The drive from Gilgit to Skardu is one of Pakistan’s great mountain road trips. The Skardu Road follows the mighty Indus River for roughly 170 kilometres through a dramatic gorge of rock, sand and green riverside villages, linking the Karakoram Highway with the heart of Baltistan. Allow five to six hours for the journey — more if you stop for photographs, and you will want to stop often.

The route

The route leaves Gilgit on the Karakoram Highway and turns onto the Skardu Road near Jaglot, where the Indus, Gilgit and Astor rivers meet — a famous viewpoint marking the junction of the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush ranges. From there the road winds high above the Indus, passing small settlements, suspension bridges and viewpoints over the river’s sandy bends. The scenery changes constantly, from barren cliffs to apricot orchards in villages like Kachura’s approach roads.

Planning the drive

Practical planning makes all the difference. Start early in the morning to enjoy the best light and to leave buffer time for roadworks or slow sections. The road is paved but narrow in places, with ongoing improvement works, so hire an experienced local driver and a comfortable, well-maintained vehicle — a 4×4 or a good family car from a trusted Gilgit or Skardu operator. Carry water, snacks, sunscreen and a light jacket; there are tea stops and small restaurants along the way, but services are spread out.

Stops along the way

Do not rush the stops. Pause at the three mountain ranges viewpoint near Jaglot, take tea at a riverside dhaba, and near the end of the drive detour to the lakes of Kachura — Lower Kachura (Shangrila) and Upper Kachura — before rolling into Skardu town. In Skardu, give yourself at least three days for Satpara Lake, Kharpocho Fort, the cold desert and onward trips to Shigar, Khaplu and Deosai in season.

The Gilgit to Skardu road is more than a transfer; it is the first chapter of any Baltistan adventure. Travel it slowly, in daylight, with a good driver and a full camera battery, and the journey itself becomes a highlight of your Gilgit-Baltistan trip.