Islamabad to Chilas Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Certainly! Here's the detailed information on traveling from Islamabad to Chilas:

By Road:

1. Via Karakoram Highway (N-35):

   • Distance: Approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles)
   • Route: Start from Islamabad and head north on the Karakoram Highway (N-35) passing through Taxila, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Besham, and Dasu before reaching Chilas.
   • Travel Duration: Depending on road conditions and traffic, the journey can take around 8 to 10 hours.

2. Via Naran Road:

   • Distance: Around 370 kilometers (230 miles)
   • Route: Travel from Islamabad to Balakot via the Islamabad-Mansehra Road (N35), then continue towards Naran, passing through picturesque Kaghan Valley, Babusar Top, and Besal.
   • Travel Duration: This route can take about 10 to 12 hours due to winding roads and high-altitude terrain.

By Air and Road:

1. Islamabad to Gilgit by Air, then Gilgit to Chilas by Road:
   • Distance (by road from Gilgit): Approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles)
   • Route: Fly from Islamabad to Gilgit, then travel south on the Karakoram Highway (N-35) passing through Jaglot, Shatial, and Thalichi to reach Chilas.
   • Travel Duration: Flight time is around 1 hour, and the road journey from Gilgit to Chilas can take about 5 to 6 hours depending on conditions.

By Public Transport:

1. Bus Services:
   • Several bus services operate from Islamabad to Gilgit and Skardu, with stops at Chilas.
   • Travel Duration: Direct buses typically take around 12 to 14 hours to reach Chilas due to stops and road conditions.

Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Travel: The best time to travel is during the summer months (May to September) when the roads are more accessible and weather conditions are favorable.
• Road Conditions: The Karakoram Highway is known for its scenic views but can be affected by landslides and weather changes, so it's advisable to check conditions before travel.
• Altitude Considerations: Chilas is at a high altitude, so travelers should acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
• Fuel and Supplies: Ensure to fuel up and carry sufficient supplies, especially if traveling during off-peak seasons when facilities might be limited.

Conclusion:

Traveling from Islamabad to Chilas offers stunning landscapes and requires careful planning due to the terrain and weather conditions. Whether by road or air, each route provides unique experiences and challenges, making it an adventure worth planning meticulously.