Traveling from Islamabad to Mingora, the largest city in the Swat Valley of Pakistan, can be a delightful journey with various options to consider. The distance between Islamabad and Mingora is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) and offers scenic routes through the mountainous terrain of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Here’s a detailed guide on all possible ways to travel, including routes, distances, and travel durations.
1. By Car
Route 1: Via M1 and N-45
Distance: 230 kilometers (143 miles)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Route Details:
- Start on the M1 Motorway from Islamabad.
- Continue on M1 until you reach the Swabi Interchange.
- Take the exit towards Mardan on N-45.
- Follow N-45 through Mardan, Dargai, and Malakand Pass.
- Continue on N-45 until you reach Mingora.
This route is the most commonly used due to the well-maintained roads and scenic views of the Malakand Pass. The drive is comfortable, and there are several rest stops and restaurants along the way.
Route 2: Via N-35 and N-90
Distance: 250 kilometers (155 miles)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Route Details:
- Start on N-35 (Karakoram Highway) from Islamabad.
- Continue on N-35 until Hassan Abdal.
- From Hassan Abdal, take the N-90 towards Swat Valley.
- Follow N-90 through Besham and Shangla Pass.
- Continue on N-90 until you reach Mingora.
This route is slightly longer but offers breathtaking views of the Shangla Pass and the surrounding mountains. It’s a more adventurous option for those who enjoy driving through less traveled paths.
2. By Bus
Several bus services operate between Islamabad and Mingora. These buses are comfortable, affordable, and convenient.
Bus Services:
- Daewoo Express: One of the most popular and reliable services, offering multiple daily departures.
- Faisal Movers: Another trusted operator with comfortable seating and amenities.
Distance: 230 kilometers (143 miles)
Duration: 5-6 hours (including stops)
Route Details:
- Buses usually take the M1 Motorway and N-45 route.
- They stop at major towns for short breaks, providing restrooms and food options.
Traveling by bus is a cost-effective and stress-free option, especially for those who prefer not to drive.
3. By Taxi
Hiring a private taxi is another option for traveling from Islamabad to Mingora. It offers the convenience of door-to-door service and flexibility in terms of departure time.
Distance: 230 kilometers (143 miles)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Route Details:
- Taxis typically follow the M1 and N-45 route.
- The journey can be customized according to the traveler’s preferences, including stops for sightseeing or meals.
The cost of hiring a taxi can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the negotiation with the driver.
4. By Shared Ride Services
Services like Careem and Uber may offer long-distance rides between Islamabad and Mingora. These rides can be shared with other passengers to reduce costs.
Distance: 230 kilometers (143 miles)
Duration: 4-5 hours
Route Details:
- Shared rides follow the standard route via M1 and N-45.
- The service is similar to a taxi but often more affordable when shared with others.
5. By Train and Bus Combination
While there is no direct train service to Mingora, you can take a train part of the way and then switch to a bus or taxi.
Step 1: Train from Islamabad to Peshawar
- Distance: 150 kilometers (93 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Step 2: Bus/Taxi from Peshawar to Mingora
- Distance: 130 kilometers (81 miles)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
Route Details:
- Take a train from Islamabad to Peshawar.
- From Peshawar, hire a bus or taxi to Mingora via the M1 and N-45 routes.
This option can be a bit more time-consuming but allows for experiencing train travel in Pakistan.
6. By Air
There are no direct flights from Islamabad to Mingora, but you can fly to Saidu Sharif Airport, which is the nearest airport to Mingora. However, flight services to Saidu Sharif are limited and infrequent.
Step 1: Flight from Islamabad to Peshawar
- Duration: 1 hour
Step 2: Bus/Taxi from Peshawar to Mingora
- Distance: 130 kilometers (81 miles)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
Route Details:
- Fly from Islamabad to Peshawar.
- Hire a bus or taxi from Peshawar to Mingora via M1 and N-45.
This option is not the most convenient due to the limited flight options, but it’s available for those preferring air travel.
Scenic and Cultural Highlights Along the Way
Regardless of the mode of transport, the journey from Islamabad to Mingora offers several scenic and cultural highlights:
- Malakand Pass: A historical pass with beautiful landscapes.
- Swat River: Flowing along the route, providing picturesque views.
- Mingora Bazaar: A bustling market in Mingora worth exploring for local handicrafts and cuisine.
Summary
Traveling from Islamabad to Mingora offers various options, each with its own benefits:
- Car: Offers flexibility and scenic views.
- Bus: Cost-effective and convenient.
- Taxi: Comfortable and customizable.
- Shared Rides: Affordable and flexible.
- Train and Bus Combination: A unique experience but time-consuming.
- Air: Limited options but possible via Peshawar.
The most commonly recommended route is via the M1 Motorway and N-45, offering a balance of comfort, scenic beauty, and convenience. The distance is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles), and the travel time ranges from 4 to 6 hours depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions.
0 Comments