Seven days is enough to see the two great valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza and Skardu, if you fly one way and plan around the roads. This plan suits May to October, when Deosai and Khunjerab are open.
Day by day
- Day 1: Fly Islamabad to Gilgit (about 1 hour), drive to Karimabad, Hunza (about 2 hours). Sunset at Eagle's Nest in Duikar.
- Day 2: Baltit and Altit forts in the morning; afternoon at Attabad Lake and the Passu Cones viewpoint.
- Day 3: Day trip to Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m) on the China border via Sost, with a stop at Hussaini Bridge on the way back.
- Day 4: Drive Hunza to Skardu via Gilgit and the junction of three mountain ranges (about 7 to 8 hours).
- Day 5: Shangrila and Upper Kachura lakes, Sarfaranga cold desert and Shigar Fort.
- Day 6: Full day across the Deosai Plains by jeep to Sheosar Lake (July to September for wildflowers).
- Day 7: Fly Skardu to Islamabad, or start the drive back if flights are cancelled.
Fly in to Gilgit and out of Skardu, or the reverse. If a flight is cancelled you can still drive, but book your international departure at least one day after your planned return to Islamabad.
Adapting the plan
- With 10 days: add Fairy Meadows (2 nights) between Gilgit and Skardu.
- In April: skip Deosai (closed) and spend the time in blossom-filled Hunza and Nagar.
- In late October: focus on Hunza's autumn colours and swap Deosai for Khaplu Fort.
- With children or older travellers: keep Khunjerab and Deosai visits short because of the altitude.
Frequently asked questions
Is 7 days enough for Gilgit-Baltistan?+
Yes, for Hunza and Skardu if you fly at least one way. Add 2 to 3 days for Fairy Meadows or a buffer for weather.
Should I visit Hunza or Skardu first?+
Either works. Flying into Gilgit and out of Skardu (or the reverse) avoids backtracking along the same road.
How long is the drive from Hunza to Skardu?+
About 7 to 8 hours via Gilgit and the Skardu road along the Indus.
Can I visit Khunjerab Pass in a day from Hunza?+
Yes. It is about 3 to 4 hours each way from Karimabad, usually open from around May to November.
