Lahore to Sharda Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Sharda is one of the most captivating destinations in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, known for its lush green mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and historical ruins. Traveling from Lahore to Sharda is an adventure in itself, offering a combination of motorway travel, mountainous roads, and breathtaking scenery. In this guide, we’ll explore the distance, travel routes, and estimated travel times by road, train, and plane.
Distance from Lahore to Sharda
The approximate distance from Lahore to Sharda is about 690 kilometers (429 miles). This journey takes you through major cities, scenic valleys, and winding mountain passes.
Traveling from Lahore to Sharda by Road
By road, the journey from Lahore to Sharda is long but incredibly scenic. It usually involves traveling via the M-2 Motorway and then moving into the mountainous region of Azad Kashmir.
The general route is:
- From Lahore, take the M-2 Motorway towards Islamabad.
- Continue on Murree Expressway or Hazara Expressway towards Muzaffarabad.
- From Muzaffarabad, follow the Neelum Valley Road to Keran, Kel, and finally Sharda.
The estimated travel time by road is around 14 to 16 hours, depending on road conditions, weather, and traffic. Since the last part of the journey is through winding mountainous roads, it may take longer during peak tourist seasons or after heavy rains.
Traveling from Lahore to Sharda by Train
There is no direct train service to Sharda, as the area does not have a railway station. The most feasible train option is to travel from Lahore to Rawalpindi and then continue the journey by road.
Steps for the train-plus-road route:
- Take a train from Lahore Railway Station to Rawalpindi Railway Station. The journey takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
- From Rawalpindi, travel by road to Muzaffarabad, which usually takes 3.5 to 4 hours.
- Continue from Muzaffarabad to Sharda via the Neelum Valley Road, taking another 6 to 7 hours.
The total travel time for this option is approximately 14 to 16 hours.
Traveling from Lahore to Sharda by Air
While Sharda does not have an airport, you can shorten the travel time by taking a flight from Lahore to Islamabad and then continuing by road.
Here’s how the journey works:
- Fly from Allama Iqbal International Airport (Lahore) to Islamabad International Airport. The flight duration is about 1 hour.
- From Islamabad, travel by road to Muzaffarabad (around 3.5 to 4 hours).
- From Muzaffarabad, continue on the Neelum Valley Road to Sharda (about 6 to 7 hours).
This combined air and road journey takes roughly 10.5 to 12 hours, making it faster than a full road trip.
Best Time to Visit Sharda
The best time to visit Sharda is between May and October when the roads are open, and the weather is pleasant. Winter brings heavy snowfall, making travel to Sharda more challenging and sometimes impossible due to road closures.
Travel Tips for Sharda
- Always check the weather forecast before traveling, especially during the monsoon season.
- If traveling by road, start your journey early to make the most of daylight hours.
- Carry valid identification documents such as CNIC, as they may be required at checkpoints.
- Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition for mountain travel or hire an experienced local driver.
- Plan for overnight stays if you cannot complete the trip in a single day.
Conclusion
The journey from Lahore to Sharda is long but immensely rewarding. Whether you choose the road, train-plus-road, or air-plus-road option, you’ll be treated to some of Pakistan’s most breathtaking landscapes. Sharda’s serene environment and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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