🗻 Skardu Complete Travel Guide — Gateway to K2

Skardu is the gateway to some of the world's highest peaks and most dramatic landscapes. This guide covers everything for planning your Skardu adventure.

Getting to Skardu from Islamabad

690km via the KKH and Indus Highway, taking 14-16 hours by road, typically split over 2 days with an overnight in Gilgit. Domestic flights from Islamabad to Skardu are also available, weather permitting.

Top Attractions

Shangrila Resort ("Heaven on Earth") on Lower Kachura Lake, Kharpocho Fort overlooking the Indus, Shigar Fort (restored heritage hotel), Upper Kachura Lake for boating and photography.

Deosai National Park

Accessible from Skardu (2-3 hour drive), Deosai is the world's second-highest plateau, famous for wildflowers, brown bears, and the stunning Sheosar Lake. Open July-September only.

K2 Base Camp Trek

Skardu is the starting point for the K2 Base Camp trek — one of the world's great trekking experiences, typically taking 7-10 days each way for experienced trekkers.

Best Time to Visit

May-September offers stable weather. July-August is peak season with the warmest temperatures and best access to Deosai. October brings stunning autumn colours but colder nights.