Islamabad to Phandar Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Phandar offers several route options, each showcasing Pakistan's diverse landscapes and varying travel durations. Here are the possible ways to make this journey:

1. Route via N-15 and Gilgit:

   • Distance: Approximately 460 km (286 miles)
   • Travel Duration: Around 14-16 hours
   • Route Description: Start from Islamabad and head north on the N-15 highway, passing through towns like Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mansehra. Continue through the breathtaking scenery of the Kaghan Valley and Naran. Cross Babusar Pass and enter Gilgit. From Gilgit, follow the Gilgit-Skardu Road (N-55) westward to Phandar.

2. Route via N-15 and Chitral:

   • Distance: Approximately 650 km (404 miles)
   • Travel Duration: Around 18-20 hours
   • Route Description: Begin from Islamabad and travel north on the N-15, passing through the Kaghan Valley and Naran. Continue towards Babusar Pass and descend into Chilas. From Chilas, head west on the Karakoram Highway (N-35) towards Gilgit. From Gilgit, take the Gilgit-Shandur-Chitral Road (N-45) to reach Phandar via Shandur Pass.

3. Route via N-5 and Swat Valley:

   • Distance: Approximately 600 km (373 miles)
   • Travel Duration: Around 16-18 hours
   • Route Description: Depart from Islamabad and head west on the N-5, passing through towns like Nowshera and Mardan. Continue north towards Mingora in the Swat Valley. From Mingora, travel further north towards Kalam. Cross Utror Pass and travel via Shandur Pass to reach Phandar.

4. Route via N-35 and Skardu:

   • Distance: Approximately 760 km (472 miles)
   • Travel Duration: Around 20-22 hours
   • Route Description: Start from Islamabad and travel north on the N-35, passing through Hasan Abdal, Attock, and onwards to Babusar Pass. Descend into Chilas and continue on the Karakoram Highway (N-35) towards Skardu. From Skardu, take the Skardu-Gilgit Road (N-15) to Gilgit and then proceed towards Phandar.

5. Route via Air Travel:

   • Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours (flight to Gilgit)
   • Description: Fly from Islamabad International Airport to Gilgit Airport. From Gilgit, travel by road to Phandar, which takes approximately 5-6 hours depending on road conditions.

Each route offers unique sights and challenges, from winding mountain passes to lush valleys and scenic landscapes. Travel times can vary based on weather conditions, road maintenance, and local traffic. It's advisable to plan your journey considering these factors and to ensure your vehicle is suitable for mountainous terrain if traveling by road.