Islamabad to Barnala Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Traveling from Islamabad to Barnala offers a variety of transportation options, including by road, train, and plane. Each mode of transportation has its own routes, distances, and travel durations. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing these options:

By Road

Traveling by road is the most direct way to reach Barnala from Islamabad. The journey can be undertaken using private cars, buses, or hired taxis.

Route 1: Via GT Road (N-5)

• Distance: Approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles)
• Route: Depart from Islamabad on the Islamabad Expressway heading towards Rawalpindi. From Rawalpindi, continue on the GT Road (N-5) passing through Gujar Khan, Jhelum, and Kharian. From Kharian, take the road towards Mirpur, cross the Mangla Dam, and head towards Barnala.
• Travel Duration: About 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route 2: Via M2 Motorway and Sialkot

• Distance: Approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles)
• Route: Leave Islamabad on the M2 Motorway heading south towards Lahore. Take the exit towards Kharian, then head towards Mirpur and cross the Mangla Dam to reach Barnala.
• Travel Duration: Around 5-6 hours, accounting for stops and variable traffic conditions.

By Train

While there is no direct train service to Barnala, you can travel part of the journey by train and then switch to road transport.

Step 1: Train from Islamabad to Jhelum

• Distance: Approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles)
• Route: Board a train from Islamabad Railway Station to Jhelum Railway Station. Major trains such as the Green Line Express, Tezgam Express, and Rawal Express operate on this route.
• Travel Duration: Around 2-3 hours, depending on the train service and schedule.

Step 2: Road from Jhelum to Barnala

• Distance: Approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles)
• Route: From Jhelum, hire a taxi or take a bus to Barnala. Head south on the GT Road (N-5) towards Kharian, then take the road towards Mirpur, cross the Mangla Dam, and continue to Barnala.
• Travel Duration: About 2-3 hours by road, considering traffic and stops.

By Plane

There is no airport in Barnala, but you can fly part of the way and then continue by road.

Step 1: Flight from Islamabad to Sialkot

• Distance: Approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) by air
• Route: Take a domestic flight from Islamabad International Airport to Sialkot International Airport. Airlines like Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and AirSial operate flights on this route.
• Flight Duration: Around 1 hour

Step 2: Road from Sialkot to Barnala

• Distance: Approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles)
• Route: From Sialkot International Airport, travel south on the Sialkot-Wazirabad Road towards Wazirabad, then head south on the GT Road (N-5) towards Kharian. From Kharian, take the road towards Mirpur, cross the Mangla Dam, and continue to Barnala.
• Travel Duration: About 3-4 hours by road, considering traffic and road conditions.

Summary of Travel Options

1. By Road:

   • Distance: 220-270 kilometers (137-168 miles)
   • Duration: 4-6 hours
   • Routes: Via GT Road (N-5) or M2 Motorway and Sialkot

2. By Train:

   • Train Distance: 125 kilometers (78 miles)
   • Train Duration: 2-3 hours
   • Road Distance: 95 kilometers (59 miles)
   • Road Duration: 2-3 hours

3. By Plane:

   • Flight Distance: 125 kilometers (78 miles)
   • Flight Duration: 1 hour
   • Road Distance: 145 kilometers (90 miles)
   • Road Duration: 3-4 hours

Detailed Travel Plan

By Road: Traveling by road offers the flexibility of stopping at various points and enjoying the scenic views along the way. The GT Road route is straightforward and passes through major towns like Rawalpindi, Gujar Khan, Jhelum, and Kharian. The M2 Motorway option provides a faster and more comfortable journey with less traffic, though it is slightly longer.

By Train: For those preferring to avoid long drives, taking a train to Jhelum and then continuing by road is a viable option. Train travel can be more relaxing and offers the chance to enjoy the countryside from a different perspective. Upon reaching Jhelum, hiring a taxi or taking a local bus to Barnala is convenient.

By Plane: For the fastest travel time, flying to Sialkot and then driving to Barnala is the best option. This method reduces the time spent on the road significantly, though it involves coordinating flight schedules and ground transport.

Considerations

• Road Conditions: Check the current road conditions and traffic updates, especially during the monsoon season when roads can be affected by heavy rains.
• Weather: Weather conditions can impact travel times, particularly in mountainous regions or during winter.
• Safety: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for long road trips. Consider safety gear and emergency supplies, especially for road travel through remote areas.
• Stops and Services: Plan your stops for fuel, food, and rest. Major towns along the way provide facilities and services.

By considering these options and planning accordingly, travelers can choose the most suitable method to reach Barnala from Islamabad, making the journey comfortable and efficient.