Skardu by Air vs by Road: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
June 17, 2026 · 6 min read
Flying to Skardu saves time but road trips offer unmatched scenery. Here is a full comparison of cost, travel time, comfort and risk so you can choose the right option for your trip.
Two Ways to Reach Skardu
There are two ways to get to Skardu from Islamabad: a roughly 25-minute domestic flight, or a scenic 2-day road journey along the Karakoram Highway through Gilgit. Both are popular, and the right choice depends on how much time you have and what kind of trip you want.
Skardu by Air: Pros and Cons
Flying saves 2-3 full travel days that you can instead spend exploring Deosai Plains, Shangrila Resort and Shigar Fort. The flight itself is also famous for incredible aerial views of Nanga Parbat on clear days. The main downside is that flights are weather-dependent and can be delayed or cancelled with little notice, especially in winter.
- Best for: travelers with limited time, those prioritizing comfort over scenery on the journey
- Travel time: about 25 minutes from Islamabad
- Risk: flights can be delayed or cancelled due to weather
Skardu by Road: Pros and Cons
The road route via the Karakoram Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, passing through Besham, Chilas and Gilgit along the Indus River. It is more reliable than flights since it does not depend on weather clearance in the same way, but it requires 2 days of travel each way and can be tiring for travelers with limited time.
- Best for: travelers who want to enjoy the journey itself, those combining Skardu with Hunza overland
- Travel time: around 2 days each way from Islamabad
- Risk: occasional road closures due to landslides, especially after heavy rain
Can You Combine Both?
Yes, many travelers fly one way and drive the other, or combine a Skardu by air trip with an overland leg to Hunza. This gives you the scenery of the Karakoram Highway without doubling your travel time.
Our Recommendation
If you have a week or less, fly to Skardu and spend the extra days at Deosai and Shangrila. If you have 10+ days and want the full Northern Pakistan experience, including Hunza, Naran and the Karakoram Highway, go by road, or combine both directions for the best of each. Either way, booking through the best tour and travel agency in Pakistan means your flights, road transport and hotels are coordinated for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, domestic flights to Skardu operate on established routes and are generally safe. The main consideration is weather: flights can be delayed or cancelled if visibility is poor, so it helps to keep a buffer day in your itinerary.