Rawalpindi to Dera Ismail Khan Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Rawalpindi to Dera Ismail Khan offers various options, each presenting its own advantages in terms of distance, route, and travel duration. Let's explore all possible ways to make this journey:

1. By Road:

   • Distance: Approximately 320 kilometers (199 miles)
   • Route: The most common route is via the N-50 and N-55 highways. From Rawalpindi, you would head southwest on the N-50, passing through cities like Peshawar, Kohat, and Bannu before reaching Dera Ismail Khan.
   • Travel Duration: By car, the journey typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way.

2. By Train:

   • Distance: Varies slightly based on the specific train route, but generally around 340 kilometers (211 miles).
   • Route: Pakistan Railways offers train services from Rawalpindi to Dera Ismail Khan. The train route traverses through the picturesque landscapes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, passing through cities like Attock, Kundian, and Darya Khan before reaching Dera Ismail Khan.
   • Travel Duration: Train travel usually takes longer than by road, with the journey lasting approximately 9-10 hours, depending on the train schedule and any delays.

3. By Bus:

   • Distance: Similar to traveling by road, approximately 320 kilometers (199 miles).
   • Route: Numerous private and public bus services operate between Rawalpindi and Dera Ismail Khan. These buses follow the same highways as cars, providing a more budget-friendly option for travelers.
   • Travel Duration: The travel duration by bus is comparable to that of cars, typically taking around 6-7 hours, but may vary based on factors such as the bus type, stops, and traffic.

4. By Air:

   • Distance: Air travel covers a much shorter distance, approximately 260 kilometers (162 miles) in a straight line.
   • Route: There are no direct commercial flights between Rawalpindi and Dera Ismail Khan, so travelers would need to fly to nearby airports such as Peshawar International Airport or Islamabad International Airport and then continue their journey by road or rail.
   • Travel Duration: While air travel itself is quick, the overall travel duration including transfers and ground transportation may be longer compared to other modes of travel.

5. By Carpooling/Shared Taxi:

   • Distance: Same as traveling by road, approximately 320 kilometers (199 miles).
   • Route: Travelers can opt for carpooling or shared taxi services, which are commonly available in urban areas like Rawalpindi. These services offer a more economical option for solo travelers or small groups.
   • Travel Duration: Similar to traveling by private car, the journey duration by carpooling/shared taxi is around 6-7 hours, depending on the number of stops and passenger pickups along the way.

Each mode of transportation offers its own set of pros and cons, catering to different preferences and budgets. While road travel provides flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views, train travel offers a relaxed journey with less hassle. On the other hand, air travel is the fastest option but may involve more logistical planning and higher costs. Ultimately, the choice of transportation depends on individual priorities such as time, comfort, and budget constraints.