Islamabad to Port Qasim Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Port Qasim

Port Qasim is a deep-water seaport located near Karachi, in the Sindh province of Pakistan. This guide provides detailed information on various modes of travel, including distances, routes, and estimated travel durations.

1. By Road

Traveling by road from Islamabad to Port Qasim offers the convenience of a direct route and flexibility in departure times.

• Distance: Approximately 1,400 kilometers (870 miles)
• Routes:
  • Route 1: Islamabad - Lahore via M-2 Motorway, then Lahore - Multan via M-3 Motorway, Multan - Sukkur via M-5 Motorway, and Sukkur - Karachi via N-5 National Highway.
  • Route 2: Islamabad - Faisalabad via M-2 and M-4 Motorways, then Faisalabad - Multan via M-4 Motorway, and continue as in Route 1.
• Travel Duration: 16-20 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Advantages:

• Flexibility in stops and detours.
• Scenic views and diverse landscapes.
• Opportunity to explore other cities en route.

Disadvantages:

• Long travel time.
• Potential for traffic congestion and delays.
• Wear and tear on personal vehicles.

2. By Air

Flying from Islamabad to Karachi is the fastest way to travel. Once in Karachi, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Port Qasim.

• Distance:
  • Air Distance: Approximately 1,120 kilometers (695 miles)
  • Karachi to Port Qasim: About 50 kilometers (31 miles)
• Flight Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
• Total Travel Duration (including transfer to Port Qasim): 2.5 to 3.5 hours.

Airlines:

• Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
• Airblue
• SereneAir

Advantages:

• Quick travel time.
• Multiple flights daily.
• Comfortable and convenient.

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost compared to road and rail.
• Security and check-in procedures.
• Limited luggage allowance.

3. By Train

Pakistan Railways offers train services from Islamabad to Karachi, which can be an economical and comfortable option.

• Distance: Approximately 1,521 kilometers (945 miles) by rail.
• Routes: Multiple trains operate on this route, with different timings and classes of service.

Trains:

• Green Line Express: A premium service with air-conditioned coaches, dining, and sleeping facilities.

• Karakoram Express: Another fast and reliable option with similar amenities.

• Tezgam Express: A popular choice with a mix of classes, including economy and business.

• Travel Duration: 18-24 hours, depending on the train and stops.

Advantages:

• Comfortable and spacious seating.
• Sleeper options for overnight travel.
• Onboard dining and amenities.

Disadvantages:

• Longer travel time compared to air travel.
• Potential for delays.
• Limited control over departure times.

4. By Bus

Several bus services operate between Islamabad and Karachi, offering another road travel option.

• Distance: Approximately 1,400 kilometers (870 miles).

• Routes: Similar to road travel routes mentioned earlier.

• Bus Services:

  • Daewoo Express
  • Faisal Movers
  • Skyways

• Travel Duration: 18-22 hours.

Advantages:

• Affordable ticket prices.
• Comfortable seating with modern amenities.
• Frequent departures.

Disadvantages:

• Long travel time.
• Potential discomfort over extended periods.
• Stops at multiple locations, leading to longer travel durations.

Detailed Route Descriptions

Route 1 (Via Lahore, Multan, Sukkur)

1. Islamabad to Lahore (M-2 Motorway):

   • Distance: 376 kilometers (234 miles)
   • Travel Time: 4-5 hours
   • Key Stops: Chakwal, Kallar Kahar, Pindi Bhattian

2. Lahore to Multan (M-3 Motorway):

   • Distance: 337 kilometers (209 miles)
   • Travel Time: 3-4 hours
   • Key Stops: Abdul Hakeem, Shorkot, Khanewal

3. Multan to Sukkur (M-5 Motorway):

   • Distance: 392 kilometers (243 miles)
   • Travel Time: 4-5 hours
   • Key Stops: Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan

4. Sukkur to Karachi (N-5 National Highway):

   • Distance: 495 kilometers (308 miles)
   • Travel Time: 6-7 hours
   • Key Stops: Khairpur, Moro, Hyderabad

5. Karachi to Port Qasim:

   • Distance: 50 kilometers (31 miles)
   • Travel Time: 1 hour

Route 2 (Via Faisalabad, Multan, Sukkur)

1. Islamabad to Faisalabad (M-2 and M-4 Motorways):

   • Distance: 320 kilometers (199 miles)
   • Travel Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
   • Key Stops: Kallar Kahar, Pindi Bhattian

2. Faisalabad to Multan (M-4 Motorway):

   • Distance: 234 kilometers (145 miles)
   • Travel Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
   • Key Stops: Gojra, Toba Tek Singh, Shorkot

3. Multan to Sukkur and onward to Karachi: Follow the same as Route 1.

Travel Tips

1. Safety:

   • Road: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry a first-aid kit, and be aware of local traffic laws.
   • Air: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.
   • Train: Secure your belongings, and book tickets in advance.
   • Bus: Choose reputable bus services for a comfortable journey.

2. Packing:

   • Carry necessary travel documents, including identification and tickets.
   • Pack snacks and water, especially for long road or bus trips.
   • Bring entertainment (books, music, etc.) for long durations.

3. Accommodations:

   • Plan for overnight stays if traveling by road or train to avoid fatigue.
   • Book hotels in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

4. Weather:

   • Check the weather forecast for your travel dates and pack accordingly.
   • Be prepared for varying temperatures, especially when traveling through different regions.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Port Qasim offers multiple options, each with its unique advantages and considerations. Whether you choose to drive, fly, take a train, or ride a bus, proper planning and preparation will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Safe travels!