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Getting Around Rawalpindi

Getting Around Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi Punjab, Pakistan Travel Guide

Public Transit

Rawalpindi features a Metro Bus system connecting it to Islamabad, and a network of local buses within the city. Trams are not available. The Metro Bus is a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system that operates on dedicated corridors.

Metro Bus Highlights

  • Connects Rawalpindi to Islamabad.
  • Dedicated elevated and ground-level corridors.
  • Efficient travel between twin cities.
  • Uses rechargeable smart card system.

Metro Bus Route

Connects Saddar (Rawalpindi) to Pakistan Secretariat (Islamabad).

Local Bus Network

Covers various routes within Rawalpindi; less formal and often crowded.

Accessibility Info

Metro Bus terminals and buses are generally accessible with ramps and elevators.

Ticketing & Fares

Metro Card
  • Purchase and top up at stations.
  • Single-journey tickets available.
  • Fares: PKR 30-50 per journey.
Local Bus Payment
  • Pay cash to the conductor.
  • Very low fares.
  • Hours: Early morning to late evening.

Tips for Public Transit

Best for Twin Cities

Metro Bus is most efficient for Rawalpindi-Islamabad travel.

City Travel

Careem/Uber are more practical than public buses for tourists.

Basic Urdu

Learn phrases or use a translation app to communicate.

Avoid Crowds

Travel during off-peak hours for a less crowded experience.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Decide between traditional taxis and contemporary ride-sharing services for travel within Rawalpindi.

Ride-Sharing Services

  • Careem and Uber are dominant services.
  • Offer car and rickshaw options.
  • Fares calculated by app (distance, traffic).
  • Pay via app (card/wallet) or cash.

Traditional Taxis

  • Yellow-cab style or older vehicles.
  • Hailing on street or designated stands.
  • Haggle over prices before journey (meters often unused).
  • Short ride (5-10 km): PKR 200 - 700.

Safety Practices

  • Ride-Sharing Safety: Driver tracking and customer reviews.
  • Verify car and driver match app.
  • Share trip details with others.
  • Traditional Taxi Safety: Agree on fare beforehand.
  • Inform someone of your route (if alone at night).
  • Choose well-maintained vehicles.

Airport & Station Taxis

ISB Airport

Dedicated airport taxi counters and ride-sharing apps are available at Islamabad International Airport.

Railway Station

Taxis and rickshaws are readily available at Rawalpindi Rail Depot.

Bus Terminals

Major bus terminals provide access to numerous taxi and rickshaw services.

Rental Choices

Consider renting a car if you prefer independent travel, but be aware of local driving conditions.

Car Rental

  • Valid national driving license.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Passport and credit card for deposit.
  • Local and international companies available.

Costs & Options

  • PKR 4,000 - 8,000/day (car without driver).
  • PKR 6,000 - 12,000+/day (car with driver).
  • Minimum age for rental: 21 or 25.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals less common for tourists.

Driving & Parking

Specialty Vehicles

Auto-rickshaws ("rickshaws" or "chingchis") are widely used for short distances.

Local Experience

Driving Rules

Drive on the left. Speed limits are enforced. Road conditions vary; city roads can be rough.

Left-Hand Traffic

Parking Info

Parking can be challenging in busy areas like Raja Bazaar. Paid parking lots exist in commercial zones.

Commercial Zones

Walking & Cycling

Walking Areas
  • Not especially pedestrian-friendly due to traffic.
  • F-9 Park (Islamabad) for pleasant walks.
  • Ayub National Park for open spaces.
Cycling Safety
  • No dedicated bicycle lanes.
  • Cycling on main roads is risky.
  • Very crowded market areas (no-go for cycling).

Specialized Transport

Tour & Water Transport
  • No formal hop-on-hop-off services.
  • No boat taxis or water transportation.
  • Nearby Murree features chairlifts and cable cars.
Accessibility Services
  • Metro Bus system is generally accessible.
  • Accessibility in older city parts (markets, sites) is limited.
  • Upscale hotels and newer establishments offer better accessibility.

Local Navigation Guide

For hassle-free journeys, always have a fully charged phone with ride-sharing apps and offline maps.

Consider hiring a local driver for longer excursions to avoid driving stress and enjoy the scenery.