Lahore to Shigar Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Shigar is a breathtaking valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, located to the east of Skardu. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush oases, Shigar is famously known as the gateway to the Karakoram's highest peaks, including K2. With its serene environment, historic Shigar Fort, and hospitable Balti culture, the valley is a top destination for trekkers and tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Distance from Lahore to Shigar
The approximate distance from Lahore to Shigar by road is around 870 kilometers (540 miles). However, because the route involves mountainous terrain and indirect paths, travel can be lengthy and requires multiple modes of transportation.
Travel by Road
Road travel from Lahore to Shigar is possible, but it involves passing through major northern cities and navigating the mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Route:
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Lahore → Islamabad → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Chilas → Skardu → Shigar
This route follows the Karakoram Highway (N-35) up to Jaglot, then branches off via the Skardu Road (S-1), leading to Skardu and onward to Shigar.
Travel Time:
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The total road journey can take 24 to 28 hours, typically split over two days, given the difficult terrain and need for overnight rest.
Road Conditions:
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The Karakoram Highway is paved and in good condition up to Chilas.
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The Skardu Road (from Jaglot to Skardu) is a winding mountain pass road that has improved in recent years but remains slow and occasionally risky due to weather or rockfalls.
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From Skardu to Shigar, it’s a scenic drive of about 45 minutes to 1 hour on a paved but narrow road.
Travel Tips:
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Break the journey overnight in Besham, Chilas, or Skardu.
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Fuel stations are sparse beyond Chilas—refuel when possible.
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Ideal to travel in summer when roads are clear of snow.
Travel by Train
There is no train service to Shigar or anywhere in Gilgit-Baltistan due to the region's mountainous geography.
Closest Major Railway Station:
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Rawalpindi Railway Station
From Rawalpindi, one must continue by road or take a flight to Skardu.
Duration:
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Lahore to Rawalpindi by train: Around 5 to 6 hours
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Rawalpindi to Shigar by road: About 22 to 24 hours, including the Skardu leg
Total Duration:
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Combined train and road travel takes 27 to 30 hours
Travel by Plane
Air travel is the fastest and most convenient option for reaching Shigar, significantly reducing travel time and physical exertion.
Closest Airport:
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Skardu Airport (KDU)
Flight Route:
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Fly from Lahore to Skardu, either via a direct flight (available seasonally) or with a connection through Islamabad.
Flight Duration:
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Lahore to Skardu (direct): About 1 hour 30 minutes (if available)
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Lahore to Islamabad: 1 hour
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Islamabad to Skardu: 1 hour
Road from Skardu to Shigar:
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Skardu to Shigar is a 32-kilometer (20-mile) drive, taking around 45 to 60 minutes.
Total Duration:
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3 to 4 hours (if flights are well-synced and road conditions are normal)
Summary
Shigar is best reached via a flight to Skardu followed by a short drive. While the road journey from Lahore offers a scenic and adventurous option, it is long and physically demanding. Train travel is only helpful for the initial segment and does not reduce overall time significantly.
For travelers drawn to glaciers, heritage architecture, and the silence of the high-altitude desert, Shigar is a dream destination. With its surreal beauty, historical landmarks like Shigar Fort, and proximity to world-famous treks, it offers an unforgettable escape from urban life.
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