@Frooque
Q: Can on also drive a normal diesel car (not a 4x4) to these areas, or is there any patch along the way which requires an offroad-vehicle, i.e. taking into account the present road conditions!
A: Yes cars can easily travel on these roads. Any reasonable car can go Skardu/Gilgit. 4x4 in not requirement for these road side travel but any excursion off-road or very remote area will require 4x4. But main route along KKH is accessible via any car.
Q: Please also write about how your vehicle performed, and how much diesel it consumed, both on the way to Skardu and also on the way back.
A) I M Loving it more & more, my Surf performed exceptionally well and didn’t give me a single bit of trouble. My whole family enjoyed the ride.
B) I traveled 1675 KM and Disele consumed was 210 Ltrs (It also includes Ac on all the times and stops with engine on.
Q: Did you need to use your jerry-can or were there enough pumps on the way and...
The thing is when I travel especially with family, I take every possible travel caution. Jerry Can idea was in case if no Diesel available in remote location or stuck somewhere and have to run the engine for AC or lights. BUT Diesel is easily available along KKH and all major destinations in Northern Areas.
I have lots of Travel accessories, which I normally carry on my trips. Will upload details soon.
Q: Is diesel more expensive high up there in the mountainous regions?
It’s the normal price, as U get anywhere in Pakistan depending on different area rates which is not much different to rates in ISB/RWP.