Lahore to Mandhol Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

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

Mandhol is a charming town in the Bagh District of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, known for its scenic views, pleasant climate, and proximity to lush green valleys. It’s a peaceful getaway for travelers seeking to escape city life and enjoy the beauty of Kashmir’s hills. Traveling from Lahore to Mandhol can be done by road, or through a combination of train or air travel with road connections.

Distance from Lahore to Mandhol

The road distance between Lahore and Mandhol is approximately 320 kilometers (about 199 miles), depending on the chosen route. Travel time varies with road conditions, especially when entering the mountainous terrain of Azad Kashmir.

Travel from Lahore to Mandhol by Road

Road travel is the most convenient way to reach Mandhol. The trip offers scenic views as you move from the plains of Punjab to the green hills of Kashmir. The most common route is:

• Depart from Lahore via the Lahore Ring Road.
• Take the M-2 Motorway towards Islamabad.
• Exit at Murree Road or Rawat Interchange.
• Head towards Bagh District via Kohala or Azad Pattan route, then continue to Mandhol.

The total road journey usually takes around 7 to 8 hours. The drive is smooth on highways but becomes winding and slower in the hilly sections, where extra caution is needed.

Advantages of Traveling by Road

• Direct journey without transfers.
• Flexibility to make stops for rest and sightseeing.
• Affordable option for families and groups.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Mountain roads may be narrow and require experienced driving.
• Weather conditions can affect travel times.
• Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for hilly travel.

Travel from Lahore to Mandhol by Train

Mandhol does not have a railway station. To travel partially by train, you will need to reach Islamabad or Rawalpindi by train and then continue to Mandhol by road.

Possible Route

• Board a train from Lahore Railway Station to Rawalpindi Railway Station.
• From Rawalpindi, travel by car, taxi, or bus towards Bagh via Kohala or Azad Pattan, then proceed to Mandhol.

The train journey from Lahore to Rawalpindi takes around 4.5 to 5 hours. From Rawalpindi to Mandhol, the road trip usually takes 4 to 4.5 hours. This brings the total train-plus-road journey time to about 8.5 to 9.5 hours.

Advantages of Traveling by Train

• Comfortable seating and a relaxed travel experience.
• A good option for those who do not want to drive long distances.
• Scenic rail travel through parts of Punjab.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Additional transfer is required from train to road transport.
• Travel time is longer compared to direct road travel.
• Limited train schedules may affect your plan.

Travel from Lahore to Mandhol by Plane

Mandhol does not have its own airport, so traveling by air involves flying from Lahore to Islamabad and then continuing by road to Mandhol.

Possible Route

• Fly from Allama Iqbal International Airport (Lahore) to Islamabad International Airport.
• From Islamabad, travel by road via Murree Road or Azad Pattan towards Bagh, then to Mandhol.

The flight from Lahore to Islamabad is about 1 hour. The road journey from Islamabad to Mandhol usually takes 4 to 4.5 hours. Including airport time, the total travel time is around 6 to 7 hours.

Advantages of Traveling by Plane

• Quickly covers the Lahore to Islamabad segment.
• Less tiring compared to driving the whole way.
• Ideal for travelers with limited time.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Still requires several hours of road travel after the flight.
• More expensive than road or train options.
• Weather in the hilly areas can impact the road journey.

Best Time to Travel to Mandhol

The best months to visit Mandhol are from April to October when the weather is pleasant, the valleys are green, and the views are spectacular. Winters can be cold, and higher areas may experience snowfall, which can make travel challenging.

Attractions in and Around Mandhol

• Bagh City – A nearby urban center with markets, hotels, and local cuisine.
• Dhirkot – A beautiful hill station ideal for picnics and photography.
• Kohala Bridge – A scenic crossing over the Jhelum River.
• Local Villages – Experience Kashmiri hospitality and culture.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lahore to Mandhol is an enjoyable experience that takes you from Punjab’s plains into the serene mountains of Azad Kashmir. Whether you drive directly, take a train to Rawalpindi and then continue by road, or fly to Islamabad and proceed by car, each travel method offers its own charm. Plan your journey according to your comfort, time, and interest in scenic landscapes for a memorable trip to Mandhol.