plenty of water, carry warm layers even in summer, and avoid travelling on mountain roads after dark or in heavy rain.
Carry enough cash — ATMs exist in town but can run out, and many places do not accept cards. Mobile coverage is good in town but patchy in the valleys and on Deosai. For emergencies call Rescue 1122 or police 15. Dress modestly, ask before photographing people, and respect local customs.
Where to stay in Skardu
Most visitors stay in town for convenience or by the lakes for scenery.
Many guesthouses and hotels close to shops, restaurants and transport.
Budget to midResorts and lodges beside Shangrila and Upper Kachura lakes.
Mid to highHeritage hotels inside restored forts and palaces in quiet green valleys.
HighA 3-day plan for Skardu
Day 1: arrive, rest, then visit Shangrila and Upper Kachura lakes in the afternoon and watch sunset at the Katpana Cold Desert. Day 2: a full-day jeep trip to the Deosai Plains and Sheosar Lake (June–September). Day 3: Shigar Fort and the Shigar valley, with Satpara Lake on the way back. With an extra day, add Khaplu Palace. Our full Skardu guide has timings and costs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Islamabad to Skardu?
Fly to Skardu Airport in about one hour, or travel by road in 18–22 hours on the Karakoram Highway (14–16 hours via the Babusar Pass in summer) by coach or private car.
When is the best time to visit Skardu?
May to October. Deosai is open roughly June to September, and late October to November brings autumn colours.
Do I need a 4x4 for Deosai?
Yes. The road to the Deosai Plains is rough and high, so hire a jeep with an experienced local driver.
Is Skardu safe for tourists?
Yes, Skardu is peaceful and welcoming. Take care with altitude, weather and mountain roads, and avoid night driving.
How many days do I need in Skardu?
Three to five days let you see the lakes, Deosai and Shigar, with a spare day for weather.
Prices and transport details were checked 7 October 2026. Travel information changes — please confirm entry rules and prices with official sources before you go.