Karachi to Noor Mahal Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Karachi to Noor Mahal

Noor Mahal, a striking palace in Bahawalpur, is one of Pakistan’s architectural gems, combining the charm of history with grandeur. If you're planning to travel from Karachi to Noor Mahal, this guide covers all the essential travel options by road, train, and plane, with details on distances, routes, and durations.

1. By Road

Traveling by road from Karachi to Noor Mahal is a popular option, particularly for those who enjoy long drives and want to see more of Pakistan’s landscape. Bahawalpur is approximately 846 kilometers (526 miles) from Karachi.

Distance:

• Kilometers: 846 km
• Miles: 526 miles

Travel Route:

The road journey primarily follows the National Highway (N-5), one of Pakistan’s major highways, which connects Karachi to several important cities. Here's the recommended route:

1. Karachi to Hyderabad: Start by taking the M-9 Motorway from Karachi to Hyderabad. This stretch is about 165 kilometers (102 miles).
2. Hyderabad to Multan: After reaching Hyderabad, you’ll continue on the N-5 towards Multan. This segment will take you through the cities of Moro, Ranipur, and Sukkur. The total distance between Hyderabad and Multan is around 598 kilometers (371 miles).
3. Multan to Bahawalpur: Once you reach Multan, Bahawalpur is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) away via the N-5 and E-5 highways. Noor Mahal is located in the heart of Bahawalpur.

Travel Duration:

• Without Stops: Approximately 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• With Stops: Including breaks for meals or fuel, the journey may take up to 16 hours.

Road Conditions:

The N-5 highway is well-maintained for most of the journey, and there are plenty of rest stops along the way. However, traffic around Hyderabad and Multan can cause delays, so plan accordingly.

Cost:

• Fuel Costs: For a vehicle with average fuel consumption, expect to spend between PKR 10,000 to 15,000 on fuel, depending on your car’s mileage and fuel prices.

Attractions Along the Way:

Traveling by road allows you to explore some fascinating locations en route, including:

• Hyderabad: Famous for its bazaars and food.
• Moro: A small town known for its agriculture.
• Sukkur: You can view the famous Sukkur Barrage and the Indus River.

2. By Train

For those seeking a more comfortable and affordable option, Pakistan Railways offers a convenient way to travel from Karachi to Bahawalpur, from where you can easily reach Noor Mahal.

Distance:

• Kilometers: 846 km
• Miles: 526 miles

Route:

The train journey begins at Karachi Cantt Station and terminates at Bahawalpur Station. Major train services running this route include:

1. Karachi Express
2. Shalimar Express
3. Green Line Express

All these trains follow a similar route, passing through Hyderabad, Rohri, Multan, and then arriving at Bahawalpur. From Bahawalpur Station, Noor Mahal is just a short 10-minute drive away.

Travel Duration:

• Karachi to Bahawalpur: Depending on the train service, it takes around 12 to 14 hours to reach Bahawalpur.

Ticket Prices:

• Economy Class: PKR 1,500 to 2,000
• Business Class: PKR 4,000 to 6,000

Facilities Onboard:

Trains offer basic amenities like air conditioning in business class, comfortable seating, sleeping berths, and onboard dining options.

Convenience:

The train offers a relaxing way to travel, as you won’t need to worry about road conditions, fuel costs, or rest stops. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to meet fellow travelers and experience the scenic countryside from the comfort of your seat.

3. By Plane

The quickest way to reach Noor Mahal from Karachi is by air, although there are no direct flights to Bahawalpur. You'll need to fly to Multan, the closest major city with an airport, and then travel to Bahawalpur by road.

Distance:

• By Air (Karachi to Multan): 749 kilometers (465 miles)
• By Road (Multan to Noor Mahal): 100 kilometers (62 miles)

Flight Duration:

• Flight: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes from Jinnah International Airport (KHI) to Multan International Airport (MUX).
• Road: The drive from Multan to Noor Mahal takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Airlines Operating on this Route:

• Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
• AirSial
• Airblue

Cost:

• One-Way Flight Ticket: PKR 8,000 to 12,000 (depending on the season and availability).

Facilities:

Flights are equipped with modern amenities like in-flight refreshments and comfortable seating. Upon landing in Multan, you can either hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Careem or Uber to reach Bahawalpur.

Overall Travel Experience:

• Road Travel: Best suited for those who enjoy long drives and exploring the countryside. It is a cost-effective option, but the journey can be tiring, especially during summer months when temperatures soar.
• Train Travel: Offers a balance between comfort and affordability. You can relax during the journey, and Bahawalpur is easily accessible from Karachi via major train services. However, it may take longer than other options.
• Air Travel: The fastest and most convenient way to travel, though slightly more expensive. You can cut down travel time significantly by flying to Multan and then driving to Noor Mahal.

Final Thoughts:

Each mode of transportation has its benefits depending on your preferences. If you're on a budget or enjoy scenic drives, the road option may be best for you. If comfort and time are your main considerations, flying to Multan and driving the final stretch offers the quickest route to Noor Mahal.

Regardless of how you choose to travel, a visit to Noor Mahal will reward you with stunning architecture, rich history, and a glimpse into the grandeur of Bahawalpur’s royal past.