How to Get to Dera Ghazi Khan. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Dera Ghazi Khan

Airports & Airlines

While Dera Ghazi Khan has its own airport, visitors frequently use a nearby larger airport for more flight options. Consider searching for deals on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Flight Hubs

Dera Ghazi Khan International Airport (DGK): A small domestic airport with limited Pakistan Global Airlines (PIA) flights, mainly connecting to Karachi and Islamabad.
Multan International Airport (MUX): Located approximately 90-100 km northeast of Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan is a bigr regional airport. It features more domestic and some international flight connections.
Direct Flights: No direct international flights operate to DGK. MUX has limited direct international flights, mostly to the Middle East. The majority of foreign visitors fly into Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE), or Karachi (KHI).

Flight Availability & Airport Transfers

Domestic flights generally maintain similar frequencies throughout the year. Prices for flights fluctuate around peak holiday seasons like Eid, when demand increases. Booking in advance is advisable.

Transfer Options

From DGK: Taxis and rickshaws are available. Pre-arranged hotel transfers are a convenient option.
From MUX (to Dera Ghazi Khan): Private taxis are an option, but costly. Ride-sharing services (Careem, InDrive) operate within Multan, with uncertain intercity reliability. Regular public buses provide connections Multan to Dera Ghazi Khan.
Airport Facilities: DGK features very basic facilities. MUX offers standard regional airport facilities including currency exchange, car rental, shops, and eateries.

Book Ahead

Secure flights in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons, for better availability and pricing.

Car Rental

While limited in D.G. Khan, services like DiscoverCars.com help find options in major Pakistani cities.

Multan Hub

Consider flying to Multan (MUX) first for more flight options, then use land transport to Dera Ghazi Khan.

Land Transportation to Dera Ghazi Khan

Border Crossings & Train Services

Border Crossings: No international land border crossings directly from Dera Ghazi Khan. Nearest is Wagah Border (India), near Lahore.
Inter-provincial Borders: Dera Ghazi Khan sits near Balochistan and Sindh borders. Check local security advisories before traveling to remote areas near these borders.
Train Services: Dera Ghazi Khan Railway Station connects to Pakistan's national network. Trains link to Multan, Lahore, Karachi, and Quetta. Services are slower than buses but affordable and scenic.
Train Classes: Various classes are available (Economy, AC Standard, AC Business). Book tickets in advance for AC classes.

Bus Options & Self-Driving

Long-Distance Buses: An extensive bus network serves Dera Ghazi Khan. Private companies (Daewoo Express, Niazi Express, Faisal Movers) operate regular services to major cities.
Bus Comfort: Options range from basic non-air-conditioned to modern, air-conditioned executive coaches. Executive coaches present a more comfortable journey.
Self-Driving: Requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home country's license. Main highways are generally good, but rural roads vary.
Driving Safety: Driving in Pakistan challenges many. Expect reckless driving styles. Night driving on non-major highways is generally not recommended.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departures

Sea/River Arrivals

Dera Ghazi Khan is landlocked. No ferry services or cruise ports serve it for long-distance travel. Local river crossings on the Indus exist for local communities.

Immigration Procedures

This information is not applicable to Dera Ghazi Khan, as no seaports exist for immigration. Standard airport immigration applies for air travel.

Connections to Land

For local river crossings, connections to land transportation (rickshaws or local vans) are available on both sides, serving the immediate area with informal services.

Departure Information from Dera Ghazi Khan

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing Pakistan from its airports. Airline tickets typically include all relevant taxes. Be aware of timing recommendations for a smooth departure.

Recommended Timing

Domestic Flights (DGK or MUX): Arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled departure.
International Flights (MUX, LHE, ISB, KHI): Arrive at least 3 hours before departure. Check-in, security, and immigration processes take considerable time.
Bus/Train Departures: Arrive at the station or terminal at least 30-45 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus.

Airport & Station Facilities

Facilities vary significantly between the small Dera Ghazi Khan Airport and larger transportation hubs. Plan your expectations accordingly for comfort and amenities.

Facility Overview

Dera Ghazi Khan Aviation hub (DGK): Facilities are basic. Expect basic waiting areas and limited amenities.
Multan International Airport (MUX): Offers more standard facilities, including certain stores, eateries, and comfortable waiting areas.
Bus Terminals/Railway Stations: Typically provide basic waiting areas, small shops selling snacks and drinks, and food stalls. Do not expect extensive facilities.

Planning for Your Departure

Reconfirm Travel Details

Local schedules sometimes change. Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule the day before you leave to avoid surprises. This proactive step helps maintain smooth travel plans.

Pre-Departure Checks

Verify flight times directly with the airline or airport website.
Confirm bus departure times with the operating company.
Allow extra time for travel to the airport or station, considering area traffic.

Final Preparations

Pack any last-minute souvenirs and arrange your transport to the departure point.

Last-Minute Tips

Consolidate all luggage and confirm weight limits for flights.
Convert any remaining local currency if not needed for immediate departure expenses.
Ensure your phone is charged and has relevant contact information for your journey.

Executive Bus Services

Comfortable Travel

For comfortable intercity travel, choose an executive bus service. They offer air conditioning and more dependable schedules.

Extensive Network

Executive bus companies cover a wide network, connecting Dera Ghazi Khan to all major cities.

Online Booking

Many executive bus services offer online reservation possibilities for convenience.

Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure. Local schedules sometimes change unexpectedly.

How to Get to Dera Ghazi Khan