Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib

Dera Nawab Sahib, located in Bahawalpur District, Punjab, is a historic town known for its palaces and the residence of the Nawabs of Bahawalpur. For travelers planning a trip from Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib, there are several travel options, including by road, train, and air. Below is a detailed guide covering each mode of transportation, along with distances, routes, and travel durations.

1. By Road

Traveling from Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib by road provides a scenic view of Pakistan’s southern and central regions, including passing through Sindh and Punjab.

• Distance: The road distance from Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib is approximately 785 kilometers (488 miles).

• Route: The most common route is via the National Highway (N-5) and the Multan Road.

  • Route Outline:
    1. Start from Karachi and take the N-5 highway.
    2. Pass through Hyderabad, Moro, and Sukkur.
    3. From Sukkur, continue on the N-5 and take the exit towards Multan.
    4. Follow the route towards Bahawalpur, from where you can reach Dera Nawab Sahib.

• Travel Time: The journey typically takes around 11 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Costs:

  • Fuel cost for a car could range between PKR 7,000 and 9,000, depending on fuel efficiency.
  • Tolls are also applicable, which might add PKR 500–1,000 to the trip.

2. By Train

Pakistan Railways offers train services from Karachi to the region near Dera Nawab Sahib. Though there is no direct train to Dera Nawab Sahib, you can travel to Bahawalpur or Ahmedpur East and take a local taxi or bus from there.

• Route:

  • Depart from Karachi Cantt or City Station.
  • Trains like the Karakoram Express and Awam Express can take you to Bahawalpur.
  • Once you reach Bahawalpur, Dera Nawab Sahib is a short drive away (around 35 kilometers or 22 miles).

• Travel Time: The train journey from Karachi to Bahawalpur takes about 14 to 16 hours, depending on the train schedule.

• Ticket Cost:

  • Economy class tickets range from PKR 1,500 to 2,000.
  • Business or air-conditioned classes can cost PKR 4,000 or more.

• Additional Travel: From Bahawalpur Railway Station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Dera Nawab Sahib in approximately 30-40 minutes.

3. By Air

The nearest airport to Dera Nawab Sahib is Bahawalpur Airport, which is around 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the town. Although there are no direct flights from Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib, you can fly to Bahawalpur and then complete the journey by road.

• Flights from Karachi to Bahawalpur:

  • Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates flights between Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and Bahawalpur Airport.
  • The flight duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

• Travel Time:

  • After arriving at Bahawalpur, the road journey to Dera Nawab Sahib takes an additional 40 minutes to an hour.

• Cost:

  • Airfare ranges from PKR 8,000 to 12,000, depending on the season and availability.

• Additional Travel: From Bahawalpur Airport, taxis are readily available to take you to Dera Nawab Sahib for approximately PKR 500–1,000.

4. Travel Tips:

• Weather Considerations: Dera Nawab Sahib experiences extremely hot summers, so it’s advisable to plan travel during cooler months, such as from October to March.
• Accommodation: Since Dera Nawab Sahib is a smaller town, accommodation options may be limited. However, nearby Bahawalpur has various hotels and guesthouses.
• Fuel and Rest Stops: For road travel, ensure that your vehicle is well-fueled, as there are limited service stations in remote areas of Sindh. Rest stops like Sukkur are ideal for taking breaks.

5. Points of Interest in Dera Nawab Sahib:

Once you reach Dera Nawab Sahib, there are several historical sites and landmarks worth exploring:

• Sadiq Garh Palace: This grand palace was built by the Nawabs of Bahawalpur and is a stunning example of Mughal and European architecture.
• Nur Mahal: Though located in Bahawalpur, Nur Mahal is a must-see if you’re in the area. It was built during the reign of Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV.
• Bahawalpur Museum: Located nearby in Bahawalpur, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region, offering insight into its rich history.

Conclusion

Traveling from Karachi to Dera Nawab Sahib offers a journey through Pakistan’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling city of Karachi to the historical heart of Bahawalpur District. Whether you choose to drive, take the train, or fly to nearby Bahawalpur, the trip promises to be an enriching experience. With detailed planning, you can enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural richness that this part of Punjab has to offer. Each mode of travel—by road, train, or air—presents unique advantages, so you can choose the option that best fits your preferences and schedule.