Lahore to Head Marala – Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Head Marala is a significant headworks on the Chenab River near the city of Sialkot in Punjab, Pakistan. It plays an essential role in water regulation and irrigation and also serves as a picturesque spot with migratory birds, making it a destination of both engineering and natural interest. The journey from Lahore to Head Marala combines road access with proximity to urban centers like Sialkot and Daska.
Distance from Lahore to Head Marala
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By Road: Approximately 145 kilometers (around 90 miles)
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By Train: Indirect route via Sialkot or Daska
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By Air: No direct flight to Head Marala; nearest airport is in Sialkot
Travel by Road
Traveling from Lahore to Head Marala by road is the most common and convenient option. The road journey typically follows:
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Route: Lahore – Kala Shah Kaku – Gujranwala – Daska – Sialkot – Head Marala
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Travel Time: Roughly 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops
The route primarily runs on the GT Road (N-5) and connects to Sialkot Road and finally to Marala Road. Roads are well-maintained, especially from Lahore to Gujranwala and onward to Sialkot. Once in Sialkot, Head Marala is about 20–25 kilometers away, which adds another 30–40 minutes to the drive.
Public transport options include intercity buses, coaches, and vans running between Lahore and Sialkot. From Sialkot, local taxis or minibuses can be taken to reach Head Marala.
Travel by Train
There is no direct train to Head Marala, but you can travel via Sialkot Junction:
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Train Distance (Lahore to Sialkot): About 125 kilometers (78 miles)
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Travel Time: Around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on train type and stops
Once at Sialkot Railway Station, Head Marala is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) away. You can take a local rickshaw, taxi, or van from the station to the headworks, which will take another 30–40 minutes.
Train travel offers a comfortable ride and is ideal for those who prefer not to drive, but the second leg of the trip (from Sialkot to Head Marala) must be completed by road.
Travel by Plane
Although Head Marala has no airport of its own, Sialkot International Airport (SKT) is the nearest:
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Flight (Lahore to Sialkot): There are no commercial direct flights between the two due to short distance
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By Road from Sialkot Airport to Head Marala: Around 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) taking 35–45 minutes
Traveling by plane from Lahore to Sialkot is not a practical option due to proximity. However, travelers arriving from other major cities (like Karachi or Islamabad) can fly into Sialkot Airport and then proceed to Head Marala by road.
Summary
The journey from Lahore to Head Marala is best accomplished by road. Whether you're interested in the hydrological infrastructure, birdwatching, or simply a peaceful natural landscape, Head Marala offers a worthwhile experience. While there are no direct train or flight routes, a combination of rail and road (via Sialkot) also works for those relying on public transportation.

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