Traveling from Rawalpindi to Malakand offers a variety of options, each with its own charm, convenience, and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel, the flexibility of road trips, or the affordability of public transportation, there's a mode of travel to suit every preference and budget.
By Road:
Route 1: Via M-1 and N-45
- Distance: Approximately 235 kilometers (146 miles)
- Travel Duration: Around 4-5 hours
- Description: This route takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Starting from Rawalpindi, you'll head northwest on the M-1 motorway, passing through Peshawar, Nowshera, and Charsadda. From Charsadda, continue on the N-45 highway towards Malakand, enjoying the lush greenery and mountain vistas along the way.
Route 2: Via Swat Expressway and N-95
- Distance: Approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles)
- Travel Duration: About 5-6 hours
- Description: This route offers a longer but equally scenic journey. From Rawalpindi, take the Swat Expressway (M-16) towards Swat. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you pass through Mingora and Bahrain. Upon reaching Mingora, head south on the N-95 highway towards Malakand, where you'll be treated to stunning valleys and riverine landscapes.
By Air:
Option 1: Rawalpindi to Peshawar by Air, then Road to Malakand
- Distance: Varies based on the airline and routing
- Travel Duration: Approximately 1 hour by air, plus additional time for ground transportation
- Description: Several airlines offer flights from Rawalpindi's Benazir Bhutto International Airport to Peshawar's Bacha Khan International Airport. From Peshawar, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to travel to Malakand, covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) in around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Option 2: Rawalpindi to Chitral by Air, then Road to Malakand
- Distance: Varies based on the airline and routing
- Travel Duration: Approximately 1 hour by air, plus additional time for ground transportation
- Description: Another option is to fly from Rawalpindi to Chitral Airport, which offers spectacular aerial views of the Hindukush mountain range. From Chitral, you can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Malakand, covering a distance of approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) in around 5-6 hours, depending on the road conditions.
By Rail:
Option 1: Rawalpindi to Nowshera by Train, then Road to Malakand
- Distance: Varies based on the train route
- Travel Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours by train, plus additional time for ground transportation
- Description: Pakistan Railways operates trains from Rawalpindi Railway Station to Nowshera Junction. From Nowshera, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to travel to Malakand, covering a distance of approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) in around 2-3 hours, depending on the mode of transport and road conditions.
Option 2: Rawalpindi to Mardan by Train, then Road to Malakand
- Distance: Varies based on the train route
- Travel Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours by train, plus additional time for ground transportation
- Description: Alternatively, you can take a train from Rawalpindi to Mardan Railway Station. From Mardan, proceed to Malakand by taxi or local transport, covering a distance of approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) in around 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions.
Conclusion:
Each mode of travel from Rawalpindi to Malakand offers its own unique advantages, whether it's the convenience of air travel, the flexibility of road trips, or the nostalgic charm of train journeys. Regardless of your choice, the journey promises to be filled with stunning vistas, cultural experiences, and memorable moments as you traverse the diverse landscapes of Pakistan. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a family on vacation, or a group of friends seeking adventure, the journey from Rawalpindi to Malakand is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
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