An honest comparison, and why most of our guests end up doing both.
Home » Destinations » Skardu » Islamabad to Skardu by Air vs Road
Flying takes about an hour but depends on weather driving takes two days but gives control and spectacular scenery. For most travellers, the best option is to fly to Skardu and drive back, so the trip starts fast and the return is protected.
Reviewed by ToursInPakistan Travel Team Last updated September 2026 ← Back to the Skardu Travel Guide

Three to five days, elders or young children, with a buffer day.

Flexible dates, photographers, heavy luggage.

Fly in, drive out. Our most recommended plan.
| By Air | By Road | Fly + Drive ★ | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel time | 1 hour | 2 days | 1 hr in, 2 days out |
| Reliability | Weather dependent | Road works, landslides | Return protected |
| Comfort | Excellent | Tiring | Good |
| Scenery | Great on clear days | Outstanding | Outstanding once |
| Luggage | Airline limits | Flexible | Limits on one leg |
| Cost | Airfare | Vehicle days | Balanced |
Tell us your group and dates. We’ll recommend the right mix.
Private tours with transport, hotels and a flight backup plan.




Flying is faster driving is more reliable for return dates. Most groups fly in and drive out.
About an hour by air, and usually two days by road.
It depends on group size. For larger groups, road can be cheaper per person.
We rebook or switch to road the same morning, using the buffer day.





Send us your travel dates, number of travellers, departure city, hotel preference and whether you prefer flight or road. We’ll suggest the best Skardu plan for your group and explain what to include or avoid.