By plane
Pakistan International Airlines flies daily from Islamabad. However, since the pilots fly on mere sight no computer navigation, the flight only goes on clear days. During the flight it's possible to catch a glimpse of Nanga Parbat the 9th highest mountain in the world and K2 (the 2nd highest mountain in the world.The air journey is full of thrills and could itself be regarded as the highlight of the visit. After following the same air route, which connects Gilgit to Islamabad/Rawalpindi, the plane turns right and flies over the gorge of the Indus River.
By road
Skardu can be reached by bus from Islamabad. The drive takes you all the way over the KKH Karakoram Highway.
Since the KKH is still under construction and the Skardu road still has to be repaired, the road can take up to 36 hours by public transport cost approx. 1500 Rupees.
It's also possible to get to Skardu from Gilgit. Though it's less than 200km the journey will take you close to 8 hours (by public transportation.