Islamabad to Hunza, Skardu & Chitral Tours
Islamabad is the main starting point for northern Pakistan. From here, Hunza is about two days by road along the Karakoram Highway via Chilas, while Skardu, Gilgit and Chitral also have weather-dependent flights. Our private tours start from your hotel or the airport with a vehicle and driver matched to the route.
Travel times from Islamabad
| Destination | By road | By air |
|---|---|---|
| Swat (Mingora) | 3.5–4 hrs via M-1 and Swat Expressway | No direct flights |
| Kalam | 6.5–7.5 hrs via Swat Expressway and N-95 | No direct flights |
| Naran / Kaghan | 5.5–6.5 hrs via Hazara Motorway (M-15) and N-15 | No direct flights |
| Chitral | 7–8.5 hrs via Swat Expressway and Lowari Tunnel | Seasonal or weekly PIA ATR-72 flight; PKR 18,000–28,000 one way |
| Kalash Valley (Bumburet) | 8.5–10 hrs via Lowari Tunnel and Ayun | Fly to Chitral when operating, then continue by road |
| Hunza (Karimabad) | 11–13 hrs via Karakoram Highway | Daily weather-dependent PIA ATR-72 flight to Gilgit; PKR 22,000–32,000 one way, then road transfer |
| Skardu | 12–14 hrs via KKH and Jaglot–Skardu Road | Daily PIA and Airblue A320/ATR flights; PKR 20,000–30,000 one way |
Road times depend on season, weather and stops. Northern flights are weather-dependent.
Recommended tours from Islamabad
| Tour | Duration | Starting price (PKR, per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Skardu Valley expedition | 5 days / 4 nights by air or 7 days / 6 nights by road | PKR 85,000–120,000 |
| Chitral & Kalash Valley tour | 5 days / 4 nights | PKR 65,000–85,000 |
| Swat & Kumrat Valley experience | 5 days / 4 nights | PKR 55,000–75,000 |
| Naran & Kaghan Valley tour | 3 days / 2 nights or 4 days / 3 nights | PKR 38,000–52,000 |
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get from Islamabad to Hunza?
- Drive the Karakoram Highway to Karimabad in about 11–13 hours, or fly to Gilgit and continue by road. Gilgit flights are daily but weather-dependent.
- How do I get from Islamabad to Skardu?
- Fly to Skardu on a daily PIA or Airblue service when conditions permit, or drive via the Karakoram Highway and Jaglot–Skardu Road in about 12–14 hours.
- How do I get from Islamabad to Chitral?
- Drive via the Swat Expressway and Lowari Tunnel in about 7–8.5 hours, or use PIA's seasonal or weekly flight when it operates.
- Is it better to fly or drive from Islamabad?
- Flights save one or two days but depend on weather and are often delayed. Driving is more reliable and scenic. We usually suggest flying one way and driving the other.
- Can the tour start from Islamabad airport?
- Yes, our driver can meet you at Islamabad airport or your hotel.
- What is the shortest listed tour from Islamabad?
- The Naran and Kaghan Valley tour can be planned for 3 days / 2 nights. Longer 4-day and custom versions are also available.