Karachi to Sharda Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Karachi to Sharda

Sharda, a picturesque valley located in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and serene surroundings. If you’re planning a trip from Karachi to Sharda, you have several travel options: by road, train, and plane. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, which we will explore in detail.

1. By Road

Distance: Approximately 1,440 kilometers (894 miles)

Route: The most common route from Karachi to Sharda involves traveling via the N-5 National Highway. The journey typically follows this path:

• Karachi: Start your journey in Karachi, the bustling metropolis of Pakistan.
• Hyderabad: Head northeast along the N-5, passing through Hyderabad. This city is a great place to stop for refreshments.
• Sukkur: Continue on N-5 towards Sukkur, where you can enjoy views of the Indus River.
• Multan: From Sukkur, take the N-55 to Multan, a historical city known for its rich cultural heritage.
• Lahore: Proceed to Lahore via the N-5, the cultural capital of Pakistan, offering numerous dining and sightseeing options.
• Islamabad: After Lahore, head towards Islamabad via the M-2 motorway, which is a well-maintained route.
• Muzaffarabad: From Islamabad, continue to Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir.
• Sharda: Finally, from Muzaffarabad, take the road to Sharda, which is approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) away.

Travel Duration: The total travel time by road can vary significantly based on traffic, weather, and road conditions. On average, the journey takes about 20 to 25 hours, especially if you make several stops along the way.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Traveling by road allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore different cities and regions. You can stop at various attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the journey at your own pace.
• Cons: The long travel time can be tiring, and road conditions may vary. It's essential to ensure your vehicle is in good condition for such a long journey.

2. By Train

Distance: Approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles)

Route: The train journey is slightly shorter than driving by road. The Pakistan Railways offers several routes that connect Karachi to major cities like Lahore and Rawalpindi, from where you can continue your journey to Sharda:

• Karachi to Lahore: Board a train from Karachi to Lahore. The journey takes about 18 to 20 hours.
• Lahore to Rawalpindi: From Lahore, take a train to Rawalpindi, which typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.
• Rawalpindi to Muzaffarabad: From Rawalpindi, travel to Muzaffarabad via bus or taxi, as there are no direct train services. This leg is about 130 kilometers (81 miles) and can take about 3 to 4 hours by road.
• Muzaffarabad to Sharda: Finally, take a local transport option to reach Sharda, which is approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) from Muzaffarabad.

Travel Duration: Overall, the entire journey by train and road can take about 28 to 32 hours, including waiting times and transfers.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Train travel is comfortable and allows you to relax while enjoying the scenery. It’s often more economical than road travel, especially for long distances.
• Cons: Train schedules can be unpredictable, and you may need to arrange additional transportation for parts of the journey.

3. By Plane

Distance: Direct flight distance is about 1,180 kilometers (734 miles), but considering ground travel, it can extend slightly.

Route: While there are no direct flights to Sharda, you can fly from Karachi to Islamabad and then continue your journey by road.

• Karachi to Islamabad: Book a flight from Jinnah International Airport (KHI) to Islamabad International Airport (ISB). The flight duration is about 2 hours.
• Islamabad to Muzaffarabad: From Islamabad, you can either take a local bus, taxi, or hire a car to reach Muzaffarabad, which is about 130 kilometers (81 miles) away. This leg of the journey takes about 3 to 4 hours.
• Muzaffarabad to Sharda: Lastly, from Muzaffarabad, travel to Sharda by local transport, covering a distance of approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles).

Travel Duration: The total time for this journey, including flight time and ground transportation, is typically around 8 to 10 hours, depending on connections and waiting times.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Flying is the fastest option, reducing travel time significantly. It’s comfortable and allows you to avoid the long hours of road or train travel.
• Cons: Flight availability can be limited, and the total cost of flying can be higher than other modes of transport. Additionally, you will still need to arrange ground transportation.

Conclusion

Choosing the best travel option from Karachi to Sharda depends on your preferences regarding time, budget, and adventure.

• By Road: Ideal for those who enjoy long drives and wish to explore various cities along the way.
• By Train: A comfortable choice for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and scenic views, though it requires additional planning for road transfers.
• By Plane: The quickest and most efficient method, perfect for those who want to minimize travel time, but may involve higher costs.

Regardless of how you choose to travel, the journey to Sharda promises to be an enriching experience filled with beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultures. Make sure to plan ahead, consider your preferences, and enjoy the adventure!