Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is a historic city in Punjab, Pakistan. It attracts thousands of pilgrims annually, especially from the Sikh community, who come to visit the sacred Gurdwara Janam Asthan, the birthplace of Guru Nanak. Nankana Sahib, located about 75 kilometers from Lahore, is accessible by road, train, and air from various parts of Pakistan, including Gujranwala. In this article, we will explore the different travel options available for those journeying from Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib, including the distances, routes, travel durations, and costs.

By Road

The road route from Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib is the most common and convenient method of travel. The journey is relatively short and straightforward, making it an ideal option for both locals and visitors traveling to this holy city.

1. Route:

   • Start from Gujranwala city center and head south-west towards the Grand Trunk Road (N-5).
   • Follow the N-5 highway towards the city of Lahore, but instead of entering Lahore, take a left turn towards Nankana Sahib once you reach the outskirts.
   • The route is well-signposted, and the roads are generally in good condition, making the journey smooth.
   • The entire journey passes through rural and semi-urban areas, providing a peaceful travel experience.

2. Distance:

   • The distance from Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib is approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles).

3. Travel Duration:

   • The road journey from Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The road is relatively free of heavy congestion, but the travel time can increase during peak hours or during religious events when there are large gatherings of pilgrims.

4. Costs:

   • Private Car: If traveling by private car, the fuel cost for the trip is approximately PKR 1,000 to 1,500, depending on the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
   • Public Bus: A more affordable option would be taking a bus, which usually charges a fare between PKR 200 to 500 depending on the bus service.

5. Vehicle Options:

   • Private Car: Ideal for those who want to travel at their own pace and enjoy flexibility, especially if they plan to stop for a visit at the Gurdwara or other local attractions.
   • Public Transport: Bus services offer a cheaper alternative, but they operate on fixed schedules and are less flexible when it comes to departure times or stopping points.

6. Recommended Stops:

   • Local Dhabas: There are various roadside eateries along the route where you can stop for a quick break. You can enjoy traditional Pakistani food such as dal, roti, or kababs.
   • Historical Sites: If you are interested in the region’s history, consider stopping at some of the other religious and historical sites near Gujranwala or Nankana Sahib.

By Train

Train travel is another viable option for reaching Nankana Sahib from Gujranwala. While there are no direct trains to Nankana Sahib itself, passengers can take a train to the nearby town of Sheikhupura or Lahore and then proceed to Nankana Sahib by road.

1. Route:

   • From Gujranwala, take a train to Sheikhupura, which is the closest railway station to Nankana Sahib. The distance between Gujranwala and Sheikhupura is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles).
   • Once at Sheikhupura, you can either take a taxi or a local bus to Nankana Sahib, which is around 25 kilometers (15 miles) away.
   • Alternatively, you can take a train to Lahore and then drive to Nankana Sahib, although this would add extra time to your journey.

2. Distance:

   • Train Journey: The train ride from Gujranwala to Sheikhupura covers around 50 kilometers (31 miles).
   • Road Journey: From Sheikhupura to Nankana Sahib, the distance is approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles).

3. Travel Duration:

   • Train Journey: The train ride from Gujranwala to Sheikhupura typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
   • Local Transport: The drive from Sheikhupura to Nankana Sahib takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
   • Total travel time: The total journey, including both the train ride and local transport, will take around 2 to 2.5 hours.

4. Costs:

   • Train Fare: Train fares from Gujranwala to Sheikhupura are quite affordable, ranging from PKR 100 to 300, depending on the class of travel.
   • Local Transport: A taxi ride from Sheikhupura to Nankana Sahib would cost around PKR 500 to 800.

5. Recommendation:

   • Train travel is an economical option, though it requires transfers. For those who enjoy a more relaxed journey and do not mind making transfers, this can be an enjoyable and budget-friendly way to reach Nankana Sahib.

By Plane

For travelers who are coming from outside Punjab or from other provinces, flying into Lahore is a practical option. Once in Lahore, you can complete the rest of your journey to Nankana Sahib by road.

1. Route:

   • The nearest major airport to Nankana Sahib is Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore.
   • From Lahore, take the N-5 highway towards Nankana Sahib. The route is well-maintained, and the distance is about 75 kilometers (47 miles).
   • The drive from Lahore to Nankana Sahib takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

2. Distance:

   • Flight: The flight from any major city in Pakistan to Lahore varies. From Karachi, for instance, the distance is approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles).
   • Road Distance: From Lahore to Nankana Sahib, the road distance is approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles).

3. Travel Duration:

   • Flight Duration: A flight from Karachi to Lahore takes around 2 hours. Other domestic flights from cities like Islamabad or Peshawar will have a similar duration.
   • Road Travel: The road journey from Lahore to Nankana Sahib takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

4. Costs:

   • Airfare: Flights from Karachi to Lahore generally range from PKR 6,000 to 12,000, depending on the airline and booking time.
   • Road Travel: A taxi from Lahore to Nankana Sahib would cost approximately PKR 3,000 to 5,000.

5. Recommendation:

   • For travelers from other cities in Pakistan, flying into Lahore and then traveling by road to Nankana Sahib is a convenient option. While it might be more expensive, it saves time, especially for those who are pressed for time and wish to reach the city quickly.

Scenic Highlights Along the Way

• Punjab’s Rural Landscape: As you travel from Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib by road, you will pass through rural Punjab, with lush green fields, small villages, and farmlands. The landscape is peaceful, and the journey offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the people living in the region.
• Gurdwara Janam Asthan: The main attraction in Nankana Sahib is the Gurdwara Janam Asthan, the birthplace of Guru Nanak. The gurdwara is a sacred site for Sikhs, and its tranquil atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for pilgrims.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Nankana Sahib is during the cooler months of October to March. The summer months can be extremely hot, making long journeys uncomfortable.
• Carry Essentials: If traveling by road, ensure you have water, snacks, and sun protection. A power bank for your mobile phone is also a good idea, especially if you plan to take pictures or need directions.

Conclusion

Traveling from Gujranwala to Nankana Sahib is relatively simple, with multiple options to choose from based on your preferences and budget. The road journey is the most convenient and quickest way, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. Train travel offers a more economical option but requires transfers, while flying into Lahore and then traveling by road is best for those coming from distant locations. Regardless of the mode of transport, the journey to Nankana Sahib offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and spiritual significance of the region, particularly for Sikhs.