Gujranwala to Madaklasht Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Gujranwala to Madaklasht

Madaklasht, a scenic valley located in the Upper Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is known for its serene landscapes, towering mountains, and the famous Shandur Pass. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape into nature. Below is a detailed breakdown of the travel options from Gujranwala to Madaklasht, including distance, routes, and travel duration.

By Road

The distance from Gujranwala to Madaklasht is approximately 470 km (292 miles) by road.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore → Rawalpindi → Islamabad → Peshawar → Chitral → Madaklasht.
2. Duration: The journey by road typically takes around 11 to 13 hours, depending on the traffic, road conditions, and number of stops.
3. Details:
   • Route Overview: Starting from Gujranwala, you'll travel via Lahore and Rawalpindi, heading towards Islamabad. From Islamabad, the route takes you through Peshawar, then along the scenic Khyber Pass and onward to Chitral. From Chitral, a smaller road leads to the Madaklasht Valley.
   • Road Conditions: The major highways from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi and Islamabad are generally well-maintained. However, from Peshawar onwards, the roads get narrower and more winding, particularly when traveling into the mountainous regions of Chitral and Madaklasht.
   • Vehicle Options: While you can drive your own vehicle, taking a private taxi or a rental car is also a viable option. Public buses are available but might not offer the same level of comfort or convenience, especially when traveling through remote areas.

By Train

There is no direct train service from Gujranwala to Madaklasht. However, you can take a train from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi and then continue the rest of the journey by road.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore → Rawalpindi (train) → Islamabad → Peshawar → Chitral → Madaklasht (by road).
2. Duration:
   • The train ride from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
   • The subsequent road journey from Rawalpindi to Madaklasht will take about 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
   • The total time for the journey, including both train and road travel, is approximately 12 to 14 hours.
3. Cost: Train tickets from Gujranwala to Rawalpindi cost between PKR 300 to 1,000 depending on the class. The road journey from Rawalpindi to Madaklasht will cost around PKR 3,000 to 4,500 by taxi or private vehicle.
4. Tips: The train offers a comfortable and budget-friendly travel option. However, you will still need to continue by road, which may take longer and involve more effort due to the challenging terrain.

By Air

There are no direct flights to Madaklasht. However, you can fly from Lahore to Islamabad or Peshawar and continue the journey by road to Madaklasht.

1. Route: Gujranwala → Lahore (flight) → Islamabad → Peshawar → Chitral → Madaklasht (by road).
2. Duration:
   • Flights from Lahore to Islamabad take about 1 hour.
   • If you fly to Peshawar, the flight duration is also around 1 hour.
   • The road journey from Islamabad or Peshawar to Madaklasht will take about 7 to 8 hours.
   • The total travel time, including both flight and road journey, is approximately 8 to 9 hours.
3. Cost: Flights from Lahore to Islamabad or Peshawar generally cost between PKR 6,000 to 12,000. The road journey from Peshawar or Islamabad to Madaklasht will cost approximately PKR 3,000 to 5,000.
4. Tips: Flying to Islamabad or Peshawar can save you significant time compared to driving the entire distance. However, you will still need to manage the remaining road journey to Madaklasht, which can be challenging in some parts.

Conclusion

The journey from Gujranwala to Madaklasht, covering a distance of approximately 470 km (292 miles), can be completed via road, train, or air, each offering distinct advantages. The road trip is the most commonly chosen option, taking around 11 to 13 hours, with varying road conditions as you move from the plains to the mountainous regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Chitral. The train provides a more affordable travel option up to Rawalpindi, but it still requires a lengthy road journey. While flying to Islamabad or Peshawar saves time, it adds the complexity of additional road travel. Ultimately, the best option depends on your preference for speed, comfort, and cost. Regardless of your choice, the beautiful landscapes and peaceful environment of Madaklasht await you at the end of your journey.