A long layover in Skardu is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Skardu Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside KDU
A few things to sort out before you leave KDU:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Pakistan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Skardu takes about 50 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Skardu
If you head into Skardu, here are two things worth checking out:
Kharpocho Fort is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Upper Kachura Lake (Shangrila Lake) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KDU, check out Panoramic Mountain Views or Airport Cafe & Waiting Area to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near KDU
For food in Skardu, local travelers recommend Shangrila Resort Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Concordia Restaurant (Serena Hotel Skardu) is another popular pick.
Back at KDU, Skardu Airport Canteen is the go-to. Airport Tea & Coffee Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Skardu Airport into town:
- local transport: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Skardu layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Skardu, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at KDU
Dedicated luggage storage at KDU may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Skardu’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at KDU should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Pakistan and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at KDU
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KDU has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Skardu count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave KDU. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.