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First timer’s guide to train travel in Pakistan

Updated in 2020: A complete guide to train travel in Pakistan. Includes all the information you could possibly need to make your journey as pleasant as possible.

It might not look it on a map, but Pakistan is huge.

Luckily, for travelers and locals alike, it invested heavily in infrastructure, making traveling around relatively straightforward. Buses zip between major towns and cities, and there’s always some form of local transport to be found. In the northern part of the country, Jeeps and minibuses (“coasters”) reign supreme. But if you’re traveling in the center or south— especially if you’re traveling long-distance—nothing beats a good ol’ train trip.

Pakistan’s rail network stems from the British colonial days… and not much has changed since then. Older trains have rattled on since the English assigned them to the rails, and the fortress-like stations still stand strong. Train tracks throughout the country lie deserted, though Chinese investment might soon revamp them.

However, Pakistan’s rail network is still extensive, and traveling by rails is a quintessential South Asian experience. Unfortunately, traveling by train can be a bit confusing: there are different classes, different types of names, erratic ticket offices and timings, dozens of stations… and then some!

But travelers can now rejoice! I’ve created this complete guide to train travel in Pakistan just for you, so you won’t have to go through all the trouble I had to go through when I first traveled in Pakistan.

Lost With Purpose’s guide to train travel in Pakistan

• Finding the right train

Types of trains

• Train classes
• Buying a ticket
• Female safety
• Electricity and charging
• Food and drinks
• Keeping your ticket
• Packing list

The deserts of Sindh make for some epic desert sunsets!

Finding the right train in Pakistan

First things first: if you want to travel by train, you need to find the right train for your journey.

To do this, go to the website of Pakistan Railways. Here, you’ll be able to find your train under the “plan your journey” section of the page. Although getting to the information you want is a bit roundabout, the process of navigating the website is rather self-explanatory. If the website is working, that is.

This route map gives a good indication of all the railway lines in Pakistan:

Riding the Bolan Mail to Karachi at the end of my Iran – Pakistan border crossing adventure

There are several types of trains. From the business class Green Line train between Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, to the historic—but less than comfortable—Bolan Mail between Karachi and Quetta. On some routes there is only one train, on some routes there are several.

Some trains stop at almost all train stations along the way, and some at only a few. Unfortunately, the names of the trains aren’t always indicative of how long a train journey will take. For instance, the Awam Express between Lahore and Karachi takes more than a day, while the Business Express on the same line takes roughly 17 hours. Clearly the meaning of “express” is fluid in Pakistan.

Luckily, the Pakistan Railways website indicates how long each train journey should take, and you can make your choice depending on that metric. As a rule of thumb, the slower the train, the cheaper (and often less comfortable) it is.

Note:  Times given on the Pakistan Railways site are  estimates only . Trains in Pakistan are usually late, and it’s not uncommon for your train journey to take several hours longer than indicated.

My favorite part about trains in Pakistan: being able to enjoy the views from open doors.

Train class types

Pakistan Railways offers seven different classes on its trains. Not all trains will have all seven; most have two or three classes available.

The classes are divided as follows:

ACSL –  AC Sleeper

Pc – ac  parlour car, aclz –  ac business.

• ACL   – AC Standard
• ISL   – First Class Sleeper

EC –  Economy Class

Sec  – second class.

Doesn’t mean anything to you? No worries: I know these names don’t clarify very much. Here’s what you can expect from each of the Pakistan train classes:

The highest and most expensive class. AC Sleeper class is comprised of private compartments, each shared with one to three other travelers. The compartments contain two to four long bunks that can be used as both bench and bed. Bring a blanket, as the AC can actually get  too cold.

In this class, the train windows don’t open, and you won’t see many (if any) outside people walking up and down the train selling snacks and chai—all tea and food service is managed by the train staff.

Inside an AC Sleeper class cabin

Comfortable AC chair class, reminiscent of European commuter trains. Not recommended for long journeys, as the seats don’t really recline.

Similar to the luxurious AC sleeper class, but shared with more people. Each closed compartment houses six travelers in total.

Typical AC Standard scenes

ACL  – AC Standard

Sometimes known as “AC Lower”, this class depends on the train. On short rides, this class can be compared to riding on a bus with AC. On longer rides, this class will have bunk berths for sleeping.

The sleeper train cars have an open layout, divided into sections. Each section will have six bunks to the side, and two bunks along the aisle.

ISL  – First Class Sleeper

Standard sleeper type compartment with an open berth style coach. Meaning, arrangements of open compartments with 6 bunk beds, and upper and lower bunks running along the path through the train car. No AC.

In Economy Class (EC), some seats are for sleeping, others only for sitting

Similar to First Class Sleeper, but the seats to the side are only for sitting, not sleeping.

Standard train seating arrangements. Don’t be surprised if you spot people sitting and sleeping on the floor.

Queueing up for tickets in Rawalpindi

How to buy a train ticket in Pakistan

Now that you have a solid idea of the train and class you want to take, it’s time to buy a ticket!

Although it’s theoretically possible to buy tickets online—I personally do, though it often involves much frustration—many still buy train tickets at the train station, ticket office, or with a travel agent.

In smaller towns and cities, you can usually only buy tickets at the train station. In bigger cities, there are also ticket offices. Make sure to bring some patience, as ticket offices can get busy.

Buying Pakistan train tickets online

Tickets can be purchased online with the help of a local friend. You can book tickets via the Pakistan Railway website and Android app .

To buy tickets you have to set up a Pakistan Railways account, for which you need a CNIC (Pakistan ID document number). If you’re a foreigner, using your own passport number doesn’t work—you need a local friend to sign up using their CNIC and other information. Tickets can only be paid for with a Pakistani debit or credit card. No foreign cards.

You also need a CNIC number to book a train ticket. Never fear, you can travel using tickets purchased with someone else’s CNIC ; it’s common practice when heads of family purchase tickets for other family members.

If someone buys your ticket for you, make sure to bring a copy of the ID card of the person whose CNIC number you used (unless you travel with that person, of course!). Conductors will likely ask for a copy to cross-reference their data with the CNIC number of the person who booked the ticket.

Know that buying tickets from the Pakistan Railways website isn’t always straightforward; I’ve had it take four or five tries (and a lot of swearing) before the booking went through. It’s also not possible to get any foreigner discounts when booking online.

Protip: It’s possible to get a  25% – 50% foreigner discount when buying a train ticket. Check this article on how to get a discount on train tickets as a foreigner.

Feelin’ classy… in the lowest train class.

Female safety on trains in Pakistan

Unfortunately, female safety in Pakistan is always an important consideration. As it is anywhere in the world.

Don’t worry about being kidnapped or anything; creepy men touching you is generally the biggest risk in the train. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the risk of something happening:

When booking a train ticket, choose for the middle bunk when riding in the open-plan cars. On Indian trains, I always went for the top bunk, as there are dividers between each section. However, I recently had an unpleasant encounter on the top bunk during a train trip to Karachi where there was no divider. Next time, I’m going for the middle bunk—it’s more secluded.

Be wary of closed compartment cars (higher class) if traveling alone. Though they might seem safer from prying eyes than the open seating plans, but if you get stuck in a compartment with only men as travel companions, things could get uncomfortable.

Buddy up with women and families around you. They’re often protective of female travelers, and likely will take care of you. Men are much less likely to do pull stunts when other women or families are watching.

If something happens, call a conductor or police officer. You’ll see them wandering around the trains, and they can take care of the situation if anything unpleasant occurs.

Tip:  There are women-only sections on trains. If you’re a a female traveler(s) and you feel uncomfortable, you can ask the conductor to move you to the women’s section of the train—or a safer section of the train—free of cost.

Goaty McGoatface trying to board the train

Tips on train travel in Pakistan

Boarding the train.

Some trains have information written in English on their exteriors, but many trains only have information in Urdu. If you’re unsure about which train to get on, just ask. A station employee, security person, or friendly local will be sure to help you get on the right train.

At major stations, trains will stop for an extended period of time (anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour), so no rush if you want to get out, stretch your legs, and quest for pakora on the platform. Just keep an ear open for the train whistle, signaling it’s time to go.

At minor stations, however, the train will only stop for a few minutes, enough time to unload old passengers and bring on the new.

Waiting for the train in Hyderabad

Electricity and charging in the train

Starting at AC Standard class, there will be power plugs available (for round, two pronged plugs). However, unless you’re in the highest class, there are usually only a few outlets in each coach. Electricity does go out at times. Load shedding in the train, perhaps?

Of course, this depends on the train—nothing is consistent in Pakistan. For long journeys, make sure to bring a power bank. Even if you don’t use it, someone else surely will.

Food stall at a busier train station in Sindh

Food & drinks on the train

Although there are juice, chai, and food wallahs walking up and down the lengths of the trains, most people bring their own supplies. Don’t be surprised to see porters carrying in bags, buckets, or boxes stuffed with food for families!

The food served on Pakistani trains is notoriously bad and dirty , and stations where you’ll stop long enough to find food are sometimes hours and hours apart. Packing some snacks for the train ride is a good idea; it’s also cheaper (and probably cleaner) than buying food en route.

Note:  Good luck finding trash bins on the train or at the stations. Though people generally use the great outdoors as one giant trash heap, please resist the urge. Bring along something to collect your waste in and dispose of it in a bin once you reach your destination.

Toilets on the train

As you would expect, toilets aren’t in the best of conditions. They’re guaranteed to get progressively worse as the journey continues.

Make sure to bring anti-diarrhea medicine in case you ate some bad food the day before your journey, and hand sanitizer for after you emerge from the toilets. At this point, I’ve gotten sick several times from not washing my hands before eating on the train.

Fortress-cum-railway station in Lahore (but really)

Safety on the train

Safety in Pakistan is always a concern. Use common sense when on the trains: don’t leave valuables unattended, be wary of other passengers, watch your bags, etc. I recommend putting a bag with your valuables at the end of your bunk or seat, and using it as a pillow while you sleep.

Though most people have good intentions and will take care of you, people keep warning me about this particular point so it’s worth a mention:

Sometimes people drug food, then offer it to other passengers so they can take advantage of them later on. Though this is more commonplace in touristic destinations in India, rather than Pakistan, it doesn’t hurt to stay vigilant. Use common sense and trust instincts when accepting food and drinks from other passengers. If someone is looking shifty or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to reject their offer.

Keeping your train ticket

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll be asked to present your train ticket upon leaving the train station. Make sure to hang on to your ticket if you have a paper ticket.

Lost your ticket? You can feign foreigner ignorance, though in 2016 I had some trouble getting out of the Bahawalpur train station without my ticket. In the end, I just gave the guy a piece of paper saying that it was the folded ticket, and walked away before he could say anything else.

Watching the world go by at a station in Sindh

Pakistan train travel packing list

In case you’re list-oriented, here’s a quick packing list to ensure your train journey goes as smoothly as possible.

• Your train ticket, of course!
• Hand sanitizer for the toilets
• Bag or container for trash
• Snacks and water
• Power bank for charging if/when power is out
• Lightweight blanket or sleeping bag for overnight journeys. It can get cold!

