Pakistan by Train: A Scenic Ride Through the Country’s Most Beautiful Routes

One of the most underrated ways of exploring Pakistan is by train, as it gives you the chance to experience the incredible landscapes of the country. From the sandy deserts in the south to the soaring mountains in the north, you can see Pakistan from a completely new perspective when you hop on a train. Plus, traveling via train is also an adventure, as it is a nostalgic and old-school way to travel. Let’s take a look at some of the most scenic train routes you can experience in Pakistan.

• Khyber Mail (Karachi to Peshawar)

This is one of the most iconic train journeys in Pakistan. Khyber Mail covers a distance of a whopping 1,700 kilometers, as it travels from Karachi to Peshawar. Along the way, it will take you through some of the most diverse landscapes in the country. As a matter of fact, this journey can help you see the full spectrum of beauty Pakistan has to offer. You go from the bustling metropolis that is Karachi through the fertile plains of Punjab to reach the rugged hills of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This way, you make the transition from urban to rural life first and eventually to mountainous terrain.

• Rawalpindi to Lahore

While you may not see any deserts and mountains when you take this route, but you get a front-row seat to the green, lush fields of Punjab. One of the most peaceful train journeys you can take in Pakistan is traveling from Rawalpindi to Lahore. It transports you to a simpler time, as the train goes through endless fields of sugarcane, mustard and wheat. It is also the perfect route for anyone who wants to experience the agricultural heartland of Pakistan.

• Karachi to Quetta

Anyone who wants to have an adventure should take the Karachi to Quetta route. From the urban sprawl of Karachi, you travel to the arid beauty of the deserts in Balochistan. However, the real magic happens when you draw closer to Quetta. The mountains create a rather stunning landscape, with winding tracks and jagged peaks. It is a thrilling train ride that you are unlikely to forget anytime soon and you can take some amazing photos when you pass through the tunnels that have been carved into the mountains.

• Attock Bridge to Golra Sharif

If you want a scenic yet quick ride, then the Attock Bridge to Golra Sharif is the best route. It is packed with views and history and takes you across the Indus River via the Attock Bridge. This engineering marvel had been constructed during British rule. You will feel a sense of wonder when you cross the river and see the amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. As far as the Golra Sharif station is concerned, it boasts charming old-world architecture, making you feel as if you have stepped back in time.

Plan a train ride in Pakistan to take in the landscapes and immerse yourself in the rich culture the country has to offer.