Gujranwala to Shabqadar Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Gujranwala to Shabqadar: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Traveling from Gujranwala to Shabqadar, located in the Charsadda District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, offers a journey through cultural and historical regions. This guide outlines the distance, routes, travel durations, and options for road, train, and plane travel.

1. By Road:

Road travel is the most straightforward and commonly chosen method to reach Shabqadar. The distance between Gujranwala and Shabqadar is approximately 400 kilometers (249 miles).

Route Options:

• Via N-5 and Peshawar-Charsadda Road: The recommended route involves traveling on the Grand Trunk Road (N-5) from Gujranwala to Peshawar. From Peshawar, continue to Shabqadar via the Peshawar-Charsadda Road.
• Via M-2 and N-5: Another option is to take the M-2 Motorway from Lahore to Islamabad, then join the N-5 towards Peshawar, followed by local roads to Shabqadar.

Travel Duration:
The journey by road takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. The roads are generally in good condition, especially on the motorways and highways, though local roads near Shabqadar may require cautious driving.

Tips for Road Travel:

• Start early to avoid traffic congestion near major cities.
• Keep snacks and water for the trip, especially if traveling with family.

2. By Train:

While there is no direct train to Shabqadar, travelers can take a train to Peshawar and then continue to Shabqadar by road.

Distance and Duration:

• The train journey from Gujranwala to Peshawar covers approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles) and takes 8 to 9 hours.
• From Peshawar, Shabqadar is about 25 kilometers (15 miles) away, requiring an additional 40 minutes by road.

Train Options:

• Green Line Express or Khyber Mail: These trains operate between Gujranwala and Peshawar, providing economy and business-class seating options.
• Road Journey to Shabqadar: After arriving in Peshawar, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Shabqadar.

Travel Experience:
Train travel offers a relaxing option, with scenic views of the countryside. However, the total travel time is extended due to the additional road trip from Peshawar to Shabqadar.

3. By Plane:

Flying is the fastest option for a significant part of the journey, but like the train, it requires additional road travel. The nearest airport to Shabqadar is in Peshawar.

Distance and Duration:

• Flight from Lahore to Peshawar: The flight covers around 380 kilometers (236 miles) and takes about 1 hour.
• Road Journey to Shabqadar: From Peshawar, the 25-kilometer (15-mile) road trip to Shabqadar takes around 40 minutes.

Flight Options:

• Airlines: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates regular flights between Lahore and Peshawar.
• Travel to Lahore Airport: Travelers need to drive 1.5 to 2 hours from Gujranwala to Lahore to catch the flight.

Travel Experience:
Flying is ideal for those who want to minimize travel time. However, the additional travel to and from airports may offset the time saved, especially for this relatively short route.

Conclusion

The journey from Gujranwala to Shabqadar can be undertaken by road, train, or a combination of air and road travel. For most travelers, road travel is the most convenient and cost-effective option, offering a direct route and a manageable travel time of 6 to 7 hours. Train travel, while slower, provides a scenic and comfortable experience, though it requires an additional road trip from Peshawar to Shabqadar. Flying is the fastest option for the Lahore-Peshawar segment but is less practical due to additional road transfers.

Each travel method offers unique experiences, and the choice depends on factors such as time constraints, budget, and personal preferences. Regardless of the mode of transportation, visiting Shabqadar is an enriching experience, allowing travelers to explore its cultural heritage and the beauty of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.