Islamabad to Mansehra Road Trip: Exploring the Scenic Landscapes of Pakistan
Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan, located in the northern part of the country. It is a modern city with a well-developed road network connecting it to the rest of the country. One of the most popular road trips from Islamabad is to the city of Mansehra, located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The journey from Islamabad to Mansehra by road is an experience in itself, offering breathtaking views of the natural beauty of Pakistan.
The distance from Islamabad to Mansehra is approximately 160 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions and the route taken. There are two main routes to reach Mansehra from Islamabad: one is through the Grand Trunk Road, and the other is through the Hazara Motorway.
Route 1: Grand Trunk Road
The Grand Trunk Road is an ancient trade route that connects Pakistan to India and Afghanistan. It is the most scenic route to reach Mansehra from Islamabad, as it passes through the beautiful towns and villages of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The road is well-maintained and is suitable for all types of vehicles.
To start the journey, one can take the Islamabad Expressway from Islamabad and continue straight until reaching the town of Hasan Abdal. From there, take a right turn towards the Grand Trunk Road and continue driving towards the town of Haripur. The road passes through lush green fields and small towns, offering a glimpse into the rural life of Pakistan. One can also stop at the famous Shah Allah Ditta Caves, located near the Grand Trunk Road, for a quick detour and exploration.
After reaching Haripur, take the right turn towards Abbottabad Road, which leads to the city of Abbottabad. The road passes through the scenic Havelian and is a popular spot for tourists. From Abbottabad, continue towards Mansehra on the Karakoram Highway (N35), which is also known as the Silk Route. The road passes through the beautiful towns of Balakot and Kaghan and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Route 2: Hazara Motorway
The Hazara Motorway is a modern highway that connects Islamabad to Mansehra and other cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is a faster and more convenient route than the Grand Trunk Road, as it is a four-lane highway with less traffic.
To start the journey, one can take the Islamabad Expressway and continue straight until reaching the M1 Motorway. Take the Hazara Motorway exit and continue driving towards Mansehra. The road passes through the scenic towns of Havelian and Abbottabad, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Hazara Motorway is a toll road, and visitors have to pay a fee to use it. However, the road is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride, making it a popular choice among travelers.
Things to See and Do
Both routes offer stunning views of the natural beauty of Pakistan, with plenty of stops and attractions along the way. Some of the popular stops include:
Shah Allah Ditta Caves: A series of ancient caves located near the Grand Trunk Road, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric life of Pakistan.
Taxila Museum: A museum located near the Grand Trunk Road, displaying artifacts from the ancient Gandhara civilization.
Havelian: A scenic town located on both routes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Abbottabad: A beautiful city located on both routes, known for its colonial-era architecture and scenic beauty.
Balakot: A town located on the Karakoram Highway, offering stunning views
After passing through the town of Hasan Abdal on the Grand Trunk Road or taking the Hazara Motorway exit on the Islamabad Expressway, visitors will come across the scenic towns of Havelian and Abbottabad. Havelian offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, while Abbottabad is known for its colonial-era architecture and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the city's museums, markets, and restaurants, or take a stroll in the lush green parks.
Another popular stop on both routes is the town of Balakot, located on the Karakoram Highway. The town offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys and is known for its natural beauty. Visitors can take a detour to the nearby Shogran Valley, which is a popular tourist spot with picturesque landscapes and lush green forests.
As the journey continues towards Mansehra, visitors will be treated to stunning views of the Karakoram Range and the Himalayas. The town of Kaghan, located on the Karakoram Highway, is a popular spot for tourists, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and activities such as trekking, camping, and fishing.
Upon reaching Mansehra, visitors can explore the city's rich history and culture. The city is home to several historic sites, such as the Buddhist stupas of Takht-i-Bahi, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also explore the city's bazaars, try the local cuisine, and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.
Conclusion
The road trip from Islamabad to Mansehra is a journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Pakistan. Whether one chooses to take the scenic Grand Trunk Road or the modern Hazara Motorway, they will be treated to breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and towns of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. With plenty of stops and attractions along the way, this road trip is a must-do for anyone visiting Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions about Islamabad to Mansehra Road Trip (FAQs):
How long does it take to drive from Islamabad to Mansehra?
The driving time from Islamabad to Mansehra is approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
What is the best route to take from Islamabad to Mansehra?
There are two main routes to take: the Grand Trunk Road and the Hazara Motorway. Both routes offer scenic views, but the Hazara Motorway is a newer, faster route.
Are there any scenic spots to stop at along the way?
Yes, there are plenty of scenic spots to stop at, including the towns of Abbottabad and Havelian, the Shogran Valley, Kaghan, and the Buddhist stupas of Takht-i-Bahi.
What kind of vehicle is best for the journey?
Any standard vehicle can make the trip, but it's recommended to have a car with good ground clearance for the mountainous terrain.
What kind of weather can I expect on the journey?
The weather can vary depending on the time of year, but in general, the weather is pleasant with cool temperatures in the summer months and chilly temperatures in the winter months. It's recommended to check the weather forecast before embarking on the journey.
Are there any safety concerns while driving from Islamabad to Mansehra?
As with any road trip, it's important to exercise caution and follow traffic rules. In addition, the mountainous terrain can be challenging to navigate, so it's important to drive carefully and stay alert. It's also recommended to avoid driving at night.
