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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 Underground 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 a card with a chip 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
  • Buy and top up at stations.
  • Single-journey tickets available.
  • Fares: PKR 30-50 for each 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 coach terminals provide access to a lot of 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. Parking garages with fees 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 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 typically 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.