Balakot to Naran Distance | Road Map & Weather Update

Balakot to Naran: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Nestled in the scenic beauty of northern Pakistan, the route from Balakot to Naran is one of the most enchanting journeys through the valleys of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Known for its winding mountain roads, lush greenery, and riverside views, this route is especially popular among tourists traveling to the breathtaking Kaghan Valley. The distance may not be vast, but the journey holds a special allure due to the changing landscapes and natural wonders that lie along the way.

This article provides a detailed guide on the distance from Balakot to Naran, and outlines the available travel options by road, train, and plane, including estimated durations and scenic highlights.

Distance from Balakot to Naran

The total distance from Balakot to Naran is approximately:

82 kilometers
51 miles

Though the distance appears short, the journey is through mountainous terrain, which adds to the time and complexity of travel. The road curves along the Kunhar River and passes through multiple picturesque spots such as Kawai, Jared, Mahandri, and Kaghan before reaching Naran.

Travel from Balakot to Naran by Road

Route Details:

Traveling by road is the primary and most feasible option for reaching Naran from Balakot. The entire route follows the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) Road, which is a narrow, two-lane highway winding through the valley.

Distance & Duration:

Distance: 82 km (51 miles)
Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours (depending on road conditions and traffic)

Road Conditions:

The road from Balakot to Naran is mostly paved but can become damaged or slippery due to landslides or heavy rainfall, especially during the monsoon season or after snowfall. From April to October, the road is generally open and accessible. In winter months (November to March), the route often closes beyond Kaghan due to heavy snow.

Transport Options by Road:

Private Car or Jeep: The most flexible and comfortable way to travel, allowing frequent stops for photography or short breaks.
Local Buses or Vans: These minibuses operate from Mansehra or Balakot to Naran, especially in peak seasons. They make multiple stops at local villages.
Rented 4x4 Vehicles: Available in Balakot and preferred for rough patches, especially during rainy seasons.

Scenic Stops Along the Way:

Kawai Waterfall: A popular photo stop.
Jared & Mahandri Villages: Traditional wooden homes and views of the Kunhar River.
Kaghan Town: Small market area ideal for food or rest.
Lulusar Lake (beyond Naran): Optional stop after reaching Naran if travelers continue further north.

Road travel is not just about reaching the destination—it’s a journey through nature, ideal for adventure lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Travel from Balakot to Naran by Train

Feasibility:

There is no direct railway line that connects Balakot to Naran, or even Balakot to Mansehra or Kaghan Valley. However, travelers who are coming from major cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, or Karachi and want to use the train as part of the journey can follow this hybrid route:

Suggested Route (Train + Road):

Train to Rawalpindi or Abbottabad (via Haripur or Havelian):
- Travelers take a train to Havelian, the nearest major railway station to Balakot (via Haripur).
- From Havelian, they travel by road to Abbottabad → Mansehra → Balakot.
Then continue by road from Balakot to Naran (82 km by MNJ Road).

Distance & Duration (Train Portion):

Lahore to Havelian: ~400 km (250 miles) – Around 7 to 9 hours
Havelian to Balakot by road: ~90 km (56 miles) – Around 2 to 2.5 hours
Balakot to Naran by road: 82 km (51 miles) – Around 2.5 to 4 hours

Total Duration (Train + Road):

12 to 15 hours, depending on train schedule, road traffic, and weather.

While this method is longer and more complex, some travelers from the southern or central regions of Pakistan prefer using the train for the initial leg of their journey to reduce road fatigue.

Travel from Balakot to Naran by Air (Plane)

Direct Flights:

There are no direct flights from Balakot to Naran due to the lack of airports in both towns. However, travelers from other cities who wish to reduce overall travel time may incorporate a flight as part of a multi-modal journey.

Suggested Air Route:

Fly to Islamabad International Airport from a major city (e.g., Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan).
Travel by road from Islamabad to Balakot via Abbottabad and Mansehra.
Continue by road from Balakot to Naran.

Distance & Duration (Air + Road):

Flight to Islamabad: Variable, depending on departure city – typically 1 to 2 hours
Islamabad to Balakot by road: ~200 km (124 miles) – Around 4 to 5 hours
Balakot to Naran by road: 82 km (51 miles) – Around 2.5 to 4 hours

Total Duration (Air + Road):

7 to 10 hours, not including time spent at the airport.

Although this method includes both air and road travel, it is often the fastest option for travelers coming from southern Pakistan who want to minimize the time spent on long drives.

Best Time to Travel from Balakot to Naran

Due to its mountainous location, Naran remains closed from late November to early April. The ideal window for traveling between Balakot and Naran is from:

Late April to early October

During these months, the roads are mostly clear, and natural beauty is at its peak. Snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and blooming meadows provide the perfect backdrop for a scenic road trip.

Safety and Travel Tips

Check Road Conditions: Always verify with local authorities or hotels in Naran about road accessibility, especially during the start and end of the tourist season.
Fuel Up in Balakot: Fuel stations become scarce beyond Balakot. It's best to refuel before starting the ascent toward Naran.
Avoid Night Travel: Due to sharp bends, narrow roads, and potential landslides, night travel is not recommended.
Carry Essentials: Mobile networks can be patchy. Keep cash, water, and snacks with you.
Keep Vehicle Documents: Security checks are common on mountain roads.

Tourist Attractions in Naran

Once in Naran, visitors can enjoy multiple tourist destinations including:

Saif-ul-Mulook Lake (by 4x4 Jeep)
Batakundi and Jalkhad
Lulusar Lake
Babusar Top (only accessible in summer)

These locations are further north of Naran and require additional travel, but they are easily reachable once the traveler has made it from Balakot.

Conclusion

The journey from Balakot to Naran may span just 82 kilometers (51 miles), but it offers one of the most picturesque and memorable experiences in northern Pakistan. Traveling by road is the most direct and scenic option, and it connects travelers to the heart of the Kaghan Valley.

While train and air travel options do not directly link Balakot to Naran, they can be used creatively in combination with road travel for those coming from other parts of the country. Regardless of the method, the reward at the end—crystal-clear rivers, majestic mountains, and alpine meadows—makes the journey truly worthwhile.

For those seeking natural beauty, adventure, and the serenity of the mountains, Balakot to Naran is not just a trip—it’s an experience.

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