Safe travels, and enjoy your train adventures!

Want more practical Pakistan travel tips? Don’t miss this Pakistan travel guide !

Yay transparency!  There are some affiliate links in this post. If you buy something using my links, I’ll make a bit of change at no extra cost to you. Think of it as a way of saying thanks for providing the information. Profits may or may not go toward ice cream on my next sweltering train trip.

Alex Reynolds

33 thoughts on “ first timer’s guide to train travel in pakistan ”.

How can I bring chicks through Pakistan railway with me

Ghulam bhai, you can accomodate them in live-stock compartment

Ac sleeper me max kitne persons allow hote he

can you please inform me freedom pass for older persons are allowed in Baba Freed Express Vehari to Karachi or not

Can you have sex on train?

I am sorry to say that i will never travel pakistan in my life because there is no any agreement between India and Pakistan for travelling.

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Useful country information

What are pakistani trains like, classes of accommodation.

AC Sleeper class (ACSL), air-conditioned berths in 2 & 4 berth compartments;

AC Business class (ACLZ), air-conditioned berths in 6-berth compartments;

AC Parlour car (PC), air-con open-plan seating, recommended for daytime journeys;

AC Standard class (ACL), also known as AC Lower, air-conditioned open-plan berths;

First class sleeper (ISL), berths in open-plan carriages, often grubby, not air-con;

Economy class (EC), not air-con, open-plan seats & berths, you can pay for a berth or a seat;

2nd class seats (SEC), basic seats in crowded open-plan carriages, not air-con.

You can check train times and availability at the Pakistan Railways site, www.pakrail.gov.pk .

AC Parlour car

Parlour car on the Subak Raftar from Lahore to Rawalpindi.  Photos courtesy of Nonstop Eurotrip

AC Business class

Business class 6-berth compartment on the Tezgam from Rawalpindi to Karachi , see video of the journey .  Photos courtesy of Nonstop Eurotrip .

How to buy tickets

In theory, you can buy tickets at the official website www.pakrail.gov.pk , booking opens 90 days ahead.  However, you need a Pakistani national ID number and payment only works with Pakistani-issued credit cards, so it's a non-starter for most visitors.  The same applies to some other third party websites selling tickets online via the official system.

For visitors, the best bet appears to be contacting a local Pakistani travel agent.  Let me know if you find a good one!

Karachi Cantonment station .   Photo courtesy of Nonstop Eurotrip .

Karachi to Lahore, Rawalpindi & Peshawar

This is the mainline across Pakistan, and route of Pakistan's most famous train, the Khyber Mail .  There are lots of trains, but only the most important trains are shown here.  All trains shown have a restaurant car.  Check times locally - with so few people going to Pakistan I have not spent much time updating these tables.

A = AC sleeper, B = AC Business berths, P = Parlour car seats, S = AC Standard berths, E = Economy berths & seats, 2 = 2nd class seats. 

Check times at www.pakrail.gov.pk .

Train 1/2 = The KHYBER MAIL, most famous train in Pakistan, recommended for Karachi-Peshawar journeys.

Train 7/8 = TEZGAM, recommended for Karachi-Rawalpindi journeys.

Train 15/16 = KARACHI EXPRESS.  Recommended for Karachi-Lahore journeys.

Train 27/28 = SHALIMAR EXPRESS.  Recommended for Karachi-Lahore journeys.

Train 41/42 = KARAKORAM EXPRESS.  Modern spacious Chinese-built coaches, with AC Lower Class sleepers, no AC Class sleepers.

£1 = approx 340 rupees.  $1 = 270 rupees.  You can check fares at www.pakinformation.com .

Children under 3 free, children 3 but under 12 travel at half the adult fare.

An express train at Lahore.  Photo courtesy of Chris Silvester.

Karachi to Quetta

S = AC Standard berths, E = Economy berths & seats

Train 3/4 = BOLAN MAIL.   Check these times at www.pakrail.gov.pk .  Check fares at www.pakinformation.com .

Quetta to Lahore, Rawlapindi & Peshawar

A = AC sleeper, B = AC Business berths, P = Parlour car seats, S = AC Standard berths, E = Economy berths & seats, 2 = 2nd class seats

Train 23/24 = AKBAR EXPRESS.

Train 39/40 = JAFFAR EXPRESS.

Check these times at www.pakrail.gov.pk .  Check fares at www.pakinformation.com .

Khyber Pass

The line up the Khyber Pass from Peshawar to Landi Kotal, built by the British in 1920, is now officially closed to passenger trains.  Special steam excursions used to operate from time to time until 2006-8, but the line was damaged by floods, quite apart from the security situation in the area.

Pakistan to India by train

Update : Tension in Kashmir means all India-Pakistan trains are suspended at the moment.

Lahore-Amritsar-Delhi

A twice-weekly train leaves Lahore at 08:00 on Mondays & Thursdays (these are the confirmed days of running as at November 2008, previously it ran on Tuesdays & Fridays) for Wagah (the Pakistan side of the Pakistan/India frontier) arriving 09:15, departing again after customs checks at 11:30 (in practice usually after 12:00) for Atari on the Indian side of the frontier, arriving 20 minutes later.  The train has 2nd class non-air-con seats only, and it's composed of Indian Railways carriages for half the year, Pakistani coaches for the other half (I suspect that the days of running may vary depending on which country is providing the coaches - it my run on Tues & Fri for part of the year when provided by Indian Railways, please double-check locally).  There are connections for Amritsar arriving around 15:00, and for Delhi (please double-check connecting times locally).  The fare from Lahore to Wagah is 130 Pakistani rupees.  Tickets are not sold at Lahore's main station, but at Lahore Railway Headquarters, about 2km from the station.  You need your passport to buy a ticket.  The fare from Wagah to Atari is 16 rupees.

For details of the westbound Samjhota Express from India to Pakistan, and for information on train travel within India, see the India page .

However, Lahore-Amritsar can also be done daily, and faster, by bus or taxi.  Take a bus or taxi Lahore-Wagah, walk through the frontier to Atari on the Indian side, then take a bus or taxi to Amritsar for daily trains to New Delhi.  Going by bus or taxi also allows you to see the spectacular ceremony at sunset when the border closes.  Indian and Pakistani guards try to outdo each other with their performances, watched by Indians and Pakistani crowds - as a tourist, you may get to sit in the VIP stand!    See the India page .

Karachi-Munabao-Jodhpur-Delhi

A new weekly international train called the Thar Express started on 17 February 2006. 

Eastbound:  The Thar Express leaves Karachi every Friday at 23:00, arriving at 'Zero Point' on the Pakistan/India frontier at around 08:00 next morning.  After customs checks, the train goes forward to Munabao on the Indian side, arriving around 11:00.The Indian train departs Munabao at 19:00 after customs formalities, arriving Jodhpur (Bhagat Ki Kothi station) at 23:50 Saturday.

Westbound:  The Thar Express leaves Jodhpur (Bhagat Ki Kothi station, about 4km from the main station) every Saturday morning at 01:00 arriving Munabao at 07:00, leaving Munabao at around 14:30 on Saturdays, reaching Karachi at 02:15 on Sunday morning. 

The sleeper fare from Jodhpur to Munabao/zero point is about Rs170, and from Munabao/zero point to Karachi is about Rs230.  No more information is yet available, but feedback would be appreciated!  The train has one sleeping-car and several economy cars.

Pakistan to Iran by train

Trains run from Quetta to Zahedan (Iran) twice a month, see the Europe-India overland page .  Alternative buses may also be available, please check locally.  You should check the security situation in this part of Iran at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice before travelling.

Europe to Pakistan overland

This is possible in 2-3 weeks, if you are adventurous and have the necessary organisational & planning skills.  See the Europe-India overland page .

More information please!

If you have any photos, travel reports or more information that would be useful for this page, please e-mail me !

Hotels in Karachi & Pakistan

Backpacker hostels.

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to Pakistan

Overland travel by train & bus around Pakistan is an essential part of the experience, so once there, don't cheat and fly, stay on the ground!  But a long-haul flight might be unavoidable to reach Asia in the first place.  For flights to Pakistan, start with Skyscanner.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com .

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How to get around Pakistan by road, rail and air

Aug 30, 2023 • 12 min read

The journey may be slow but watching Pakistan's landscape unfurl as you travel by train is a magical experience © Awais khan / Shutterstock

Pakistan is one of Asia’s most exciting frontiers, but exploring independently can pose challenges, especially for those new to the country.

While public transportation is extensive, finding out about it can be difficult due to the limited amount of information online.

Planning a trip to Pakistan might seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the intricacies of the local transport system, you’ll quickly gain the confidence to travel to the most remote corners of the country. Here's everything you need to know about getting around once you arrive.

Travel by bus to hop from city to city

Numerous bus operators provide cost-effective travel between major cities. Companies such as Daewoo Express and Faisal Movers are known for their dependable service, connecting many destinations across Pakistan using large, comfortable buses. Dozens of smaller companies offer bus and van services to less frequented cities.

Larger bus companies offer online bookings – reserve your tickets through their websites (or via their apps) three or four days prior to departure. To make an online booking, you’ll need a Pakistani contact number and identity card; it's often more convenient to book through a travel agent or a local contact. Alternatively, visit the bus terminal to buy tickets in advance from the bus company booking desk.

Premium air-conditioned buses have a higher price tag than regular buses, but they offer swifter travel with fewer stops before you reach your destination. As a guide, a Daewoo Express intercity bus between Lahore and Rawalpindi (4½ hours) costs Rs 2470 for a standard air-conditioned bus and Rs 3170 for Gold Class. For the 16-hour journey between Lahore and Karachi, the fare is Rs 7300 for a luxury bus and Rs 8670 for a superior sleeper bus. Many bus operators also provide budget-friendly options, including lower-class air-conditioned buses and affordable but crowded non-air-conditioned buses.

Ask locally to find out which buses go where or visit the bus station to explore all available options. If you know the route, you can board at the roadside stops where buses briefly stop to allow passengers to board or disembark, which may be the only option in small villages. Smaller buses and vans are often overcrowded, accommodating more passengers than their designated capacity, and you may have to stand in the aisle.

Ride the rails to meet the locals

The railway system in Pakistan was established during the period of British colonial rule, and the route of the main line of Pakistan Railways, stretching from Peshawar to Karachi, closely mirrors the path taken by Alexander the Great when he invaded in 327 BCE. Unfortunately, due to inadequate maintenance and investment, the trains have become outdated. Service does not always meet international standards and train derailments have occurred in the past.

However, train travel presents a wonderful chance to engage in meaningful interactions with local people, and a unique opportunity to enjoy the diverse beauty of the local landscape and culture. Taking the train is also an economical choice for travel in the south of the country – for example, from Islamabad/Rawalpindi or Lahore to Karachi.

Tickets can be booked online through the Pakistan Railway website if you have a local contact number and identity card. However, the online booking system is not very reliable – it's better to buy tickets at the railway station a few days before you travel. Several different classes of trains operate between the main destinations in Pakistan; for travel between Lahore and Karachi, Green Line Express and Pak Business Express trains are the superior choices.

