Gujranwala to Upper Tanawal Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Gujranwala to Upper Tanawal: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Upper Tanawal, located in the scenic Hazara region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Traveling from Gujranwala to Upper Tanawal involves approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) of journey. Below are the travel options available, including road, train, and plane, along with route details, travel duration, and recommendations.

By Road
The road journey from Gujranwala to Upper Tanawal is the most direct and flexible option. Covering a distance of around 220 kilometers (137 miles), the route typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

1. Route: The common route starts from Gujranwala via the GT Road (N-5) towards Hassan Abdal. From Hassan Abdal, take the Hazara Expressway (E-35) leading towards Abbottabad. From Abbottabad, Upper Tanawal can be reached by local roads, passing through scenic mountain landscapes.
2. Travel Duration: 4-5 hours.
3. Recommended Stops:
   • Hassan Abdal: Visit the historic Gurdwara Panja Sahib.
   • Abbottabad: Enjoy a meal or tea break amidst cool weather.
4. Vehicle Options: You can drive your car, hire a private taxi, or opt for intercity buses that operate regularly to Abbottabad or nearby areas.

By Train
There is no direct train connection to Upper Tanawal. However, a combination of train travel and road transport can be utilized to make the journey.

1. Route:
   • Take a train from Gujranwala to Hassan Abdal or Rawalpindi, both of which are well-connected via the Pakistan Railways network. The main train options include the Green Line Express or Tezgam Express.
   • From Hassan Abdal or Rawalpindi, continue the journey by road via the Hazara Expressway and local roads to Upper Tanawal.
2. Travel Duration:
   • Train travel to Hassan Abdal takes around 3-4 hours.
   • Road travel from Hassan Abdal to Upper Tanawal adds another 3-4 hours.
   • Total combined duration: 7-8 hours.
3. Costs: Train tickets are economical, ranging from PKR 500-1,500 depending on the class, and road transport can cost an additional PKR 1,500-2,000.
4. Recommendation: While train journeys are comfortable and scenic, this option may be less convenient due to the transfer requirement.

By Plane
Upper Tanawal does not have a direct airport, but air travel to nearby cities such as Islamabad can significantly reduce the travel time.

1. Route:
   • Take a flight from Sialkot International Airport (approximately 50 kilometers from Gujranwala) to Islamabad International Airport. Airlines like PIA and SereneAir operate regular flights.
   • From Islamabad, hire a taxi or use a bus service to reach Upper Tanawal via the Hazara Expressway.
2. Travel Duration:
   • Flight time: 45 minutes.
   • Road travel from Islamabad to Upper Tanawal: 3-4 hours.
   • Total combined duration: 4-5 hours, including airport transfers.
3. Costs: Airfare ranges from PKR 7,000-12,000 for a one-way trip, while road transport adds another PKR 2,000-3,000.
4. Recommendation: This option is ideal for travelers seeking a quicker and more comfortable journey, especially if they are traveling with family or limited on time.

Scenic Highlights Along the Way
The journey to Upper Tanawal is filled with picturesque views of the Hazara region, including lush green hills, winding roads, and rivers. Notable spots include:

• Harro River Bridge: A scenic point near Hassan Abdal.
• Abbottabad’s Pine Forests: Ideal for a short break to enjoy the cool breeze and serene environment.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Travel: Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for this trip, as the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its best.
• Safety: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the mountainous roads. Drive cautiously, especially during rainy seasons.
• Local Cuisine: Try the traditional Hazara cuisine, including chapli kebabs and pulao, available at roadside dhabas and eateries.
• Accommodation: Abbottabad offers a range of accommodation options for those wishing to break their journey. Budget hotels and guest houses are readily available.

Conclusion
Traveling from Gujranwala to Upper Tanawal provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the northern beauty of Pakistan. Whether by road, train, or a combination of plane and road, each mode of travel offers unique experiences and scenic views. Road travel is the most direct and economical option, while plane journeys save time for those willing to invest in comfort. Train travel, though less direct, offers a nostalgic and scenic ride. Regardless of the mode chosen, the destination promises breathtaking landscapes and a serene escape from urban life.