Think Skardu is only for luxury travelers?
Think again.
You can explore this gem in Gilgit-Baltistan on a budget — and still enjoy stunning views, lakes, forts, and more.
Here’s how I planned a Skardu trip under Rs. 25,000 (and you can too).
First: Getting to Skardu (Budget Options)
✈️ By Air
- Ticket price: Rs. 16,000 – 25,000 one-way from Islamabad
- ✖️ Not budget-friendly, but saves time.
🚌 By Road (Recommended for budget travel)
- Take a bus from Islamabad to Skardu
- Fares: Rs. 4,500–6,000 (Faisal Movers, NATCO)
- Duration: ~20–22 hours
🛏️ Tip: Travel at night, save on a night’s hotel!
Where to Stay in Skardu (Budget Guesthouses)
These places are cozy, clean, and cheap:
- Jamal Guest House – Rs. 2,000–3,000 per night
- Hotel Mashabrum (Budget Rooms) – ~Rs. 3,500
- Mountain Lodge Skardu – Basic but has great views
- Homestays – Ask locals; you can get rooms for Rs. 1,500–2,000
Average cost for 4 nights = Rs. 8,000 – 10,000
What to Eat (Delicious + Affordable)
You don’t need fancy cafes.
Stick to local dhabas or your hotel’s food.
- Local thali (rice + daal + sabzi): Rs. 300–500
- Roti + Anda/Paratha breakfast: Rs. 150–200
- Tea everywhere: Rs. 50–100
Budget for food = Rs. 2,000–2,500 for 4–5 days
Places to Visit (Almost Free!)
Here are the must-see spots — most with zero or very low entry fees:
- Shangrila Resort Viewpoint (Free if you don’t enter resort)
- Upper Kachura Lake (Free)
- Shigar Fort – Entry: Rs. 500
- Katpana Desert (Cold Desert) – Free
- Sadpara Lake – Free
- Manthoka Waterfall – Entry: Rs. 200
- Skardu Bazar – For shopping & street food
Local jeeps or taxis:
- Rs. 1,500–3,000 per day (share with others to split cost)
🛶 Tip: Don’t forget to negotiate everything!
Sample 5-Day Budget Breakdown
| Item | Cost (PKR) |
| Bus (round trip) | 10,000 |
| Accommodation (4 nights) | 8,000 |
| Food & Snacks | 2,500 |
| Local Travel + Entry Fees | 3,000 |
| Total | ~Rs. 23,500 |
And that’s under Rs. 25,000!
Bonus Budget Travel Tips
- Travel in groups to split transport costs
- Bring snacks from home for the journey
- Skip tour agencies — DIY is cheaper
- Carry a water bottle — refilling is free
- Always ask locals for the best cheap eats
Final Words
Skardu on a budget is more than doable — it’s amazing.
You’ll meet kind locals, hike peaceful trails, and experience nature at its finest.
And you don’t need to break the bank to do it.
Thinking of planning your own trip?
DM me for help or drop your questions below — happy to share my full itinerary!