Traveling from Islamabad to Balakot offers several routes, each with its own unique scenery and travel duration. Whether by road or air, here are the possible ways to embark on this journey:
By Road
Route 1: Islamabad to Balakot via Murree
- Distance: Approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles)
- Route: Start from Islamabad and head towards Murree via the Murree Expressway. From Murree, take the N-35 (Karakoram Highway) towards Balakot.
- Travel Duration: Around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Route 2: Islamabad to Balakot via Abbottabad
- Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles)
- Route: Depart Islamabad and travel towards Abbottabad via the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1) and then take the N-35 towards Balakot.
- Travel Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours, considering road conditions.
Route 3: Islamabad to Balakot via Mansehra
- Distance: About 160 kilometers (99 miles)
- Route: From Islamabad, take the Islamabad-Muzaffarabad Highway (N-75) towards Murree. Continue on N-75 towards Muzaffarabad and then take the N-15 towards Balakot via Mansehra.
- Travel Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
By Air (Islamabad to Muzaffarabad and then by Road)
Route 4: Islamabad to Muzaffarabad by Air, then Muzaffarabad to Balakot by Road
- Distance (by air): Air travel from Islamabad to Muzaffarabad is approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles).
- Route (by road): Upon reaching Muzaffarabad, take the N-15 towards Balakot via Garhi Habibullah and Kiwai.
- Travel Duration: Air travel takes around 30 minutes, while the road journey from Muzaffarabad to Balakot takes about 2-3 hours.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Travel: The best time to travel to Balakot is during the summer months (April to September) when the weather is pleasant and roads are in better condition.
- Road Conditions: Road conditions may vary, especially during the winter months when some routes may experience closures or delays due to snowfall.
- Scenic Views: All routes offer stunning views of the Pakistani countryside, with lush green valleys, rivers, and mountains along the way.
- Travel Precautions: It's advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before embarking on your journey, and to ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountainous terrain.
Conclusion
Traveling from Islamabad to Balakot presents travelers with multiple routes, each offering its own blend of adventure and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer the directness of the highways or the serenity of mountainous roads, planning your journey well ensures a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
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