Gujranwala to Dera Ismail Khan: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Dera Ismail Khan, often known as the gateway to the Dera Ghazi Khan Division, is a vibrant city in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Located at the foot of the Sulaiman Range, Dera Ismail Khan is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and its proximity to various tourist destinations. If you're planning to travel from Gujranwala to Dera Ismail Khan, there are several travel options to consider. In this article, we will explore the available options for travel by road, train, and plane, covering the distance, routes, travel duration, and more.
- By Road: 540 km (335 miles)
- By Train: 570 km (354 miles)
- By Plane: 420 km (261 miles)
1. Travel by Road
Traveling by road is one of the most accessible and common ways to reach Dera Ismail Khan from Gujranwala. The road trip offers a direct route and the opportunity to see the diverse landscapes of Pakistan, from plains to rugged terrains. The total distance by road is approximately 540 kilometers (335 miles), and the journey generally takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way.
Route:
The journey starts from Gujranwala heading south towards Lahore on the M-2 Motorway. From Lahore, you will drive towards Multan via the N-5 National Highway. Continuing along this route, you'll reach Dera Ismail Khan, passing through towns such as Bhakkar and Mianwali along the way.
This drive offers a glimpse of Punjab’s agricultural landscapes and the shift toward the arid terrains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, creating a unique travel experience.
Duration:
The entire road trip can take around 8 to 10 hours, with approximately 6 to 8 hours to reach Multan, and another 2 to 3 hours to reach Dera Ismail Khan. Be prepared for some possible delays due to road conditions or heavy traffic, especially during peak travel times.
2. Travel by Train
While there isn't a direct train route from Gujranwala to Dera Ismail Khan, you can take a train from Gujranwala to Lahore or Rawalpindi, then board another train heading toward Dera Ismail Khan. The train ride offers a more relaxed journey for those who prefer a scenic and comfortable ride.
Route:
You can catch a train from Gujranwala Railway Station to Lahore or Rawalpindi, which typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. From Lahore, you will then board another train traveling toward Dera Ismail Khan, which takes around 5 to 6 hours. The overall duration for the journey by train is approximately 7 to 9 hours, including transfers and wait times.
Duration:
The total train journey may take around 9 to 12 hours, depending on the waiting time for train transfers. This is a more leisurely way to travel but could add to your total travel time.
3. Travel by Plane
Flying to Dera Ismail Khan is the fastest and most convenient option, but it requires a flight from Sialkot (nearest to Gujranwala) to Islamabad or Peshawar, followed by a domestic flight to Dera Ismail Khan.
Route:
From Sialkot, you can take a flight to Islamabad International Airport, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes. From Islamabad, you can catch a flight to Dera Ismail Khan Airport. The flight from Islamabad to Dera Ismail Khan is relatively short, typically taking around 1 hour. Upon arrival, the airport is located just a short drive from the city center.
Duration:
The total flying time (from Sialkot to Islamabad and then to Dera Ismail Khan) is around 2 hours, excluding any waiting time or transfers. This option is ideal for those who are looking for a fast and comfortable way to travel.
Conclusion
There are several ways to travel from Gujranwala to Dera Ismail Khan, each with its own set of benefits and considerations:
- By road, the distance is approximately 540 kilometers (335 miles), and the trip can take around 8 to 10 hours, offering a direct route with scenic views and opportunities to stop in various towns along the way.
- By train, the journey is divided into two segments, with the first leg taking you from Gujranwala to Lahore or Rawalpindi and then to Dera Ismail Khan. This option takes 9 to 12 hours depending on waiting times and transfers, providing a relaxed yet time-consuming way to travel.
- By plane, flying from Sialkot to Dera Ismail Khan is the quickest option. The total flying time is about 2 hours, making it the fastest choice for those who prefer speed and convenience.
Choosing the best mode of transportation depends on your budget, time constraints, and travel preferences. Whether you decide to enjoy a scenic road trip, take a leisurely train ride, or fly for maximum efficiency, the journey from Gujranwala to Dera Ismail Khan offers its own unique experiences. The warm and hospitable atmosphere of Dera Ismail Khan awaits you, no matter which travel option you choose.
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