Tickets for classes of travel can be reserved in advance. AC Standard Class (also known as AC Lower Class) provides a satisfactory seat in an air-conditioned carriage. If you'd prefer a little more comfort, AC Business or AC Sleeper Class is more suitable. Almost all trains also offer Economy category seats, which are affordably priced. However, this class of travel can be challenging due to overcrowding and uncomfortable seating in open-plan carriages. When traveling in AC class, booking a whole cabin (with space for up to 6 individuals) offers increased privacy for people traveling in a group.

At stations, food vendors hop on the trains selling local specialties or you can explore more dining options by taking a quick stroll along the station platform when the train stops. Just be mindful not to take too long – trains only halt for a few minutes at each station, and there’s usually a rush of passengers getting on or off with their luggage.

Fly to cut out slow overland journeys

Air travel presents a convenient alternative to long, slow trips overland, such as the journey from Islamabad or Lahore to Karachi, as well as for reaching Pakistan's mountainous regions. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the country's flagship carrier, has flights to destinations across Pakistan, including the mountain airstrips at Gilgit, Skardu and Chitral.

Complementing the national carrier, private airlines such as Air Blue operate flights to select destinations, with most flights starting in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. In recent years, several new airlines have commenced operations, including Serene Air , Air Sial and Fly Jinnah . Reserve tickets from the airlines' official websites, or through local travel agents.

Flights to mountainous regions should be booked months in advance; availability falls during the bustling tourist season from June to October, so last-minute bookings are not advisable. Domestic flights are often delayed, particularly during the foggy winter season in the plains. Additionally, flights to northern areas are prone to delays or cancellations during the monsoon season between July and September.

Buses and planes provide (relatively) easy access to the mountains

The Northern Area Transport Company (NATCO) is the most important bus service provider for travel to Gilgit-Baltistan. However, some of their buses are old and not adequately maintained, with limited legroom for a lengthy journey of over 20 hours on uneven roads.

Departing from Rawalpindi in the evening, Natco buses travel through the night to reach destinations in the mountains the following day. Ticket prices are moderate but the buses can be overcrowded and some play loud music throughout the journey. Consider traveling with a chartered vehicle and driver for more comfort.

Recently, Faisal Movers has started offering services to select destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Their buses are in better condition, ensuring a more comfortable journey. For those planning a trip to the Chitral region, the Hindukush Express stands out as a dependable choice.

If you’re considering flying to the mountains, you'll find three primary airports receiving flights from the lowlands: Gilgit, Skardu and Chitral. The flights typically span about an hour – a significant reduction on the travel time by road – but it's important to note that these flights use small ATR aircraft and services are frequently impacted by weather conditions.

An upgrade has been made to Skardu airport recently, allowing for flights using larger Airbus aircraft. In 2023, Skardu Airport welcomed its inaugural international flight originating from Dubai , opening up a new, more direct route to the mountains.

Renting a car and driver gives you more flexibility

Renting a vehicle is the most comfortable way to travel around Pakistan, as it provides greater comfort and flexibility, and saves a lot of time. You’ll find agencies renting cars and 4WD vehicles all over Pakistan, and the majority offer vehicles with a driver, so you won’t have to worry about having the correct driving license or learning the local road rules.

Pakistan drives on the left side of the road but driving here can be challenging due to the chaotic traffic and inadequate road infrastructure – having an experienced local driver familiar with navigating the region is a definite advantage. Note that foreigners are required to present their passports and visas at police checkpoints when journeying through mountainous regions and in some southern parts of Pakistan. Carry printed copies of your passport and visa for easy access, as it will help to prevent any potential delays or complications.

If you're keen to explore side valleys in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a 4WD vehicle is essential for navigating the region’s unpaved roads. Among the perilous (but thrilling) roads in Pakistan’s mountains, the routes to the Fairy Meadows, Shimshal, Chapursan, Shandur Pass and Kalash stand out.

Be aware that certain high mountain passes become impassable in winter due to heavy snowfall, so don’t schedule a trip without checking which routes are accessible at the time of your visit. The Karakoram Highway is open year-round as far as the Chinese border, but the border crossing between Pakistan and China closes in winter, usually between November and March.

Renting motorcycles is easier, with a number of companies specifically catering to the needs of tourists, including Karakoram Bikers , which specializes in the Karakoram region. Rental companies recommend that riders have an International Driving Permit alongside a home driving license covering geared motorcycles, though license checks are not a frequent occurrence.

Navigating Pakistan's roads can be a challenging endeavor, and previous experience of motorcycle riding is essential for such adventures. Always drive cautiously and give way to larger vehicles. It's crucial to obtain appropriate insurance when you rent a motorcycle, as the majority of travel insurance providers do not include coverage as standard.

Understanding Pakistan’s road network

In the more developed regions of Pakistan, the road network is of a commendable standard. Surfaced roads connect the main cities, and roads within urban areas are well maintained. Major cities such as Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad are connected by modern motorways featuring up to six lanes.

This road system is undergoing rapid enhancement thanks to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative. The main objective of this project is to establish a direct connection between Gwadar Port in Balochistan and Kashgar in China for the movement of goods to international markets.

The legendary Karakoram Highway (KKH) between Pakistan and China was constructed along the path of the ancient Silk Route and it’s frequently hailed as the 8th wonder of the world because of the challenging terrain and breathtaking views.

Driving along this famous highway gives you the chance to marvel at the beauty of majestic mountains such as Nanga Parbat (8126m/21,660ft) and Rakaposhi (7788m/25,551ft), while you pass through three of the world's highest mountain ranges: the Karakoram, the Himalayas and the Hindukush.

Pakistan’s other signature route is the Grand Trunk (GT) Road, an ancient trading route that originates in Kabul in Afghanistan , spans large parts of Pakistan and India , and eventually reaches Bangladesh . Within Pakistan, the GT Road extends from the Khyber Pass in Peshawar to the Wahga border in Lahore.

The GT Road sees constant traffic, including Pakistan’s distinctively ornamented trucks and buses; a drive along this historic route will provide a mixture of awe and fascination, as you share the road with vibrantly adorned freight trucks showcasing Pakistan's renowned truck art. Traveling this route will also allow you to explore a series of spectacular historical landmarks dating back to the Mughal era.

Buses, taxis and rickshaws provide easy urban transport

You can't solely depend on public transportation to reach every corner of every city; instead, you'll need to mix various commuting methods. When moving around cities such as Lahore, Rawalpindi and Multan, government-run Metro Bus services are a reliable option. In Karachi, buses on the Green Line and Orange Line of the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system serve key locations.

Alongside government-run bus services, there are numerous smaller bus companies operating within Pakistan’s cities, although the vehicles often lack proper upkeep and finding out details about routes and schedules can be challenging; ask locally for advice.

In urban areas, conventional taxis are available at taxi stands. However, negotiating a price is necessary as most taxis do not have meters. As an alternative in major cities, popular ridesharing apps include Careem , Uber (in Lahore) and InDrive .

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, simply embark on an enjoyable journey aboard one of Pakistan’s vibrantly ornamented autorickshaws and Qingqis (motorcycle rickshaws). As with taxis, you’ll have to negotiate a fare.

In Lahore, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the city via a guided tour on a double-decker sightseeing bus. For an enriching experience within Lahore’s old city walls, you can take a ride onboard the city’s colorful Rangeela rickshaw s . These rickshaws, adorned with truck art themes, have become a popular attraction among tourists, and navigate fixed routes around the old city.

Travel to restricted areas in Pakistan

Certain regions in Pakistan remain off-limits to foreign visitors unless they first obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) – a time-consuming process known for its complexity. Officially restricted areas include Azad Kashmir, Balochistan, and a number of other border regions.

Travel advisories from foreign governments advise caution when journeying through some parts of Pakistan, and warn against “all travel” in some areas. If you ignore this government advice, your travel insurance may not be valid. It is imperative to thoroughly research and plan your travel itinerary, along with securing comprehensive insurance with coverage for all sections of your planned route within Pakistan.

Accessible travel in Pakistan

Infrastructure in Pakistan is primarily designed for those without mobility issues, and there is limited provision for travelers with disabilities. There are no dedicated cycle lanes and spaces for pedestrians are often shared with fast-moving vehicles, posing significant challenges for the mobility-impaired. Additionally, few streets and buildings offer accessibility modifications for wheelchairs and baby strollers, further limiting inclusivity.

Few travel agencies or transportation services specifically cater to individuals with disabilities, and traveling by bus or train can be difficult due to inadequate infrastructure for wheelchair users and travelers with limited mobility. Renting a private vehicle along with a driver is probably the best way to ensure a comfortable and flexible journey. For more information on accessible travel, see Lonely Planet’s Accessible Travel Resources .

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A guide for the first timer to train travel in Pakistan

While it may not be visible on a map but pakistan is massive..

It invested heavily in infrastructure to make train travel in Pakistan around the country easy for locals as well as travelers. You can find local transport everywhere you go. Buses run between major cities. The northern region of the country is dominated by minibuses (“coasters”) as well as Jeeps. But if you’re traveling in the center or south–especially if you’re traveling long-distance–nothing beats a good ol’ train trip.

Pakistan’s rail network dates back to the British colonial period… and has not changed much since then. Older trains have survived since the English gave them rails and fortress-like stations continue to be strong. The country’s train tracks are deserted. However, Chinese investment may soon revitalize them.

However, Pakistan has an extensive rail network and rail travel is a great way to experience South Asia. It can be confusing to travel by train: there are several classes, many names, irregular ticket offices and timings, and dozens upon dozens…

Now, travelers can rejoice! You don’t need to go through the same problems I went through when I first visited Pakistan. This guide will help you navigate Pakistan’s train travel.

Finding the right train to take you to Pakistan

First of all, you must find the right train to take you on your train journey.

You can do this by visiting the Pakistan Railways website. This section will allow you to locate your train and plan your journey. Although it can be difficult to get the information you desire, navigation is easy. If the website is functioning, then it is.

Types and types of trains

There are many different types of trains. The Green Line train, which is business class, runs between Karachi Lahore and Islamabad. It also has the historic but less comfortable Bolan Mail, which runs between Karachi and Quetta. There may be only one train on certain routes, while there may be several.

Some trains stop at most stations on the route, others at just a few. However, the names of the trains may not always indicate how long the train journey will take. For example, the Awam Express runs from Karachi to Lahore in more than a full day. The Business Express, however, takes around 17 hours. Pakistani express is a fluid term.

The Pakistan Railways website gives an indication of how long each train journey should take. You can choose your destination based on that information. As a general rule, the faster the train is, the more expensive it will be (and, often, less comfortable).

Types of Train Classes

Pakistan Railways offers seven classes on its trains. All trains do not have the seven classes; many have only two or three.

