Lahore to Head Sulemanki Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

Lahore to Head Sulemanki: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Traveling from Lahore to Head Sulemanki is a journey that takes you toward the southern part of Punjab, near the Pakistan-India border. Head Sulemanki is well known for its historical barrage on the Sutlej River and its strategic importance. This destination is not only significant in terms of infrastructure and irrigation but also plays a symbolic role in national defense and military presence.

Distance from Lahore to Head Sulemanki

• By Road: The approximate distance between Lahore and Head Sulemanki is 264 kilometers (164 miles).

• By Rail: The rail distance is nearly 250 kilometers (155 miles), depending on the train route and stopovers.

• By Air: Since Head Sulemanki does not have a commercial airport, the journey cannot be completed directly by air. However, the closest air travel would involve flying to Bahawalnagar or Multan and then continuing by road.

Travel Options from Lahore to Head Sulemanki

1. By Road

Traveling by road is the most direct and practical method to reach Head Sulemanki from Lahore. The route typically follows the following path:

Route:
Lahore → Pattoki → Okara → Pakpattan → Arifwala → Head Sulemanki

Total Distance: Approx. 264 km
Estimated Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Road Details:

• The drive begins on National Highway N-5 or M-3, heading south from Lahore.

• After reaching Okara, you can continue toward Pakpattan via Arifwala.

• The final stretch leads to Head Sulemanki via rural roads.

The route is mostly well-paved and maintained, especially on the main national highways. However, the last segment leading to Head Sulemanki includes narrower rural roads with moderate traffic and occasional checkpoints, particularly due to its border proximity.

Popular Stops on the Way:

• Okara: Known for agriculture and dairy farming.

• Pakpattan: A spiritual city famous for the shrine of Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar.

• Arifwala: A small town with rest areas and eateries.

2. By Train

Although Head Sulemanki does not have a large railway station for commercial passengers, the nearby stations like Bahawalnagar, Pakpattan, or Arifwala provide limited rail connectivity from Lahore.

Estimated Travel Time by Train: 6 to 7 hours, depending on the train and route.

Suggested Route:
Lahore Railway Station → Okara → Pakpattan → Bahawalnagar → Head Sulemanki (by road)

You will need to:

• Board a train from Lahore to Pakpattan or Bahawalnagar.

• From there, take a local transport or private vehicle for the remaining distance to Head Sulemanki, which is roughly 30 to 40 km from these towns.

Pakpattan and Bahawalnagar are served by slower passenger trains rather than express services, so journey planning is essential.

Note: Train services on this route may be limited and schedules are subject to change, especially for stations in rural southern Punjab.

3. By Air

There is no direct air travel option to Head Sulemanki due to the absence of a nearby commercial airport.

Alternate Air Route:

• Fly from Lahore to Multan International Airport or Bahawalpur Airport.

• Continue the journey by road via Bahawalnagar to Head Sulemanki.

Air Travel Time (Lahore to Multan or Bahawalpur): Approximately 1 hour
Road Travel from Airport to Head Sulemanki: Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the airport chosen.

This option is more time-consuming and costly and is generally not preferred unless you are already traveling from or to Multan or Bahawalpur for other reasons.

Travel Recommendations

• Best Option: Traveling by road is the most efficient and direct method. It allows flexibility and access to scenic rural areas of Punjab.

• Time-Saving Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid peak traffic around Lahore and Okara.

• Security Note: Due to the proximity to the Indian border, expect to encounter military or ranger checkpoints. Always carry valid identification.

About Head Sulemanki

Head Sulemanki Barrage is constructed on the Sutlej River and was inaugurated during British colonial rule in 1926. It is part of the Sutlej Valley Project and plays a key role in irrigation for the surrounding districts, including Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, and Vehari. The barrage also diverts water to canals such as the Upper Pakpattan Canal and Fordwah Canal.

It is also home to a Rangers’ post and parade ground, where ceremonial activities are occasionally held, particularly on national holidays or for public visitors with prior security clearance.

Whether you are a traveler interested in historical infrastructure, a student of civil engineering, or simply looking for a quiet trip in southern Punjab, a visit to Head Sulemanki offers a unique blend of natural and strategic importance. While transport options may be limited, the route offers an insightful view into rural Punjab's life and landscape.