Islamabad to Khwazakhela Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Khwazakhela, a picturesque town in Swat Valley, can be an enchanting experience. Here's a detailed guide covering the distance, routes, travel duration, and various modes of transportation:

Distance

• Kilometers: Approximately 230 km
• Miles: Approximately 143 miles

Routes

There are several routes to travel from Islamabad to Khwazakhela:

Route 1: Via M-1 and N-95

1. Start: Islamabad
2. Route: M-1 Motorway
3. Exit: M-1 at Swabi Interchange
4. Continue: On Swabi-Mardan Road
5. Merge: Onto N-45 towards Mingora
6. Continue: N-45 to N-95 towards Khwazakhela

Distance: 230 km
Travel Duration: 5-6 hours

Route 2: Via M-1, N-35, and N-95

1. Start: Islamabad
2. Route: M-1 Motorway
3. Exit: At Burhan Interchange onto N-35 (Karakoram Highway)
4. Continue: On N-35 to Abbottabad
5. Merge: Onto N-95 towards Mingora
6. Continue: N-95 to Khwazakhela

Distance: 245 km
Travel Duration: 6-7 hours

Modes of Transportation

1. By Car

Traveling by car is the most flexible and convenient mode of transportation. It allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty along the way and stop at various points of interest.

Route:

• Follow the M-1 motorway from Islamabad, which is well-maintained and offers a smooth drive.
• Take the exit at Swabi Interchange, then follow the Swabi-Mardan Road.
• Merge onto N-45 towards Mingora, passing through various towns and scenic spots.
• Finally, continue on N-95 to reach Khwazakhela.

Travel Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

2. By Bus

Several bus services operate from Islamabad to Swat Valley, including Khwazakhela. These buses are comfortable and offer an affordable way to travel.

Bus Companies:

• Daewoo Express: Known for its comfortable and reliable service, Daewoo offers routes to Mingora, from where you can catch a local bus or taxi to Khwazakhela.
• Faisal Movers: Another popular choice, offering services to Mingora with further connections to Khwazakhela.

Route:

• Buses typically follow the M-1 motorway, then exit towards N-45, and continue to Mingora.
• From Mingora, local buses or taxis can take you to Khwazakhela.

Travel Duration:

• Islamabad to Mingora: Approximately 4-5 hours.
• Mingora to Khwazakhela: Approximately 1-2 hours.

3. By Taxi

Hiring a taxi is another convenient option, especially for those who prefer a direct route without transfers.

Route:

• Similar to the car route, taxis follow the M-1 motorway, exit at Swabi Interchange, and continue on N-45 to Mingora, then N-95 to Khwazakhela.

Travel Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours.

4. By Air

Although there are no direct flights to Khwazakhela, you can take a flight from Islamabad to Saidu Sharif Airport in Swat Valley, which is the nearest airport.

Airlines:

• Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): Offers flights from Islamabad to Saidu Sharif.

Route:

• From Saidu Sharif Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Khwazakhela.

Travel Duration:

• Flight: Approximately 1 hour.
• Saidu Sharif to Khwazakhela: Approximately 1-2 hours by road.

5. By Train

There are no direct train services to Khwazakhela. However, you can take a train to Peshawar or Mardan and then continue by road.

Route:

• Take a train from Islamabad to Peshawar or Mardan.
• From Peshawar or Mardan, hire a taxi or take a bus to Khwazakhela.

Travel Duration:

• Train: Approximately 2-3 hours to Peshawar or Mardan.
• Road: Approximately 3-4 hours from Peshawar or Mardan to Khwazakhela.

Points of Interest Along the Way

• Taxila: Historical site with ancient ruins and museums.
• Abbottabad: Known for its pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
• Mingora: The largest city in Swat Valley, offering various cultural and historical attractions.
• Fizagat Park: A popular spot for a short break and to enjoy the natural beauty.

Travel Tips

• Check Road Conditions: Before you travel, check the current road conditions, especially during the winter season when snow can block roads.
• Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle is fueled up, as petrol stations may be sparse in some areas.
• Pack Essentials: Carry water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for a comfortable journey.
• Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.
• Accommodation: If you plan to stay overnight, book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Khwazakhela is an enriching experience, offering a blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Whether you choose to travel by car, bus, taxi, or a combination of air and road, each mode provides unique experiences and insights into the beautiful region of Swat Valley. Plan your journey well, enjoy the scenic routes, and immerse yourself in the natural splendor and cultural richness of Khwazakhela.