Are you planning a tour from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort immediately after landing? If yes, then you’ve landed on the right site! Skardu, surrounded by lakes and hills, is a heaven for nature lovers. But the real adventure begins right at the airport!
Whether it’s your first or just another visit, there are always new things to explore along the way. In this guide, we will take you on a drive towards your dream destination, covering all transport options and costs.
Read more: Everything you need to travel the world!
Arrival at Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort
Skardu Airport, surrounded by snowcapped mountains and scenic beauty, offers a fantastic arrival experience. It lies 20 Kilometers away from the city center.
Don’t be surprised if you feel like you are landing on a movie set because those dramatic mountains are for real. The smiling staff appreciates your arrival at the airport as a welcome gesture to the Skardu Valley. Remember to keep your camera, as you might see Nanga Parbat on a clear day.
Pro Tip: Skardu flights are highly vulnerable to weather conditions. So, keeping track of flight delays/cancellations and backup plans is better.
How to Choose Your Perfect Ride?
After gathering your luggage, the next immediate question is how to get from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort. You have to choose rightly what is within your budget and also what you like. Here are a few options:
Taxi
A taxi would be the finest option for most of the travelers. Shortly after you leave the airport, there will be a queue of waiting taxis. They will offer to take you 20 to 30 minutes from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort. This will cost around PKR 2,500 and PKR 3,500. Bargain a little as it is a part of the local experience, and taxi drivers often expect it.
Jeep Rentals
Want a bit more adventure? Then, renting a Jeep is a suitable option for you. Jeeps were meant for traveling around bumpy and rugged areas of Skardu. So, a 4×4 jeep can take you off-road for an even more adventurous and overwhelming ride. The rent of the jeep ranges from PKR 6000 to PKR 10,000 per day depending upon the season.
Private Car Hire
Wish for a royal treatment? A private car with a driver is a great option for those in search of comfort without compromise. This drive provides a more relaxed and convenient experience with respect to taxis.
Privately hired vehicles cost between PKR 7,000 to PKR 15,000, being a little expensive. But, their convenience and flexibility make them a favorite among families or groups.
Tour Packages
If planning and negotiating aren’t your cup of tea, then a tour package is your way to go. Many locals of Gilgit Baltistan offer travel bundles starting from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort. This is a favorable option for those who desire to understand the history and local culture. As it saves them from getting into the hassle of bookings.
Read more: Flights to Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan
What to See on Your Way from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort?
The journey from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort is not just a trip starting at point A and ending at B. But it’s an adventure on its own. On your journey, you will pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in that area.
So, here are some must-see spots:
Katpana Desert
Many people hardly know that Skardu also has a desert named ‘Katpana Desert’. It is also known as the Cold Desert and stands out as one of the highest deserts in the world.
Katpana Dessert is only a short drive away from the airport. It sounds like a dream where dunes meet snow-capped peaks. But it’s no longer a fantasy as this is the actual beauty of the Katpana dessert. If you can make time, a short turn could be one of the best decisions.
Skardu City
This drive will give you an insight peek into the local hustle and bustle of a city. Additionally, you can also purchase cultural souvenirs like handicrafts, and local cuisines to bring back home. Treat yourself to a hot cup of tea and be amazed while looking at the beauty of Skardu.
Sheosar Lake
If you are on a Jeep adventure, make your way to Sheosar Lake. Indeed, the beautiful views of this lake are a part of Deosai National Park. Also, Look at some of the other species, such as the Himalayan brown bear or Tibetan wolf.
Mountains and Waterfalls
As one gets close to Shangrila Resort, the road twists and turns along the mountain slopes. Don’t forget to have a look at the waterfalls beside the road. This fresh falling water feels like nature’s warm welcome.
Read more: Best Places to Visit in Skardu
Is It Worth Staying At Shangrila Resort?
Shangrila Resort was the first hotel built for tourism purposes in the Northern Areas. It was known as ‘Heaven on Earth’ because of the scenic view and beauty. Its heart-shaped lake and snowcapped mountains attract a lot of tourists who come to see it.
