Lahore to Asbanr Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Asbanr is a serene and remote area nestled in the mountainous terrains of Upper Dir District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Surrounded by lush greenery, valleys, and traditional Pashtun villages, Asbanr is a hidden gem for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Traveling from the bustling city of Lahore to Asbanr involves navigating through a series of highways, mountainous roads, and sometimes unpaved routes. In this article, we explore the available travel options from Lahore to Asbanr by road, train, and air, including distances in kilometers and miles, and estimated durations for each mode of travel.

Distance Between Lahore and Asbanr

The total distance between Lahore and Asbanr is approximately 610 kilometers (379 miles) by road. This distance can vary slightly depending on the route taken and road conditions, especially in the hilly and remote regions of Dir Bala.

Traveling from Lahore to Asbanr by Road

Primary Route:

The most commonly used road route is:

• Lahore → Islamabad (via M-2 Motorway)

• Islamabad → Chakdara (via Swat Expressway or N-45)

• Chakdara → Dir Lower → Dir Bala (via N-45)

• Dir Bala → Asbanr (via local roads and mountainous tracks)

This route covers a mix of highways, well-maintained roads, and rough mountainous roads. The final stretch from Dir Bala to Asbanr involves narrower roads, often not paved and with steep inclines.

Duration:

The journey by road can take around 13 to 15 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the type of vehicle used, particularly for the last segment to Asbanr which may slow down due to terrain.

Transport Options:

• Private Vehicle: Highly recommended for flexibility and comfort. A 4x4 vehicle is preferable for the final stretch to Asbanr due to the challenging road.

• Intercity Buses: Buses from Lahore to Timergara or Dir Lower are available. From there, smaller vans or jeeps go to Dir Bala and onward to Asbanr.

• Local Transport: Jeeps or pickups are commonly used by locals for travel between Dir Bala and Asbanr.

Scenic Spots Along the Way:

• Malakand Pass – a historical and scenic route into the hills

• Swat River views in Lower Dir

• Natural landscapes and terraced fields as you enter Dir Bala and Asbanr

Traveling from Lahore to Asbanr by Train

Rail Network and Route:

Asbanr does not have a railway station, and the nearest railway access ends at major cities like Rawalpindi or Peshawar. To reach Asbanr by a combination of train and road, the route would be:

• Lahore → Rawalpindi or Peshawar (by train)

• Rawalpindi/Peshawar → Dir Bala (by road via Nowshera, Mardan, Chakdara)

• Dir Bala → Asbanr (by local vehicle)

Duration:

• Lahore to Rawalpindi by train: Around 5 to 6 hours

• Rawalpindi to Dir Bala by road: Around 9 to 10 hours

• Dir Bala to Asbanr: Around 1 to 2 hours, depending on road condition

• Total travel time: Approximately 15 to 18 hours

Things to Consider:

• The train ride offers comfort but requires advance booking, especially during peak travel days.

• The mountainous road from Dir Bala to Asbanr is less frequently traveled and may require local guidance.

• In winter, some parts of the road may be inaccessible due to snowfall or landslides.

Traveling from Lahore to Asbanr by Plane

Nearest Airports:

There is no airport in Asbanr. The closest accessible airports are:

• Saidu Sharif Airport (Swat)

• Bacha Khan International Airport (Peshawar)

• Islamabad International Airport (alternative option)

Most travelers fly to Peshawar or Islamabad and continue by road.

Suggested Route by Air:

• Lahore → Peshawar (by plane)

• Peshawar → Dir Bala (by road via N-45)

• Dir Bala → Asbanr (by local vehicle)

Duration:

• Flight from Lahore to Peshawar: Around 1 hour

• Road from Peshawar to Dir Bala: Around 7 to 8 hours

• Dir Bala to Asbanr: 1 to 2 hours

• Total Duration: Around 9 to 11 hours, not including wait times at airports

Air Travel Tips:

• Check flight schedules ahead of time as some flights may be infrequent.

• For the road journey from Peshawar to Asbanr, hiring a local driver familiar with the region is advisable.

• Avoid traveling during night due to low visibility and narrow roads.

Travel Recommendations

1. For Adventurous Travelers: Traveling entirely by road is rewarding, especially for those wanting to explore scenic passes and local culture.

2. For Time-Conscious Travelers: Air travel to Peshawar followed by road is the fastest and most efficient method.

3. For Budget Travelers: A mix of train and road travel offers a cost-effective but longer journey.

4. Safety Precautions:

   • Always travel in daylight in mountainous regions.

   • Confirm road conditions from local sources before departure.

   • Carry essential supplies like water, snacks, and warm clothing.

   • Mobile signals may be weak or unavailable in remote parts near Asbanr.

Best Time to Travel

The optimal time to visit Asbanr is from April to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and roads are generally accessible. In winter (December to February), the area receives snowfall, making travel difficult and sometimes unsafe due to landslides and road closures.

Final Thoughts

Reaching Asbanr from Lahore is a journey through changing landscapes, cultures, and climates. From the plains of Punjab to the rugged mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the trip provides a blend of urban, rural, and highland experiences. Whether you're planning a cultural trip, a nature retreat, or a visit to family, knowing your travel options and planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey to the peaceful and picturesque village of Asbanr.