These classes are broken down as follows:

• ACSL- ACSL Sleeper
• AC Parlour Car
• ACLZ AC Company
• AC Standard – AC Standard
• ISL – First-Class Sleeper
• EEC – Economy Classes
• SEC 2nd Class

This doesn’t necessarily mean anything for you. Don’t worry: These names don’t really explain much. This is what you can expect of each class of Pakistan train:

ACSL – AC Sleeper

This class is the most luxurious and expensive. AC Sleeper class includes private compartments which are shared with three to four other travelers. These compartments have two to four long, comfortable bunks that can double as a bench and a bed. You should bring a blanket as the AC can get cold.

You won’t find any outside people selling snacks or chai on the trains in this class. The train staff manages all tea and food service.

PC – AC Parlour Car

Comfortable AC chair class that is reminiscent of European commuter trains. These seats don’t recline so they aren’t recommended for long trips.

AC Business

Similar to AC sleeper class, but shared by more people. Each compartment can accommodate six people.

ACL – AC Standard

This class, sometimes known as “AC Lower”, is dependent on the train. This class is similar to riding on a bus with AC, but for shorter trips. For longer rides, the class will offer bunk berths that can be used for sleeping.

The layout of the sleeper train cars is open, with sections. Each section will have six beds to one side and two along the aisle.

ISL – First Class Sleeper

Open berth type coach with standard sleeper type compartment. Open compartments with six bunk beds. The upper and lower bunks run along the tracks through the train car. AC not allowed.

EC – Economy Class

Similar to First-Class Sleeper, but the seating to the side is for sitting only, and not sleeping.

SEC – Second Class

Standard train seating arrangements If you see someone sleeping on the floor, don’t be surprised.

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Pakistan’s long but inexpensive and adventurous train journeys

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• Life in Pakistan

Doğan Yücel, a former PakTurk teacher, wrote about the long but inexpensive train journeys in Pakistan. Yücel, who quoted examples from his adventurous travel experiences, also reminded the heartfelt display of humanity after a train crash near Karachi.

The most inexpensive way of intercity travel in Pakistan, although it lasts longer, is to travel by train. I would like to briefly express some of my and my colleagues’ memories here. In the early days, we used the train a lot for reasons such as low salaries and taking students to trips and competitions.

Train journeys, especially with crowded economy class during the scorching heat of the summer months, do not let themselves forgotten even after so many years. 😊 Intercity trips used to take quite a long time. I rode on 36-hour train journeys twice. In one, it was summer and it was so hot that I could not even see my face because of the dust. The other time was in the winter season. Eight hours before Quetta, the train stopped. I asked the staff and they said, “The engine broke down, we have to wait eight hours for the new engine to arrive from Quetta.”

The Jafar Express plied between Quetta and Islamabad. We usually travelled in a six-person compartment in the ‘Lower AC’ section. The staff would hand us the woollen blankets called ‘Pattoo’ in addition to the ticket price. The food on the Jafar Express was very delicious or it seemed to us that way because we used to be very hungry during those journeys. 😄

The engine driver was probably a public van driver once!

We once travelled from Quetta to Khairpur Mirs in the economy class. That train was nice too. We would go to the AC (air-conditioned) car of the economy class and if we could ever find an empty seat in the aisle, we would there for some time. Shopping from the window of our compartment during stopovers was an altogether thrill. Once the train stopped in Sibi. There was a makeshift mosque there for the faithful to offer their prayers. We got off the train and while we took our ablutions and then stood up in prayer, the train started to move. Trains move slowly at first so that everyone can catch up. We just finished the prayer and jumped on board right on time.

Another time, we travelled to Khairpur Mirs from Peshawar with Mr. Sadullah. The train used to slow down near Khairpur Mirs, but it would not come to a complete stop. It was only slowing down enough for the passengers to get off or get on. It was kind of like a Pakistani public van. In Pakistani public vans, the conductors would grab you from the jam-packed passenger chunk and projectile you off board or pull you inside the van to shoehorn you into the crowd very skilfully! I guess the driver of this train would have been a public van driver in the past, so he would not have stopped the train. When we travelled on that train with Mr. Sadullah, we jumped off the train in Rohri, a town Khairpur Mirs. We took economy class seats and travelled by train from Rawalpindi to Quetta to attend Mr. Yakup’s wedding.

My travel companion on a train journey was a goat!

In the ‘Economy’, ‘AC Parlour’ or ‘Lower AC’ carriages of the trains, you will have the unique opportunity to experience the thrill which you otherwise cannot experience elsewhere in daily life. The real adventure is in the economy class. People and animals travel in peaceful coexistence there! For example, during one of my travels, my travel companion was a goat. It even offered me fresh milk directly from the source.😄 The owner was travelling with his entire goat herd in the economy class. I can say that I learned the love of animals in the economy class of trains. Those journeys, which seemed difficult at that time due to the heat, the crowd, and the smell of spices, left such beautiful memories on the palate that even after a decade or two, they both sadden me with longing and also make me smile, leading to sigh and say ‘how sweet days those were!’ In those days, we had only one thought: to serve the people of Pakistan. Things like low salaries or traveling with goats could never crush us as challenges.

When our school building in Lahore was in Gulberg district, our home was in the Cavalry Ground. On our way to school, there was a bridge built over the railway tracks, but it was of no use to us then. We had to cross the tracks as it was not possible for us to climb the bridge on our bicycles. What’s more, the rickshaw drivers preferred to avoid the bridge. Whenever the train was due, the meshed gates on both sides of the tracks would be shuttered. Whenever the gates opened after two or three minutes, traffic would start flowing again in mutual uproar. It was incredible how so many people in their vehicles could gather there within such a short time.

On this occasion, I pray to Almighty Allah for His mercy to those who lost their lives in the recent fatal train crash (*) in Sindh province. I also wish a speedy recovery for the injured and patience to the families and relatives of the dear departed.

A humanity pageant in Sukkur

I would like to relate here an incident which had happened three years back, on June 30, 2018, through the news report filed by Imran Kazmi of the daily Express Tribune (**)

Sukkur villagers praised for selflessly providing relief to train accident victims

Shalimar Express had met the mishap on a journey from Karachi to Lahore.

In an utmost display of selflessness and devotion to provide relief, villagers in Sukkur reached out to the passengers of a train after it derailed following an accident.

The Shalimar Express on a journey from Karachi to Lahore survived an accident a few kilometres away from Mehrabpur in the nick of time. The bogey of the economy class almost detached from the train on its way on a fast speed but the driver promptly applied the brakes.

Talking to The Express Tribune, DTO railways Sukkur Usman Gujjar confirmed that the Lahore-bound Shalimar Express faced technical difficulties at Mehrabpur on Thursday. Usman said the stoppage was for almost two hours. The train resumed its journey after the railways team fixed the damaged parts.

As an eyewitness narrated, the train was stranded in the middle of nowhere in scorching heat with no sign of population or life. The passengers were extremely perturbed as their children were crying and women were suffering intensely.

To make matters worse, the train staff informed the passengers it might take up to six hours for the rescue operation to begin.

Amidst the feeling of intense helplessness, the residents of Noo Potra village were seen descending alongside trees in large numbers. Some were carrying water coolers, while others had milk and other edible items with them. Those who couldn’t carry these brought ice with them for the affectees. Every one of them wanted to serve the passengers.

Meanwhile, some of the residents brought a large cauldron of rice in a rickshaw. The poverty-stricken people apparently did not have dishes so they brought sand plates to serve the food. They started distributing food items as soon as they arrived on the scene.

According to the eyewitness, the role of the youngsters was exemplary as they engaged in rescue work despite the weather conditions.

Neither did the helpers know who they were helping nor were they aware to which province, tribe or religion the affectees belonged or the language they spoke. There was only one relation between them; of humanity, sympathy and patriotism.

Upon receiving information of the incident, local police officer Allah Rakhiyo Rind took charge of the situation.

The eyewitness further said he thanked the angelic workers in person and blessed them from the core of his heart. These compassionate beings seemed ecstatic on gaining a chance at mass service.

Finally, when the train was restored, the helpful villagers bade farewell to the departing train in a way usually employed to see-off close relatives.

The eyewitness said the fleeting love taught many lessons to the onlookers on how beautiful the people of Pakistan are. “They’re sympathetic, helpful, humane and feed others from what they have,” he concluded.

(*): Pakistan’s sad day: 62 people died in train crash  

(**): https://tribune.com.pk/story/1746701/1-sukkur-villagers-relief-efforts-train-accident-victims-will-restore-faith-humanity/?amp=1

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• Travel Guide

General train travel information for PAKISTAN. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.

Brief History

Pakistan's railroad history began in 1855 with the first line between Karachi and Kotri during the British rule. After the formation of Pakistan in 1947, the infrastructure was divided among the new states. The establishment of the Pakistan Railways Authority in 1955 was the beginning of the system's development. New lines, trains and updated rolling stock became part of it. Over time, challenges were faced: aging infrastructure, financial problems, and lack of investment. Governments took steps toward reform, including talk of private ownership. Today, Pakistan Railways continues to operate, providing passenger and freight transportation. Modernization and expansion of infrastructure remains a priority.

General Information and Statistics

Rail services in Pakistan are provided by the state-run Pakistan Railways, under the supervision of the Ministry of Railways. Pakistan Railways carried 35.700 million people in 2022.

The railroad network has 8,163 km, including 293 km of electrified tracks(3,5%).  There are 625 stations in the network.

What connections to other countries there are.

Pakistan has railroad links with India, Iran (via Zahedan and Quetta), and plans to develop links with Afghanistan, China (project under development) and Turkmenistan. Passenger and freight routes to Turkey via Iran are also being considered.

Are trains fast in Pakistan in general? How much time to cross the country?

Trains in Pakistan are not characterized by high speed. Pakistan's railway system faces various challenges, including outdated infrastructure, limited investment, and maintenance issues, which can affect overall train speed and efficiency.  The journey from Karachi Cantt to Rawalpindi takes 21:50 hours and from Quetta to Rohri JN. 11:15 hours.

What railway companies are available?

In Pakistan, the main railroad company responsible for managing and operating the rail network is Pakistan Railways (PR).

What train types are available in Pakistan

There are several types of trains. From the Green Line business class train running between Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad to the historic but not too comfortable Bolan Mail train running between Karachi and Quetta. Some routes have only one train, some have several.

Some trains stop at almost all stations along the route, and some stop at only a few. Unfortunately, you can't always tell how long a trip will take by train names. For example, the Awam Express between Lahore and Karachi takes more than a day, while the Business Express on the same line takes about 17 hours. Obviously, the meaning of "express" in Pakistan is fluid.

Are there high-speed-trains available?

As such, there are no high-speed trains in Pakistan. The maximum speed on most lines is 120 km/h, but on the modernized sections of the Karachi-Peshawar line the speed can reach 130 km/h. Work is underway to upgrade all main lines to 160 km/h.

Most important train stations / hubs.

The main railway stations  in Pakistan are Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sukkur, Attock Khurd, Quetta, Golra Sharif.

Websites to buy train tickets for Pakistan?

https://www.pakrail.gov.pk/SeatAvailability.aspx

Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Pakistan?

The Pakistan Railways online booking app is a convenient way for passengers to book train tickets from the comfort of their own homes. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Pakistan?

