Karachi to Athmuqam Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Karachi to Athmuqam

Athmuqam is a charming town in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. Nestled amidst lush green mountains and crystal-clear rivers, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Here’s a detailed guide on how to travel from Karachi to Athmuqam, covering all available options: road, train, and air travel, along with distances, routes, and travel durations.

1. By Road

Traveling by road offers a scenic and adventurous journey to Athmuqam, allowing you to soak in the beautiful landscapes along the way.

• Distance: The distance from Karachi to Athmuqam is approximately 1,350 kilometers (839 miles).

• Route:

  1. Start your journey on the N-25 highway from Karachi towards Quetta.
  2. After reaching Quetta, take the N-50 to connect with the N-70 towards Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir.
  3. From Muzaffarabad, head towards Athmuqam via the Neelum Valley Road (N-93).

• Travel Time: The journey by road typically takes around 20 to 24 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the number of breaks.

• Travel Costs:

  • Fuel expenses will be around PKR 12,000 to 15,000, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
  • Additional expenses for meals and potential overnight stays may add another PKR 5,000 to 10,000.

• Road Conditions: The roads are generally well-maintained, especially on the main highways. However, the route through the Neelum Valley can be winding and may require caution.

2. By Train and Road

While there are no direct trains to Athmuqam, you can combine train travel with a road trip to reach your destination.

• Train Route:

  • Take a train from Karachi to Rawalpindi or Islamabad.

• Travel Time (Train): The train journey usually takes about 18 to 24 hours, depending on the service chosen.

• Ticket Cost:

  • Economy class tickets range from PKR 1,500 to 2,500, while AC class tickets typically range from PKR 3,000 to 5,000.

• Road Travel from Islamabad:

  • From Islamabad, hire a taxi or take a bus to Muzaffarabad, approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) away, which takes around 3 to 4 hours.
  • From Muzaffarabad, proceed to Athmuqam via the Neelum Valley Road, which is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) and takes around 2 to 3 hours.

• Overall Travel Time: The total journey from Karachi to Athmuqam via train and road can take around 28 to 36 hours.

3. By Air and Road

Flying is the quickest way to reach Athmuqam, although there are no direct flights to Athmuqam itself.

• Flights from Karachi:

  • Fly from Karachi to Muzaffarabad Airport.

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

• Airfare:

  • Ticket prices for flights from Karachi to Muzaffarabad generally range from PKR 7,000 to 12,000, depending on the airline and time of booking.

• Road Travel from Muzaffarabad:

  • After arriving in Muzaffarabad, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Athmuqam, which is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) away and takes approximately 2 to 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 ideal time to visit Athmuqam is from April to October, as the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.
• Local Cuisine: Try traditional dishes like Kashmiri Pulao, Chapli Kebab, and various local sweets.
• Accommodation: Various guesthouses and hotels are available in Athmuqam and nearby areas. It's advisable to book in advance during the peak tourist season.
• Activities: Enjoy trekking, fishing in the Neelum River, and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding valleys.

5. Points of Interest in Athmuqam:

• Neelum Valley: Known for its stunning landscapes, lush green valleys, and rivers.
• Kund Malir: A beautiful beach located near the coastline, offering a perfect escape.
• Kashmir's Culture: Engage with the local culture, which is rich in tradition and hospitality.

Conclusion

Traveling from Karachi to Athmuqam is an adventure filled with breathtaking views and cultural experiences. Whether you choose to drive, take the train, or fly, the journey will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Pakistan, culminating in the serene beauty of Athmuqam.