Lahore to Rondu Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Rondu (also spelled Roundu) is a mountainous district in Gilgit-Baltistan, located between Skardu and Gilgit along the majestic Indus River. Known for its deep valleys, terraced fields, and dramatic landscapes, Rondu serves as both a travel route and a hidden gem for explorers heading deeper into Baltistan. It is home to several scenic villages and acts as a natural gateway to Skardu.

Distance from Lahore to Rondu

The approximate road distance from Lahore to Rondu is around 830 kilometers (516 miles). However, due to winding roads and mountainous terrain, the actual travel duration is much longer than what this distance suggests.

Travel by Road

Road travel is a common way to reach Rondu, especially for those who enjoy long-distance road trips and scenic routes through northern Pakistan.

Route:

• Lahore → Islamabad → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Chilas → Jaglot → Rondu

This journey follows the M-2 Motorway to Islamabad, continues via the Karakoram Highway (N-35) to Jaglot, and then diverts onto the Skardu Road (S-1) toward Rondu.

Travel Time:

• The road journey takes approximately 22 to 26 hours, depending on weather, traffic, and road conditions.

Road Conditions:

• The roads are mostly paved and well-maintained until Jaglot.

• The Skardu Road, which winds through the Indus Valley and directly passes through Rondu, is paved but narrow and often affected by landslides.

• In recent years, this route has improved considerably, reducing travel time and improving safety.

Travel Tips:

• Break your journey with overnight stays in Chilas or Jaglot.

• Travel in daylight due to winding mountain roads.

• Carry essential items like food, water, fuel, and warm clothing.

Travel by Train

There is no railway line to Gilgit-Baltistan or Rondu. Rail travel is only feasible for the initial segment of the journey.

Closest Major Railway Station:

• Rawalpindi Railway Station

From there, travelers must complete the journey by road.

Duration:

• Lahore to Rawalpindi by train: About 5 to 6 hours

• Rawalpindi to Rondu by road: About 18 to 20 hours

Total Duration:

• Train plus road journey takes 23 to 26 hours

Travel by Plane

Air travel is the most efficient way to cover most of the distance toward Rondu.

Closest Airport:

• Skardu Airport (KDU)

Since Rondu lies on the road between Gilgit and Skardu, a flight to Skardu followed by a short drive to Rondu is highly effective.

Flight Options:

• Lahore to Skardu (direct): Available seasonally, approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

• Or Lahore → Islamabad → Skardu if direct flight is unavailable

Road from Skardu to Rondu:

• Rondu is located approximately 70–80 kilometers (43–50 miles) from Skardu.

• The drive from Skardu to Rondu takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Total Duration:

• The complete journey by air and road takes about 3.5 to 5 hours, assuming well-timed flights and good road conditions.

Summary

Rondu is a scenic valley region that often gets overlooked as travelers head straight to Skardu, but it offers an excellent mix of nature, adventure, and cultural exposure. The road journey from Lahore is long but scenic, passing through the heart of the Karakoram. The quickest and most comfortable route is by air to Skardu, then by car to Rondu.

Whether you're heading there for trekking, photography, or simply to enjoy the solitude of northern Pakistan, Rondu offers a tranquil and authentic experience in Gilgit-Baltistan.