Lahore to Chinari Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

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

Chinari is a breathtaking hill station located in the Jhelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Surrounded by lush green mountains and the mesmerizing Jhelum River, this serene destination is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. Travelers from Lahore often plan trips to Chinari to enjoy its cool climate, scenic beauty, and peaceful environment. Let’s explore in detail how you can travel from Lahore to Chinari, the distance involved, and the travel durations via different modes of transportation.

Distance from Lahore to Chinari

The distance from Lahore to Chinari is approximately 275 kilometers (about 171 miles). The journey takes travelers through picturesque landscapes, small towns, and mountainous roads as you enter Azad Kashmir.

Traveling from Lahore to Chinari by Road

Traveling by road is the most popular way to reach Chinari from Lahore, as it offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way. The route typically involves traveling from Lahore to Islamabad via the M-2 Motorway, then continuing through Murree Road and Muzaffarabad before reaching Chinari.

Route Details:

• Lahore → Islamabad: Take the M-2 Motorway, passing through Sheikhupura, Khanqah Dogran, Kallar Kahar, and Chakwal before reaching Islamabad.
• Islamabad → Muzaffarabad: Continue on Murree Expressway (E-75) towards Kohala Bridge, entering Azad Kashmir.
• Muzaffarabad → Chinari: Drive along the Jhelum Valley Road (Neelum Road) following the river’s course until Chinari.

Estimated Duration by Road:

The road journey takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and the number of breaks you take. The last part of the route is mountainous, so driving speed is slower.

Traveling from Lahore to Chinari by Train

There is no direct train service to Chinari, as it is located in a mountainous region without railway access. However, you can take a train from Lahore to Rawalpindi, and then continue the journey by road.

Route Details:

• Lahore → Rawalpindi by Train: Multiple passenger and express trains operate daily, covering this leg of the journey in about 4.5 to 5 hours.
• Rawalpindi → Chinari by Road: From Rawalpindi, travel by bus, car, or taxi towards Murree and Muzaffarabad, then onward to Chinari. This part of the trip takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.

Total Duration by Train + Road:

The combined journey via train and road takes around 9 to 10 hours.

Traveling from Lahore to Chinari by Plane

There is no direct airport in Chinari, but you can take a flight from Lahore to Islamabad and then continue your trip by road. This option is ideal for those who want to save time on the Lahore–Islamabad leg of the journey.

Route Details:

• Lahore → Islamabad by Air: The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
• Islamabad → Chinari by Road: From Islamabad, drive or take public transport to Muzaffarabad and then to Chinari, which takes about 5 to 6 hours.

Total Duration by Plane + Road:

The total travel time, including flight, airport procedures, and road travel, is around 7 to 8 hours.

Scenic Attractions Along the Route

While traveling to Chinari, you can enjoy several picturesque spots along the way:

• Kohala Bridge: A gateway to Azad Kashmir, offering stunning river views.
• Muzaffarabad: The capital of AJK, with attractions like Red Fort and Pir Chinasi.
• Jhelum River Views: The road from Muzaffarabad to Chinari runs alongside the river, providing endless photo opportunities.

Best Time to Visit Chinari

The best time to visit Chinari is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the valley is lush green. Winters are cold, and snow can block certain routes, making travel difficult.

Travel Tips

• Check the weather forecast before your journey, especially in the rainy season.
• Carry essential items like warm clothing, snacks, and drinking water.
• Fuel up your vehicle before entering mountainous areas, as fuel stations are limited.
• Drive carefully on mountain roads and be mindful of landslide-prone areas.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lahore to Chinari is a journey filled with natural beauty, cultural experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you choose to travel by road for the scenic adventure, combine train and road for a balanced journey, or save time by flying to Islamabad and then driving, each route offers its own charm. With its serene environment and captivating landscapes, Chinari is truly a gem of Azad Kashmir worth visiting.