Islamabad to Rawalpindi Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

Travel Options from Islamabad to Rawalpindi

By Road

• Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles)
• Route: Start from Islamabad and head towards Rawalpindi via the Islamabad Expressway (N-5). Alternatively, you can take the Murree Road (Saddar Road) which also connects Islamabad to Rawalpindi.
• Travel Duration: Typically, the journey takes about 20-30 minutes by road, depending on traffic conditions.

By Train

• Distance: Same as by road (15 kilometers or 9 miles)
• Route: The train route from Islamabad to Rawalpindi is operated by Pakistan Railways. Trains usually depart from Islamabad's various stations (Islamabad Railway Station or Margalla Railway Station) and arrive at Rawalpindi Railway Station.
• Travel Duration: Train travel takes approximately 20-30 minutes, similar to traveling by road.

By Plane

• Distance: Not applicable as there are no commercial flights between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Both cities are served by the same airport, Islamabad International Airport (ISB).

Detailed Travel Guide

By Road

Traveling from Islamabad to Rawalpindi by road is straightforward and convenient due to the short distance between the two cities. Here’s a breakdown:

• Route:

  • Start from any part of Islamabad, such as F-7, F-8, or G-8 sectors, and head towards the Islamabad Expressway (N-5) or Murree Road.
  • Follow signs indicating Rawalpindi or Murree as you approach the city limits.
  • The Islamabad Expressway is a major arterial road connecting the twin cities and provides a direct route to Rawalpindi.
  • Murree Road, also known as Saddar Road, offers another option, passing through various sectors of Islamabad before reaching Rawalpindi.

• Travel Duration:

  • The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
  • During peak hours, especially in the mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can extend travel times.

• Scenic Route:

  • While primarily urban, the route offers views of Islamabad's modern architecture and the picturesque Margalla Hills.

By Train

Trains provide an alternative mode of transportation between Islamabad and Rawalpindi:

• Route:

  • Trains depart from Islamabad's Margalla Railway Station or the larger Islamabad Railway Station located near Sector I-9.
  • The train route follows the railway tracks running parallel to the Islamabad Expressway.
  • Trains pass through the scenic outskirts of Islamabad and enter Rawalpindi, stopping at various stations along the way.

• Travel Duration:

  • Train travel between the two cities typically takes about 20-30 minutes, making it comparable to road travel.
  • The advantage of taking the train includes avoiding road traffic and enjoying a different perspective of the twin cities.

• Train Services:

  • Pakistan Railways operates several daily services between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, offering both economy and business class options.

By Plane

While both Islamabad and Rawalpindi are served by Islamabad International Airport (ISB), there are no commercial flights between the two cities.

• Airport Information:

  • Islamabad International Airport is located approximately 20 kilometers west of Islamabad city center.
  • The airport serves domestic and international flights, connecting Islamabad with major cities worldwide.

• Travel Duration:

  • Since there are no direct flights between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, air travel for this route is not applicable.

Conclusion

Whether traveling by road or train, commuting between Islamabad and Rawalpindi is quick and efficient due to the short distance and well-developed transportation infrastructure. Each mode of transportation offers its own advantages, whether it's the convenience of road travel, the scenic route by train, or the connectivity provided by air travel through Islamabad International Airport. Understanding these options allows travelers to choose the method that best suits their preferences and schedules.