Lahore to Taobat Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Taobat, the last village in Neelum Valley near the Line of Control, is one of the most remote and breathtaking destinations in Azad Jammu & Kashmir. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and the Neelum River, Taobat is a paradise for nature lovers. The journey from Lahore to Taobat is long but unforgettable, taking you from the plains of Punjab to the high valleys of the Himalayas. Here’s a complete guide to the distance, routes, and travel times by road, train, and air.
Distance from Lahore to Taobat
The approximate distance from Lahore to Taobat is 740 kilometers (460 miles). The actual distance may vary slightly depending on the chosen route and road conditions.
Traveling from Lahore to Taobat by Road
Road travel is the most common way to reach Taobat, but it is also the most time-consuming. The route passes through multiple cities and includes a long stretch of winding mountain roads.
Typical route:
- Start from Lahore on the M-2 Motorway towards Islamabad.
- Continue towards Murree or Hazara Expressway and then to Muzaffarabad.
- From Muzaffarabad, follow the Neelum Valley Road, passing through Keran, Sharda, and Kel.
- From Kel, drive further into the valley for about 2 to 3 hours to reach Taobat.
The estimated travel time by road from Lahore to Taobat is 16 to 18 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions. Many travelers split the journey over two days, staying overnight in Muzaffarabad, Sharda, or Kel.
Traveling from Lahore to Taobat by Train
There is no direct train service to Taobat, as it is deep within the mountains and has no railway connection. However, you can travel part of the way by train to make the journey more comfortable.
Steps for the train-plus-road route:
- Board a train from Lahore Railway Station to Rawalpindi. The journey takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
- From Rawalpindi, travel by road to Muzaffarabad (about 3.5 to 4 hours).
- From Muzaffarabad, continue along the Neelum Valley Road to Kel (around 9 to 10 hours), then proceed to Taobat (2 to 3 hours).
The total combined train and road journey can take approximately 18 to 20 hours, usually spread over two days for comfort.
Traveling from Lahore to Taobat by Air
Taobat has no airport, but you can shorten the first part of the journey by flying from Lahore to Islamabad and then continuing by road.
Steps for the flight-plus-road route:
- Fly from Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore to Islamabad International Airport — flight time is around 1 hour.
- From Islamabad, drive to Muzaffarabad (3.5 to 4 hours).
- Continue from Muzaffarabad to Kel (9 to 10 hours) and finally from Kel to Taobat (2 to 3 hours).
The total travel time using the air-plus-road option is approximately 15 to 17 hours, with many travelers breaking the trip into stages.
Best Time to Visit Taobat
The ideal time to visit Taobat is between May and October, when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are open. In winter, heavy snowfall often blocks access beyond Kel, making travel to Taobat nearly impossible.
Travel Tips for Taobat
- Start your journey early in the day to maximize daylight driving in the mountains.
- Carry your CNIC and any required permits, as they may be checked at security points.
- Pack warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures drop significantly at night.
- Keep snacks, water, and a first-aid kit handy for the long road journey.
- Hire a local driver if you’re unfamiliar with mountain driving.
Conclusion
Reaching Taobat from Lahore is a challenging journey but one that rewards you with untouched natural beauty and peace. Whether you choose to travel entirely by road, by train and road, or by air and road, the trip will leave you with unforgettable memories of one of Pakistan’s most beautiful destinations.
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