Lahore to Kumrat Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Kumrat Valley, located in Upper Dir district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is one of Pakistan’s most stunning and lesser-known destinations. Surrounded by thick forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered peaks, it’s particularly famous for the Panjkora River, Jahaz Banda Meadows, and Kala Chashma. For adventure seekers and nature lovers traveling from Lahore, Kumrat offers a peaceful escape into the wilderness.

Distance from Lahore to Kumrat

The total road distance from Lahore to Kumrat Valley is approximately 660 kilometers (410 miles). Due to its remote location and lack of direct access via train or plane, most of the journey involves road travel.

Travel by Road

The most practical and direct option is to travel from Lahore to Kumrat entirely by road. The journey typically takes 14 to 16 hours, depending on the season and road conditions.

Recommended Route:

1. Lahore to Islamabad – Take the M-2 Motorway for about 375 km (233 miles).

2. Islamabad to Chakdara via M-1 and Swat Expressway – Around 210 km (130 miles).

3. Chakdara to Dir City – Travel further northwest towards Lower and Upper Dir.

4. Dir to Thal Town – The gateway to Kumrat Valley.

5. Thal to Kumrat Valley – A 4x4 vehicle is needed for the final 20 km (12 miles) stretch. This part involves an unpaved mountainous track alongside the river.

Duration Breakdown:

• Lahore to Thal: 13–14 hours

• Thal to Kumrat Valley: 1–2 hours (depends on terrain and vehicle)

Important Notes:

• The last segment is off-road and only accessible by 4x4.

• Local drivers are often hired in Thal for the final leg.

• Summer months are best for travel due to road accessibility.

Travel by Train

There is no direct train service to Kumrat Valley. However, you can take a train part of the way and then switch to road travel.

Suggested Route:

1. Train from Lahore to Peshawar – Around 530 km (329 miles) and takes 8 to 9 hours.

2. Road from Peshawar to Dir – About 310 km (193 miles) and takes 7 to 8 hours.

3. Dir to Thal to Kumrat – Same as the road journey mentioned earlier.

While this option splits up the journey, it extends total travel time and adds complexity. Still, it could be useful for those who prefer a train ride for a portion of the trip.

Travel by Plane

There are no airports in Kumrat Valley or Upper Dir, but you can fly to Peshawar or Islamabad and continue the rest of the journey by road.

Option 1: Flight to Peshawar

• Air Distance: Around 380 km (236 miles)

• Flight Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes

• Peshawar to Kumrat (via Dir and Thal): ~310 km (193 miles), takes 7 to 8 hours

Option 2: Flight to Islamabad

• Air Distance: ~270 km (168 miles)

• Flight Time: ~1 hour

• Islamabad to Kumrat (via Dir and Thal): ~450 km (280 miles), takes 9 to 10 hours

Flying saves time in the initial leg but still requires a long drive through hilly terrain. This route works well for travelers who want to avoid a full day’s drive from Lahore.

Key Tips for Travelers

• Best Time to Visit: Late May to September

• Vehicle Needed: 4x4 from Thal onwards

• Fuel & Food Stops: Available in Dir, Timergara, and Thal

• Accommodation: Tents, basic hotels, and campsites are available in Kumrat Valley

• Mobile Signal: Weak to no signal in many parts of the valley

Final Thoughts

Kumrat Valley is a hidden gem that rewards those willing to go off the beaten path. The journey from Lahore is long but scenic, filled with views of rivers, green hills, and mountains. Whether traveling entirely by road or combining flight/train with road travel, reaching Kumrat is an adventure in itself. Once there, visitors are welcomed by a pristine environment rarely found in more commercialized tourist areas. It’s a perfect destination for hiking, camping, photography, and simply escaping city life.