You can buy a train ticket at a Pakistani railway station. There are ticket counters at various railroad stations of Pakistan Railways where passengers can purchase tickets for their desired trains. The ticket offices are generally open during working hours and provide information about available train options, timetables and fares.

Can I buy my ticket by phone?

Pakistan Railways does not have the option of purchasing tickets through a phone call.

Return the ticket.

Online Tickets:

    • Refunds are made through the service provider using the same payment method.     • Must present original identification (CNIC) and a cancellation message.     • Withholdings: 10% for 48 hours, 20% for 24-48 hours, 30% for less than 24 hours prior to departure.     • No refunds for departures after 2 hours, Gard Chart creation or no message.     • If train is canceled/delayed more than 6 hours - no deductions, but a statement is required.

Paper tickets:     • Refund through reserve centers.     • Photocopy of identification card (CNIC) is required.     • Withholdings: 10% for 48 hours, 20% for 24-48 hours, 30% for less than 24 hours.     • After Gard Chart - 30% withholding, after departure - 50% withholding.     • Full refund if train is canceled.     • Adaptation to available seats if unavailable.

Train ticket prices

Pakistan Railways ticket prices depend on the distance and direction of your journey, and allow you to choose the best options for your needs. Imagine you are embarking on an exciting rail journey - let's take a look at the prices on some key routes.     • Traveling from Lahore to Karachi: You will need just €3.88 to take this exciting journey. Experience the spirit of Pakistan's diverse landscapes and enjoy the comfort of the train.     • From Rawalpindi to Karachi: Your journey will cost €4.22. This route will allow you to immerse yourself in the scenic views and feel the pulse of the country as you pass by its unique attractions.     • Multan to Karachi: Embark on this thrilling journey for only 2.55 €. Your eyes will rapturously contemplate the transforming landscape outside the window.     • Travel from Quetta to Karachi: If your journey starts from the lush expanse of Quetta and ends in Karachi, your ticket price is just 2.40 €. Turn your journey into an unforgettable adventure.

Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?

Train travel between Pakistan and India has been temporarily suspended due to tension. Previously, the routes were:     • Lahore-Amritsar-Delhi: The train traveled from Lahore to Amritsar and Delhi. Ticket price and schedule were subject to change.     • Karachi-Munabao-Jodhpur-Delhi: The Thar Express train connected Karachi and Jodhpur via Munabao. The train had sleeper and economy coaches.     • Traveling to Iran: Trains from Quetta to Zahedan (Iran) also existed. It was recommended to check safety before traveling.

Where to find timetables.

Find train schedules on https://www.pakrail.gov.pk/TrainTiming.aspx

Buying tickets in advance or right before the train

In Pakistan, it is advisable to buy train tickets in advance, especially during peak season or on popular routes. This will help to secure a confirmed seat and avoid possible hassles. However, on less busy routes or outside peak times, you can try to buy your ticket just before the train departs.

Types of tickets.

In Pakistan, there are several types of train tickets available to cater to different passenger preferences and budgets. Here are some common types of train tickets:     • Economy Class: This is a standard class of travel, offering basic seating and amenities at an affordable price. Economy class is suitable for budget-conscious travelers.     • AC Standard Class: Similar to Economy class, but with air-conditioning for added comfort during your journey.     • AC Business Class: This class offers better seating and more comfort than AC Standard class. It usually includes air-conditioning, more spacious seating, and sometimes additional amenities.     • AC Sleeper Class: This class provides sleeper berths for overnight journeys. It's a popular choice for long-distance travel, offering privacy and bedding for a restful sleep.     • AC Parlor Car: A premium class with a more luxurious and spacious setting. It's often equipped with private cabins or compartments for a higher level of comfort.     • Green Line Express or Business Express: These are luxury train services with modern amenities, including comfortable seating, dining facilities, and entertainment options.

Interrail/Eurail Passes in Pakistan

Interrail/Eurail Passes are not available in Pakistan.

Saver price.

Pakistan Railways does not have a separate ticket category or fare called " Saver Price".

Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?

Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.

Flexible tickets.

Flexible tickets are not available in Pakistan.

Rules of boarding.

No information on the need to show passport when boarding a train in Pakistan.

Discounts for group travel.

There are no discounts for group travel on Pakistan trains.

Age groups and discounts.

Half fare will be applied to kids between 3 to 10 years of age. Half fare will be applied to old citizens of age 65 and more at the time of booking (in selected trains only).

Age limitations for minors.

No information on the ability of unaccompanied children to travel on Pakistan's trains.

Handicapped passengers.

Discounts are available for people with disabilities. In order to receive a discount, you must provide a document confirming the right to a discount.

Seat reservations in trains in Pakistan.

On most trains in Pakistan, when purchasing a ticket online, the traveler has the option to choose the seat. This is included in the ticket price.

Comfort classes on the trains.

When traveling by train in Pakistan, you can choose from different classes for your comfort:     • ACSL - AC Sleeper (AC Sleeper Carriage with Air Conditioning): Cozy sleepers for overnight travel with air conditioning.     • PC - AC Parlour Car (AC Parlour Car): A premium class with comfortable seats, allowing you to enjoy luxury on the road.     • ACLZ - AC Business (AC Business Class): Spacious seats with business level comfort ensuring a pleasant journey.     • ACL - AC Standard: A class with basic comfort level and air conditioning.     • ISL - First Class Sleeper: Comfortable first class sleepers for a cozy overnight journey.     • EC - Economy Class: A budget option with basic amenities to save money.     • SEC - Second Class: Standard class for basic needs.

Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Pakistan.

Food is provided on most trains in Pakistan. Special menu:     • Roast chicken (1/4 whole chicken), rogni naan, French fries/tomato ketchup.     • Two vegetable cutlets, salad, fruit (banana, orange/kinno). Price: 0.69 €. Menu for trains 15 UP / 16 DN and 41 UP / 42 DN:     • Dinner: Pulav or two rogni nana, curry chicken / curry mutton, lentils / vegetables, salad. Price: 0.31 €.     • Extra: Rogni nan - 0.025 euros, good quality rice - 0.094 €.

Night trains in Pakistan?

Pakistan Railways operates several night trains that provide overnight travel options for passengers. Night trains are a convenient way to cover longer distances while maximizing your time and comfort. 

    • Awam Express: Awam Express is a popular night train that connects major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. It offers sleeper and economy class options for overnight travel.     • Green Line Express: Green Line Express is a premium night train known for its modern amenities and comfortable accommodations. It travels between Karachi and Islamabad.     • Khyber Mail: Khyber Mail is another night train that operates between Karachi and Peshawar, providing an overnight connection between these two important cities.     • Tezgam Express: Tezgam Express offers overnight service between Karachi and Rawalpindi, allowing passengers to travel comfortably while sleeping.     • Karachi Express: Karachi Express is a night train that connects Karachi with Lahore, offering sleeper and economy class options for passengers.

Important train routes in Pakistan.

August 2023

Karachi – Lahore /from 17:10 hours / from 10.24 EUR Karachi – Rawalpindi /from 21:50 hours / from 8.98 EUR Lahore – Rawalpindi / from 6:04 hours / from 2.83 EUR Lahore – Multan /from 5:30 hours / from 2.99 EUR Karachi – Hyderabad / from 2:10 hours / from 2.05 EUR Lahore – Faisalabad / from 2:00 hours / from 2.36 EUR

International train routes.

There are no international trains from/to Pakistan at the moment.

Tourist / scenic routes in Pakistan.

Pakistan offers several scenic and tourist routes that allow travelers to experience the country's natural beauty and cultural diversity from the comfort of a train. These routes provide a unique way to explore Pakistan's picturesque landscapes and historical sites. Here are a few notable tourist and scenic train routes in Pakistan:

    • Karakoram Express - Rawalpindi to Karachi: This route takes you through diverse landscapes, including the lush plains of Punjab, the dramatic vistas of the Salt Range, and the scenic beauty of Sindh. The train passes by historic cities and towns, offering a glimpse into Pakistan's rich history.

    • Bolan Mail - Karachi to Quetta: This journey offers breathtaking views of the Baluchistan region, including the rugged terrain of the Bolan Pass and the stunning vistas of the Chiltan Mountains.

    • Khushal Khan Khattak Express - Karachi to Peshawar: Traveling through the heart of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this route offers a glimpse of the region's picturesque landscapes, traditional villages, and historic sites.

    • Khyber Steam Safari - Peshawar to Landi Kotal: Although not a regular service, this special steam-powered train offers a unique opportunity to experience the iconic Khyber Pass and enjoy panoramic views of the tribal areas along the border with Afghanistan.

    • Shalimar Express - Lahore to Karachi: This route provides a journey through Pakistan's heartland, passing through agricultural fields, rural landscapes, and historic towns.

Luggage information.

The following free allowance for each ticket is given at the starting stations on the total weight of the luggage carried by the passenger in the compartment:     • Air-Conditioned (Sleeper) Class: 50 Kilograms     • Air-Conditioned Sitter: 20 Kilograms     • First Class Sleeper: 20 Kilograms     • Air-Conditioned Lower: 20 Kilograms     • Economy Class: 20 Kilograms     • Second Class: 20 Kilograms

Bicycle on the train.

TO BOOK A BICYCLE ON THE TRAIN:

Go to Cargo Office. Submit NOC + copy of bike registration certificate + copy of CNIC. Pay the transportation cost (€4.63 for transportation from Karachi to Lahore) Remove all important devices (side mirrors, cell phone holders, etc.) from the bike.

Ski or snowboard on the train.

No information on whether you can take skis or snowboards on the train in Pakistan.

Luggage lockers on the stations in Pakistan.

Information on lockers at railway stations in Pakistan was not found.

Lost and Found Items.

Pakistan Railways does not have a separate Lost and Found service. There are third party organizations that help in finding lost and found items in Pakistan.

Pets on the trains.

No information on lockers at railway stations in Pakistan could be found.

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Night train.

All night trains in PAKISTAN. How to buy tickets, find ticket fares and schedules. Information about the categories seats, couchettes and sleepers.

TRAIN TYPES

The different train types and categories in PAKISTAN. From local trains to high-speed-trains.

TRAIN COMPANY

A list of all train companies in PAKISTAN. Detailed information and where to buy train tickets.

Do you have further questions and need assistance? Do not hesitate to ask in our friendly forum where you always get detailed help.

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Taking an overnight train in Pakistan: What is it really like? 

• By Sarah Steiner
• Updated On July 27, 2023

We’ve all seen the classic images of train travel in the South Asian continent with crowded carriages, people leaning out the windows and/or perched on the roof.  It doesn’t exactly bode confidence for booking an overnight train in Pakistan.  But truthfully, it’s not like that.  

Taking an overnight train from Islamabad to Karachi in Pakistan  is  certainly an adventure.  And there are a few things that are helpful to know before embarking on such a journey… 

• Buying tickets
• Boarding the train
• Classes of travel
• Meals  
• Linen  
• What to pack 

Buying tickets for the overnight train in Pakistan 

This was our first challenge.  We started looking in to options for travel by overnight train in Pakistan a couple of months before we thought we would make the journey.  And like many train lines in India it is not possible to book more than one month in advance.  

