How to get to Rahimyar Khan

When planning a trip to the southern part of the Punjab province, travellers often seek information on how to reach Rahimyar Khan — a lively city in Pakistan that combines modern dynamism with historical flair. Thanks to its status as an important regional hub, getting here is possible via various means: taking flights to the local airport, arriving by train on one of the main railway lines, or choosing a road route. A trip to this city allows you to witness the authentic life of the country and serves as a convenient starting point for further exploration of the region.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is to take a flight to Rahim Yar Khan Airport (RYK), also known as Sheikh Zayed International Airport. This air hub receives regular flights from key metropolises of the country, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, and also serves a number of destinations from the Middle East. The terminal is located just a few kilometres from the city limits, allowing travellers to reach the centre in a matter of minutes.

If direct tickets are unavailable, one can consider flying to neighbouring cities located within a radius of 170–180 kilometres. The nearest alternative air hubs are in Sukkur and Bahawalpur. The journey from these airports will take about three hours by car, offering an opportunity to combine the trip with a short road trip along the picturesque roads of the Punjab and Sindh provinces.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and affordable ways to reach the city. Unlike many smaller settlements, Rahimyar Khan boasts its own railway station (Rahim Yar Khan Railway Station), which is an important junction on the country's main line. This makes the trip here convenient and predictable, eliminating the need for complex transfers.

Trains regularly arrive here from major metropolises such as Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar. Travelling by rail allows you not only to reach your destination in comfort but also to observe the changing landscapes — from bustling city outskirts to the endless agricultural lands of the Punjab province. The station is located directly within the city, so getting from the platform to the centre by taxi or local transport is very quick.

Bus services in the region are well-developed, and modern coaches ply the national highway N-5, connecting the city with neighbouring regions. One of the most sought-after and scenic routes is the trip from the historical city of Bahawalpur: covering a distance of about 200 kilometres takes an average of 3–4 hours, while watching the changing landscapes of the Indus Valley.

Travellers heading from the south often choose regular services from the city of Sukkur, located in the Sindh province. The road, spanning about 180 kilometres, usually takes around three hours, making this option convenient for quick movement between regions without unnecessary tiring transfers.

Travelling by car to Rahimyar Khan allows you to appreciate the scale and beauty of the regional road network running through picturesque plains. One of the most convenient and popular routes leads from the city of Sukkur: a distance of about 180 kilometres along the N-5 national highway is usually covered in 2.5–3 hours. The road features quality surfacing, and travelling by private taxi or rented car ensures maximum comfort and freedom of movement.

No less popular is the route from historical Bahawalpur, located to the north. The path of approximately 200 kilometres will take about 3 hours and offer a chance to see the authentic landscapes of the country's agricultural heart. Roadside infrastructure is well-developed in this direction, so tourists often make stops to rest and drink a cup of tea in local establishments, turning the transfer into an exciting part of the journey.

Preparing for a trip to Rahimyar Khan requires attention to local cultural norms and the region's climatic conditions. To ensure your trip to Pakistan is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Dress Code: Given the conservative traditions of the Punjab province, choose modest, opaque clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Due to the hot climate, opt for loose-fitting garments made of natural cotton or linen. Women are advised to always carry a light scarf (dupatta) for visiting religious sites.
2. City Transport: The most common mode of transport is the auto-rickshaw. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting the journey, as meters are rarely used here. For longer trips or greater comfort, it is better to order a taxi through your hotel or rent a car with a driver.
3. Cash: Credit cards are accepted only in major hotels and some modern shopping centres. For purchases at bazaars, paying for transport, and dining in cafes, you will definitely need cash in Pakistani Rupees. Try to keep small denominations handy for change.
4. Health and Water: Drink exclusively bottled water and use it even for brushing your teeth. Avoid drinks with ice at street stalls. Also, do not forget to pack a small first-aid kit with stomach remedies and insect repellents.
5. Interacting with Locals: Although English is spoken in business circles, the main language on the streets is Urdu or local dialects (Saraiki, Punjabi). Learning a few basic phrases of greeting and gratitude will help build rapport with people.
6. Etiquette Rules: Greet people of the same gender with a handshake, and those of the opposite gender with a nod or verbal greeting. Remember that taking food, passing money, or giving gifts should be done strictly with the right hand, as the left is considered "unclean."
7. Photography: Be discreet when using a camera. It is strictly forbidden to photograph military and government facilities. Never photograph local women without permission and always ask for consent before taking pictures of people on the street.
8. Climate Factor: Rahimyar Khan is known for its scorching summers, when temperatures can rise to extreme levels. Plan activities for the early morning or evening, and try to stay indoors during the day. Be sure to wear a head covering and use sunscreen.

Observing these simple rules will help you show respect for the country's culture and avoid misunderstandings. Locals appreciate the politeness and modesty of guests, so by following etiquette, you can count on sincere hospitality and assistance in any situation.