Lahore to Mashabrum Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Mashabrum, also known as Masherbrum, is the 22nd highest mountain in the world, situated in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan. Its towering snow-capped peaks and proximity to the Karakoram mountain range make it a major attraction for trekkers and adventure seekers from across the globe. Traveling from Lahore to Mashabrum offers a scenic, adventurous route through the diverse landscapes of Pakistan.

Distance from Lahore to Mashabrum

The approximate distance from Lahore to Mashabrum is around 970 kilometers (602 miles). However, since Mashabrum is located in a remote region of the Karakoram Mountains near Hushe village, there is no direct access by commercial plane or train to the exact location. The journey involves a combination of transportation modes, ending with a trek or jeep ride.

Travel by Road

Traveling from Lahore to Mashabrum by road is the most feasible and commonly used option, especially for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. This journey typically involves several stages:

1. Lahore to Skardu – The first leg of the journey is by road from Lahore to Skardu via the N-5 National Highway and then the Skardu Road (S-1). The road passes through Islamabad, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Besham, Chilas, and then continues along the Indus River to Skardu. The road conditions vary, with some stretches being narrow and winding, especially after Chilas.

2. Skardu to Hushe – After reaching Skardu, travelers continue by jeep to Hushe village, the nearest settlement to Mashabrum. This segment includes passing through Khaplu and ends at Hushe, which serves as the base camp for Mashabrum expeditions.

3. Hushe to Mashabrum Base Camp – From Hushe, reaching Mashabrum Base Camp requires trekking. This final leg includes walking along glacial paths and rugged mountainous terrain, which typically takes 2 to 3 days on foot, depending on the route and weather.

Estimated Total Duration by Road:
Approximately 28–32 hours driving time from Lahore to Hushe (excluding overnight stays), plus 2–3 days trek to Mashabrum Base Camp.

Travel by Train

There is no direct train route to Mashabrum due to its remote location. However, partial travel by train can be done to shorten the first part of the journey.

1. Lahore to Rawalpindi by Train – Trains from Lahore to Rawalpindi operate regularly. This part of the journey is comfortable and takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

2. Rawalpindi to Skardu by Road – After arriving at Rawalpindi Railway Station, travelers can switch to road transport, continuing on the N-35 and S-1 highways to Skardu. This drive can take 16 to 20 hours, depending on road conditions.

3. Skardu to Hushe and Trek to Mashabrum – The remaining route from Skardu is the same as described under the road journey, including jeep travel and trekking.

Estimated Total Duration by Train and Road:
Train to Rawalpindi (5 hours), road to Skardu and Hushe (18–22 hours), plus 2–3 days trekking to Mashabrum Base Camp.

Travel by Plane

While there is no airport in Mashabrum or Hushe, travelers can fly to nearby Skardu to shorten the road journey.

1. Lahore to Islamabad by Plane or Road – Flights between Lahore and Islamabad are short (about 1 hour), or one can drive for approximately 4–5 hours.

2. Islamabad to Skardu by Air – Several daily flights are available from Islamabad to Skardu. This flight takes about 1 hour and provides stunning aerial views of the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges.

3. Skardu to Hushe by Jeep – After reaching Skardu, the journey continues by jeep to Hushe, which takes 6–7 hours.

4. Trek to Mashabrum Base Camp – From Hushe, travelers trek for 2–3 days to reach the base camp of Mashabrum.

Estimated Total Duration by Air and Road:
Flight from Lahore to Islamabad (1 hour) → Flight to Skardu (1 hour) → Jeep ride to Hushe (7 hours) → Trek to Mashabrum (2–3 days). Total estimated time is approximately 10–12 hours of travel, plus 2–3 days of trekking.

Final Thoughts

Mashabrum is not a place for casual tourists; it attracts serious trekkers and climbers. The journey is long and requires preparation, stamina, and often, local guidance. However, the reward is unmatched: breathtaking landscapes, snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and a deep sense of peace in nature's lap. Whether one travels entirely by road or combines air travel with trekking, the journey to Mashabrum is an unforgettable experience, steeped in adventure and awe-inspiring beauty.