It is technically ( ‘technically’ ) possible to book the train online.  You need to set up an account with Pakistan Railways for which you need a Pakistan ID document number.  Thus if you are a foreigner it won’t work with your own passport number.  You will need to ask a local friend to sign up on your behalf using their information…. Not exactly straightforward. 

Other options to purchase a ticket for Pakistan Railways are either to wait until you get there and do it the good old-fashioned way at the ticket booth in person at the railway station.  Or you can go through a travel agent or ticketing agent based in Pakistan. 

We booked tickets through Lost Horizon Tours in Pakistan.  And albeit this wasn’t all that straightforward either.  But it did work out (with the support of a bit more research from my end) and Abdul was able to organise tickets for us that were dropped at our hotel in Islamabad before we travelled. 

Boarding the train in Islamabad or Karachi

This is the first major point you need to note: the overnight train from Islamabad to Karachi in fact departs from a station in Rawalpindi.  

Rawalpindi is often referred to as the ‘sister city’ to Islamabad.  Be sure to double check the station name and show it to your hotel or driver just to be sure you are heading for the right place.  

Boarding the train in Rawalpindi is straight forward.  (Well that was once we got on the correct train!).  The check in process is as normal and there are plenty of people to ask about your ticket and which carriage and train you need to be on.  

What are the different options of class for travel on an overnight train in Pakistan? 

There are seven different classes of train travel on offer in Pakistan: 

• ACSL  –  AC Sleeper
• PC  – AC  Parlour Car
• ACLZ  –  AC Business Class
• ACL   – AC Standard
• ISL   – First Class Sleeper
• EC  –  Economy Class
• SEC   – Second Class

However, not all classes of travel are available on all mainstream train routes.  Rather there are usually three or four to choose from. 

At the time of our travel by train in Pakistan (July 2022) we understood that the Greenline from Islamabad to Karachi had three options for class of travel:

• Economy Seat
• Economy Berth
• AC Business Class

We booked an AC Business Class cabin (which actually has six berths in).  

So what is a Pakistan overnight train actually like? 

Overall we had a good experience traveling by overnight train in Pakistan.  We had previously travelled similar journeys in Bangladesh and many in India and so booked the train journey with increased confidence in South Asian train travel.  

And it was a good adventure! 

It isn’t a luxurious means of travel (by any means).  But people we met were friendly and price-wise it was comparable to four plane tickets in the same direction.  

Is it safe to take an overnight train in Pakistan? 

People in general seem to love to mention and warn you about safety anywhere in South Asia and travel in Pakistan comes with no exception.  As far as safety and taking an overnight train in Pakistan it is an important consideration.   But certainly we all reached the end of our journey on an overnight train from Islamabad to Karachi – so yes, I think the train in Pakistan is safe as long as you take sensible precautions. 

As a side note the police and/or tourist police do keep an eye on you… To the point where they often know where you are (or try to know) at all times.  Although we had been forewarned about this, Gavin experienced this firsthand.  He briefly hopped off at a station to check how long we were stopping for, and an officer approached him and said outright:  “Are you Gavin Steiner?”  And showed him a picture on his phone of Gavin’s passport.  

He then followed up by asking if everything was alright and if we needed anything.  And we then continued our journey south.  

A little odd/disturbing/creepy but overall, not further concerning. 

How crowded is the overnight train in Pakistan? 

Seats and berths in Business Class are pre-booked and so only a specific number can be purchased.  These carriages are not overcrowded. 

On some train lines there are spaces in third class for un-reserved seats meaning those carriages can be crowded on the day.  But from what we saw, taking an overnight train in Pakistan is not like the dreaded South-Asian train travel images often portrayed! 

Are meals included in the price of a ticket? 

On the overnight train in Pakistan from Islamabad to Karachi we had three meals included in the ticket: an afternoon snack, dinner and breakfast the following morning. 

We actually missed the afternoon snack (I think that might have been our own fault as they were calling out and we presumed they were selling sandwiches).  Definitely keep your door slightly open and check what food and vendors are going past! 

Dinner was not served until 10pm! (You read that right!).  I would recommend stocking up on snacks before your overnight train in Pakistan as we were getting pretty hungry by that time of night… 

Gavin leapt off the train at one station near Lahore and with our very kind Pakistani family in the neighboring cabin he got some street-food snacks and chips from a station store. 

Breakfast and a basic cup of tea is offered around 06:45am and I have to be honest; we didn’t eat the breakfast.  It was stone cold and not looking very appetizing by the time it arrived.  

The verdict? Meals are provided but highly recommend you pack some snacks! 

Is food available to purchase?

Yes.  There are occasional snack carts that come through the aisle.  (Sorry to compare to trains in India but the vendors are not as often – and not as vocal – as they are in their nearby neighbour).   But it is possible to find small snacks like chips and chocolate bars on the snack carts.  And otherwise, if you are game enough you can ask ahead how long the train will be stopping at a station for and leap on and off to grab something from a vendor there (be quick though!). 

It was evening by the time we got to Lahore station and about 20 minutes before vendors boarded the train at the previous stop selling pizza to be collected in upcoming Lahore! At that time we still thought dinner must only be a short while away… (It wasn’t). 

Pakistan train-travel tip:  Stock up on some packaged snacks beforehand so that even if you don’t need them you have the option! 

What are the toilets like on an overnight train in Pakistan? 

Seriously? As you would imagine.  The toilets (actually it was just a singular toilet in our carriage) function but are extremely basic.  There is no toilet paper or soap provided so do plan ahead with that (and a sanitizer would be a great addition to your train pre-packing if you are reading this!). 

What linen and bedding is provided on the train? 

Truthfully not very much on this particular train!  We asked a few times for sheets and then gave up asking… 

There were four pillows with average looking pillowcases in our cabin.  And four blankets.  (Note that the cabin we booked actually has 6x berths – we booked the entire cabin).  So I’m not sure how many you get if there are six people.  But after asking a couple of times about sheets or pillowcases we fast understood they are not offered or provided on this overnight train in Pakistan. 

We made do with scarves and travel towels to cover the pillows and had no choice but to use the blankets provided (which looked passable but not immaculate).  

And just to add to the drama of bedding and linen on this journey; one of the carriage attendants knocked on our door at 01:30am and asked for a blanket because he was cold! (Not sure what that was about but it gave us a fright and disturbed our so far already-disrupted sleep wondering who would be knocking at that hour of night). 

What to pack? 

• Tickets and passports
• Snacks and water 
• Power bank (the charging ports do not always work)
• Scarves/light blanket 
• Soap and/or hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper

Arriving in Karachi (make sure you know where you are disembarking)

So you’ve made it by overnight train from Islamabad to Karachi?  Success!   Otherwise if you are getting close then I’d say it’s a good idea to keep an eye on Google Maps or talk to someone local on the train to know how much further it is to your station.  

Our train was delayed by over two hours (making it a 22 hour journey in total) which we didn’t initially realise.  However after figuring it out on the map (and seeing the much-later signs for Hyderabad we relaxed and let the final (additional) hours of the journey roll on by).  

Enjoy the adventure! 

More about travel planning for Pakistan and beyond…

These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel. 

• Booking.com  – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally. 
• Hostelworld – The largest inventory of hostel accommodation in the world. 
• Skyscanner   – This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.  
• GetYourGuide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
• SafetyWing  – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country. 
• World Nomads   – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). 

Read more travel tips and tricks from South Asia

• How to apply for a Pakistan e-Visa: And can you use it at the Wagah Border?
• Crossing the Wagah Border from India to Pakistan. 
• Pakistan with kids: A complete guide to travel in Pakistan. 
• Money in India: Using ATM’s, withdrawing and carrying your money safely.
• How to use a squat toilet: Everything you didn’t want to ask…
• Our complete packing list for travel in India. 

Wondering about itineraries?  Questions about schooling?  See our Family Travel Guides and FAQ here . 

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Jun 28, 2021 | Uncategorized

Pakistan by Train

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A Travel Guide For Train Travel In Pakistan.

Here you will find information for Pakistan about trains, routes, tours, connections, where to buy train tickets, and more.

Useful Information

Population: 216 .6 million

Currency: Pakistani Rupee

Language: Urdu

Capital: Islamabad

Country Code: +92

Time Zone: Pakistan Standard Time (PKT)

Train Companies | Tickets | Rail Passes | Train Types | Routes   | Main Stations | Good To Know

Train Companies

The rail system in Pakistan is operated by Pakistan Railways .

Train Tickets

Check fares and timetables for Pakistan trains online on the official Pakistan Railway website Pakrail.gov.pk .

Rail Passes

There are no rail passes available for Pakistan.

TrAIN tYPES

• National Trains

Classes offered:

• Air-conditioned 1st class sleeper
• Air-conditioned lower class – seat and sleeper versions
• Non-air-conditioned economy class – seat and sleeper versions
• Non-air-conditioned 2nd class – seat and sleeper versions

Some services may offer a restaurant car.

Frequently Travelled Routes In Pakistan

Pakistan travel routes, main train stations, good to know, best time to travel to pakistan.

We recommend traveling to Pakistan at almost any time of the year, but depending on your interests, a certain time of year might be better than another. The best time to go hiking and spend time in the mountains in northern Pakistan is from May to October. This is the high season but it’s the all-around best time to visit the higher altitudes with no risk of snow closing passes *especially* on the Karakoram Highway (section of the old Silk Road) and a great time to visit the Kalash people in Kalash Valley.

From November to April, is a great time to visit the cities that are normally sweltering during the summer months (May to October), and a wonderful time to dig deep into the history that makes this country what it is today. If you can’t make it to see the Kalash people in the summer, consider visiting for the Kalash Winter Solstice, regardless of what you do in Pakistan, the country will surely leave you in awe.

• High Season : May to October
• Low Season : November to April

Accommodation In Pakistan

The best place to find cheap hotels for is to book by www.booking.com . There you will find a large selection of cheap hotels, hostels, and apartments. > BOOK HERE

Hostelworld

If you are looking for a low budget accommodation, then go on www.hostelworld.com . They have the best choice of cheap hostels for backpackers and low budget travelers. > BOOK HERE

Guidebooks For Pakistan

Travel with a guidebook ease your journey to find best sights and things to do. Buy it on Amazon.

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• Deutsch ( German )

Move In Pak, Choose Your Track

Train Ticket Price

Welcome to our platform, covering all elements and aspects of the Pakistan railway system. We strive to provide you with current information on train schedules, routes, and ticket prices sourced directly from official channels. The train timing and fare rates are updated promptly whenever the railway management reschedules them.

No more waiting—plan your journey, select your train, and view ticket rates and train timing with just a few clicks. Our platform adapts to different sizes for mobiles, tablets, or computer users for convenience. We take pride in offering the most reliable data for your trip.

Welcome to our platform, covering all elements and aspects of the Pakistan railway system . We strive to provide you with current information on train schedules, routes, and ticket prices sourced directly from official channels. The train timing and fare rates are updated promptly whenever the railway management reschedules them.

