To travel from Islamabad to Khaplu, there are several possible routes and modes of transportation available. Here's a comprehensive guide including distances in kilometers and miles, routes, and estimated travel durations for each option:
1. By Road:
Route 1: Islamabad to Khaplu via Karakoram Highway (KKH)
- Distance: Approximately 440 km (273 miles)
- Travel Duration: Around 12-14 hours (depending on road conditions and stops)
- Route:
- Start from Islamabad and head north on the Karakoram Highway (N-35).
- Pass through Abbottabad, Mansehra, Besham, Chilas, and Skardu.
- From Skardu, continue east towards Khaplu.
Route 2: Islamabad to Khaplu via Naran and Babusar Pass
- Distance: Approximately 560 km (348 miles)
- Travel Duration: Approximately 14-16 hours (due to mountainous terrain and road conditions)
- Route:
- Head north from Islamabad towards Abbottabad on the N-35.
- Continue towards Naran via Balakot.
- From Naran, travel towards Babusar Pass and then towards Skardu.
- Finally, head east from Skardu to Khaplu.
Route 3: Islamabad to Khaplu via Kaghan Valley and Deosai Plains
- Distance: Approximately 620 km (385 miles)
- Travel Duration: Around 16-18 hours (due to challenging terrain and weather conditions)
- Route:
- Travel north from Islamabad towards Balakot and then to Naran.
- Continue through the picturesque Kaghan Valley towards Babusar Pass.
- Cross Babusar Pass and head towards Chilas.
- From Chilas, proceed to Skardu and finally to Khaplu.
2. By Air:
- Flight Route: Islamabad (ISB) to Skardu (KDU) Airport
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours (direct flight)
- Travel Duration: Including ground transport from Skardu to Khaplu, around 4-5 hours in total.
Ground Transport from Skardu to Khaplu:
- Distance: Approximately 105 km (65 miles)
- Travel Duration: Around 2.5-3 hours by road (depending on road conditions)
3. By Combination of Road and Air:
- Option: Fly from Islamabad to Skardu, then travel by road from Skardu to Khaplu.
- Total Travel Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours (including flight and ground transport)
Notes:
- Road Conditions: Roads in the northern areas of Pakistan can be challenging, especially during winter due to snow and landslides.
- Flight Availability: Flights to Skardu are subject to weather conditions, especially in winter.
- Scenic Routes: Routes via Kaghan Valley and Babusar Pass offer stunning views but may have longer travel times due to winding mountain roads.
Conclusion:
Traveling from Islamabad to Khaplu offers adventurous road trips through some of Pakistan's most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose to drive through the Karakoram Highway or opt for a combination of air and road travel via Skardu, each route promises unique experiences and scenic beauty along the way. Plan your journey considering weather conditions and road accessibility for a safe and memorable trip.
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