Dare to drive the defiant road from Gilgit to Skardu
Pakistan, asia
167 km
1,494 m
moderate
Year-round
Get ready for an epic road trip from Gilgit to Skardu in the heart of Pakistani Kashmir! This 167 km (104 mi) stretch, also known as Strategic Highway 1 and Skardu Road, winds its way from Gilgit (elevation 1,500m/4,900ft) up to Skardu (elevation 2,226m/7,303ft).
This isn't just a drive; it's an adventure! Expect hairpin turns and heart-stopping drop-offs, all while hugging the mighty River Indus. While it's now mostly paved, thanks to recent upgrades completed in 2021, landslides are still a real risk, and weather can shut things down for days.
Budget about 3-4 hours for a non-stop drive. Originally built between 1970 and 1982 by Pakistani and Chinese engineers, this route isn't just strategically important; it's a feast for the eyes. Picture postcard villages, massive suspension bridges, and breathtaking valleys await around every bend!
Where is it?
Dare to drive the defiant road from Gilgit to Skardu is located in Pakistan (asia). Coordinates: 28.9484, 69.5078
Road Details
- Country
- Pakistan
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 167 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,494 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 28.9484, 69.5078
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