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6 Days Skardu Tour by Road

6 Days / 5 Nights Skardu From Islamabad 2 – 20 people
Duration6 Days / 5 Nights
Tour typeGroup & private
DepartureIslamabad
Group size2 – 20 people

Tour overview

The 6 Days Skardu Tour by Road is designed for travellers who want to focus on Baltistan and enjoy it properly. Skardu is surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world and is home to stunning lakes, cold deserts, historic forts and green valleys. With three full days in and around Skardu, this Skardu tour package gives you enough time to see the main attractions at a comfortable pace and still have the flexibility to add Deosai or Basho valley.

The trip begins in Islamabad and follows the legendary Karakoram Highway before turning onto the Gilgit–Skardu road, which runs through a dramatic gorge carved by the Indus River. Hotels, transport, fuel, tolls and a tour coordinator are all included, so you can relax and enjoy the journey.

Top attractions on this Skardu tour package

Shangrila Resort and Lower Kachura Lake

Shangrila Resort, built beside Lower Kachura Lake, is one of the most iconic places in Pakistan. Its red-roofed cottages, a famous aeroplane-shaped café and the reflection of the mountains in the lake make it a favourite stop for families and photographers.

Upper Kachura Lake

A short walk from the road brings you to Upper Kachura Lake, a deep, crystal-clear lake surrounded by trees. It is calmer than Shangrila and perfect for a quiet picnic or a boat ride.

Shigar Fort and valley

The Shigar valley is a green oasis with orchards and traditional Balti villages. Its 17th-century fort has been restored and now offers a glimpse into the royal history of the region.

Katpana and Sarfaranga cold deserts

Few places in the world have sand dunes at more than 2,000 metres with snowy peaks behind them. Katpana is the most accessible and is best visited at sunset, while Sarfaranga near Shigar is known for jeep and quad-bike rides.

Manthokha Waterfall and Deosai (optional)

On your free day you can visit the Manthokha Waterfall in Kharmang, or, in summer, take a jeep to the Deosai Plains, often called the "Land of Giants", to see wildflowers, Sheosar Lake and, if you are lucky, the Himalayan brown bear.

Why this Skardu tour works

  • An overnight stop in Chilas splits the long journey into two comfortable days.
  • Three nights in Skardu mean you only check in once and explore without packing every morning.
  • A flexible free day lets you choose Deosai, Manthokha, Basho valley or simply rest.
  • Group and private tour options are available throughout the season.

Best time to visit Skardu

Skardu is best visited from April to October. Spring brings blossoms, summer opens Deosai and higher valleys, and autumn is clear and colourful. Winter visits are possible for travellers who want snow and quiet, although some attractions are not accessible.

Travel tips

Always carry your original CNIC or passport, as there are several security checkpoints. Mobile coverage is good in Skardu city but limited in remote areas. Cash is useful in smaller towns. Bring warm layers, sunscreen and comfortable shoes, and stay hydrated at altitude. Our team will brief you about everything before departure.

Tour highlights

  • Shangrila Resort
  • Upper Kachura Lake
  • Shigar Fort
  • Katpana cold desert
  • Manthokha waterfall (optional)

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Islamabad to Chilas
Morning departure from Islamabad via Hazara Motorway and the Karakoram Highway. The route follows the Indus River through Besham and Dasu. Overnight in Chilas after a long, scenic drive with regular tea and meal breaks.
Day 2: Chilas to Skardu
Continue to Gilgit, then turn onto the Gilgit–Skardu road. This route runs through a spectacular gorge with towering cliffs and the Indus flowing below. Arrive in Skardu by afternoon, check in and enjoy a walk in the local bazaar.
Day 3: Skardu lakes
Visit Shangrila Resort and Lower Kachura Lake in the morning, then walk to Upper Kachura Lake. After lunch, visit Skardu Fort (Kharpocho) for views of the city and the Indus, and finish with sunset at Katpana desert.
Day 4: Shigar valley and Sarfaranga
Drive to the Shigar valley to visit the restored Shigar Fort and stroll through the village. On the way back, stop at the Sarfaranga cold desert, where jeep and quad-bike rides are available. Overnight in Skardu.
Day 5: Free day: Deosai, Manthokha or Basho
Choose your adventure: a jeep trip to Deosai Plains (summer only), a day trip to Manthokha Waterfall, or a visit to the Basho valley. Optional activities and jeep charges are paid separately. Or simply relax at the hotel.
Day 6: Skardu to Islamabad
Early departure for the long drive back to Islamabad. In summer we can return via Babusar Top and Naran. A flight option from Skardu can also be arranged on request, subject to weather and availability.

What's included

Included

  • Transport in a private/AC vehicle
  • Hotel accommodation (twin/triple sharing)
  • Daily breakfast
  • Experienced driver & tour coordinator
  • Fuel, tolls and parking
  • All sightseeing as per itinerary

Not included

  • Lunch and dinner (unless mentioned)
  • Entry tickets and jeep rides not mentioned
  • Personal expenses, tips
  • Anything not listed in inclusions

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Islamabad to Skardu?
By road the journey takes most of two days with an overnight stop in Chilas. Driving times vary with road conditions and the season. Flights are much quicker but depend on weather.
Is Deosai included in the Skardu tour package?
Deosai is optional because it requires a 4x4 jeep and is only accessible in summer (roughly late June to September). We arrange it on the free day at an extra cost based on group size.
Which month is best for a Skardu tour?
May, June and September are excellent months with pleasant weather. July and August are ideal for Deosai. October offers beautiful autumn colours. Tell us your dates and we will advise.
Can this tour be booked as a private family tour?
Yes. Every package can be booked privately with your own vehicle and driver, which gives you full flexibility with timings and stops.
What is not included in the price?
Lunch and dinner, entry tickets, jeep rides, boat rides and personal expenses are not included unless mentioned. Your quote lists everything clearly before you book.
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Per personPKR 55,000
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