Have you ever dreamt of escaping to the breathtaking landscapes of Skardu, surrounded by towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and serene valleys? If yes, you’re not alone. Every year, travelers from across Pakistan and beyond flock to Skardu to witness nature’s best artistry. But planning a trip to Skardu can be as challenging as it is rewarding. So, what should you pack? How should you travel? And how do you prepare for the unpredictable weather and tricky roads?
Let me guide you through all the essentials for your journey to Skardu, whether you’re going by private car, plane, bus, or motorbike.
The journey to Skardu is an adventure in itself, filled with stunning views, winding mountain roads, and a variety of travel modes to choose from.
If you’re a road trip lover, driving to Skardu offers a fantastic experience. The route from c by road is roughly 969 to 971 kilometers, depending on whether you take the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M-2) or the N-15 highway. Expect a long drive — around 16 and a half hours via M-2 or 18 hours via N-15.
Starting from Lahore, the journey takes you along the Hazara Motorway through towns like Bhera and Hakla. Along the way, stops at places like Monal Fusion offer tasty food and a chance to recharge. As you move forward, the scenery shifts to stunning spots like Naran, Batakundi, and Burawai, each more breathtaking than the last. Finally, the route leads into the wild, glacier-filled landscapes near Skardu, where nature’s raw beauty leaves you in awe.
Key advice for car travelers: keep your fuel tank full and refuel whenever it reaches half, as petrol stations become scarce in the northern areas. Roads can range from smooth highways to rough, pothole-ridden tracks, especially beyond Kaghan and near glacier crossings, so a vehicle with high ground clearance (like an SUV) is highly recommended.
For a quicker trip, flying to Skardu is the best choice. Airblue and Pakistan International Airlines operate flights from Lahore to Skardu. Airblue’s non-stop flights take about 1 hour 20 minutes, with fares starting around PKR 31,300 to 32,520, while PIA flights with one stop take roughly 10 hours and cost more (about PKR 64,055).
The Skardu Airport offers easy access to nearby hotels and attractions like Upper Kachura Lake and Shangrila Resort, making flying the fastest and most convenient option.
Traveling by bus is economical but requires patience. Typically, you’ll take a bus from Lahore to Rawalpindi or Islamabad, then transfer to another bus heading to Skardu. Daewoo, Faisal Movers, and NATCO are some popular bus operators. The bus fare from Lahore to Rawalpindi ranges between PKR 1,650 and 2,570, and the Rawalpindi to Skardu leg costs about PKR 5,130.
The journey involves long hours on the road and multiple transfers, with potential overnight stops at Islamabad or Rawalpindi. This mode suits budget travelers who don’t mind the lengthy transit and want to soak in the changing landscapes slowly.
Motorbike journeys to Skardu are for the adventurous souls. The route from Lahore to Naran and onwards to Skardu via Batakundi is scenic but challenging, especially at high altitudes where reduced oxygen can affect bike performance. Riders often need to shift to lower gears on uphill stretches, and it’s essential to carry warm clothing due to cooler temperatures along the way.
Rafting and other water activities near Batakundi add fun to the trip, but be prepared for wet clothes and slippery roads.
Packing smartly can make or break your Skardu experience. The weather can change rapidly—from warm days to chilly nights—especially in the mountainous regions.
Here’s a breakdown of must-have items based on seasonal conditions, activities, and travel modes:
Skardu’s peak tourist season runs from May to September. If traveling during summer, lighter clothes with some warm layers suffice. For early spring or late autumn trips, pack extra woolens and rain gear.
Avoid overpacking bulky items, as storage space in vehicles or buses is limited. Instead, focus on multipurpose clothes and waterproof gear.
Travel Mode | Distance (km) | Approx. Duration | Estimated Fare (PKR) | Notes |
Private Car (Fuel avg. 15 km/l) | ~968 | 16-18 hours by road | Fuel cost varies (approx. PKR 16,100 – one side cost) | Frequent fuel stops advised, rough roads after Naran |
Airline | N/A | 1 hour 20 minutes flight | PKR 31,300 – 64,055 (Ticket price) | Airblue non-stop is quickest and economical |
Bus | ~970 | 24+ hours (multiple legs) | Lahore-Rawalpindi: PKR 1,650-2,570 Rawalpindi-Skardu: PKR 5,130 | Transfers required, book in advance |
Motorbike (Fuel Average 50km/l) | ~970 | Variable, 20+ hours | Fuel cost less than car (Around 4900 PKR – one side cost) | Challenging ride; gear down for altitude |
Once in Skardu, don’t miss the charming Upper Kachura Lake with its peaceful walking trails and boating options. Soq Valley’s Cherry Garden and Basho Valley offer unforgettable natural beauty and cycling opportunities. For history lovers, Shigar Fort and Khaplu Fort present glimpses into the region’s rich heritage.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Sarfanga Cold Desert for biking and paragliding or visit the artificial yet picturesque Mandoka Waterfall for camping and dining experiences. For the curious, the elusive Chocolate Rock near Manto offers a unique photo opportunity.
Planning a Skardu adventure yourself can be thrilling—but also overwhelming. From route confusion and unpredictable weather to hotel bookings and fuel stops, the logistics can be exhausting. If you’d rather just enjoy the breathtaking scenery and leave the planning to professionals, a tour operator is your best friend.
Among the most trusted names, Adventure Trek Pakistan stands out for offering customized travel packages tailored for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike. Whether you’re looking for a guided biking expedition, a relaxed couple’s getaway, or a family trip with planned sightseeing and accommodation, they handle it all—transport, meals, guides, permits, and local experiences.
So if you want to explore Skardu without the stress, booking through a reputable tour operator like Adventure Trek can turn your trip into a truly hassle-free escape.
Traveling to Skardu is an incredible journey through some of Pakistan’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you choose to drive your own car, take a flight, ride a motorbike, or hop on a bus, preparation is key. Pack wisely, plan your route and fuel stops carefully, and embrace the adventure with a flexible spirit. The mountains, lakes, and valleys of Skardu await with open arms — are you ready to answer the call of the wild?
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Adventurer Treks offers competitive prices for both domestic and international tours, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for travelers.
