Mobile coverage in the north varies enormously. You may have good 4G in Gilgit or Karimabad and nothing at all at Fairy Meadows or Deosai. This guide explains general patterns — but networks change, so ask your hotel or us for current information before you go.
In this guide
General patterns
| Area | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Islamabad, Swat Motorway, big towns | Good coverage from major operators |
| Gilgit-Baltistan towns (Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu) | The regional SCOM network is widely used; other operators work in some towns |
| Azad Kashmir towns | Several networks work; the regional AJK network is used in remote parts |
| Remote valleys and high places | Weak or none: Fairy Meadows, Deosai, Kumrat, Ratti Gali |
SCOM and its coverage are specific to Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Azad Kashmir. Check which SIMs work where before you travel.
Which SIM should I get?
- Check with your hotel or operator which networks work at your stops.
- If you travel mainly in towns, a SIM from a major national operator works in many places.
- For longer stays in Gilgit-Baltistan, a local regional SIM can give wider coverage in some areas.
- Visitors from abroad can usually buy SIMs with biometric registration; bring your passport.
Staying connected tips
- Download offline maps and itineraries before you leave a good-coverage area.
- Carry a power bank — electricity can be limited in remote stays.
- Tell family in advance when you will be offline.
- Use hotel Wi-Fi where available, but expect slow speeds.
- Keep important numbers — hotel, driver and operator — written down.
Roaming
Roaming from foreign networks often does not work in the north. Check with your provider before relying on it.
See also what to pack and our safety guide.
Preparing before you leave coverage
- Download offline maps for your route.
- Save hotel and driver numbers on paper.
- Tell family when you expect to be offline.
- Charge devices and carry power banks.
Staying in touch from remote places
For remote trips, ask your operator or hotel about landlines, radio or satellite options. For long treks, a satellite messenger can be valuable.
Using the internet responsibly
- Avoid streaming video on slow connections.
- Back up photos when you have good Wi-Fi.
- Be mindful of sharing live locations publicly.
Frequently asked questions
Will my phone work in Hunza?
In towns, usually; coverage varies by network. Remote spots may have none.
Is there Wi-Fi in hotels?
Many hotels offer Wi-Fi, but speeds can be slow and interruptions common.
Should I buy a local SIM?
It can help in some regions; ask which network works best for your route.
Is there 4G in Hunza?
Parts of Hunza and Karimabad have good data, but it can be inconsistent.
Can I use WhatsApp offline?
No. You need data or Wi-Fi to send and receive messages.
