Hunza vs Skardu – Which One Should You Visit?

 When planning a trip to the northern areas of Pakistan, two names always stand out: Hunza and Skardu. Both offer jaw-dropping landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences — but which one should you choose?



Let’s break it down to help you decide!


🏞️ 1. Scenery & Natural Beauty

🌸 Hunza Valley


Famous for: Green valleys, cherry blossoms, and clear turquoise lakes

Must-visit: Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Altit & Baltit Fort

Best for: Peaceful views, easy roads, and short nature walks


❄️ Skardu Valley


Famous for: Rugged mountains, high-altitude lakes, and the gateway to K2

Must-visit: Shangrila Lake, Shigar Fort, Deosai Plains

Best for: Majestic wilderness, adventure, and starry nights


πŸ‘‰ Verdict: Hunza wins for casual beauty; Skardu wins for dramatic landscapes.


πŸ›£️ 2. Accessibility

Hunza


Easily accessible by road via Karakoram Highway

Travel time from Islamabad: 18–20 hours (by car)

Smooth roads and more rest stops


Skardu


Accessible by road or flight (1 hour from Islamabad)

Travel time by road: 22–24 hours (challenging route)

Skardu Airport often affected by weather delays


πŸ‘‰ Verdict: Hunza is easier for families and road trips. Skardu is best for thrill-seekers or flyers.


🏨 3. Accommodation Options

Hunza


More variety in mid-range & luxury resorts

Many hotels with views of Passu & Rakaposhi

Ideal for couples and solo travelers


Skardu


Offers premium options like Serena Shigar Fort & Shangrila

Guesthouses available in remote villages

Cozy lodges in mountainous areas


πŸ‘‰ Verdict: Hunza has more variety; Skardu offers exclusivity and heritage stays.


☀️ 4. Best Time to Visit

Hunza: March to October (famous for April cherry blossom & October autumn)


Skardu: May to September (Deosai only accessible in summer)


πŸ§— 5. Adventure & Activities

Hunza


Jeep rides to Khunjerab Pass

Easy hikes, historical fort visits, and yak safaris

Family and beginner-friendly


Skardu


Trekking, boating in Satpara Lake, jeep safari to Deosai

Gateway to K2 base camp and adventure treks

Ideal for hikers and explorers


πŸ‘‰ Verdict: Hunza for relaxed explorers; Skardu for adventure lovers.


🌟 So, Which One Should You Visit?

If You Love... Go To...

Culture + Easy Roads Hunza

High Peaks + Adventure Skardu

Photography & Instagram Both! πŸ“Έ

Cherry Blossoms or Autumn Hunza

Stargazing & Glamping Skardu


πŸ’‘ Pro Tip:

If you have time, combine both Hunza & Skardu in a single tour — many travel agencies offer combined 8–10 day tours!


πŸ“² Need Help Planning?

Contact a top-rated Pakistani tour agency to customize your itinerary and book transport, hotels, and guided tours:

πŸ“ž +92 333 3626716 (Call/WhatsApp)

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