Lahore to Bahrain Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Lahore to Bahrain (Swat) Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Bahrain is a charming riverside town located in the Swat Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Known for its confluence of the Daral and Swat rivers, beautiful riverside hotels, and as a gateway to popular trekking routes like Daral Lake and Saidgai Lake, Bahrain is a favorite destination for tourists seeking both natural beauty and cultural experiences. For travelers from Lahore, the journey to Bahrain offers an escape from urban chaos into the tranquil embrace of mountains, rivers, and traditional Swati hospitality.

Distance from Lahore to Bahrain

The road distance from Lahore to Bahrain (Swat) is approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles). Since there are no direct railway or airport links to Bahrain, road travel is the primary and most convenient method.

Travel by Road

Traveling from Lahore to Bahrain by road is the most straightforward way. The journey typically takes around 11 to 13 hours, depending on traffic, rest stops, and weather.

Recommended Route:

1. Lahore to Islamabad – Take the M-2 Motorway, covering around 375 km (233 miles).

2. Islamabad to Chakdara – Via the M-1 Motorway and Swat Expressway, traveling about 210 km (130 miles).

3. Chakdara to Mingora (Swat) – Drive towards Mingora, which is the main city in Swat Valley.

4. Mingora to Bahrain – From Mingora, continue on the N-95 Swat Valley Road. This stretch is about 60 km (37 miles) and takes 2 to 3 hours due to hilly and winding roads.

Total Drive Time: Approximately 11 to 13 hours

Road Condition: The road is mostly paved and in good condition up to Mingora. Beyond that, the road becomes narrow and winding but is manageable with standard vehicles. During peak seasons or holidays, traffic can slow down travel, especially in the Swat Valley.

Travel by Train

There is no direct train service to Bahrain. However, a combination of train and road travel is possible.

Suggested Route:

1. Train from Lahore to Peshawar – A journey of around 530 km (329 miles), taking approximately 8 to 9 hours.

2. Peshawar to Bahrain by Road – Travel by car or bus through Mardan, Chakdara, Mingora, and then on to Bahrain. This leg is approximately 270 km (168 miles) and takes about 7 to 8 hours.

While this option allows the first part of the trip by rail, the total travel time is longer due to transfers and the extended road journey from Peshawar.

Travel by Plane

There is no airport in Bahrain, but travelers can fly to either Saidu Sharif Airport (Swat) or Islamabad, then proceed by road.

Option 1: Flight to Saidu Sharif (if operational)

• Flight Time: Around 1 hour

• Saidu Sharif Airport to Bahrain: About 65 km (40 miles) via N-95, takes 2 to 3 hours

Note: Commercial flights to Saidu Sharif are seasonal and limited. Availability should be checked in advance.

Option 2: Flight to Islamabad

• Flight Time: ~1 hour

• Islamabad to Bahrain by Road: Around 390 km (242 miles), taking 8 to 9 hours

Flying saves initial travel time but still requires a long road journey, especially through the mountainous Swat region.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: April to October for hiking and riverside enjoyment; December to February for snow views (though roads may be affected)

• Vehicle Recommendation: A regular vehicle can reach Bahrain, but caution is advised on narrow roads beyond Mingora

• Accommodation: Plenty of riverside hotels and guest houses are available in Bahrain

• Local Attractions: Daral and Saidgai Lakes (require hiking), riverside dining, local handicrafts, and trekking routes

Nearby Destinations

• Madyan: A scenic town just before Bahrain, known for handicrafts and riverside views

• Kalam Valley: About 30 km (19 miles) from Bahrain, popular for its alpine beauty and base for trekking

• Malam Jabba: A ski resort that can be visited before reaching Bahrain

Final Thoughts

Bahrain is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Swat Valley. From the moment you leave Lahore and journey through the plains, hills, and finally into the mountains of Swat, the experience is rich with natural beauty and cultural insight. The riverside charm of Bahrain, combined with its position as a launch point for mountain adventures, makes it an ideal place for tourists of all kinds. While the journey is long, the reward at the destination makes every hour worthwhile.