Gujranwala to Skardu: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Skardu, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is a stunning destination known for its mountainous beauty, crystal-clear lakes, and captivating landscapes. It serves as the gateway to some of the world's highest peaks, including K2. The journey from Gujranwala to Skardu offers a variety of travel options, though road travel remains the most practical.
Distance Summary:
- By Road: Approximately 670 kilometers (416 miles), taking around 12 to 14 hours.
- By Train: Approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles), with a journey time of around 14 to 16 hours.
- By Air: Approximately 350 kilometers (220 miles), with a flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Travel by Road
The road journey from Gujranwala to Skardu is approximately 670 kilometers long and usually takes about 12 to 14 hours. The journey begins with a drive on the M-2 Motorway, heading towards Rawalpindi, followed by a scenic route via the KKH (Karakoram Highway), which runs through Abbottabad and onward to Skardu. The road from Rawalpindi to Skardu is a mix of well-paved roads and mountainous terrain, making for a picturesque but sometimes challenging drive, particularly as one gets closer to Skardu.
Private cars are the most comfortable choice for this long journey, offering the freedom to make stops along the way to enjoy the scenery, take breaks, or have meals. Intercity buses and taxis are also available, but passengers must be prepared for a longer journey with fewer comforts compared to traveling by car.
Despite the long travel time, the road trip to Skardu is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes of northern Pakistan. Travelers will pass through lush green valleys, traditional villages, and towering mountain ranges. The journey's final leg offers dramatic views of the Indus River and the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range, making the road journey an unforgettable part of the Skardu experience.
Travel by Train
Traveling from Gujranwala to Skardu by train is possible but not ideal. While the train journey itself can be comfortable, passengers would need to board a train to Rawalpindi or Islamabad and then take a bus or taxi to reach Skardu. The total distance covered by train is about 700 kilometers, and the journey typically lasts 14 to 16 hours, depending on the train service chosen and the availability of connecting transport.
The train ride offers a scenic and relatively comfortable experience, but the need to transfer to a bus or taxi in Rawalpindi adds complexity and additional time. As there are no direct train services to Skardu, this mode of transport becomes less convenient, especially when compared to the more direct and scenic road journey.
Travel by Air
Air travel offers the fastest and most convenient option for reaching Skardu. The distance by air from Gujranwala to Skardu is approximately 350 kilometers, and the flight duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. There are direct flights available from Islamabad to Skardu, but since there are no direct flights from Gujranwala to Skardu, travelers would need to first fly to Islamabad and then catch a connecting flight to Skardu.
Flights to Skardu are limited and often depend on weather conditions, as the region is prone to fog and other weather disruptions. The flight provides an incredible aerial view of the mountains and valleys, adding a unique perspective to the journey. However, due to the limited availability of flights and the need to first reach Islamabad, air travel may not always be the most practical option, especially during the off-season when flights are less frequent.
Conclusion
For travelers making the journey from Gujranwala to Skardu, road travel is the most practical and accessible option. Although the journey takes around 12 to 14 hours, the scenic beauty along the way and the opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of northern Pakistan make it an unforgettable experience. Whether traveling by private car, bus, or taxi, the road journey offers the most direct route, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views and take breaks.
Train travel, while possible, involves at least one transfer in Rawalpindi or Islamabad and typically takes 14 to 16 hours, making it a less efficient choice for those aiming for a quicker or more direct trip. Additionally, passengers will need to find alternative transport from the nearest train station to Skardu.
Air travel, though the fastest option, is not always reliable due to weather conditions and the need to fly via Islamabad. While the flight offers a stunning aerial view of the surrounding mountain ranges, its limited availability and the added time for transfers may make it an impractical option for some travelers.
Ultimately, the road journey remains the most convenient and immersive way to travel from Gujranwala to Skardu, providing both comfort and access to the unparalleled natural beauty of northern Pakistan. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the journey to Skardu will be as memorable as the destination itself.
0 Comments