Gujranwala to Lower Dir Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Travel Options from Gujranwala to Lower Dir

Lower Dir is a beautiful district located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Known for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and natural beauty, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and travelers looking to explore the tranquil areas of northern Pakistan. If you are planning to travel from Gujranwala to Lower Dir, here is a comprehensive guide on the available travel options, including road, train, and air travel, with details on the distance, routes, and estimated travel durations.

By Road

The road distance from Gujranwala to Lower Dir is approximately 370 km (230 miles).

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore → Rawalpindi → Islamabad → Mardan → Dargai → Lower Dir.
2. Duration: The total journey by road takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on the traffic conditions, road quality, and the number of breaks you take along the way.
3. Details:
   • Route Overview: The road journey begins from Gujranwala and takes you south through Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad. After Islamabad, the route heads west toward Mardan, followed by Dargai, and finally, Lower Dir.
   • Road Conditions: The road from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi is well-developed, mainly comprising highways and motorways. However, as you move toward Mardan and beyond, the roads may become narrower and more winding, especially in the mountainous areas leading to Lower Dir. The quality of the roads in the last part of the journey can vary, so it’s recommended to be prepared for some rough patches.
   • Vehicle Options: You can either drive your own vehicle, hire a private car, or opt for public transport. Private taxis or shared buses are available from Rawalpindi or Islamabad, though the journey may be more comfortable in a private vehicle, especially on the hilly roads closer to Lower Dir.

By Train

There is no direct train route from Gujranwala to Lower Dir, but you can take a train from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi, followed by a road journey to Lower Dir.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore → Rawalpindi (train) → Islamabad → Mardan → Dargai → Lower Dir (by road).
2. Duration:
   • The train journey from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi takes about 4 to 5 hours.
   • After arriving in Rawalpindi, the road journey to Lower Dir will take approximately 4 to 5 hours.
   • The total travel time combining both train and road travel is roughly 9 to 10 hours.
3. Cost: The train fare from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi ranges from PKR 300 to 1,000, depending on the class of travel. The road journey from Rawalpindi to Lower Dir will cost about PKR 2,500 to 4,000 for public transport, although private taxis will cost more.
4. Tips: While traveling by train can be a more affordable option, it does not cover the entire distance. You will still need to travel by road from Rawalpindi to Lower Dir. Ensure you plan for the road journey to make the travel more comfortable.

By Air

Currently, there are no direct flights to Lower Dir. The nearest airport to Lower Dir is in Peshawar. You can fly to Peshawar and continue your journey by road from there.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore (flight) → Islamabad → Peshawar → Lower Dir (by road).
2. Duration:
   • The flight from Lahore to Islamabad typically takes about 1 hour.
   • The flight from Islamabad to Peshawar also takes around 1 hour.
   • Once you reach Peshawar, the road journey to Lower Dir will take approximately 4 to 5 hours.
   • The total air travel time, combined with the road trip, is approximately 7 to 8 hours.
3. Cost: Flights from Lahore to Islamabad typically cost around PKR 6,000 to 12,000, while flights from Islamabad to Peshawar are generally priced between PKR 6,000 to 10,000. The road journey from Peshawar to Lower Dir will cost about PKR 2,500 to 4,000.
4. Tips: Although flying is the quickest option, the road journey from Peshawar to Lower Dir can be time-consuming. It’s advisable to book flights early to secure better prices and plan the road journey accordingly.

Conclusion

Traveling from Gujranwala to Lower Dir offers a variety of options, with road travel being the most common and flexible choice. The journey covers approximately 370 km and can take 8 to 10 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. For those who prefer a combination of train and road travel, the journey can be split into two segments, with a total travel time of about 9 to 10 hours. Alternatively, flying to Peshawar followed by a road trip can be the fastest, taking around 7 to 8 hours. Each option provides its own set of advantages, whether it’s comfort, speed, or affordability. Regardless of the mode of transport, the scenic beauty and cultural experiences awaiting travelers in Lower Dir make the journey worthwhile.