Skardu Airport – Gateway to Gilgit Baltistan by Air

Skardu Airport has become a major route for travelers who wish to explore the beautiful northern areas of Pakistan, especially Gilgit Baltistan. It has opened doors for tourists from across Pakistan and abroad who want to experience the beauty of places like Shigar, Khaplu, Manthoka Waterfall, Deosai Plains, and Satpara Lake without long and tiring road journeys.

Tourism and the Beauty of Gilgit Baltistan

Pakistan is blessed with one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Every year, millions of tourists visit the country, and many of them travel to Gilgit Baltistan to see its mountains, lakes, valleys, and culture.

The region is home to the mighty K2, the second-highest peak in the world, and many other scenic spots such as Shigar Fort, Khaplu Fort, Manthoka Waterfall, Shangrilla Resort, and Deosai National Park.

Gilgit Baltistan is also rich in wildlife, with around 230 species of birds and 54 species of mammals. The region’s diverse population speaks five main languages and over 36 dialects, representing several ethnic groups. Moreover, more than 50 archaeological sites make it a fascinating place for history and culture lovers.

Despite all this natural and cultural beauty, tourism in the region had remained limited for years due to a lack of proper travel infrastructure. The recent development of Skardu Airport and the launch of domestic and international flights have changed that situation completely.

Location and Features of Skardu Airport

Skardu Airport is located about 11 miles northwest of Skardu city in Gilgit Baltistan. It was once known for being one of the highest airports in the world. The airport has two runways, but currently, only one is operational. The working runway is 12,000 feet long with a PCN of 40, making it suitable for large aircraft.

In 2021, the Federal Minister for Aviation declared Skardu Airport as one of the busiest airports in Pakistan, mainly because of the sharp rise in tourist flights. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates regular flights to Skardu from several major cities, which has significantly increased the number of tourists visiting the area.

Flights to Skardu from Different Cities

Islamabad to Skardu Flights

There are daily flights between Islamabad and Skardu. Travelers can book their tickets directly from PIA or other online platforms.

Average Fare: Around US$89 (return ticket)
Cheapest Fare: Around US$47 (one way)
Flight Duration: About 1 hour

Lahore to Skardu Flights

Flights from Lahore to Skardu are usually scheduled once a week, operated by PIA.

Distance: 432 kilometers
Duration: Around 1 hour 20 minutes
Fare Range: PKR 7,000 to 22,000, depending on the time and availability.

Karachi to Skardu Flights

Flights from Karachi to Skardu take about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Fare Range: PKR 20,000 to 24,000
These flights are often affected by weather conditions in the mountainous area, and cancellations are possible.

Dubai to Skardu Flights

From August 14, 2023, PIA began operating direct international flights between Dubai and Skardu.

Flight Duration: Around 3 hours
Fare: Starting from PKR 42,000
This has made it easier for foreign tourists to visit Gilgit Baltistan directly without traveling through Islamabad.

Weather in Skardu

The best time to visit Skardu is during summer (June to July) when people from hot cities travel north to enjoy pleasant weather. The average temperature during these months stays between 10°C to 23°C.

However, due to the mountain weather, flight schedules can change daily. Travelers should always be ready for possible flight delays or cancellations.

Upgradation of Skardu Airport

In January 2020, the Government of Pakistan decided to upgrade Skardu Airport to international standards. This plan included building a new terminal, extending the runway, and improving facilities for foreign passengers.

This project has made a big difference for both tourists and the local economy.

1. Reduced Travel Time

Before this upgrade, reaching Skardu by road from Gilgit was a long and difficult journey, often taking 14 to 24 hours due to landslides. The new flight routes have made the journey faster, safer, and more comfortable. Now, visitors can save time and spend more days exploring the scenic spots of Gilgit Baltistan.

2. Safer Travel

Traveling by road was also risky in the past due to occasional ethnic or sectarian tensions along certain routes. With direct air routes, both local and international tourists can travel to Skardu with peace of mind.

After the Babusar incident of 2012, tourism declined sharply, but now, with the introduction of air travel, the situation has improved, and visitors feel much safer.

3. Economic Growth

The introduction of international flights to Skardu is a great opportunity for Pakistan’s economy. Tourism brings revenue, creates jobs, and improves the living standards of local people.

The former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, once said that the beauty of Gilgit Baltistan alone could help Pakistan earn $30 to $40 billion from tourism.

4. A Beautiful Aerial Experience

Traveling by air to Skardu is an experience in itself. From the airplane, tourists can enjoy aerial views of K2, Nanga Parbat, and Saif-ul-Malook Lake. The view of these snow-covered peaks and crystal-clear lakes is something that road travelers can never experience.

The development of Skardu Airport has transformed tourism in Gilgit Baltistan. With the launch of domestic and international flights, tourists can now easily access one of the most beautiful parts of Pakistan. It has made traveling faster, safer, and more enjoyable, opening new opportunities for both visitors and locals.

Contact Us to Visit Skardu

If you’re planning to visit Skardu or explore other parts of Gilgit Baltistan, contact us at RepeatTrip Tours. We organize customized trips, flights, and complete tour packages to help you experience the real beauty of Pakistan’s northern region.