Islamabad to Plandri Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Plandri

Plandri, located in the Poonch district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, is a serene town known for its beautiful landscapes and cool climate. While there are no direct train or plane routes due to its location, there are several viable travel options by road.

By Road

Traveling by road from Islamabad to Plandri is the most common and straightforward option. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this journey:

Distance: Approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles)

Route Options:

1. Route 1: Via Kahuta

   • Route: Start from Islamabad and head south on the Islamabad Expressway. Turn onto the Lehtrar Road towards Kahuta. From Kahuta, continue towards Azad Pattan, crossing the Azad Pattan Bridge into Azad Kashmir. Follow the main road towards Plandri.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

2. Route 2: Via Rawalakot

   • Route: From Islamabad, take the Islamabad-Murree Expressway (E-75) towards Murree. Continue past Murree and descend towards Kohala Bridge. Cross the bridge into Azad Kashmir and follow the road to Rawalakot. From Rawalakot, take the road south to Plandri.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours, considering potential traffic and the hilly terrain.

Scenic Highlights:

• The journey offers picturesque views of the hills, rivers, and lush greenery.
• Stop by the Simly Dam near Kahuta for a refreshing break.
• Enjoy the serene beauty of Rawalakot if you choose the second route.

Road Conditions:

• The roads are generally well-maintained, but certain sections, especially in the hilly areas, can be narrow and winding.
• It's advisable to travel during daylight hours and check for any road closures or weather conditions beforehand.

By Train

There is no direct train service from Islamabad to Plandri. The region's hilly terrain and lack of railway infrastructure in Azad Kashmir make train travel unfeasible. However, if you are interested in a train journey, you can take a train from Islamabad to Rawalpindi and then continue by road:

1. Islamabad to Rawalpindi by Train:

   • Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles)
   • Travel Duration: About 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the train service.
   • Train Options: Several trains run between Islamabad and Rawalpindi daily, including the Green Line Express and Rawal Express.

2. Rawalpindi to Plandri by Road:

   • From Rawalpindi, follow either of the road routes mentioned above (via Kahuta or Rawalakot).
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 3-5 hours.

Scenic Highlights:

• The train ride from Islamabad to Rawalpindi offers a glimpse of urban and suburban Pakistan.
• Continuing by road provides scenic views of the Pothohar Plateau and the lush green hills of Azad Kashmir.

By Plane

There are no direct flights to Plandri, as it lacks an airport. The closest airport to Plandri is Benazir Bhutto International Airport in Islamabad. Here’s how you can integrate air travel into your journey:

1. Fly to Islamabad:

   • For International Travelers: Land at Benazir Bhutto International Airport, Islamabad.
   • For Domestic Travelers: Flights from major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar land at Islamabad.

2. Islamabad to Plandri by Road:

   • Distance: Approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles)
   • Travel Duration: 3-4 hours by road.

Scenic Highlights:

• If you are flying into Islamabad, you can enjoy the aerial view of the city and its surrounding areas.
• The road journey from Islamabad to Plandri offers stunning landscapes and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Azad Kashmir.

General Travel Tips

1. Weather: The region can experience sudden weather changes, especially in the hills. It's best to check the weather forecast before starting your journey.
2. Road Safety: Drive cautiously, especially on the winding roads in the hilly areas. It's recommended to have a local driver if you are not familiar with the terrain.
3. Stops and Facilities: Plan your stops for meals, rest, and refueling. The town of Kahuta or Rawalakot can serve as good pit stops.
4. Navigation: GPS and maps are essential. However, be prepared for occasional lack of signal in remote areas. Local advice can be invaluable.

Conclusion

While there are no direct trains or flights to Plandri, traveling by road offers a scenic and enjoyable journey. The routes via Kahuta or Rawalakot provide different experiences, both rich in natural beauty. Integrating a train journey to Rawalpindi or a flight to Islamabad can add variety to your travel, making the overall experience more diverse and enjoyable. Whether you prefer a direct road trip or a combination of train and road travel, each option allows you to explore the stunning landscapes of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.