Pakistan Railways runs roughly 150 active trains across 700-plus stations, carrying 80,000 passengers a day. It’s a practical way to cover long distances. Booking as a foreigner, though, comes with real friction worth knowing about before you go.
Train travel in Pakistan: the basics
| Detail | Pakistan Railways |
|---|---|
| Active trains | Roughly 150 |
| Stations | 700+ |
| Classes | Economy, AC Standard, AC Sleeper, Business |
| Helpline | 117, toll-free, 24/7 |
The trains worth knowing
- Khyber Mail: Pakistan’s most famous train, recommended for Karachi-Peshawar journeys.
- Green Line Express: launched in 2015, the premier fully air-conditioned service between Karachi and Islamabad, covering roughly 1,518 km in about 22 to 24 hours.
- Karachi Express: running since 1943, connecting Karachi and Lahore over roughly 19.5 hours.
- Tezgam: a reliable option for Karachi-Rawalpindi journeys.
What fares and classes actually look like
Fares vary widely by train, class and distance, and they have risen. Economy is the cheapest class and the AC classes cost considerably more, but published fare lists disagree and fares have risen, so confirm the current price on the Pakistan Railways site, the app or at the counter. Check the current fare chart on the Pakistan Railways website or app before you plan.
Booking as a foreigner is more complicated
Pakistan Railways sells tickets through its website and app and at station counters. Some booking sources say foreign visitors can use a passport number in place of a CNIC, but availability can vary, so check the official site first and be ready to book in person at a station.
Train travel in Pakistan: practical tips
- Arrive 30 to 45 minutes early. Finding your platform and coach at larger stations takes time.
- Never cross tracks directly. Always use the overpass or underpass; track crossing is dangerous.
- Pack a light blanket for overnight or AC journeys. AC coaches can run cold, and bedding isn’t always sufficient.
- Women traveling alone should consider a middle bunk in open-plan cars. It’s a small precaution that reduces unwanted contact.
- Bring a power bank. Outlets aren’t reliable, especially on longer or older trains.
Pair this with our Pakistan tourism for foreigners guide for broader logistics.
Main train routes at a glance
| Route | Typical trains | Approximate journey |
|---|---|---|
| Karachi to Lahore | Karachi Express, Lahore Express, Karakoram Express, Green Line | About 18 to 24 hours over roughly 1,285 km |
| Karachi to Rawalpindi and Islamabad | Green Line, Tezgam | About 22 to 24 hours |
| Lahore to Rawalpindi and Islamabad | Several daily express services | A few hours; check the timetable |
| Lahore to Karachi via Multan | Same long-distance expresses, which stop at Multan Cantt | Overnight |
Rawalpindi is the usual northern railhead. For Hunza, Skardu and Gilgit there are no trains, so continue by road or by plane. See our domestic flights guide and public transport guide.
The ticket classes explained
- Economy: basic non-AC seats or berths and the cheapest option.
- AC Standard: air-conditioned reserved seating or berths.
- AC Sleeper: air-conditioned berths with bedding, useful on overnight trains.
- AC Business: the premium class, with more space and, on some trains such as the Green Line, meals included.
Not every class is available on every train, so check the service you want.
How to book a Pakistan Railways ticket
- Check timetables and availability on the official Pakistan Railways website or app.
- Book online if the system accepts your details. Some visitors report that a Pakistani mobile number or CNIC is requested, which can be a barrier for foreigners.
- If online booking fails, buy at a station booking office a few days before you travel and carry your passport.
- Ask a hotel or a local contact to help, or use a trusted travel agent.
- For live information, call the Pakistan Railways helpline, 117.
The booking window and requirements change, so confirm them before you plan around a specific date. For wider logistics, see our Pakistan travel FAQ and travel cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners book Pakistan Railways tickets online?
Some booking sources say foreign visitors can use a passport number instead of a CNIC, but this can vary. Check the official Pakistan Railways website or app, or book in person at a station.
Do foreigners get a discount on train tickets?
We could not confirm a general discount for foreign tourists. Discounts exist for some groups, such as students and senior citizens, so ask at the counter and carry valid ID.
What’s Pakistan’s most famous train?
The Khyber Mail, recommended for Karachi-Peshawar journeys.
How much does a train ticket cost in Pakistan?
Fares vary by train, class and distance. Economy is the cheapest class and the AC classes cost considerably more, but published fare lists disagree and fares have risen, so confirm the current price on the Pakistan Railways site, the app or at the counter. Check the current fare chart before you book.
Is train travel safe for solo female travelers in Pakistan?
Generally yes with sensible precautions, such as choosing a middle bunk in open-plan cars to reduce unwanted contact.
Prices and fees in this guide are approximate and change with season and demand. Confirm current rates before you book. Last checked: October 2026.
Some services are suspended, rerouted or disrupted from time to time, and timetables change. Check the Pakistan Railways website or helpline (117) before you travel. Last checked: October 2026.