Islamabad to Skardu Distance - Road Map & Weather Report

Islamabad to Skardu Distance: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Skardu, nestled in the majestic Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the country. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers, and serene lakes, it is a haven for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers. Traveling from Islamabad—the capital of Pakistan—to Skardu is an incredible journey that offers multiple travel options. Each mode of transportation—by road, train (combined with road), and air—presents a different experience, with varying durations and distances. This article details each travel method to help travelers better understand what to expect on their journey.

Distance Between Islamabad and Skardu

The aerial (straight-line) distance between Islamabad and Skardu is approximately 315 kilometers (196 miles). However, the travel distance by road is significantly longer due to the mountainous terrain and winding routes of northern Pakistan. The road distance between Islamabad and Skardu is roughly 640 kilometers (398 miles), depending on the exact route taken and road conditions.

1. Traveling from Islamabad to Skardu by Road

Distance:

Approximately 640 kilometers (398 miles)

Duration:

16 to 20 hours, depending on road conditions, weather, and traffic

Route Details:

The journey by road from Islamabad to Skardu is long but incredibly scenic. Travelers pass through dramatic landscapes, gushing rivers, deep gorges, and towering peaks. This route is not just a commute—it’s an adventure in itself.

The most commonly used route is:

Islamabad → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Besham → Dassu → Chilas → Jaglot → Skardu

1. Islamabad to Mansehra (via Hazara Motorway or N-35): The journey starts on a well-paved road through Haripur and Abbottabad.

2. Mansehra to Chilas (via N-35 Karakoram Highway): This section includes mountainous roads, some narrow turns, and scenic beauty. Key towns on this stretch include Besham, Pattan, and Dassu.

3. Jaglot to Skardu (via Skardu Road): From Jaglot, you turn onto the Skardu Road, a winding mountain path alongside the Indus River. This part can be challenging due to narrow roads and occasional landslides.

Travel Conditions:

• Weather Sensitivity: Road travel is highly dependent on weather. Rain or snow can cause landslides and roadblocks.

• Road Quality: While improvements have been made, some sections remain unpaved or damaged, especially between Jaglot and Skardu.

• Scenic Views: From mighty mountains like Nanga Parbat to river valleys and pine-covered slopes, the views are unforgettable.

Suitable For:

• Adventure travelers

• Road trippers and photographers

• Those seeking budget-friendly travel

• People comfortable with long and rough terrain journeys

2. Traveling from Islamabad to Skardu by Train (via Road Combination)

Distance:

Approximately 800–900 kilometers (497–559 miles) depending on road connections after train

Duration:

24 to 30 hours, including train and road travel

Route Details:

There is no direct train service from Islamabad to Skardu due to the absence of a railway network in Gilgit-Baltistan. However, a combined travel option involving a train from Islamabad to Gilgit or Chilas (via Rawalpindi and then road transport) can be attempted, although it requires multiple mode changes.

Here is how the journey typically breaks down:

Step 1: Train from Rawalpindi to Gilgit/Chilas Nearby Area (via Train + Bus)

• Rawalpindi to Gilgit (via Mansehra or Chilas): Since there’s no train service directly to Gilgit or Chilas, travelers can take a train to Rawalpindi or Hasan Abdal, and then use public buses or vans heading towards Gilgit or Chilas.

Step 2: Road Transfer from Gilgit/Chilas to Skardu

• The Gilgit to Skardu journey is around 7–8 hours by road.

• The road winds through the beautiful mountains and valleys and offers spectacular sights.

Travel Conditions:

• Multiple Transfers: There are no seamless transfers; travelers must be comfortable changing from train to bus or van.

• Long Duration: It is the longest of the three options and often tiring.

• Scenic and Cultural Immersion: Though longer, this journey gives travelers more interactions with locals and the experience of various towns along the way.

Suitable For:

• Backpackers or budget travelers

• Those exploring northern Pakistan extensively

• People with time flexibility

• Adventurers looking for an immersive travel experience

3. Traveling from Islamabad to Skardu by Air

Distance:

Approximately 315 kilometers (196 miles) (Aerial Distance)

Duration:

1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes

Route Details:

Taking a flight is by far the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Islamabad to Skardu. Direct flights are available from Islamabad International Airport to Skardu Airport, operated by major domestic airlines.

Skardu Airport is one of the highest-altitude airports in Pakistan and offers a stunning landing approach between snow-covered peaks.

Flight Schedule & Nature:

• Weather Dependent: Flights are subject to good weather, particularly clear skies and minimal wind. Delays or cancellations are not uncommon in adverse conditions.

• Scenic Journey: If you're lucky enough to get a window seat on a clear day, the views of the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, including Nanga Parbat, are awe-inspiring.

• Advance Booking Recommended: Flights are in high demand, especially during peak seasons (May to September), and should be booked early.

Skardu Airport:

• Located at an elevation of around 2,230 meters (7,316 feet)

• Recently upgraded for better passenger handling and safety

• Serves as the air gateway to Gilgit-Baltistan’s famous locations such as Shigar, Khaplu, Deosai, and Kachura Lakes

Travel Conditions:

• Smooth and Fast: Minimal travel time and no physical strain

• Weather Can Interrupt Plans: Especially in winter or during monsoon months

• Limited Flights: Seat availability is often tight during the tourist season

Suitable For:

• Time-constrained travelers

• Families and older tourists

• Photographers and vloggers who value aerial perspectives

• People who prefer comfort and speed

Seasonal Considerations for All Travel Options

Whether you're traveling by road, train, or air, timing your trip right is essential.

Best Time to Travel:

• Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather, melting snow, and blooming valleys

• Summer (July–September): Peak tourist season, but with occasional rain

• Autumn (October): Crisp air, golden leaves, and fewer tourists

• Winter (November–March): Not recommended for road travel; flights are often cancelled due to snowstorms

Travel Tips:

• Check Road and Flight Updates: Always check the weather and road condition updates a day before departure.

• Carry Essentials: Power banks, medicines, warm clothing (even in summer for Skardu), and snacks

• Local Guidance: Hiring a local driver or guide for road travel enhances safety and convenience

• Booking in Advance: Hotels and flights tend to fill up quickly in summer. Early planning is crucial.

Scenic Highlights Along the Journey

No matter how you travel to Skardu, each route presents unforgettable visuals:

• By Road:

  • Karakoram Highway: One of the highest paved roads in the world

  • Indus River: Accompanies you through most of the journey

  • Jaglot–Skardu Road: Raw, untamed beauty with thrilling turns

• By Air:

  • Himalayan Peaks: Including Nanga Parbat and surrounding mountains

  • Skardu Valley: A breathtaking approach during landing

Conclusion

The journey from Islamabad to Skardu is more than a transition between two cities—it's a transformation into a world of raw natural beauty, adventure, and serenity. Whether you choose the thrill of a long road trip, the immersive journey through combined train and road, or the swift beauty of a flight above Pakistan's northern ranges, each method has its charm.

• The road offers a rugged adventure with scenic diversity.

• The train-plus-road is an option for immersive and economical travel, though longer.

• The flight is best for time-sensitive or comfort-oriented travelers, delivering you into the mountains in just over an hour.

Ultimately, the choice of travel depends on your schedule, physical comfort, appetite for adventure, and the season. But no matter how you reach Skardu, the destination will reward you with experiences that are unforgettable, majestic, and soul-stirring.