Gujranwala to Gilgit Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Travel Options from Gujranwala to Gilgit

Gilgit, the capital city of Gilgit-Baltistan, is a picturesque region located in the northernmost part of Pakistan. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountain peaks, lush valleys, and serene rivers, Gilgit is a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers. Traveling from Gujranwala to Gilgit can be accomplished by road, train, or air, each offering different experiences, travel durations, and costs. Below is a detailed guide on the various travel options, including distances, routes, and travel times.

By Road
The distance from Gujranwala to Gilgit is approximately 750 km (465 miles).

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore → Rawalpindi → Islamabad → Mansehra → Abbottabad → Besham → Gilgit.
2. Duration: The total travel time by road is around 14 to 16 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops.
3. Details:
   • Route Overview: The journey begins from Gujranwala towards Lahore, and then proceeds to Rawalpindi. From Rawalpindi, travelers drive to Islamabad, followed by the scenic route leading through Mansehra and Abbottabad. Once past Abbottabad, the journey continues through Besham and eventually reaches Gilgit. The road from Abbottabad to Gilgit is famous for its stunning mountainous views.
   • Road Conditions: The roads from Gujranwala to Islamabad are relatively well-maintained, but as you proceed northward, particularly from Mansehra to Gilgit, the roads become narrower, winding, and sometimes less developed. Travelers need to be cautious while navigating these mountain roads, especially in adverse weather conditions.
   • Vehicle Options: While you can travel by private car or hire a taxi, buses and public transport are also available from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi. From Rawalpindi, you can take a bus or private vehicle up to Gilgit. It is advisable to travel in a 4x4 vehicle, especially for the final leg of the journey.

By Train
There is no direct train service from Gujranwala to Gilgit. However, you can travel by train to Rawalpindi and continue your journey by road from there.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore → Rawalpindi (train) → Islamabad → Mansehra → Abbottabad → Besham → Gilgit (by road).
2. Duration:
   • The train journey from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi usually takes around 4 to 5 hours.
   • From Rawalpindi, the drive to Gilgit takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
   • The total travel time, including train and road travel, is around 14 to 16 hours.
3. Cost: The cost of a train ticket from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi is generally between PKR 400 to 1,000, depending on the class of travel. The road journey from Rawalpindi to Gilgit by bus or taxi costs around PKR 3,500 to 5,000.
4. Tips: Traveling by train can offer a more comfortable and scenic route to Rawalpindi. However, you will still need to complete a long road journey to reach Gilgit.

By Air
Flying is the quickest way to travel from Gujranwala to Gilgit, although there is no direct flight to Gilgit from Gujranwala. You will need to fly from Lahore to Islamabad and then take a domestic flight to Gilgit.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore (flight) → Islamabad → Gilgit (flight).
2. Duration:
   • The flight from Lahore to Islamabad takes about 1 hour.
   • From Islamabad, a direct flight to Gilgit takes approximately 1.5 hours.
   • The total air travel time is around 2.5 hours, excluding waiting times at the airports.
3. Cost: Flights from Lahore to Islamabad generally range from PKR 6,000 to 12,000, while flights from Islamabad to Gilgit can cost between PKR 6,000 to 15,000, depending on the time of booking and availability.
4. Tips: Flying is the fastest way to reach Gilgit, but the cost may be higher compared to road travel. Make sure to book flights well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as flights can fill up quickly.

Conclusion
Traveling from Gujranwala to Gilgit can be an exciting journey with a variety of options available depending on time, budget, and personal preferences. The most common way to travel is by road, taking around 14 to 16 hours, which provides a scenic and adventurous experience. Train travel is possible via Rawalpindi but adds to the total duration of the trip, while flying is the quickest option, with a total time of 2.5 hours. However, flights are often more expensive, and booking in advance is recommended. Whatever mode of transport you choose, traveling to Gilgit promises a memorable experience surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.