How far is Skardu from Islamabad by road?

Roughly 600 km via the Karakoram Highway and the Skardu Road, which realistically takes 18–20 hours of driving and is normally split over two days.

Which road route is better, Naran or Chilas?

The Babusar Pass route via Naran is more scenic but only open roughly July to September. The KKH via Besham and Chilas is longer but open year-round.

Is the Skardu road dangerous?

It is a mountain road with landslide-prone sections, especially after rain. Travel in daylight, use an experienced driver and check conditions before setting off.

Getting there

How to reach Skardu

You either fly one hour from Islamabad, or you drive two days up the Karakoram Highway. Both are worth doing at least once — here's the honest comparison.

By air

PIA flies Islamabad–Skardu year-round in about an hour, with seasonal services from Karachi and Lahore. Approaches are visual, so weather cancellations are routine — always keep a buffer day.

By road

Around 600 km from Islamabad. Route one runs the KKH via Besham, Dasu and Chilas (open all year). Route two crosses Babusar Pass from Naran (roughly July to September) and is the more beautiful of the two.

Road stages from Islamabad

Stage	Approx. distance	Driving time
Islamabad → Naran	270 km	7–8 hours
Naran → Chilas (Babusar Pass)	140 km	5–6 hours
Chilas → Skardu	240 km	7–8 hours

Flights to Skardu (KDU)

PIA operates the Islamabad–Skardu route year-round, with additional seasonal services from Karachi and Lahore. Compare fares and dates before you fix your itinerary.

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Once you arrive, start with the tourist spots in Skardu or a ready-made itinerary.

Getting to Skardu — FAQs

How far is Skardu from Islamabad by road?: Roughly 600 km via the Karakoram Highway and the Skardu Road, which realistically takes 18–20 hours of driving and is normally split over two days.
Which road route is better, Naran or Chilas?: The Babusar Pass route via Naran is more scenic but only open roughly July to September. The KKH via Besham and Chilas is longer but open year-round.
Is the Skardu road dangerous?: It is a mountain road with landslide-prone sections, especially after rain. Travel in daylight, use an experienced driver and check conditions before setting off.