Visiting Skardu as a Foreign National

Citizens of 50+ countries including UK, USA, Canada, Australia, all EU nations, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore and many others. Check the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) website or contact your nearest Pakistan embassy for the latest list.

The Pakistan Online Visa System (POVS) at visa.nadra.gov.pk typically processes applications in 2–5 business days. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to be safe.

Gilgit-Baltistan and Skardu specifically are considered very safe for tourists. The region is politically stable, the local Balti people are famously hospitable and thousands of foreign visitors travel here every year without incident. It is different from the situation in other parts of Pakistan.

We strongly recommend travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation coverage. For city tourism without trekking, standard travel insurance is sufficient. For K2 and high-altitude routes, specialist mountaineering insurance is mandatory.

Bring USD cash and exchange at the bank or exchange offices in Skardu. ATMs in Skardu city have limited cash availability. Most hotels accept cards but restaurants and local shops are cash only. USD 500–1,000 is sufficient for a week of comfortable travel excluding accommodation.

Yes — many foreign women travel Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan solo or in small groups each year. The local Balti people are respectful and hospitable. Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees, and you will encounter extraordinary warmth. Having a local guide from our team adds an extra layer of comfort and local knowledge.

Jazz and Zong SIM cards can be purchased at Islamabad International Airport or in Skardu city. Bring your passport (required for registration). Signal is reasonable in Skardu city and valleys but disappears on the glaciers and high passes.

No separate permit is needed for Deosai for foreign visitors — your Pakistan tourist visa covers it. For K2 Base Camp and other major trekking routes, PTDC trekking permits are required and range from USD 100–500 depending on the route and nationality.