It is worth investing in a stay at Shangrila Resort for that rarest of chances to be with nature in silence. The comfortable accommodation and great views right outside the window make it a perfect place to relax and recharge.
Accommodations
The Shangrila Resort offers a range from budget-friendly accommodation to deluxe suites. Be it Lakeview cottages or luxury deluxe suites, the options are unlimited. However, the cottages are unique in offering experiences of staying closer to nature.
Dining in Shangrila
Eating at Shangrila itself is an experience. It has several restaurants serving local as well as international cuisine. The Trout Fish freshly caught from the lake, must not be missed. If you are more adventurous, then ask for local Balti dishes. Your taste buds will love it, we bet!
Making the Most of Your Stay
The resort itself is a place of relaxation but there are numerous activities to keep you busy. Besides boating, nature walks through the beautifully landscaped gardens are also a good way to kill some time. Don’t forget to explore nearby attractions such as Buddhist Rock Carvings and the ancient Kharpocho Fort.
Best Time to Visit Shangrila Resort
Spring
This is the ideal moment to witness the flowers bloom. The temperature is pleasant, and it starts bringing a gray color into the landscape. The trip from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort in spring offers colorful flowers and greenery to see.
Summers
Summers are perfect for outdoor activities with famous lakes and mountains. The temperature generally stays warm, and most places can be accessed. It is an ideal time to travel from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort for refreshing trips and breaks.
Autumn
It is the most preferred time in fall, and the temperature is around 18°C. It is highly suitable for trekking and snapping views. Traveling from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort presents the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant colors of fall.
Winter
The place looks nice, but some activities might be restricted due to the snow that falls in December. The season is good for those who love landscapes with snow and indoor relaxation. Winter travel from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort will give an experience that can hardly be imagined.
Tips on Packing for the Trip to Shangrila Resort
Packing for a trip at Shangrila Resort requires a little planning. Skardu’s weather may catch up with you sometimes, so be prepared.
Here is a useful checklist that you will need:
- The temperature fluctuates from warm afternoons to chilled nights. So carry different layers to dress up according to the time of the day.
- There is a lot of walking, so do not come with weak or uncomfortable shoes.
- Higher altitudes mean an intense heat. Therefore, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are necessary to bring along.
- With several photo opportunities, your phone or camera will be working non-stop. Bring a power bank for it.
Your Shangrila Adventure Awaits!
The way from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort is no less than an adventure one gets to cherish. Whatever your preference is, be it a speedy or fascinating taxi ride, there’s something perfect for everyone. Don’t get surprised by the views that come along your way to the resort.
It’s time to stop just dreaming about that and start planning today! Have questions, want more info, or want to share your journey? Leave a remark, we’d like to get feedback from you!
FAQs from Skardu Airport to Shangrila Resort
What is the entry fee for Shangrila Resort Skardu 2024?
The entry fee at Shangrila Resort is 1000 per person. Give it a try, you will have no regrets.
Which country Shangrilla Resort Skardu is in?
Shangril Resort is located in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. It was established as the first hotel in Nother Areas in 1983.
Is parking available at Shangrila Resort Skardu?
Yes, parking is available for guests.
Directions from Lahore to Shangrila Resort Skardu?
There are two ways to reach there:
- Take a flight from Lahore to Islamabad and then to Skardu. From Skardu, it is a 20 to 30-minute drive to the resort.
- Lahore to Islamabad by motorway 4-5 hours by road. Then driving more to Skardu from Islamabad takes 12 to 15 Hours. This is only a short drive onwards to Shangrila Resort.
Islamabad To Shangrila Resort Skardu Land Route?
- You can take a direct flight of 1.5 hours from Islamabad to Skardu. Then took 20 to 30 minutes to reach Shangrila Resort.
- The drive from Islamabad to Skardu took about 16 to 18 hours. From Skardu, it’s a short drive to Shangrila Resort.
What is the distance of Shangrila Resort from Skardu Airport by car?
It takes almost 20 minutes to drive a 14.5 km distance via S-1.
