February is still deep winter in the northern areas, and often the snowiest month of it: Skardu averages around -1°C by day and -11°C at night, with more precipitation than January. It is also peak season for skiing, with Naltar near Gilgit and Malam Jabba in Swat both running full winter sports programmes while the region's high passes and plateaus stay firmly closed.
This guide covers the weather, the ski season, how reliable the roads actually are, and what to expect from power supply in the towns you would base yourself in.
| At a glance | February |
|---|---|
| Skardu | About -1°C by day, -11°C at night on average |
| Snowfall | Often the heaviest of the winter months |
| Naltar | Pakistan's main ski resort, run by the Pakistan Air Force, active through February |
| Malam Jabba | Ski season peaks in early February, with its snowiest week typically falling then |
| Roads | Karakoram Highway only; Babusar, Deosai and Khunjerab summit closed |
| Power | Winter outages remain severe in smaller towns |
Weather: the snowiest stretch of winter
Skardu's February average is close to January's, at around -1°C by day and -11°C overnight, but the town typically sees more precipitation in February, meaning more days with fresh snow. Hunza and Gilgit follow the same pattern: cold nights well below freezing throughout the valley, with daytime warmth depending entirely on whether the sun is out. Skiers actually want this weather, since it is what keeps the slopes at Naltar and Malam Jabba in good condition through the month.
For the wider seasonal picture, see our guide to the seasons, and for snow specifically, our post on where to see snow in Pakistan.
Ski season: Naltar and Malam Jabba
Naltar, about 34 km from Gilgit, is Pakistan's main ski resort, run jointly by the Pakistan Air Force and the Winter Sports Federation of Pakistan, and it hosts national and occasionally international skiing competitions through the winter. The narrow access road can be snowbound after a storm, so go by 4x4 with a local driver and confirm the slopes are running before you set off.
Malam Jabba, above Mingora in Swat, is the more developed of the two, with a ski slope, a chairlift and hotels at the snowline. Its ski season generally runs from around December into early March, and early February is typically its snowiest week, making it the most reliable month for good snow cover. Reaching Malam Jabba puts you in Swat district, which is currently the subject of a UK government advisory against all travel; see the safety note below before planning a trip there.
What's open and what's closed
Outside the ski resorts, February follows the same closures as the rest of winter. Gilgit, Hunza as far as Sost, and Skardu are reachable, while Babusar Pass, Deosai, the Fairy Meadows jeep track and Khunjerab Pass for visitors remain closed. Our guide to which northern areas are open in winter has the full valley-by-valley picture, and our post on off-season travel sets out what quieter roads and lower rates actually cost you in terms of what's accessible.
How reliable are the roads?
The Karakoram Highway through Besham, Dasu and Chilas remains the only road route into Gilgit-Baltistan, and February's heavier snowfall makes closures of a day or more after a storm more likely than in a quieter month. Flights from Islamabad to Gilgit and Skardu run when weather allows, but they are also more often delayed or cancelled in February than in summer. Build at least one spare day into any February itinerary, whichever way you travel, and don't book a same-day onward connection.
Power cuts in February
Hydropower generation across Gilgit-Baltistan depends on river flow, which stays at its lowest through the coldest months, so power cuts remain long and frequent in February in towns without a hotel generator or solar backup. Our guide to load shedding in the northern areas covers how bad it gets and how to keep your phone and camera charged regardless.
Who February suits
February suits skiers heading specifically to Naltar or Malam Jabba, and travellers who want the deepest snow of the year in Hunza or Skardu and are prepared for the cold, the road risk and the power cuts that come with it. It is a strong month for photography if you dress for it properly.
It does not suit anyone hoping to reach Deosai, Khunjerab, Fairy Meadows or Babusar, all of which stay closed, or families who need dependable heating without asking first. For the full northern circuit, June through September is the right season, and our Gilgit, Hunza and Khunjerab tour and Skardu and Deosai tour both run then.
What to pack for February
- A proper winter jacket, thermal layers, hat and gloves, plus warm waterproof boots with good grip
- Ski or snow gear if heading to Naltar or Malam Jabba, hired locally or brought from home
- A torch and a fully charged power bank for frequent outages
- Snow chains if self-driving, or a driver experienced with winter mountain roads
Frequently asked questions
Is February a good month for skiing in Pakistan?
Yes, it is generally the peak of the ski season at both Naltar, near Gilgit, and Malam Jabba, in Swat, with early February typically bringing the heaviest and most reliable snow cover of the winter.
Can I reach Deosai or Khunjerab in February?
No. Both remain closed by snow through February and will not reopen until early or mid-summer.
How cold is Skardu in February?
Around -1°C by day and -11°C at night on average, similar to January, with February typically seeing more snowfall.
Is Malam Jabba safe to visit?
As of September 2026, the UK government advises against all travel to Swat, where Malam Jabba is located. Pakistani travellers still visit the resort regularly; check current local news and police advice before setting out, and be aware that overseas visitors travelling against their government's advice can find their travel insurance void.
Is the road to Naltar open in February?
Usually, but it is narrow and can be snowbound after a storm. Go with a local driver in a 4x4, and confirm the resort is operating before you leave Gilgit.
