Travel Options from Karachi to Lakhi Ghulam Shah
Lakhi Ghulam Shah is a town located in the Shikarpur District of Sindh, Pakistan. It is a relatively lesser-known destination, but it offers a glimpse into the rural life of Sindh and its unique cultural heritage. For those planning to travel from Karachi to Lakhi Ghulam Shah, there are several options available, including by road, train, and plane. This article will explore these options in detail, including the distance, routes, and travel duration.
1. Traveling by Road
Traveling by road is the most straightforward and flexible option for reaching Lakhi Ghulam Shah from Karachi. The road journey offers an opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes of Sindh, passing through several small towns and rural areas.
Route:
The most common route from Karachi to Lakhi Ghulam Shah is via the National Highway (N-5) and the Indus Highway (N-55). Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the route:
- Start from Karachi: Begin your journey from Karachi, heading northeast on the National Highway (N-5).
- Hyderabad: After approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles), you will reach Hyderabad, a major city in Sindh. It’s a good place to stop for refreshments or fuel.
- Moro: Continue on the N-5, passing through towns like Hala and Matiari until you reach Moro, which is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Karachi.
- Sukkur: From Moro, continue towards Sukkur, another significant city in Sindh, located about 460 kilometers (286 miles) from Karachi. Sukkur is the gateway to northern Sindh.
- Shikarpur: After Sukkur, head towards Shikarpur via the N-55, which is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Sukkur.
- Lakhi Ghulam Shah: Finally, from Shikarpur, take the local road leading to Lakhi Ghulam Shah, which is around 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Shikarpur.
Distance and Duration:
The total road distance from Karachi to Lakhi Ghulam Shah is approximately 530 kilometers (329 miles). The journey typically takes around 8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The roads are generally in good condition, especially on the N-5 and N-55 highways, making the drive relatively smooth.
Travel Tips:
- Fuel: Ensure that your vehicle has enough fuel before you start, as petrol stations might be sparse in some rural areas.
- Food and Rest: There are several roadside restaurants (dhabas) along the way, especially near major towns. It’s advisable to take breaks, especially during long drives.
- Weather: The region can get quite hot, especially in summer, so traveling during early morning or late evening hours might be more comfortable.
2. Traveling by Train
Traveling by train is another viable option for those who prefer a more relaxed journey. Pakistan Railways operates several trains that connect Karachi with various cities in Sindh, including Shikarpur, which is close to Lakhi Ghulam Shah.
Train Route:
- Departure from Karachi: Trains typically depart from Karachi’s Cantonment or City railway stations.
- Stop at Rohri or Sukkur: The major stop near Lakhi Ghulam Shah is either Rohri or Sukkur, both of which are well-connected by rail.
- Final Leg: From Rohri or Sukkur, you can either hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Lakhi Ghulam Shah.
Distance and Duration:
- Karachi to Rohri/Sukkur: The train journey from Karachi to Rohri or Sukkur covers a distance of approximately 470 kilometers (292 miles). The travel time can vary depending on the train, ranging from 10 to 12 hours.
- Rohri/Sukkur to Lakhi Ghulam Shah: The distance from Rohri/Sukkur to Lakhi Ghulam Shah is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road.
Train Options:
- Pakistan Express: This is a popular train that runs between Karachi and Rawalpindi, with stops at Rohri and Sukkur. It’s known for its relatively faster service.
- Khyber Mail: Another long-distance train, Khyber Mail, also makes stops at Sukkur and Rohri on its way to Peshawar.
Travel Tips:
- Booking: It’s advisable to book your train tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons.
- Class of Travel: Pakistan Railways offers several classes, including economy, AC standard, and business class. Choose according to your comfort and budget.
- Food and Snacks: Trains have canteens, but you can also carry your snacks and water for the journey.
3. Traveling by Plane
While Lakhi Ghulam Shah does not have an airport, travelers can still consider flying part of the way. The nearest airport is in Sukkur, from where you can continue the journey by road.
Flight Route:
- Karachi to Sukkur: Direct flights operate between Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and Sukkur Airport. The flight duration is around 1 hour, making it the fastest way to reach the vicinity of Lakhi Ghulam Shah.
- Sukkur to Lakhi Ghulam Shah: From Sukkur, you can hire a taxi or use local transport to cover the remaining 60 kilometers (37 miles) to Lakhi Ghulam Shah, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Airlines:
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): PIA is the main airline offering flights between Karachi and Sukkur. Flights are frequent, especially during weekdays.
Travel Tips:
- Flight Timing: Check the flight schedule in advance, as there might be limited flights available each day.
- Airport Transfer: Arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service from Sukkur Airport to your destination in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Conclusion
Traveling from Karachi to Lakhi Ghulam Shah offers a blend of options, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you choose the flexibility of a road trip, the leisurely pace of a train journey, or the speed of a flight to Sukkur followed by a short road trip, each mode of transport has its own unique advantages. The total distance between Karachi and Lakhi Ghulam Shah is approximately 530 kilometers (329 miles) by road, with travel durations varying based on the chosen method. Regardless of how you choose to travel, the journey to this quaint town in Sindh will undoubtedly be a memorable experience.
0 Comments