Skardu Trip Cost: The Complete 2026 Breakdown

"How much does a trip to Skardu cost?" — it's one of the most common questions we get. The honest answer is: it depends on your travel style, group size, and comfort level. But here’s a realistic 2026 breakdown to help you plan.

1. Flights (Islamabad ↔ Skardu)

Economy: PKR 25,000–45,000 one way (~$90–$160 USD)
Business: PKR 55,000–80,000 one way (~$190–$280 USD)

Return flights (realistic 2026): PKR 55,000–80,000 per person

Note: Prices can double in peak season (June–August). Book 4–8 weeks early.

Road alternative:

• NATCO bus: PKR 3,000–6,000
• Private car hire: PKR 35,000–70,000 total (split among passengers)

2. Accommodation

Budget guesthouse: PKR 3,000–7,000 ($10–$25) per night
Mid-range hotel: PKR 10,000–20,000 ($35–$70) per night
Luxury hotel (Serena / resorts): PKR 35,000–80,000 ($120–$280) per night

For a 7-night trip:

• Budget: PKR 30,000–50,000
• Mid-range: PKR 70,000–120,000

3. Tours & Transport

Transportation is the biggest variable cost. Most places require 4x4 jeeps:

• Deosai National Park: PKR 20,000–35,000 per jeep
• Shigar Valley: PKR 10,000–15,000 per jeep
• Khaplu / Hushe Valley: PKR 15,000–25,000 per jeep
• Katpana Desert: PKR 5,000–8,000 per jeep

A jeep typically carries 4–6 people.

Tip: Joining a group tour can significantly reduce costs by splitting transport.

4. Food

Local dhabba / bazaar: PKR 500–1,000 per meal
Mid-range restaurant: PKR 1,200–2,500 per meal
Hotel restaurant: PKR 2,500–6,000 per meal

Estimated daily food budget:
PKR 2,500–5,000 per person

Total Estimated Trip Cost (7 Days, Solo — 2026)

Budget Option:

• Flights (return): PKR 60,000
• Accommodation: PKR 40,000
• Tours & Transport: PKR 30,000
• Food: PKR 20,000
• Miscellaneous: PKR 8,000
  Total: ~PKR 155,000 (~$550 USD)

Mid-Range Option:

• Flights (return): PKR 75,000
• Accommodation: PKR 100,000
• Tours & Transport: PKR 70,000
• Food: PKR 35,000
• Miscellaneous: PKR 15,000
  Total: ~PKR 295,000 (~$1,050 USD)

How a Tour Package Saves You Money

A well-priced guided Skardu tour package helps you save by:

• Negotiating bulk rates for hotels and jeeps
• Removing the hassle of planning logistics
• Avoiding tourist overpricing

Typical 2026 group tour pricing:
PKR 90,000–180,000 (5–7 days) depending on comfort level

A solid small-group international-style package typically falls around:
$400–$700 per person