Lahore Punjab, Pakistan Travel Guide
Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) Lahore’s main international airport, situated about 15 kilometers (9 miles) east of the city center. It handles both international and domestic flights. LHE a modern airport with facilities for a high volume of passengers.
Flight prices higher during Peak Season (Nov–Mar) due to demand. Prices surge around holidays. Low Season (Jun–Aug) generally sees lower airfares. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
Currency exchange booths and ATMs available in arrivals/departures halls.
Wi-Fi generally available. SIM card booths from local mobile providers.
Duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, and cafes.
Not relevant for Lahore. Pakistan has sea ports (e.g., Karachi), but they do not connect directly to Lahore via water.
Not relevant for Lahore. The city a landlocked destination.
The Ravi River flows near Lahore, but it is not a main mode of passenger transportation for tourists within or to the city.
Pakistan Railways an extensive network connecting Lahore to major cities. Lahore Railway Station a historic hub. Frequent services link Lahore to Karachi, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Multan, Faisalabad, and Peshawar.
An extensive and popular way to travel between cities. Reputable companies include Daewoo Express, Faisal Movers, and Niazi Express. They run modern, air-conditioned coaches from dedicated terminals, often on city outskirts.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) necessary with your your domestic driver's license. Road conditions on major inter-city highways generally well-maintained. City traffic chaotic, aggressive, and unpredictable. Hiring a car with a local driver strongly suggested for foreigners. DiscoverCars.com for car rental options.
The Wagah Border with India the only operational land border crossing for passengers. Located about 30 kilometers east of Lahore. Famous for the daily flag-lowering ceremony before sunset. Passenger crossing has particular timings and requires valid visas for both India and Pakistan. The process time-consuming.
Lahore a landlocked city. Therefore, sea or river arrivals not applicable for direct access. Pakistan has sea ports (e.g., Karachi), but they do not connect directly to Lahore via water. No ferry services or cruise ports relevant for Lahore.
As sea/river arrivals not applicable for Lahore, immigration procedures at seaports and connections to land transportation from these ports are not relevant for direct city access.
Air travel most common for international visitors.
Connects to India via Wagah, and other Pakistani cities.
By understanding transportation options, arrival/departure smooth.
Departure tax typically included in your airline ticket price. You generally do not pay a separate fee at the airport. Confirm with your airline or check ticket details. For international flights, arrive at Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) at least 2-3 hours before departure. This time for check-in, security, and immigration. For domestic flights, arrive 1-2 hours before.
Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) offers various services for departing travelers. Lahore Railway Station and bus terminals also basic amenities for those departing by road or rail.
Verify flight status with your airline before heading to the airport.
Keep passport, boarding pass, and eVisa easily accessible.
Book taxi or ride-share in advance for timely arrival.
By understanding the various transportation options and preparing for the associated procedures, your arrival and departure from Lahore will be as smooth as your discovery of the city itself.
