Sialkot to Taxila Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Sialkot to Taxila: Road, Train, and Plane

Traveling from Sialkot to Taxila, a historical city in Pakistan known for its ancient Buddhist sites, offers various options, including road, train, and air travel. This guide provides comprehensive information on each mode of transport, including distances, routes, travel durations, and other relevant details.

By Road

Distance:

• Approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles)

Route:

1. Starting Point: Sialkot
   • Begin your journey from Sialkot, a city in Punjab known for its industries and rich history.
2. Via GT Road (N-5)
   • Head southwest on Kashmir Road.
   • Merge onto the Grand Trunk Road (N-5), a major highway connecting many cities in Pakistan.
3. Passing Through:
   • Gujranwala: A major industrial city, famous for its cuisine and sports goods.
   • Wazirabad: Known for its cutlery and surgical instruments.
   • Gujrat: A historical city, famous for its pottery and furniture.
   • Jhelum: Known for its military significance and lush landscapes.
   • Rawalpindi: A bustling city adjacent to the capital, Islamabad.
4. Final Stretch:
   • Continue on GT Road towards Taxila.
   • Follow the signs directing towards Taxila, a short distance from Rawalpindi.

Travel Duration:

• Approximately 4 to 5 hours: Travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions, road quality, and stops along the way.

Tips for Road Travel:

• Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for the journey.
• Navigation: Use a reliable GPS or map application.
• Rest Stops: Plan for rest breaks, especially in major cities like Gujranwala and Rawalpindi.

By Train

Distance:

• Approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles)

Route:

1. Starting Point: Sialkot Railway Station
   • Located in the heart of the city, it connects Sialkot to various parts of the country.
2. Train Options:
   • Direct Trains: Direct train services may not be available from Sialkot to Taxila, requiring passengers to change trains at major junctions.
   • Via Rawalpindi or Lahore: Most likely, you will need to travel to Rawalpindi or Lahore first and then catch a connecting train to Taxila.
3. Via Rawalpindi:
   • Sialkot to Rawalpindi: Board a train from Sialkot to Rawalpindi.
   • Rawalpindi to Taxila: From Rawalpindi, take a train towards Peshawar and alight at Taxila.
4. Via Lahore:
   • Sialkot to Lahore: Take a train to Lahore, a major railway hub.
   • Lahore to Taxila: From Lahore, board a train heading towards Peshawar, stopping at Taxila.

Travel Duration:

• Approximately 6 to 8 hours: Including waiting time for connecting trains and travel duration.

Tips for Train Travel:

• Tickets: Book tickets in advance to secure your seat.
• Class: Choose between economy, business, and AC classes based on comfort and budget.
• Timetable: Check the train schedule as it may vary.

By Plane

Distance:

• Approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles)

Route:

1. Starting Point: Sialkot International Airport
   • Located about 14 kilometers from the city center, offering domestic and international flights.
2. Flight to Islamabad:
   • Sialkot to Islamabad: Take a direct flight from Sialkot to Islamabad, the nearest major airport to Taxila.
   • Multiple airlines operate daily flights between these cities.
3. From Islamabad to Taxila:
   • Road Journey: After landing in Islamabad, you can take a taxi or rent a car for the short journey to Taxila, approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) away.
   • Public Transport: Buses and local transport options are also available from Islamabad to Taxila.

Travel Duration:

• Flight Time: Approximately 1 hour.
• Road Travel (Islamabad to Taxila): Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

Tips for Air Travel:

• Tickets: Book your flight in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Transport: Arrange transportation from Islamabad airport to Taxila beforehand.

Comparison and Conclusion

Road Travel:

• Pros: Flexibility, scenic routes, and the ability to make stops.
• Cons: Potential for traffic delays, longer travel time.

Train Travel:

• Pros: Cost-effective, comfortable, and scenic.
• Cons: Longer travel time due to possible layovers and train changes.

Air Travel:

• Pros: Fastest option, convenient, and direct flights.
• Cons: More expensive, additional travel required from Islamabad to Taxila.

Final Recommendations

• For Leisure Travelers: Road travel offers an opportunity to explore different cities along the way. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and making multiple stops.
• For Budget Travelers: Train travel is cost-effective and comfortable. It’s a good option for those who prefer a more relaxed journey.
• For Time-Conscious Travelers: Air travel is the quickest and most convenient. It’s perfect for those who want to reach their destination quickly.

Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, traveling from Sialkot to Taxila provides a unique experience, blending the historical charm of Taxila with the vibrant culture of Sialkot.