Islamabad to Chitral Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Chitral offers several routes, each varying in distance, mode of transport, and travel duration. Here are the possible ways to make this journey:

1. By Road via N-45 (Swat Expressway and Dir-Chitral Road):

   • Distance: Approximately 485 kilometers (301 miles)
   • Route: Start from Islamabad and take the M-1 Motorway (now part of the Swat Expressway) towards Peshawar. From Peshawar, continue on the N-45 highway towards Dir. At Dir, take the Dir-Chitral Road (N-45) which leads directly to Chitral.
   • Travel Duration: About 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

2. By Road via N-15 (Hazara Motorway, Karakoram Highway, and Shandur Pass):

   • Distance: Approximately 540 kilometers (335 miles)
   • Route: Start from Islamabad and take the Hazara Motorway (M-15) towards Abbottabad. From Abbottabad, continue on the Karakoram Highway (N-35) towards Gilgit. At Gilgit, take the Gilgit-Chitral Road via Shandur Pass.
   • Travel Duration: Around 14-16 hours, considering mountainous terrain and possible weather conditions.

3. By Air from Islamabad to Chitral Airport (Airport code: CJL):

   • Distance: Air travel distance is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles).
   • Route: Fly from Islamabad International Airport (ISB) to Chitral Airport (CJL).
   • Travel Duration: Flight time is about 1 hour. However, including check-in, security, and potential delays, total travel time can range from 2 to 4 hours.

4. Combined Air and Road (Islamabad to Peshawar by Air, then Road to Chitral):

   • Distance: Air travel from Islamabad to Peshawar is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles). Road distance from Peshawar to Chitral via Dir-Chitral Road (N-45) is about 300 kilometers (186 miles).
   • Route: Fly from Islamabad to Peshawar, then travel by road from Peshawar to Chitral via Dir.
   • Travel Duration: Flight time from Islamabad to Peshawar is around 30-45 minutes. Combined travel time from Islamabad to Chitral can vary but typically ranges from 10 to 14 hours, including both air and road travel.

5. By Public Transport (Bus or Coach):

   • Various bus services operate from Islamabad to Chitral, typically via the N-45 route through Dir-Chitral Road.
   • Distance and Route: Similar to the first road option, approximately 485 kilometers (301 miles) via N-45.
   • Travel Duration: Usually around 12-14 hours, depending on the bus service, stops, and road conditions.

6. By Private Car or Taxi:

   • Distance: Approximately 485 kilometers (301 miles) via N-45.
   • Route: Follow the same route as described in option 1.
   • Travel Duration: Similar to public transport, about 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Each route offers its own unique experience and challenges, from the scenic views of mountain passes to the convenience of air travel. Travelers should consider their preferences for comfort, time constraints, and budget when deciding on the best way to travel from Islamabad to Chitral.