Getting to Multan
Multan is well-connected to other major cities in Pakistan via several modes of transport, including air, rail, and road.
By Air
The city is served by the Multan International Airport, located in the Cantonment area. From the airport, travelers can reach the Cantonment center in about 5 minutes or the city center in approximately 20 minutes. The primary way to exit the airport and travel into the city is by hiring a cab.
By Train
Multan serves as a major stop on the main Peshawar-to-Karachi railway line, providing connections to most major cities in Pakistan. There are two primary stations: Multan Cantt (the main station serving the majority of trains) and Multan City.
By Bus
Direct buses from almost every major city in Pakistan arrive at the New Bus Stand located in the northern part of the city. Various companies offer services to Multan, including luxury options from Karachi and frequent departures from cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Dera Ismail Khan, Islamabad, and Bahawalpur.
By Car
The city is accessible via the N-5 National Highway (also known as GT Road), which connects Multan to major hubs including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Karachi, and Lahore. The road network has undergone significant improvements, though travelers should remain aware of ongoing roadworks and potential detours.
Getting Around the City
Once in Multan, several options are available for navigating the city's streets and reaching specific neighborhoods.
Public Buses and Mini-vans
Public buses operate throughout the city. These do not use prepaid tickets or passes; instead, passengers pay the conductor directly in cash. To reach the Cantonment area specifically, travelers can take a bus or van heading toward Dera Adda or Aziz Hotel chowk.
Rickshaws and Tuktuks
Rickshaws and tuktuks are the most common and efficient ways to get around locally. They are widely available throughout the city. Fares for these vehicles typically vary based on the distance traveled.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
While traditional taxis are less common than rickshaws, they can be found at major hubs such as the airport and main bus stands. For a more modern experience, travelers can use ride-hailing applications like Uber or Careem to book a taxi; these apps allow users to find nearby vehicles and calculate fares based on the distance traveled.