Gujranwala to Ziarat: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Ziarat, known for its cool climate and lush green landscapes, is a hill station in Balochistan, Pakistan. It is famous for its scenic beauty, pine forests, and the historical Ziarat Residency, which served as the summer residence of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. If you're planning to travel from Gujranwala to Ziarat, this article will explore the available travel options by road, train, and plane, covering distances, routes, travel durations, and more.
- By Road: 570 km (354 miles)
- By Train: 600 km (373 miles)
- By Plane: 450 km (280 miles)
1. Travel by Road
Traveling by road is one of the most convenient ways to reach Ziarat from Gujranwala. The road trip allows you to witness the diversity of Pakistan’s landscapes, from the bustling plains of Punjab to the mountainous terrains of Balochistan. The total distance by road is approximately 570 kilometers (354 miles), and the journey generally takes around 9 to 11 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.
Route:
The journey begins from Gujranwala and heads towards Islamabad, covering a distance of around 200 km (124 miles) via the M-2 Motorway. From Islamabad, the road then leads to Quetta via the N-70 highway, and from Quetta, you take a road towards Ziarat, which is about 65 km (40 miles) away. The route to Ziarat is through scenic valleys and hilly terrains, offering beautiful views along the way.
Duration:
The entire journey by road can take around 9 to 11 hours, with approximately 5 to 6 hours required to reach Islamabad, another 3 to 4 hours to Quetta, and about 1 hour to reach Ziarat. The journey may extend depending on the road conditions, particularly in the mountainous regions.
2. Travel by Train
Traveling by train from Gujranwala to Ziarat involves multiple train rides, as there is no direct route connecting the two destinations. However, this is still an option for those who prefer to travel in a more relaxed manner.
Route:
You can start your train journey from Gujranwala Railway Station, heading towards Rawalpindi or Islamabad, which takes about 2 to 3 hours. From Rawalpindi, you can then board a train towards Quetta, which takes around 12 to 14 hours. After reaching Quetta, you'll need to take a bus or a taxi for the final stretch of 65 km (40 miles) to Ziarat, which will take approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Duration:
The total train journey, including transfers, will take approximately 15 to 18 hours, making it a lengthy journey with a few transfers. While it is comfortable, it may not be the fastest option available.
3. Travel by Plane
Flying to Ziarat is the fastest way to cover the distance, though it requires a combination of flights and ground travel, as there is no airport in Ziarat itself. The nearest airport is Quetta International Airport.
Route:
From Gujranwala, you would first need to drive to Sialkot or Lahore to catch a flight to Quetta, with a flight duration of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arriving in Quetta, you would take a taxi or local transport to Ziarat, which is about 65 km (40 miles) from the airport, taking roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by road.
Duration:
The flying time from Sialkot to Quetta is around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the additional road travel to Ziarat will take about 1 to 1.5 hours. This option allows you to cover the distance quickly, with a total travel time of approximately 3 to 4 hours (including waiting time at airports).
Conclusion
When traveling from Gujranwala to Ziarat, there are three main modes of transportation to consider: road, train, and plane.
- By road, the journey covers 570 kilometers (354 miles) and can take between 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The drive offers a scenic experience, especially as you move toward the hilly terrains of Balochistan.
- By train, the total travel distance is approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles), and the journey may take between 15 to 18 hours with several transfers. This is a slower option, but it can be more relaxing and convenient for those who enjoy train travel.
- By plane, the flying distance is about 450 kilometers (280 miles), and the total travel time can be as short as 3 to 4 hours. This is the fastest mode of transport, but it may require additional ground travel to reach Ziarat from Quetta.
Choosing the best travel option depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. If you're in a hurry and prefer a quick journey, flying is the most efficient way. If you prefer a more leisurely experience with scenic views, a road trip is ideal. Train travel, though slow, can be a relaxing option for those who don’t mind taking the time to enjoy the journey.
Whichever mode of transport you choose, Ziarat promises a beautiful and serene destination, offering a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
0 Comments