One of the world’s great mountain drives, planned with the right vehicle, driver and daily distances.
The road journey to Skardu can be beautiful but long and tiring. It is best planned as a two day private drive with an experienced driver and an overnight stop, usually in Chilas or Besham. Use the Karakoram Highway most of the year, or the Babusar Pass route in summer.
Reviewed by ToursInPakistan Travel Team Last updated September 2026 ← Back to the Skardu Travel Guide
The main route north along the Indus.
| Leg | Typical Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Islamabad → Chilas (KKH) | 10 to 12 hrs | Long first day, start early |
| Islamabad → Chilas (Babusar) | 9 to 11 hrs | Summer only, scenic pass |
| Chilas → Skardu | 6 to 8 hrs | Indus gorge, via Jaglot |
Times vary with road works, landslides and stops. We never plan night driving.
We’ll arrange the vehicle, driver and overnight hotel.
Comfortable on the highway, limited luggage.
Our standard for mountain roads and families.
For large families and groups.
Needed for Deosai and Basho from Skardu.
Your return doesn’t depend on weather.
Stop wherever the light is good.
No airline limits.
Two long days may be hard.
Long sitting is tiring.
Private tours with transport, hotels and a flight backup plan.
Usually two days with an overnight stop. Driving time varies with road conditions.
Most often Chilas, sometimes Besham or Naran depending on route and season.
No, only in summer, roughly June to September.
Yes, with an experienced driver, a good vehicle and daytime driving only.
Yes. It’s our most recommended option for most groups.
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.
