Is Karnal safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a peaceful city with a friendly local population.

How far is Karnal from Delhi?

Karnal is approximately 125 km from Delhi.

Can I reach Karnal by bus from Nainikhad?

No, you must break the journey at Pathankot or Chandigarh.

Are there hotels near Karnal station?

Yes, several budget and mid-range hotels are located nearby.

What is the best time to visit Karnal?

Winter months are ideal for sightseeing.

Karnal

Train Driving

Nainikhad to Karnal

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Nainikhad to Karnal involves a journey of approximately 350 km. You will first descend from the hills to Pathankot, which serves as the main transit hub. From Pathankot, you can take a train to Karnal or continue by road via the NH 44 highway. The drive takes you through the industrial belts of Punjab and into the agricultural heartland of Haryana. Expect a total travel time of 9 to 11 hours.

Total Distance: 350 km driving distance; 290 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private taxi to Pathankot followed by an express train to Karnal.

Cheapest Way

HRTC bus to Pathankot followed by a general class train ticket to Karnal.

Compare Nainikhad to Karnal Routes

	Train Direct from Pathankot	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	9 hours
Avg Price	INR 500 - 1500	INR 4000 - 6000
Operator	Jammu Tawi Express	Private Taxi
Route	Pathankot Junction to Karnal Railway Station.	Nainikhad - Pathankot - Jalandhar - Ludhiana - Ambala - Karnal.
Tip	Check train status on the NTES app before leaving Nainikhad.	The Ambala-Karnal stretch is a high-speed expressway; drive carefully.

Travel Tips

Road Tolls
Keep cash or a FASTag ready as there are multiple toll plazas on the NH 44 route.
Food Stops
Dhabas near Ludhiana offer excellent Punjabi cuisine for a quick meal.
Station Arrival
Arrive at Pathankot station at least 45 minutes before your train departure.
Weather Check
Karnal experiences extreme heat in summer; carry light cotton clothing.
Local Navigation
Use ride-hailing apps for easy movement within Karnal city.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Stay in the left lane on the highway to allow faster traffic to pass.
Personal Belongings
Do not leave bags unattended at bus stands or railway stations.
Emergency Help
Keep the contact number of your hotel in Karnal saved for directions.
Driving Fatigue
Take breaks every 3 hours if you are driving the entire stretch yourself.