Islamabad to Kel Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Kel

By Road

• Distance: Approximately 260 kilometers (162 miles)
• Route: Depart Islamabad and head north on the Karakoram Highway (N-35) towards Abbottabad. Continue through Mansehra and Balakot, following the Indus River. At Chilas, take the Astore Road (N-35) towards Astore. From Astore, continue on the winding roads through the picturesque valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan, passing through small towns like Gorikot and Jaglot. From Jaglot, take the road towards Kel via Gurez.
• Travel Duration: About 8-9 hours by road, depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops for sightseeing.

By Train

Currently, there is no direct train service from Islamabad to Kel, as the region is not served by railway lines. Train travel in Pakistan primarily connects major cities and towns along established railway routes, mainly in the plains of Punjab and Sindh.

By Plane

• Nearest Airport: The nearest major airport to Kel is Gilgit Airport (GIL), located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Kel town.
• Flight Route: From Islamabad, you can take a domestic flight to Gilgit Airport (GIL). Several airlines operate daily flights between Islamabad International Airport (ISB) and Gilgit.
• Travel Duration: The flight from Islamabad to Gilgit takes about 1 hour, depending on weather conditions and air traffic.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Kel offers diverse options depending on your preference for convenience, time, and the experience you seek. By road, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of northern Pakistan, passing through breathtaking landscapes and valleys. By plane, you can significantly reduce travel time, though you miss out on the ground-level experience of the journey. Choose the option that best suits your schedule and travel preferences to make the most of your journey to Kel, a gateway to the beautiful Neelum Valley.