Gujranwala to Kharian Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Gujranwala to Kharian: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Kharian, a city located in the Gujrat District of Punjab, Pakistan, is known for its rich agricultural landscape and as an important hub for trade and commerce. The city holds a strategic location between major cities like Lahore and Islamabad. Traveling from Gujranwala to Kharian can be done by road, train, or a combination of air and road travel, depending on one’s preference for convenience, time, and cost. This article will provide an in-depth look at all these options, detailing distances, routes, travel durations, and cost considerations.

By Road

The most common and convenient mode of transport for traveling from Gujranwala to Kharian is by road. The route is straightforward and offers a comfortable journey through the scenic landscape of Punjab.

1. Route:

   • Start your journey by heading southwest from Gujranwala on the GT Road (N-5).
   • Continue on the N-5 until you reach the town of Kharian, passing through towns such as Sarai Alamgir and other small villages along the way.
   • The road is well-maintained and is one of the primary routes connecting Gujranwala with several cities in Punjab.

2. Distance:

   • The distance from Gujranwala to Kharian is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles).

3. Travel Duration:

   • The road journey usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours or on weekends.

4. Costs:

   • Private Car: If you choose to travel by private car, fuel costs will typically be around PKR 1,000 to 1,500, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
   • Public Bus: Bus fare for this route typically ranges from PKR 300 to 600, depending on the bus operator and class of service.

5. Vehicle Options:

   • Private Car: Ideal for those looking for a comfortable and flexible journey. You can travel at your own pace and make stops along the way.
   • Public Bus: A more affordable option, though less flexible as buses operate on fixed schedules and routes.

6. Recommended Stops:

   • Sarai Alamgir: A small town located midway, Sarai Alamgir offers a perfect place to stop for refreshments or a quick break.
   • Local Dhabas: Along the road, there are several roadside restaurants where you can stop to enjoy traditional Punjabi food such as paratha, chicken, and lassi.

By Train

Traveling by train from Gujranwala to Kharian is another option, though it requires a bit of flexibility as there are no direct train services between the two cities. Instead, you can take a train to Gujrat, the nearest railway station to Kharian, and then complete the rest of the journey by local transport.

1. Route:

   • Take a train from Gujranwala to Gujrat, which is located just a short distance from Kharian.
   • Once you arrive at Gujrat railway station, take a local taxi or rickshaw for the final 15-kilometer (9-mile) journey to Kharian.

2. Distance:

   • Train distance: The distance from Gujranwala to Gujrat by train is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles).
   • Local transport distance: From Gujrat to Kharian is about 15 kilometers (9 miles).

3. Travel Duration:

   • Train journey: The train ride from Gujranwala to Gujrat usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
   • Local transport: The taxi or rickshaw ride from Gujrat to Kharian takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
   • Total travel time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

4. Costs:

   • Train fare: Train fares from Gujranwala to Gujrat are relatively affordable, ranging from PKR 150 to 400, depending on the class of service (economy, business, or first class).
   • Local transport: A taxi or rickshaw from Gujrat to Kharian costs around PKR 500 to 800.

5. Recommendation:

   • Train travel offers a more relaxed and affordable journey, but it is less direct. Travelers who enjoy the train experience and have no issues with transferring to local transport may find this a suitable option.

By Plane

While Kharian does not have its own airport, for travelers coming from far distances, flying into Islamabad or Lahore is a viable option. From these cities, you can complete the journey by road. However, this method is generally more time-consuming and costly compared to road or train travel for those already in the Punjab region.

1. Route:

   • Fly to either Islamabad International Airport (ISB) or Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore (LHE).
   • From Islamabad, drive south via the M-2 Motorway to reach Kharian. Alternatively, from Lahore, head northeast on the GT Road to Kharian.

2. Distance:

   • Flight distance: The distance from Lahore to Islamabad is approximately 275 kilometers (171 miles).
   • Road distance: From Lahore to Kharian is around 100 kilometers (62 miles), while from Islamabad, the road distance to Kharian is around 150 kilometers (93 miles).

3. Travel Duration:

   • Flight time: A flight between Lahore and Islamabad takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
   • Road travel: From Islamabad or Lahore, the road journey to Kharian takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
   • Total travel time: Including check-in, flight, and road journey, the total travel time is around 5 to 6 hours.

4. Costs:

   • Airfare: Flights from Lahore to Islamabad or from other major cities generally range between PKR 5,000 to 12,000, depending on the airline and booking time.
   • Road transport: Taxi fare from Islamabad or Lahore to Kharian would cost around PKR 3,000 to 5,000, depending on the type of vehicle and distance.

5. Recommendation:

   • While flying may be more convenient for travelers coming from other provinces or distant cities, it is generally not the most practical or cost-effective option for those already in Punjab. Road or train travel would be more efficient in terms of both time and money.

Scenic Highlights Along the Way

• Punjab’s Agricultural Landscape: As you travel from Gujranwala to Kharian, you’ll pass through lush green fields and small towns. The countryside offers a picturesque view of Punjab’s agricultural belt, making the road trip quite scenic.
• Sarai Alamgir: A small town located on the way, Sarai Alamgir offers a glimpse into rural life and is an excellent place to stop for a traditional Punjabi meal.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to travel to Kharian is from October to March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The summer months can be extremely hot, which might make long journeys uncomfortable.
• Pack Essentials: If traveling by road during the summer months, be sure to carry plenty of water, light snacks, and sunscreen.
• Fuel and Breaks: Make sure to stop for fuel and food breaks, especially if you are driving, to avoid fatigue during the journey.

Accommodation in Kharian

Kharian offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to mid-range guesthouses. However, for a more luxurious experience, you may want to stay in nearby cities like Gujrat, which has better facilities. Local hotels in Kharian are basic but comfortable, catering to the needs of travelers passing through the city.

Conclusion

Traveling from Gujranwala to Kharian is a straightforward journey that can be undertaken by road, train, or air, depending on your preferences. The road option offers the quickest and most direct route, with a travel time of around 1.5 to 2 hours. Train travel, although slightly longer, is a comfortable and affordable alternative. For travelers from distant locations, flying into Lahore or Islamabad and completing the journey by road is a viable option, though it tends to be more expensive and time-consuming. Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, the journey to Kharian offers a chance to experience the beauty and charm of rural Punjab.