Gujranwala to Khunjerab: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Traveling from Gujranwala to Khunjerab, located near the China-Pakistan border, offers a variety of scenic routes and experiences. Whether you choose to travel by road, train, or plane, each mode of transport has its unique set of advantages. The distance from Gujranwala to Khunjerab is approximately:
- By road: 680 km (422 miles)
- By train: 670 km (416 miles)
- By plane: 550 km (342 miles)
These distances represent the most common routes taken, and the travel duration and experience differ greatly depending on the mode chosen. In this article, we will explore the details of each travel option in terms of routes, duration, and comfort, to help you decide the best way to reach this stunning destination.
1. Travel by Road
Traveling by road from Gujranwala to Khunjerab offers a chance to enjoy the diverse landscapes of Pakistan. The journey covers approximately 680 kilometers (422 miles) and typically takes around 12-14 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way.
Route:
The most popular road route is via the M-2 Motorway leading from Gujranwala towards Islamabad, then connecting to the N-35 (Karakoram Highway). This route takes you through the towns of Rawalpindi, Abbottabad, and Mansehra, followed by the scenic Naran Kaghan Valley before heading north through Hunza Valley and finally reaching Khunjerab.
The drive is remarkable, with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and rivers. The weather can change quickly as you ascend, and it's essential to be prepared for cold temperatures, especially during the winter months.
Duration:
The entire journey by road can take anywhere from 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. Rest breaks and meal stops will add to the overall time. While it is a long drive, the route is well-maintained, and modern facilities like rest areas and fuel stations are available along the way.
2. Travel by Train
Taking the train from Gujranwala to Khunjerab is a more relaxed option, though not as fast as traveling by road or air. The train route is slightly longer, approximately 670 kilometers (416 miles), and the travel time can range from 16 to 18 hours, depending on the train service.
Route:
For this journey, you would board a train from the Gujranwala Railway Station to Rawalpindi and then connect to the Karakoram Express. From Rawalpindi, the train travels towards Abbottabad, then heads into the scenic northern areas before arriving in Gilgit-Baltistan. From Gilgit, travelers must continue their journey by bus or jeep towards the Hunza Valley and then up to Khunjerab.
Duration:
The journey by train is much slower, taking 16-18 hours due to frequent stops and the limited train services available. However, traveling by train allows you to enjoy the landscape in a more relaxed setting. The trains are equipped with comfortable seating, but the longer duration can be a challenge for those with limited time.
3. Travel by Plane
Flying from Gujranwala to Khunjerab is the quickest option and also offers stunning aerial views of the terrain. However, there are no direct commercial flights to Khunjerab itself, so you would need to fly to Gilgit or Islamabad first, and then continue by road.
Route:
To begin, you would board a flight from Sialkot International Airport, which is the nearest airport to Gujranwala. From Sialkot, a flight to Islamabad or Gilgit is available. The distance between Sialkot and Islamabad is around 120 kilometers (75 miles), and the flight duration is approximately 30-40 minutes. From Islamabad or Gilgit, you would have to take a road trip of 5-6 hours to reach Khunjerab.
Duration:
The total flying time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, but the time spent in airports and the subsequent road journey from Gilgit or Islamabad to Khunjerab would add another 5-6 hours, making the total travel time about 6 to 8 hours. This option is faster than traveling by road or train, but it requires more coordination and a combination of air and land travel.
Conclusion
In summary, the most efficient and scenic way to travel from Gujranwala to Khunjerab depends on the traveler's preferences. If you have time and enjoy long scenic drives, the road option offers an unforgettable journey through some of Pakistan’s most beautiful landscapes. The train option, while slower, provides a more relaxed and less stressful journey for those who enjoy the charm of train travel. Finally, flying provides the fastest route, though it involves a combination of air and road travel to complete the journey.
Ultimately, each mode of transport offers unique advantages, and your choice will depend on your schedule, preferences, and the kind of experience you're looking for.
0 Comments