Islamabad to Ghanche Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Ghanche involves a journey that spans a considerable distance through diverse landscapes and regions. Here are several possible routes, along with their approximate distances, travel durations, and notable aspects:

Route 1: Islamabad to Ghanche via Karakoram Highway (KKH)

Distance:

• Kilometers: Approximately 850 km
• Miles: Approximately 528 miles

Route Description:

1. Islamabad to Abbottabad: Begin by heading north on the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1) and then onto the N35 National Highway towards Abbottabad.
2. Abbottabad to Mansehra: Continue on the N35, passing through Mansehra.
3. Mansehra to Besham: Follow the N35 further north towards Besham, where the road intersects with the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
4. Besham to Gilgit: Turn onto the KKH (N35), which leads through the breathtaking Karakoram Range, passing by landmarks such as Nanga Parbat.
5. Gilgit to Skardu: Upon reaching Gilgit, take the road leading southeast towards Skardu.
6. Skardu to Ghanche: Finally, continue southeast from Skardu to reach Ghanche.

Travel Duration:

• By Road: Approximately 20-24 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

Notes:

• This route offers stunning views of the Karakoram Mountains, including Nanga Parbat and the Indus River.

Route 2: Islamabad to Ghanche via Skardu

Distance:

• Kilometers: Approximately 930 km
• Miles: Approximately 578 miles

Route Description:

1. Islamabad to Abbottabad: Follow the same initial route as Route 1 towards Abbottabad.
2. Abbottabad to Mansehra to Besham: Continue north on the N35 to Besham, connecting to the KKH.
3. Besham to Gilgit: Proceed on the KKH through the Karakoram Range to Gilgit.
4. Gilgit to Skardu: Head southeast from Gilgit to Skardu, crossing the iconic Indus River.
5. Skardu to Ghanche: Continue further southeast from Skardu to reach Ghanche.

Travel Duration:

• By Road: Approximately 22-26 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

Notes:

• This route also traverses through the Karakoram Mountains and provides access to Skardu, a major town in the region.

Route 3: Islamabad to Ghanche via Air (Islamabad International Airport to Skardu Airport)

Distance:

• Direct Flight: Approximately 240 km (150 miles) aerial distance

Route Description:

1. Islamabad to Skardu: Fly from Islamabad International Airport to Skardu Airport. Flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.

2. Skardu to Ghanche: From Skardu, travel southeast by road to reach Ghanche.

Travel Duration:

• By Air and Road: Approximately 2-3 hours, including flight time and ground transport from Skardu to Ghanche.

Notes:

• Flying offers a quicker alternative, but road travel from Skardu to Ghanche is still required.

Travel Tips:

• Road Conditions: While the KKH is a well-maintained highway, weather conditions and road closures can affect travel times, especially in winter.
• Altitude Considerations: Ghanche is located at high altitude. Travelers should acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
• Permits: Certain areas en route may require permits, especially for foreign travelers. Check local regulations before embarking on the journey.

Conclusion:

Traveling from Islamabad to Ghanche offers a journey through some of Pakistan's most stunning landscapes, from the plains around Islamabad to the majestic peaks of the Karakoram. Whether by road or air, each route presents its own set of adventures and challenges, promising an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore the beauty and diversity of northern Pakistan.