No more waiting— plan your journey, select your train, and view ticket rates and train timing with just a few clicks. Our platform adapts to different sizes for mobiles, tablets, or computer users for convenience. We take pride in offering the most reliable data for your trip.

Train Ticket Price of Pakistan Railway

How to Book Online Tickets

How to Become a Member, Register & Book

Checking the train ticket price of Pakistan Railway and train timing is essential for better travel preparation. Knowing the train schedule helps you arrive at the station on time, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

City Search

The ticket prices for trains vary according to the class. Here is the timetable for all Pakistan Railway trains, along with the ticket prices from one station to another. Choose your train and check the schedule and ticket prices before traveling to avoid any inconvenience at the station

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Train ticket price and train timing.

Explore the comprehensive listing of daily surviving passenger trains in Pakistan, encompassing their cross-country routes. Uncover detailed information on train timing and train ticket price offered by the Pakistan Railway. Delve into this section to stay informed about the diverse range of trains traversing the nation, ensuring you have access to up-to-date details for a seamless travel experience.

Discover the extensive train routes, stops, and amenities provided by your chosen train. Familiarize yourself with the online ticket booking process, ensuring a seamless experience. Gain insights into the facilities offered during your journey as you explore the comprehensive details of your selected train’s itinerary.

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Karachi railway station.

Finding the price of a train ticket from Karachi Railway Station is easy. You can quickly get information about the train ticket price associated with journeys from this central junction. Here is a list of all the Pakistan Railway trains departing from the Karachi Railway Station. Choose the train you wish to travel on, and you will find comprehensive information about that train in the articles. You will get details about train ticket prices, updated train timing, all stops, and booking guidance.

.So, let’s start your journey from here to make it more convenient. This will assist you in planning your travel and provide you with the opportunity to comfortably choose your preferred route. One of the best trains from Islamabad to Karachi is Green Line Express .

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Lahore railway station.

Lahore Railway Station is a bustling and large station. Dozens of trains depart daily from here, reaching every corner of the country. For you, checking the train ticket price of all trains departing from Lahore Railway Station is now effortless.

With just a click, you will receive all the information about your chosen train. The data provided here encompasses all Pakistan Railway trains that travel from Lahore Junction to various regions of the country. In these articles, you will find comprehensive details about the trains, including fare rates, train timing, booking procedures, facilities, and frequently asked questions about the trains. To make your journey easy and informative, be sure to explore these articles.

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Rawalpindi / islamabad railway station.

Finding train ticket prices from Rawalpindi Railway Station is easy. Explore departing trains for detailed information on your chosen route, including train ticket price, train timing, stops, and booking guidance. Rawalpindi Railway Station is a busy hub, offering numerous daily trains connecting the country. Effortlessly check Pakistan Railway’s ticket prices for all departing trains with a simple click, accessing information on fare rates, timings, booking, and facilities.

The provided data covers trains from Rawalpindi Junction to various regions, offering a comprehensive guide. These articles ensure a seamless journey, providing essential details for informed travel. Whether planning a trip from Rawalpindi or Lahore, this user-friendly resource simplifies the process, allowing travelers to make well-informed choices for a convenient journey.

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Peshawar railway station.

Effortlessly fin d train ticket prices departing from Peshawar Railway Station. Explore detailed information on routes, including train ticket price, train timings, stops, and booking guidance. Peshawar Railway Station, a bustling hub, connects various destinations with numerous daily trains. With a simple click, check ticket prices, fare rates, timings, and facilities for all departing trains.

This user-friendly resource covers trains from Peshawar Junction to diverse regions, offering essential details for a seamless journey. Whether traveling from Peshawar or Lahore, simplify your planning process with this guide, making well-informed choices for a convenient and hassle-free journey.

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An epic train journey from Iran to Pakistan 

by Mark | November 27, 2015 | Back in the Day , Iran , Pakistan | 31 comments

Taking the train from Zāhedān in Iran to Quetta in Pakistan

Zāhedān is the capital of Iran’s southeast Sistan and Baluchistan province and is located near the tri-point of the borders between Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. The city is hot, dusty and practically lawless and the only reason to go there is because it is the closest place to the only legal crossing point between Iran and Pakistan at Mirjaveh/Taftan.

I arrived in Zāhedān with my then-girlfriend in May 1995 in order to catch the twice-monthly train to Quetta in Pakistan. Not that many years ago, Zāhedān was called Dozda, which translates as Thieves , and having spent the afternoon of our arrival wandering through its streets, I can tell you it is not the sort of place you want to spend any time in unless you absolutely have to. It was like a scene out of Arabian Nights with shady characters on every street corner watching our every move. It was horrible and we couldn’t wait to leave.

In the morning we made our way to the railway station and boarded the carriage that was to be our home for at least the next 30 hours. Lonely Planet , on their website, describes the train journey from Zāhedān to Quetta as follows:

The long, remote, dusty, sometimes cold and often uncomfortable train trip between Zahedan and Quetta, in Pakistan, is guaranteed to be a story you’ll tell until you die. If you’re someone who enjoys meeting people, isn’t fussed by hardship (carriages are simple with wooden seats and no sleepers) and has plenty of time, you’ll probably enjoy it. If not, take the bus.

I don’t remember there being a bus option but I do remember the train journey being exactly as Lonely Planet described it. Our train carriage was beaten-up at best, there was nowhere to lay down and get some sleep and during the night the temperature dropped and it was freezing cold.

I also remember making friends, albeit not in the conventional manner. The train was making one of its frequent stops in the middle of nowhere and for no apparent reason (we weren’t near a station) and so I decided to get off for a bit. As I was about to climb the steps and re-board the train, a Pakistani man stuck his head out of the door and spat a mouthful of phlegm right square into my face. I was a little taken back and a tad pissed off but he was totally mortified by what he had done. It was, after all, an accident and for the rest of the journey, he and his family treated us both like royalty, giving us blankets, food, cups of tea and all sorts of other treats.

As an aside, as soon as we crossed the border into Pakistan, my then-girlfriend liberated herself of her black chador and headscarf that she hadn’t taken off for two weeks and much to the amusement of our fellow passengers threw them both out of the train window.

Leaving Zāhedān didn’t mean that the security issues were behind us. Prior to boarding the train, we had heard rumours, confirmed by our fellow passengers, that this route across the Baluchestan desert was notorious for being targeted by bandits. I took the usual precautions (hiding cash in my shoes, stuffing money-belts where the sun don’t shine and that sort of thing) but there was little that could be done if our particular train was raided.

And raided we were but thankfully not by bandits but instead by the Pakistani police. It was like being in a scene from a Western movie. The train was rattling along at its customary 20-30km per hour when out of the blue (well the desert actually), we caught sight of about ten black pickup trucks which sidled up beside us and kept up with us on both sides of the train. It took a while for the train to come to a standstill (why, doing that speed?) and during this interim period, everyone bar the two of us went into a frantic panic and started jabbering in Urdu. Then a couple of guys asked us if we would mind saying that we owned the four blue water containers that were on the rack above our head.

We looked up simultaneously. It was only at this point that I first noticed not just the four blue water containers above our heads but dozens more like it crammed into every nook and cranny of the carriage. Even though we had just come from what was probably the drug ‘capital’ of the region, we didn’t give it a moment’s thought and said OK to their request. Looking back, that was an incredibly naive thing to do and I have never done it since but we had become friends with these people and they were asking us to help them out.

As it turned out, the water containers were empty and just, well, water containers and the Pakistani police had instigated their raid because the train was a known means of smuggling water containers from Iran to Pakistan!

I got talking to one of the police officers, who told me there was a shortage of water containers in Pakistan and good money could be made by smuggling (smuggling – how do you smuggle a water container!) them across the border and selling them on the black market. The police officer didn’t believe for one moment that the four water containers that we dutifully said were ours did, in fact, belong to us. He did find it amusing though.

The whole raid became farcical. The police would go from one carriage to the next starting at the back of the train and throw the water containers out onto the side of the track to await collection from the pickup trucks. But before the pickup trucks had time to collect them, the passengers would run down, pick up the water containers and take them back onto the train. When they reached the front of the train, the police would then return to the back of the train, board the last carriage and throw the water containers out onto the side of the track once more. The passengers would then … well, you get the picture. This went on for hours and if I didn’t have the photos to prove it, I would be convinced that my memory had started playing tricks on me over the past twenty years and that I had made up the whole story!

The train to Pakistan eventually got going again and we travelled the rest of the way to Quetta without incident, arriving some 40 hours later. Quetta was heaven compared to the train journey and after a hot shower, we went to the best hotel in town, the Serena Inn, and gorged on the all-you-can-eat-buffet.

Until we have the opportunity to return to Iran and Pakistan, all I can do is reminisce about my travels there. Read more: Pakistan and Iran .

31 Comments

Very interesting and amusing. So, who finally won the tussle over the water containers? Did the police confiscate them or did you and your fellow smugglers manage to retain them?

And I don’t know about British English, but in American English stuffing something “where the sun don’t shine” refers to a very specific part of your anatomy. I’m wondering if you really did stuff your money belts there. If so, ouch.

Thank you Doug, glad you enjoyed it. From memory, I think the police got the better of the day but it took an age and a lot of stick bashing!

The British version of ‘where the sun don’t shine’ is the same as yours and nope, I didn’t really do that. I would have perferred to have lost the content!

My grandpa who was in the Indian Army , taught or trained at the staff college in Quetta in the 1920’s/30’s and learnt Urdu there, ( amongst other places ) but I don’t recall any train or water container stories ! Would plastic have even been around then I wonder .

Very interesting Fiona. I would love to see photos etc one day. Did he ever travel on the Bolan Railway through the Bolan Pass do you know ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolan_Pass )? When I left Quetta I travelled on the railway Pass as far as Multan. It was a great journey but again not without incident but I am unable to write that story up because I don’t have any photos.

Wow! This is my dream trip! I really want to do this but am a little skeptical about the safety.

I think it is right to be. I did this trip twenty odd years ago and Pakistan was dodgy back then but dodgy is better than dangerous and many parts of Pakistan are dangerous. If you decide to go, head north to the Hunza Valley, there is less risk up there and besides, it is the most beautiful part of the country.

Brilliant story!

Definitely shows that the times that are uncomfortable, weird, you’re not sure what’s happening, and are high risk end up being the best stories to tell over and over for years 🙂

Thank you for your comment Adam. You are right in what you say, but I seem to have more ‘high risk’ stories about Pakistan than anywhere! It’s a shame Pakistan is not 100% safe at the moment as it is a great country to travel in. Ironically when I was there during the trip mentioned about it was the Sind that was unsafe because of kidnapping but now I think it is considered one of the safer provinces and the Punjab is worse (which used to be OK). We will keep the country on our wish list and see what happens!

Love this post. I’m reading Paul Theroux’s “The Great Railway Bazaar” (highly recommended, btw), and this article made me think of that immediately. As has been commented, it’s a shame that Pakistan is now so off limits for most people, I’d love to go if circumstances were different.

