Islamabad to Rawalakot Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Rawalakot, a popular destination in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, can be undertaken via road, though train and plane options are limited. Here’s an in-depth guide covering each travel option in detail:

By Road

Distance: Approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles)

Route:

1. Islamabad to Rawalpindi: Start from Islamabad and take the Islamabad Expressway towards Rawalpindi. This stretch is about 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) and usually takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
2. Rawalpindi to Kahuta: From Rawalpindi, head south on the Kahuta Road (also known as the Sihala-Kahuta Road). This route passes through Sihala and continues towards Kahuta. The distance from Rawalpindi to Kahuta is about 40 kilometers (25 miles), typically taking around 1-1.5 hours.
3. Kahuta to Azad Pattan: From Kahuta, continue southeast towards Azad Pattan, which is another 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). This part of the journey involves navigating hilly terrain and may take about 1 hour.
4. Azad Pattan to Rawalakot: Cross the Azad Pattan Bridge into Azad Jammu and Kashmir territory and continue on the road to Rawalakot. This final leg is approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) and can take another 1-1.5 hours due to the mountainous terrain and winding roads.

Travel Duration: The total travel time by road is typically around 4-5 hours, considering moderate traffic and road conditions. However, it may vary depending on weather and road conditions, especially in the hilly areas.

Highlights and Considerations:

• Scenic Views: The road journey offers picturesque views of the hills, valleys, and rivers, making it a visually rewarding trip.
• Stops and Amenities: There are several small towns and villages along the route where travelers can stop for refreshments, fuel, and rest.
• Road Conditions: The road conditions can vary, with some sections being narrow and winding, requiring careful driving.

By Train

Distance: While there is no direct train service from Islamabad to Rawalakot, here’s an alternative approach using the available train network in Pakistan:

1. Islamabad to Rawalpindi: Start with a short train journey from Islamabad Railway Station to Rawalpindi Railway Station, which is a distance of about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) and takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
2. Rawalpindi to Murree by Car: From Rawalpindi, hire a taxi or use a bus service to travel to Murree. The road distance between Rawalpindi and Murree is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) and takes around 1.5-2 hours.
3. Murree to Rawalakot by Car: From Murree, continue the journey by road to Rawalakot, which is around 50 kilometers (31 miles) and takes about 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions.

Travel Duration: The combined travel time, including the train journey, road travel, and potential waiting times, can be around 6-7 hours.

Highlights and Considerations:

• No Direct Train Route: The absence of a direct train route means relying on a combination of train and road travel, which might be less convenient.
• Scenic Road Trip: The road trip from Murree to Rawalakot is quite scenic, passing through lush green landscapes and mountainous terrain.

By Plane

Distance: There is no direct flight route from Islamabad to Rawalakot. However, travelers can consider the following alternative:

1. Islamabad to Muzaffarabad by Helicopter: PIA occasionally operates helicopter flights between Islamabad and Muzaffarabad, especially during peak tourist seasons. The air distance between Islamabad and Muzaffarabad is approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles).
2. Muzaffarabad to Rawalakot by Car: From Muzaffarabad, the road distance to Rawalakot is about 85 kilometers (53 miles), taking around 3-4 hours by car.

Travel Duration: The helicopter flight from Islamabad to Muzaffarabad takes around 30-45 minutes. The road journey from Muzaffarabad to Rawalakot takes approximately 3-4 hours. The total travel time, including transit and waiting times, can be around 5-6 hours.

Highlights and Considerations:

• Limited Flight Options: Helicopter flights are limited and may not be available regularly. It is essential to check the availability and schedule in advance.
• Aerial Views: The helicopter journey offers stunning aerial views of the region’s mountainous terrain and lush valleys.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Rawalakot primarily involves road travel, as there are no direct train or commercial flight routes available. The road journey, while longer, provides a scenic and adventurous experience through the beautiful landscapes of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Road Travel Summary

• Total Distance: 120 kilometers (75 miles)
• Total Travel Time: 4-5 hours
• Route: Islamabad > Rawalpindi > Kahuta > Azad Pattan > Rawalakot

Train and Road Travel Summary

• Total Distance: Approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles)
• Total Travel Time: 6-7 hours
• Route: Islamabad (Train) > Rawalpindi > Murree (Car) > Rawalakot

Helicopter and Road Travel Summary

• Total Distance: Approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles)
• Total Travel Time: 5-6 hours
• Route: Islamabad (Helicopter) > Muzaffarabad > Rawalakot (Car)

Each travel option offers a unique experience, with road travel being the most straightforward and commonly used method. Always check current road conditions, weather forecasts, and transportation schedules before planning your trip to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.