Gujranwala to Nathiagali: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Nathiagali, a serene hill station in the Galyat range, is known for its cool climate, lush forests, and scenic vistas. It attracts a large number of tourists every year, offering them a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. If you're planning a trip from Gujranwala to Nathiagali, there are several travel options available, each with its own set of conveniences, distances, and travel times. This article explores all modes of travel – by road, train, and plane – so you can choose the best option according to your preferences.
- By Road: 510 km (317 miles)
- By Train: 500 km (311 miles)
- By Plane: 375 km (233 miles)
Let’s dive into each travel option in detail.
1. Travel by Road
The most common and direct way to reach Nathiagali from Gujranwala is by road. It allows travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes, passing through cities, towns, and mountainous terrain as they head toward Nathiagali. The distance by road is approximately 510 kilometers (317 miles), and the journey typically takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic conditions and road quality.
Route:
Start your journey by heading south from Gujranwala, driving toward Lahore, and then take the M-2 Motorway to Islamabad. From Islamabad, continue on the Murree Road, which is a well-known route leading to the hill stations of the Galyat region, including Nathiagali. The road to Nathiagali is well-paved but can be steep and winding as it ascends into the mountains.
Duration:
The total driving time from Gujranwala to Nathiagali is typically around 8 to 10 hours. However, it may vary due to weather conditions and the road's winding nature, especially as you approach the hilly areas of Nathiagali.
2. Travel by Train
Traveling by train from Gujranwala to Nathiagali is a more relaxed option, but it requires a transfer, as Nathiagali does not have a railway station. The most convenient route involves taking a train to Islamabad or Rawalpindi, and then continuing by road.
Route:
You can take a train from Gujranwala Railway Station to Islamabad or Rawalpindi, which will take around 4 to 5 hours. Once you arrive at Rawalpindi or Islamabad, you will need to take a road trip of about 2 to 3 hours to reach Nathiagali.
Duration:
The total travel time by train and road will be approximately 7 to 8 hours. The train offers comfort and a scenic journey, but you will need to account for the road transfer to Nathiagali.
3. Travel by Plane
Flying from Sialkot International Airport (near Gujranwala) to Islamabad International Airport is another option, especially for those who want to save time. Once in Islamabad, a road trip will take you to Nathiagali.
Route:
Fly from Sialkot International Airport to Islamabad International Airport, which takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. After landing, you will need to continue by road, driving for 2 to 3 hours to reach Nathiagali.
Duration:
The flight itself takes around 30 to 40 minutes, and the subsequent road trip from Islamabad to Nathiagali will take another 2 to 3 hours, resulting in a total travel time of approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
Conclusion
Traveling from Gujranwala to Nathiagali offers several options based on time, comfort, and preferences:
- By road, the journey covers about 510 kilometers (317 miles) and takes around 8 to 10 hours, offering a scenic drive through Pakistan’s countryside and mountainous terrain. This is the most popular and affordable option, though the winding roads near Nathiagali may slow down travel time.
- By train, the trip requires a 4 to 5-hour journey to Islamabad or Rawalpindi, followed by a 2 to 3-hour road trip to Nathiagali, totaling around 7 to 8 hours. This is a good option for those who prefer a relaxed, scenic journey.
- By plane, the quickest option involves a 30 to 40-minute flight from Sialkot to Islamabad, followed by a 2 to 3-hour road trip, resulting in a total travel time of around 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Though this option is the fastest, it can be more expensive than the other modes.
Ultimately, the best option depends on your priorities – whether you’re looking to travel quickly, enjoy scenic views, or experience a comfortable journey. Whatever mode you choose, Nathiagali promises a refreshing retreat into the beauty of nature.
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