Lahore to Misgar Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Lahore to Misgar: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Misgar is a remote and scenic valley located near the Pakistan-China border in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Nestled within the upper Hunza area of Gojal, Misgar is known for its rugged beauty, pristine landscapes, and strategic significance near the Khunjerab Pass. For travelers seeking to reach Misgar from Lahore, several travel modes can be combined to undertake the journey—road, train, and air travel. This article explores the distance, route details, and approximate durations for all three methods of travel from Lahore to Misgar.

Distance Between Lahore and Misgar

The approximate road distance from Lahore to Misgar is around 975 kilometers (606 miles). However, due to the mountainous terrain, checkpoints, and route conditions, the journey can be time-consuming and involves multiple segments, especially when combining modes of transport.

Traveling from Lahore to Misgar by Road

Traveling entirely by road is the most adventurous and scenic option. The route takes travelers through major cities and mountain roads, gradually transitioning from plains to the high-altitude Karakoram region.

Route Overview:

1. Lahore to Islamabad (M2 Motorway): 375 km (233 miles)

2. Islamabad to Chilas (via Naran in summer or Besham in winter): ~340 km (211 miles)

3. Chilas to Gilgit: ~130 km (81 miles)

4. Gilgit to Karimabad (Hunza): ~100 km (62 miles)

5. Karimabad to Sost: ~85 km (53 miles)

6. Sost to Misgar Valley: ~40 km (25 miles), off-road drive via a jeepable route

Total Distance by Road: ~975 km (606 miles)

Estimated Travel Duration by Road:

• Lahore to Islamabad: 4 to 5 hours

• Islamabad to Chilas (via Babusar Pass in summer): 9 to 12 hours

• Chilas to Gilgit: 3 to 4 hours

• Gilgit to Hunza (Karimabad): 2 to 3 hours

• Hunza to Sost: 1.5 to 2 hours

• Sost to Misgar (jeep track): 1 to 2 hours

Total Time by Road: Around 22 to 28 hours, depending on route, traffic, weather, and road conditions.

Important Notes:

• Babusar Pass route is only open in summer (May to October).

• The last stretch from Sost to Misgar is a narrow and rugged jeep track requiring a 4x4 vehicle.

• Night travel in mountainous areas is discouraged due to safety concerns and lack of services.

Traveling from Lahore to Misgar by Train and Road

Since there is no direct train service to Gilgit or Hunza, the train journey can only take you to a certain point, after which road travel must be used. The nearest major railway stop is Rawalpindi/Islamabad, from where road travel resumes.

Step-by-Step Travel:

1. Lahore to Rawalpindi by Train:
   Distance: 290 km (180 miles)
   Time: 5 to 6 hours (depending on train type)

2. Rawalpindi to Gilgit by Road:
   Distance: ~500 km (310 miles)
   Time: 14 to 18 hours (via Besham and Chilas)

3. Gilgit to Sost: ~185 km (115 miles)
   Time: 4 to 5 hours

4. Sost to Misgar: ~40 km (25 miles)
   Time: 1 to 2 hours by jeep

Total Duration (Train + Road):
Approximately 24 to 30 hours, depending on train timing and road conditions.

Notes:

• This method is cost-effective and allows some rest during the train journey.

• Railway stations at Lahore and Rawalpindi offer multiple classes for comfort.

• Connecting buses or private vehicles are required from Rawalpindi onward.

Traveling from Lahore to Misgar by Air and Road

This is the fastest and most convenient travel option, though it still involves significant road travel due to Misgar’s remote location.

Step-by-Step Air + Road Travel:

1. Lahore to Islamabad by Air:
   Distance: 375 km (233 miles)
   Time: 1 hour (excluding airport processes)

2. Islamabad to Gilgit by Air:
   Distance: ~470 km (292 miles)
   Time: 1 hour (subject to weather clearance)

3. Gilgit to Hunza (Karimabad): ~100 km (62 miles)
   Time: 2 to 3 hours

4. Hunza to Sost: ~85 km (53 miles)
   Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

5. Sost to Misgar: ~40 km (25 miles)
   Time: 1 to 2 hours by 4x4

Total Duration (Air + Road):
Approximately 10 to 14 hours, depending on flight availability and road conditions.

Important Notes:

• Flights to Gilgit are highly weather-dependent and can be delayed or canceled, especially during winter or cloudy conditions.

• Early booking is required due to limited daily flights.

• The aerial views from Islamabad to Gilgit are stunning, showcasing the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges.

Additional Travel Tips

• Permits: Misgar lies close to the Pakistan-China border; a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or permission from local authorities may be required for foreigners.

• Best Travel Time: May to September offers the best weather and open roads. Khunjerab Pass and surrounding areas may be closed due to snow in winter.

• Fuel and Supplies: Ensure your vehicle is well-fueled before departing from Hunza or Sost, as services are limited in Misgar.

• Accommodation: Misgar has very basic guesthouses or homestays; most tourists prefer staying in Sost or Passu.

• Connectivity: Mobile signals and internet are weak or unavailable beyond Sost. Carry essential offline maps and emergency contact numbers.

Summary

Traveling from Lahore to Misgar is an extraordinary journey that combines plains, rivers, valleys, and high mountains. Whether you take the road all the way or combine your trip with air or train, each route offers a unique experience. While the air-and-road option is the fastest, the full road journey allows a more immersive exploration of Pakistan’s changing landscapes—from urban Lahore to the remote wilderness of Misgar. Regardless of the route, proper planning, weather consideration, and vehicle readiness are key to making the trip safe and memorable.