Islamabad to Torghar Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

Islamabad to Torghar — Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Torghar (formerly Kala Dhaka) is a rugged, mountainous district in the Hazara division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pine-covered slopes and traditional Pashtun culture. For travelers from Islamabad, Torghar offers an off-the-beaten-path experience — great for nature lovers, photographers and anyone wanting to experience a quieter, more traditional side of northern Pakistan. This guide describes the distance and practical travel options from Islamabad to Torghar by road, train and plane, plus useful travel tips and a short conclusion.

Distance Between Islamabad and Torghar

The approximate road distance from Islamabad to central Torghar is about 155 kilometers (approximately 96 miles), depending on the exact starting point in Islamabad and the destination town inside Torghar district. Travel times vary with road conditions and weather.

Travel from Islamabad to Torghar by Road

Road travel is the most practical and commonly used way to reach Torghar. The drive takes you through the Hazara region’s scenic valleys and foothills before ascending into the more rugged terrain of Torghar.

• Typical Route: Islamabad → Hazara Expressway (E35/N35) → Mansehra → Battagram/Kingri road → Torghar
• Distance: Around 155 km (96 miles)
• Estimated Travel Time: 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic, stops and the final village or town in Torghar you are heading to

Notes on the road option:

• Most of the initial section (Islamabad to Mansehra) is on good-quality expressway/highway; the final stretch into Torghar becomes narrower and more winding as you climb into the hills.
• Private cars, hired 4x4s or local transport from Mansehra/Battagram are the recommended options — a high-clearance vehicle is useful for the last leg in bad weather.
• Plan for rest stops at Mansehra or Battagram for fuel, food and local supplies before entering the more remote areas.

Travel from Islamabad to Torghar by Train

There is no rail line that reaches Torghar. The nearest practical railway access points are Havelian or Haripur/Rawalpindi, after which you must continue by road.

• Option: Islamabad/Rawalpindi → Havelian (by train) → Mansehra/Battagram (by road) → Torghar
• Rail Distance (approx): Islamabad to Havelian ~80–100 km (50–62 miles)
• Road Distance after Train: Havelian/Mansehra to Torghar ~70–100 km (43–62 miles) depending on route
• Total Travel Time (combined): Typically 6 to 8 hours including train schedules, transfers and road travel

Because trains do not serve Torghar directly, travelers usually prefer to make the journey entirely by road to save time and simplify transfers.

Travel from Islamabad to Torghar by Air

Torghar has no airport. The closest major airport is Islamabad International Airport. Flying is not a practical means to reach Torghar because you must complete the journey by road anyway.

• Option: Fly into Islamabad International Airport (if coming from elsewhere) and then travel by road to Torghar.
• Air Distance: Not applicable for direct flights — the air option only applies if arriving from other cities to Islamabad first.
• Road Transfer from Islamabad Airport: Approximately 155 km (96 miles) and 3.5–5 hours by road.

What to Expect & Practical Tips

• Road conditions: Expect good highways up to Mansehra; after that the roads can be narrow, with hairpin turns and occasional rough patches — drive cautiously, especially in rain.
• Vehicle choice: A reliable car or SUV is recommended; a 4x4 becomes helpful in winter or during heavy rain when some rural tracks may be slippery.
• Fuel & supplies: Fill up in Mansehra or Battagram — fuel stations are limited inside Torghar district.
• Mobile signal: Coverage may be spotty in remote valleys — download maps or save directions offline beforehand.
• Weather: Summers are pleasant and cool compared to the plains; winters can bring snow to higher elevations, affecting travel times.
• Local culture: Torghar is home to strong local traditions; dress respectfully, ask before photographing people, and be mindful of local customs.

Scenic & Cultural Highlights

• Panoramic views of pine-clad ridges and deep river valleys.
• Traditional Pashtun villages with terraced fields and local handicrafts.
• Opportunities for short hikes, birdwatching and landscape photography.
• Nearby valleys and passes that can be explored from a Torghar base.

Conclusion

Reaching Torghar from Islamabad is best done by road — the route is reasonably direct and rewards travelers with beautiful scenery and a peaceful mountain atmosphere. There are no direct trains or airports serving Torghar, so plan to travel by car or public road transport via Mansehra/Battagram. Prepare for winding mountain roads on the final leg, carry necessary supplies, and respect local customs to make your trip enjoyable and trouble-free. Torghar is an excellent destination for travelers seeking nature, culture and less-traveled mountain landscapes.