Lahore to Kohat Tunnel Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Lahore to Kohat Tunnel: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

The Kohat Tunnel, also known as the Pak-Japan Friendship Tunnel, is a key transportation route in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, connecting the southern Kohat region with Peshawar via the Kohat Pass. This 1.9-kilometer-long tunnel not only enhances accessibility but also bypasses the treacherous terrain of the Kohat Pass, offering safer and faster travel. Travelers from Lahore interested in visiting or passing through the Kohat Tunnel will find several transport options suited to different needs and budgets. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the distance, duration, and available travel modes.

Distance Between Lahore and Kohat Tunnel

• By Road: Approximately 520 kilometers (323 miles)

• By Train (to Kohat + Road to Kohat Tunnel): Approximately 525 kilometers (326 miles)

• By Air (to Peshawar Airport + Road to Kohat Tunnel): Approximately 445 kilometers (276 miles)

Traveling by Road

Road travel is the most practical and scenic way to reach the Kohat Tunnel from Lahore. The journey includes motorway travel up to Peshawar or Islamabad, followed by travel through the hilly terrain of Kohat District.

• Recommended Route:
  Lahore → M-2 Motorway → Islamabad → M-1 Motorway → Peshawar Road → Indus Highway (N-55) → Kohat → Kohat Tunnel

• Estimated Duration:
  8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic conditions and checkpoint delays.

• Road Conditions:

  • The roads from Lahore to Peshawar are smooth and multi-lane highways.

  • From Peshawar to Kohat, the road narrows and becomes more rugged with turns and elevation changes.

  • The Kohat Tunnel itself is a paved, secure route operated with tolls and checkpoints.

• Bus Services:
  Intercity buses such as Faisal Movers and Skyways operate daily services from Lahore to Kohat and Peshawar. After reaching Kohat, local taxis or public transport can take you to the tunnel entrance.

Traveling by Train

While there is no train service directly through the Kohat Tunnel, you can travel by train to Kohat Railway Station, located relatively close to the tunnel. The remainder of the journey is completed by road.

• Train Route:
  Lahore Junction → Rawalpindi → Kohat Railway Station

• Rail Distance:
  Around 470 kilometers (292 miles)

• Estimated Duration:
  10 to 12 hours, including transfers and stopovers.

• Road Distance from Kohat Station to Kohat Tunnel:
  About 8 kilometers (5 miles), approximately 15–20 minutes by road.

• Rail Facilities:
  Pakistan Railways provides both Economy and AC sleeper options. Tickets should be booked in advance due to limited train frequency.

Traveling by Air

Air travel significantly reduces overall travel time. While Kohat does not have a commercial airport, the nearest airport is Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar. After landing, travelers can continue to the Kohat Tunnel by road.

• Flight Route:
  Lahore (Allama Iqbal International Airport) → Peshawar (Bacha Khan International Airport)

• Air Distance:
  Approximately 370 kilometers (230 miles)

• Flight Duration:
  About 1 hour

• Post-Flight Road Distance:
  From Peshawar to the Kohat Tunnel is around 50 kilometers (31 miles), requiring 1.5 to 2 hours of travel depending on traffic and checkpoint timing.

• Airlines Operating This Route:
  PIA, AirSial, and Airblue offer frequent daily flights.

About the Kohat Tunnel

• Length: 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles)

• Construction: Completed in 2003 with funding and engineering support from Japan.

• Purpose: To ease traffic congestion and provide an alternative to the steep and often dangerous Kohat Pass route.

• Restrictions: Commercial trucks, buses, and private vehicles are all permitted. However, motorcycles and vehicles carrying hazardous materials may be restricted. Security checkposts are operational on both ends.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

• Time of Travel:
  Morning departures from Lahore are ideal to reach the Kohat region during daylight.

• Toll & Entry Fees:
  The tunnel has a nominal toll fee. Keep cash ready if traveling by private vehicle.

• Fuel and Refreshments:
  Fuel stations are frequent on the motorway and in Kohat. Roadside dhabas and cafes are available, especially near Peshawar and Kohat.

• Vehicle Check:
  Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, especially for the mountainous segment approaching the tunnel.

Scenic and Cultural Attractions Nearby

• Kohat City:
  Known for its colonial architecture, bazaars, and local handicrafts.

• Kohat Pass (Old Route):
  Offers a scenic drive but is less commonly used now due to the tunnel.

• Sherkot and Darra Adam Khel:
  Nearby areas known for traditional gun craftsmanship and tribal heritage (note: check for safety advisories before visiting).

Mobile Connectivity and Internet

• Mobile Signals:
  Strong coverage from all major telecom providers throughout the route and inside the tunnel, although there may be slight signal drops within the tunnel itself.

• Internet:
  3G/4G is available in Kohat and nearby urban areas. It may be limited in rural or mountainous terrain.

Final Thoughts

The journey from Lahore to Kohat Tunnel is a mix of modern highway travel and rustic mountainous terrain, offering both convenience and adventure. Whether you're traveling for business, transit, or exploration, the Kohat Tunnel simplifies access to southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bypassing difficult mountain roads and reducing travel time. With a variety of travel modes available—by road, train, or air—visiting this strategic landmark is more accessible than ever.