Gujranwala to Deosai Plains Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Gujranwala to Deosai Plains

The Deosai Plains, often referred to as the "Land of Giants," is a breathtaking plateau located in Gilgit-Baltistan. It’s famous for its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and its vast, unspoiled natural beauty. The journey from Gujranwala to Deosai Plains offers several travel options by road, train, and plane, each providing a unique experience to reach this magnificent destination.

1. Travel by Road

Traveling by road from Gujranwala to Deosai Plains allows you to experience the scenic beauty of northern Pakistan’s mountainous terrain and picturesque valleys.

• Distance: The road distance from Gujranwala to Deosai Plains is approximately 780 kilometers (485 miles).

• Route:

  • From Gujranwala, drive north to Islamabad on the M-2 Motorway (about 3 hours).
  • From Islamabad, continue on the Karakoram Highway towards Skardu, passing through Abbottabad, Mansehra, and Chilas.
  • Once in Skardu, take the route southward towards Deosai National Park.

• Travel Duration:

  • The total driving time is approximately 18 to 20 hours, with an overnight stay recommended due to the challenging mountain roads.

• Travel Considerations:

  • This is an adventurous option with stunning views, especially along the Karakoram Highway and as you enter Skardu.
  • The last stretch from Skardu to Deosai is rugged, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
  • It’s advisable to check road conditions beforehand, as landslides can occasionally block routes, especially in the rainy season.

2. Travel by Train and Road Combination

For those looking for a break from driving, a combination of train and road travel is a viable option.

• Distance: Train covers approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles) from Gujranwala to Islamabad, with the remaining 570 kilometers (355 miles) by road.

• Route:

  • Take a train from Gujranwala to Islamabad. This journey takes around 3 to 4 hours.
  • From Islamabad, continue by road on the Karakoram Highway towards Skardu, following the same route through Abbottabad, Mansehra, and Chilas.
  • After reaching Skardu, drive south towards Deosai Plains.

• Travel Duration:

  • The train ride to Islamabad takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
  • The road journey from Islamabad to Deosai Plains will take an additional 15 to 16 hours.
  • Total travel time is around 18 to 20 hours.

• Travel Considerations:

  • This option reduces continuous driving fatigue, allowing you to relax on the train.
  • Road conditions from Islamabad to Skardu can be challenging, especially in certain mountainous stretches, so an overnight stop is advisable.

3. Travel by Plane and Road Combination

Flying is the quickest option to cover most of the distance, allowing more time to explore Deosai’s unique environment.

• Distance: The air distance from Lahore to Skardu is around 510 kilometers (317 miles), with the remaining 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Skardu to Deosai by road.

• Route:

  • Drive from Gujranwala to Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, which takes around 2 hours.
  • Fly from Lahore to Skardu. This flight is about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
  • From Skardu, drive south to Deosai National Park, a 1- to 2-hour journey.

• Travel Duration:

  • Gujranwala to Lahore Airport: approximately 2 hours.
  • Flight from Lahore to Skardu: 1 hour and 20 minutes.
  • Skardu to Deosai by road: 1 to 2 hours.
  • Total travel time is around 4 to 6 hours.

• Travel Considerations:

  • Flights to Skardu depend on weather and can sometimes be delayed or canceled, particularly in winter and monsoon seasons.
  • This is the fastest option and ideal for travelers who wish to maximize their time in Deosai.
  • The road from Skardu to Deosai is accessible by a 4x4 vehicle, as the terrain is rugged.

Summary of Travel Options from Gujranwala to Deosai Plains

• By Road: Approximately 780 kilometers (485 miles) with a travel time of 18 to 20 hours. A scenic but lengthy journey through mountainous regions.
• By Train and Road: Combination travel covering approximately 780 kilometers and taking 18 to 20 hours. Reduces driving fatigue with the initial train journey.
• By Plane and Road: The fastest option, with around 4 to 6 hours of total travel time, depending on flight availability.

Each mode of travel offers unique experiences, from the adventurous and scenic road journey to the swift and comfortable air travel.