Lahore to Aliabad Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Lahore to Aliabad Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Aliabad is the administrative and commercial hub of Hunza District in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Surrounded by towering peaks like Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and the majestic Rakaposhi, Aliabad serves as a central point for tourists exploring Hunza Valley. It is known for its scenic beauty, apricot orchards, and warm local hospitality. Traveling from Lahore to Aliabad is a rewarding experience, filled with dramatic landscapes and cultural richness.

Distance from Lahore to Aliabad

The road distance from Lahore to Aliabad is approximately 870 kilometers (541 miles). While the journey is long, the changing terrain—from the plains of Punjab to the mountainous north—makes it one of the most scenic routes in the country.

Travel by Road

Road travel from Lahore to Aliabad is the most practical and commonly used option, especially for those wanting to experience the full beauty of northern Pakistan.

1. Lahore to Islamabad – Travel from Lahore to Islamabad via the M-2 Motorway covers around 375 kilometers in about 4 to 5 hours.

2. Islamabad to Aliabad via Karakoram Highway (KKH) – From Islamabad, the route continues along the famous Karakoram Highway, passing through Haripur, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Besham, Dassu, Chilas, and Gilgit. After reaching Gilgit, continue north along the Hunza River towards Aliabad, passing by Nagar, Rakaposhi View Point, and Karimabad.

Estimated Total Duration by Road:
The total road journey takes approximately 20 to 24 hours, depending on weather, road conditions, and rest stops. Travelers often break the journey with overnight stays in cities like Chilas or Gilgit.

Travel by Train

There is no direct railway service to Gilgit-Baltistan. However, partial train travel is possible.

1. Lahore to Rawalpindi by Train – Trains between Lahore and Rawalpindi take around 5 to 6 hours.

2. Rawalpindi to Aliabad by Road – From Rawalpindi, the journey continues via the Karakoram Highway all the way to Aliabad. This stretch covers more than 495 kilometers and takes about 16 to 18 hours.

Estimated Total Duration by Train and Road:
Train (5–6 hours) + Road (16–18 hours) = 21 to 24 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Travel by Plane

Flying can shorten the travel time significantly, though flights are dependent on weather conditions in the mountainous north.

1. Lahore to Islamabad by Air or Road – A flight from Lahore to Islamabad takes about 1 hour, or one can drive the same route in 4 to 5 hours.

2. Islamabad to Gilgit by Air – Daily PIA flights are available from Islamabad to Gilgit. The flight takes around 1 hour and offers stunning views of the Karakoram and Himalayan ranges, including Nanga Parbat.

3. Gilgit to Aliabad by Road – After landing in Gilgit, the journey to Aliabad by road takes 2 to 3 hours, covering a distance of about 100 kilometers along a well-paved section of the KKH.

Estimated Total Duration by Air and Road:
Flight from Lahore to Islamabad (1 hour) → Flight to Gilgit (1 hour) → Drive to Aliabad (2–3 hours) = 4 to 5 hours, not including wait times at airports.

Final Thoughts

Aliabad is more than just a stopover—it's the beating heart of Hunza Valley. Whether you're interested in trekking, local culture, history, or simply relaxing among majestic peaks, this town offers the perfect base. Road travelers are rewarded with panoramic views and diverse scenery, while air travelers enjoy a quicker but equally beautiful journey. No matter how you get there, Aliabad is a gateway to the enchanting north.