How long does it take to travel from Islamabad to Skardu by air?

Yes, carrying sufficient cash is important, as ATMs and card payment options are limited or unreliable in many northern areas.

Limited banking access

In northern regions such as Hunza, Skardu, and Gilgit, digital payment systems are not widely available outside main towns. Even where ATMs exist, they may run out of cash or stop working due to connectivity issues.

Daily expenses

Small hotels, local restaurants, fuel stations, and roadside shops typically accept cash only. This makes it necessary to plan your expenses in advance and carry enough local currency for daily needs.

Practical cash handling

It is also practical to keep smaller denominations, as change may not always be available in remote areas. Splitting cash into different bags or wallets adds an extra layer of safety during travel.

• Withdraw cash before leaving major cities
• Carry a mix of small and large notes
• Keep emergency cash separately
• Do not rely fully on ATMs in remote towns

Carry warm layers, sturdy footwear, personal medication, and basic travel supplies, as facilities can be limited in remote northern regions.

Preparing for remote travel

Traveling to northern areas like Hunza, Skardu, and Gilgit involves long distances, changing weather, and limited access to shops or medical facilities. Being prepared with essential items helps avoid inconvenience during the journey.

Managing weather changes

Weather conditions can shift quickly, even in summer. A mix of light clothing and warm layers ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day, especially during early mornings and evenings.

Staying connected and self-sufficient

Connectivity and electricity can be inconsistent in remote areas. Carrying backup power and offline resources helps you stay prepared during long drives or overnight stays in smaller towns.

• Warm jacket or fleece
• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
• Power bank and charging cables
• Personal medication and first-aid kit
• Snacks and reusable water bottle

Babusar Top typically closes from late October to late May due to heavy snowfall.

Why the Road Closes

Babusar Top sits at an elevation of over 4,100 meters and receives heavy snow during winter. Authorities usually close the road in late October or early November to prevent accidents.

Reopening Timeline

Snow clearance begins in May, and the pass generally reopens between late May and mid-June. The exact date depends on snowfall levels and road safety assessments.

Alternative Route

When Babusar Top is closed, travelers must use the Karakoram Highway through Abbottabad, Besham, and Dasu to reach Gilgit-Baltistan.

After Reopening

Weather conditions at high altitude can still change rapidly. Checking local road updates before travel is advisable.

Yes, altitude sickness is relatively common in northern Pakistan, especially in high-altitude areas above 2,500 meters. Travelers who ascend quickly are more likely to experience symptoms.

Why Altitude Sickness Occurs

As elevation increases, oxygen levels decrease. This can affect how the body functions, particularly for those not used to high altitudes.

Common Symptoms

Travelers may experience mild symptoms such as:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath

These are usually temporary but should be monitored.

When Risk Is Higher

The risk increases when travelers ascend quickly, such as flying directly to high-altitude areas without gradual acclimatization.

How to Reduce Risk

Travelers often take simple precautions:

• Ascend gradually
• Stay well hydrated
• Rest after reaching higher elevations

This helps the body adjust more comfortably to altitude.

Mobile coverage is available on parts of the Karakoram Highway, especially near towns and villages. However, many stretches of the highway pass through areas with weak or no signal.

Coverage Near Towns

The Karakoram Highway connects major towns in northern Pakistan and therefore has mobile coverage near populated areas such as Gilgit, Hunza, and other settlements along the route.

Remote Sections of the Highway

Between these towns, the highway passes through narrow valleys and remote mountain terrain. In these sections, mobile towers are limited and travelers may temporarily lose signal.

Typical Signal Patterns

During long road journeys, it is normal for mobile connectivity to appear and disappear as the road moves between populated areas and remote landscapes.

What Travelers Often Notice

• Reliable signal near towns along the highway
• Intermittent coverage in some valleys
• No signal in isolated mountain stretches
• Mobile data returning when approaching settlements

Drivers often download maps and travel information in advance to stay prepared for periods without mobile service.

If your flight to Skardu is cancelled due to weather, you can either wait for the next available departure or switch to road travel. Many travelers choose to drive via the Karakoram Highway as an alternative.

Why Flights Are Cancelled

Low visibility and cloud cover in mountainous terrain commonly affect operations.

Alternative Options

• Rebooking on the next available flight
• Traveling by road from Islamabad
• Adjusting itinerary timing

Planning Considerations

• Confirm updated flight status
• Check road conditions
• Allow additional buffer days

Flexible planning helps reduce disruption during weather-related cancellations.