Skardu, a city located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural attractions. When planning a trip to Skardu, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is how to get there. There are two main options: traveling by air or by road. In this blog post, we'll compare the pros and cons of each mode of transport to help you decide which is the best option for your trip.
Traveling to Skardu by Air
Skardu Airport, located about 10 kilometers from the city center, is the main gateway for travelers coming to Skardu by air. There are regular flights from major cities in Pakistan, such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, as well as international flights from Dubai and Doha.
Pros of traveling to Skardu by air:
Quick and convenient: A flight to Skardu takes only 45 minutes, compared to a road trip that can take up to two days.
Comfortable: Air travel is generally more comfortable than a long road trip, with amenities like in-flight meals and entertainment.
Safe: Flying is generally considered to be safer than traveling by road, especially in areas with challenging terrain and weather conditions.
Surprise: Since it takes only few minutes from Islamabad to Skardu you observer quite different temperature and feeling suddenly on landing at Skardu airport.
Cons of traveling to Skardu by air:
Cost: Flights to Skardu can be expensive, especially if you're traveling from an international location. During peak summer season air fares touches the sky.
Limited flights: There are only a few flights to Skardu each day, so you may need to plan your trip around flight schedules. At the time of writing this blog two demestic companies operates flights to Skardu which is PIA and Air Blue.
Traveling to Skardu by Road
There are two main routes to Skardu by road: the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and the Indus Highway. The KKH is the more popular route, as it offers stunning views of the Karakoram mountain range and passes through the Deosai National Park (If you choose that route).
Pros of traveling to Skardu by road:
Affordable: A road trip to Skardu is generally more affordable than a flight, especially if you're traveling in a group.
Flexibility: Traveling by road allows you to set your own pace and make stops along the way to see sights and attractions that aren't accessible by air.
Scenic: The KKH and Indus Highway offer breathtaking views of the Pakistani landscape, including mountain ranges, lakes, and valleys.
Cons of traveling to Skardu by road:
Time-consuming: A road trip to Skardu can take up to two days, depending on your starting location and the route you take.
Unpredictable: Road conditions can be unpredictable, especially in areas with challenging terrain and weather conditions.
Safety: Traveling by road can be more risky than flying, as you're exposed to potential dangers such as accidents and crime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both air and road transport have their pros and cons when it comes to traveling to Skardu. If you're looking for a quick and convenient trip, then flying is the best option. However, if you're on a budget and want more flexibility and the opportunity to see more of the Pakistani landscape, then a road trip might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual preferences and circumstances.
