Traveling from Islamabad to Isakhel can be done in several ways, including by road, train, and potentially by air with some additional ground travel. Here’s a detailed description of each mode of transportation, the distance, travel duration, and the routes you can take.
By Road
Distance and Route
The road distance from Islamabad to Isakhel is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles).
Route Options
- Via M-1 and N-80:
- Start from Islamabad.
- Take the M-1 Motorway towards Peshawar.
- Exit at Burhan Interchange to get onto N-80.
- Continue on N-80 through Attock and Mianwali.
- From Mianwali, continue on the road to Isakhel.
- Via N-5 and N-80:
- Start from Islamabad.
- Take N-5 (also known as GT Road) towards Rawalpindi.
- Continue on N-5 towards Peshawar.
- Take the exit onto N-80 at Attock.
- Continue on N-80 through Mianwali.
- From Mianwali, continue to Isakhel.
Travel Duration
- By Car: The travel time by car is approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- By Bus: There are several bus services operating between Islamabad and Isakhel. Travel duration by bus is typically around 6 to 7 hours due to stops and slower speeds.
By Train
Distance and Route
The train route does not go directly from Islamabad to Isakhel. The nearest major railway station to Isakhel is in Mianwali.
Route Options
Train to Mianwali:
- Take a train from Islamabad (Margalla Station) or Rawalpindi Railway Station to Mianwali.
- The route usually involves taking a train bound for Karachi or Lahore, then transferring to a train heading to Mianwali.
- The distance by train to Mianwali is approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles) as trains usually follow a longer route than direct road travel.
From Mianwali to Isakhel:
- After reaching Mianwali, you can take a local bus, taxi, or private car to Isakhel.
- The distance from Mianwali to Isakhel is about 50 kilometers (31 miles).
Travel Duration
- Train Journey: The train journey from Islamabad to Mianwali typically takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the train service and schedule.
- Local Transport to Isakhel: From Mianwali to Isakhel, it takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by road.
By Air
Distance and Route
There are no direct flights from Islamabad to Isakhel as Isakhel does not have an airport. However, you can take a flight to a nearby city with an airport and then travel by road to Isakhel.
Route Options
Flight to Sargodha:
- Take a domestic flight from Islamabad International Airport to Sargodha.
- The distance by air to Sargodha is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles).
- From Sargodha, travel by road to Isakhel.
Flight to Dera Ismail Khan:
- Take a domestic flight from Islamabad International Airport to Dera Ismail Khan.
- The distance by air to Dera Ismail Khan is approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles).
- From Dera Ismail Khan, travel by road to Isakhel.
Travel Duration
- Flight Duration: The flight from Islamabad to either Sargodha or Dera Ismail Khan typically takes around 1 hour.
- Road Travel Duration from Airport:
- From Sargodha to Isakhel: The road distance is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles), taking around 2 to 3 hours.
- From Dera Ismail Khan to Isakhel: The road distance is approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles), taking around 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Detailed Travel Information
Car Travel
Traveling by car offers flexibility and comfort. You can stop at various points for rest, meals, and sightseeing. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the journey, and consider carrying a map or GPS device for navigation. The roads, especially the M-1 Motorway, are well-maintained, making for a smooth drive.
Bus Travel
Buses are an economical option, though less flexible. Several bus companies operate on this route, offering different levels of service, from basic to luxury. The bus journey provides a good opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery. Ensure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Train Travel
While train travel involves a transfer, it can be a scenic and comfortable option. Trains in Pakistan offer different classes of service, from economy to air-conditioned sleepers. Booking tickets in advance is advisable. Upon reaching Mianwali, local transport options to Isakhel are readily available.
Air Travel
Air travel significantly reduces the travel time but involves additional logistics for the road journey from the airport to Isakhel. Ensure to check flight schedules and road transport options beforehand.
Conclusion
Traveling from Islamabad to Isakhel offers several options, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Whether you choose to drive, take a bus, travel by train, or fly part of the way, you will experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Pakistan. Planning your journey in advance, considering factors like budget, time, and comfort, will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
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