Karachi to Askole Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Karachi to Askole

Askole, located in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan, is the last inhabited village before entering the vast landscapes of the Karakoram Range. This picturesque village is known for its stunning views and serves as a base camp for trekkers heading to K2, the second-highest peak in the world. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to travel from Karachi to Askole, including options by road, train, and air, along with distances, routes, and travel durations.

1. By Road

Traveling to Askole by road provides a unique opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of northern Pakistan.

• Distance: The distance from Karachi to Askole is approximately 1,900 kilometers (1,181 miles).

• Route:

  1. Start from Karachi on the N-25 highway towards Hyderabad.
  2. Continue on the N-5 highway towards Multan.
  3. From Multan, take the N-70 towards Skardu.
  4. After reaching Skardu, hire a local jeep or taxi to reach Askole.

• Travel Time: The road journey typically takes around 30 to 32 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and breaks.

• Travel Costs:

  • Fuel expenses for the trip range from PKR 15,000 to 17,000, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
  • Additional expenses for meals and overnight stays may add another PKR 7,000 to 12,000.

• Road Conditions: The main highways are generally well-maintained; however, expect some rough patches as you approach Askole.

2. By Train and Road

While there is no direct train service to Askole, you can combine train and road travel.

• Train Route:

  • Take a train from Karachi to Rawalpindi, operated by Pakistan Railways.

• Travel Time (Train): The train journey usually takes about 16 to 20 hours, depending on the service.

• Ticket Cost:

  • Economy class tickets range from PKR 1,500 to 3,000, while AC class tickets typically range from PKR 3,500 to 6,000.

• Road Travel from Rawalpindi:

  • From Rawalpindi, hire a taxi or take a bus to Skardu, approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) away, taking around 6 to 8 hours.
  • From Skardu, hire a local jeep or taxi to Askole, which is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) away, taking around 3 hours.

• Overall Travel Time: The total journey from Karachi to Askole via train and road can take around 30 to 34 hours.

3. By Air and Road

Flying is the fastest way to reach Askole, although you cannot fly directly into the village.

• Flights from Karachi:

  • Fly from Karachi to Skardu Airport.

• Flight Duration: The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.

• Airfare:

  • Ticket prices for flights from Karachi to Skardu typically range from PKR 8,000 to 15,000, depending on the airline and booking time.

• Road Travel from Skardu:

  • After arriving at Skardu Airport, hire a taxi or jeep to Askole, which is around 70 kilometers (43 miles) away and takes approximately 3 hours.

• Overall Travel Time: The total journey, including the flight and road travel, can take about 4 to 5 hours.

4. Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Askole is from June to September, when the weather is relatively mild, and the trekking routes are accessible.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying traditional Balti food, such as Dum Pukht, Karakoram bread, and Kashmiri chai.
• Accommodation: While accommodation options in Askole are limited, basic guesthouses and camping options are available. It’s advisable to carry your camping gear if you're planning to trek.
• Activities: Askole serves as a starting point for several treks, including the K2 Base Camp trek. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

5. Points of Interest in Askole:

• K2 Base Camp: The trek to K2 Base Camp begins from Askole, making it a popular starting point for mountaineers.
• Shaksgam Valley: Known for its stunning views and unique geological formations, accessible from Askole.
• Cultural Experience: Interact with the local Balti community, known for their hospitality and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Traveling from Karachi to Askole is an adventure filled with stunning landscapes and a glimpse into the rich culture of the northern regions of Pakistan. Whether you choose to travel by road, a combination of train and road, or by air, each option provides a unique experience.