Thank you Fernado and indeed ‘The Great Railway Bazaar’ is a good book. Slightly different, but if you are interested in that part of the world then ‘The Great Game’ by Peter Hopkirk is also a great read. May be we should get a group of like-minded travellers together to go to Pakistan. Safety in numbers and all that!

What an amazing experience, and quite comical.

These are the reasons we all travel. For these once in a lifetime moments.

Thank you for your comments and I am glad you enjoyed it. We hope to have some modern day stories about Pakistan in the not so distant future – finger, legs and everything else crossed!!

Can I you the train photo in my article about the train? I am not profiting in any way. I am an amateur writer like you

Please check you email for our reply. Thanks.

I realize a couple years have gone by and that the comments section may no longer be operative, but I did this trip in August 1963, and subsequently celebrated my 21 birthday in Ceylon, (now Sri Lanka)……..just wanted to say that conditions obviously improved immeasurably.

That sounds like an epic journey. Would love to have journeyed through that part of the world back. Presumably you started in Europe and made your way overland to India and then down to Sri Lanka. Could you get from India to Sri Lanka without flying back then?

At that time there was a ferry between Dhanushkodi-Talaimannar….went by train from Madras……had my 21st birthday in Colombo.

Repeated myself re birthday, (unfortunately no edit capabilities)…….yes, started in England, went overland to Colombo, stayed a month, bought a black market ticket for a French ship to Singapore, thence Darwin by air…….hitched Darwin-Melbourne.

Sounds like a brilliant adventure! Probably not possible these days though!

My journey through Zahidan was in 1958 when it was quite a small town with no sealed roads. The train didn’t come to Zahidan at the time ‘cos of a cholera outbreak so with a German hitch-hiker, Wolfgang Eck (Where are you now, Wolfgang?) walked to the border with Pakistan. We did it at night ‘cos it was cooler (strange -‘I see tonight’s temperature is 1 deg Celsius) and a full moon. We followed the rails for an hour then the track made an alarming sweep to the left; a big, long sweep according to our map. I fancied myself as a navigator and Venus was quite low in the sky so we decided to head for the star. Sure enuff, an hour on-course and the rail line reappeared and we trudged on until we came to the Pakistan border post. I don’t recall any dramas on the trip from Zahidan to Karachi, The last part of our journey was on The Bolan Mail which we joined somewhere. But I’d been travelling for a long time in these days and unless I encountered violent death or an unusually beautiful woman, it took a lot to raise my eyebrows.

Hi Archie, that’s a great story! Travelling in that manner is a lot harder these days and it sounds like it was an adventure. I also took the Bolan Mail when I left Quetta. I had an incident on that train also, which I intend to write up one of these days. Another thing we have in common is the fact that I have also walked into Pakistan but I did it from China via the Khunjerab Pass. It’s a journey I’ll never forget – you can read about it if you are interested. Thanks for commenting, Mark

https://www.kathmanduandbeyond.com/aga-khans-helicopter-travels-through-pakistan/

Sixty years ago I took this train journey on my way from England to Australia. Usually I hitch-hiked but I could not find a way to get from Iran to Pakistan as what few trucks were travelling would not contemplate having a passenger. I had to walk for miles over desert countryside to get to the train. When three or four miles from the train the sun was setting and slowly getting darker. I noticed half a dozen large rangy dogs trotting in a circle about a 100yds away, and worse than that they came a little closer at every circuit. Eventually I was pleased to see a lone carriage sat on the tracks in the middle of nowhere. The dogs were now roughly 30 yds away and kept up little yelps as though talking to each other. Arriving at the carriage I was disappointed to find the doors locked, but I heard voices inside. I shouted hello and a voice told me the carriage was full and for me to go away, this went on for a while and I was really frightened that the dogs would come under the carriage and attack, eventually I am ashamed to admit I threatened everybody on board the carriage with mayhem in the morning when the train arrived if they did not let me in. That did the trick and they opened up and let me in.To my surprised there were about a dozen people inside plus several children. Once I was inside they were very nice to me and offered me some food which they were cooking on the floor using little brass cookers.The voyage took for ever and there was only the floor to lie on and I was ever so glad to arrive in Pakistan.

Hello Malcolm, that’s a great (and slightly terrifying) story and thanks for sharing it. I also have a fear of packs of dogs. Nowadays, we go into quite a few abandoned places and my biggest fear is running into a pack of feral dogs – you can at least negotiate/talk to people in these places. Still, if you stray into the territory of a pack of dogs, it’s a different story. I remember miles and miles of desert countryside as we rode across Iran before arriving in Pakistan, and my memories of Zāhedān and what a terrible place it was are still as vivid as if it were yesterday. Thanks again for sharing your memories. 

Oh my goodness, I made the same journey in 1995 too, and although there was no police presence on this journey. My mate and I had the entire rear carriage to ourselves as we moved away from the border, then an unexpected stop in the middle of no where and everyone and their uncle jumped aboard carrying more plastic containers than I previously could imagine. From Quetta we traveled to Lahore and had to get off when the police raided the train looking for “Iranian tea sets” – I’m not sure if this is a euphemism, but that was the final straw for and we got off for the a night sleeping on the floor of a waiting room. I’m so chuffed I’ve seen this page, it’s brought back some great memories, thanks!

Hi Richard, that’s brilliant that you had a similar experience. From the comments on this post, it would seem that those sorts of shenanigans were commonplace back then! I would love to do the journey once more just to see what would happen but with a British passport, it is difficult to travel independently in Iran these days. That reminds me, I also have a story about crossing the border from Turkey into Iran on the same trip. We were detained, albeit very nicely, by the police for our first few hours in Iran because we were mistaken for two Western smugglers that were known to the authorities. I should put pen to paper again! Thanks for taking the time to share your experience!

I made the crossing in 1963 after spending a week waiting for the train in the building that served as a “station” in the desert with camel trains passing by. By this time a small group of Europeans had assembled and we commandeered a car only allowing one old, frail, turbaned local in. At the border, where the train slowed, a large number of people sprang up out of the desert floor and ran to the train to jump on board. In the middle of nowhere our local descended and shuffled off into the hot, empty, treeless hills. The train rattled its way slowly through incredibly hot terrain as we suffered with dysentery eventually arriving in Quetta to change trains for the crossing via Lahore then on across India third class to Calcutta. There was a European female on board who was alleged to have a gun.

Wow – all the way to Calcutta, that’s a journey and a half! I did the same actually, but took several months to get there. I cannot imagine spending a week in Zāhedān. It is certainly one of those journeys that one never forgets! Thank you for sharing your memories.

I also rode the train from Zāhedān to Quetta several times in 1974/75, going from Tehran to Dehli.

At the time, occasionally the train was full, with local recruit’s going to fight in the Israel/Egypt War. Others, most were locals doing trade, smuggling stuff,, or visiting family. When in Quetta, walking through town, one would see CNC machines in the clay huts, primarily drilling gun parts; which both, the Soviet’s and US, used in regional conflicts around the world …. In the allies, these black electric lines were running all over sections of the village.

At the tea shops, the men would take off their shoes, place their guns outside against the walls, and spend the day gossiping between prayers..

I was all but once the only Westerner on the train. As a hippy from South Dakota, the region was rich with adventure during the 70’s.

Fantastic insights Jim, thanks for sharing your memories here. Your recollection of the local men leaving their guns propped up against the outside wall of the tea shops while they relaxed and chatted made me smile as I have a similar memory of my time in Darra near the Khyber Pass, where the men did exactly the same thing.

Sounds similar to the journey I made in 1975 as solo female traveler. I knew ahead that this was a smuggler train and at one point the Pakistani army came and started to take the floor and walls apart….no water containers but Western commodities were confiscated. Probably somebody didn’t pay enough baksheesh…. Smugglers also had some stuff under my seat that the military didn’t touch. Also before they all started praying even though it wasn’t the usual time for Namaz. One English speaker in my compartment explained that this is where the train frequently gets held up…. I just hoped they prayed hard enough. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience I hung out with a German tourist and the trip went relatively smoothly… smugglers shared food and water with us

Thank you for sharing your memories and it definitely sounds like a similar experience. Judging by all the other comments on this post, it seems we are not alone and it was a common occurrence back in the day.

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Today's Paper | April 14, 2024

Sikh pilgrims to travel to hassanabdal from lahore on train.

ISLAMABAD: Following the upgradation of Hassanabdal Railway Station, the relevant authorities have decided to bring all Sikh pilgrims from Lahore to their holy city by train to celebrate Baisakhi on Saturday (today).

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued 2,843 visas to Sikh pilgrims who would participate in the annual festival scheduled from April 13-22.

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After entering through Wagah border, the pilgrims will be hosted by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) which has hired a train from the Pakistan Railways to bring them directly to Hassanabdal.

Taking to Dawn , ETPB Chairman Arshad Farid Khan said the board had completed all arrangements for the Baisakhi Mela, and for the first time pilgrims coming from India would use rail transport instead of buses.

“This will make the journey more safe and comfortable for the guests,” Mr Khan said, adding that the ‘technical branch’ of the ETPB had renovated accommodations and other facilities in Hassanabdal.

More than 2,800 visas issued to Indians wanting to participate in Baisakhi festival

It is expected that around 10,000 Sikh pilgrims will converge on Punja Sahib shrine in Hassanabdal where they will celebrate Baisakhi festival. The pilgrims will also be coming from the United Kingdom, Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand and from different cities of Pakistan.

All arrangements, including accommodation, security, transport and medical needs, for the pilgrims are being managed by the ETPB.

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The Indian pilgrims will be housed in hostels managed by the board while those from other countries will stay in various colleges and schools.

Baisakhimarks the first day of the month of Vaisakh in the local calendar. This year it will be celebrated on April. It is not only the spring festival in the region but also marks the founding anniversary of ‘Khalsa’.

Baisakhi is also the formal founding day of Sikhism as established by Guru Gobind Singh — the 10th Guru of the Sikhs.

During their stay, pilgrims would visit Gurdwara Punja Sahib, Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib.

Those from India will also visit Nankana Sahib, Gurdwara Sucha Sauda in Sheikhupura district, Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur, Gurdwara Rori Sahib, Gujaranwala and Gurdwara Dera Sahib Lahore, before departing from Wagah border. However, those arriving from other countries can alter their schedules.

The Sikh pilgrims from India visit Pakistan to celebrate the birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak in November, Baisakhi in April, Kartarpur Sahib as well as the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh in June and July. Many arrive at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore They also visit Pakistan to observe the death anniversary of Sikh Guru Arjun Dev in June and Saka Nankana Sahib in February.

Visas are issued to the pilgrims from India under the framework of the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2024

3,000 Sikh pilgrims due today

Baisakhi festival to start from 14th.

Minorities minister calls for providing best facilities to Sikh pilgrims

اسرائیلی وزیراعظم غزہ میں ‘غلطی’ کا ارتکاب کررہے ہیں، امریکی صدر کا غیر متوقع بیان

آج کل کے نوجوان عید کا پہلا دن سو کر کیوں گزارتے ہیں؟

عید کے موقع پر فلسطینیوں سے اظہار یکجہتی کیسے کیا جا سکتا ہے؟

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