How to Get to Gujranwala. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Gujranwala

Gujranwala is mainly served by two international airports, both within a reasonable driving distance.

Airport Details

Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE), Lahore: ~70-80 km south. Main international gateway.
Sialkot International Airport (SKT), Sialkot: ~60-70 km northeast. Fewer international connections.
Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals.

Airlines and Routes

Both airports connect to major cities globally. Flight prices typically increase during peak seasons.

Direct Flight Hubs

LHE: Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, London, Jeddah, Riyadh, Kuwait, Muscat.
SKT: Primarily Middle Eastern cities like Dubai, Sharjah, Doha.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during popular times (winter, Eid holidays, summer vacation).

Airport Facilities

Both LHE and SKT offer standard facilities: currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, car rental counters, restaurants, and lounges. LHE provides more extensive amenities.

Transfers from LHE

Taxi/Ride-sharing (Uber, Careem) is the most practical (~1.5-2 hours). Private car hire is also available. Bus travel requires connecting from airport to Lahore bus terminal.

Transfers from SKT

Taxi/Ride-sharing and private car hire are available (~1-1.5 hours). Pre-booked services can be arranged from the airport.

Land Transportation

Trains & Buses

Train Connections: Gujranwala has a railway station on Pakistan's national network. Routes connect to Lahore, Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Peshawar. Book in advance.
Long-Distance Buses: Popular and affordable. Companies like Daewoo Express, Niazi Express, Faisal Movers link Gujranwala to major cities. Dedicated bus stations.
Border Crossing: Wagah Border with India is near Lahore, mainly for foot traffic; not a common entry point for Gujranwala.
Road Conditions: Major highways (GT Road, M-2, M-11) are well-maintained. Local roads vary.

Self-Driving & Safety

Self-Driving: DiscoverCars.com offers options. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is for foreigners. Obtain it before travel.
Traffic: Chaotic in urban areas; defensive driving helps. Google Maps helps navigation.
Fuel: Petrol stations are widely available.
Night Driving: Discouraged on inter-city roads due to poor lighting and security. Safer on major motorways.

Road Conditions & Safety Concerns

GT Road N-5

Main artery connecting Gujranwala to Lahore. Can be prone to congestion and heavy traffic.

Motorways M-2, M-11

Offer faster, safer travel between major cities. Gujranwala accessible via M-11 exit points.

Road Accidents

Common due to aggressive driving. Defensive driving helps.

Departure Information

Exit Fees or Taxes

International air ticket fares typically include taxes at the airport and fees.

Confirmation

No separate exit fee is usually required for tourists.
Confirm this when booking your flights.
Departure gains from good planning.

Departure Procedures and Timing

Arriving at the airport times are for comprehensive security screening and immigration.

Timing

Arrive at least THREE hours prior to international flights.
Arrive 2 hours for domestic flights.
Security checks are thorough and capture time.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

LHE and SKT offer standard departure facilities for comfort and convenience.

Amenities

Check-in counters, security screening areas.
Immigration desks.
Duty-free shops and food outlets.

Travel Logistics

Arranging transfers from the airport to Gujranwala is a step upon arrival.

Arrival & Departure

Familiarize yourself with typical transfer costs to avoid overpaying.
Inter-city buses are inexpensive and comfortable.
Pakistan Railways offers a different perspective for those with more time.

Important Travel Notes

Always confirm flight or train schedules in advance.
Especially during public holidays or times of dense fog in winter.
Double-checking luggage for prohibited items prevents last-minute issues.

Security checks are a standard part of travel in Pakistan.
Cooperate fully with security personnel.
Allow ample time for these procedures for an efficient journey.

Sea/River Arrivals

Inland City Status

Gujranwala is an inland city.

No Sea/River Ports

Does not have sea or river ports.
No international or significant domestic passenger arrivals by water.
This section is not applicable for Gujranwala.

Travel to Gujranwala

Travel to Gujranwala is strictly by air or land.

Main Modes

Air travel via Lahore or Sialkot airports.
Land travel via inter-city buses or private vehicles.
Train services from major Pakistani cities.

Air

Fastest method for international visitors.

Road

Extensive network connects to other parts of Pakistan.

Rail

Offers an special trips perspective.

Traveler's Experience

Inter-City Buses

Quality has improved significantly in Pakistan. Many companies offer comfortable, air-conditioned coaches.

Benefits

Economical travel between cities.
Pleasant way to experience the country.
Offers a scenic view of landscapes.

Pakistan Railways

Offers a nostalgic journey for those with more time, providing a different perspective of the landscape.

Experience

Nostalgic and unique travel.
Different perspective of the country.
Suitable for those with a flexible schedule.

Driving Within Cities

Defensive Driving

Defensive driving skills are helpful due to aggressive local habits.

Hired Driver

Many travelers hire a car with a driver to avoid navigation and traffic stress.

Travel Advice

Security checks are a standard part of travel in Pakistan, whether by air or land. Cooperate fully with security personnel and allow ample time for these procedures. This helps your journey remain safe and efficient.

How to Get to Gujranwala