How to Reach Hinglaj Devi Temple in Pakistan – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Hinglaj Devi Temple in Pakistan via train, bus, car, and flight with practical tips for a smooth pilgrimage journey.
Hinglaj Devi Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Hingol National Park, Balochistan, Pakistan. It is one of the most important Shakti Peethas and attracts devotees from India and Pakistan alike. The temple is situated in a remote desert mountain area, making travel planning essential for a safe and comfortable visit.
This guide explains the main ways to reach Hinglaj Devi Temple, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will also find step-by-step travel advice, practical tips for Indian pilgrims, and information on arrival and local conditions to help you plan your journey confidently.
Getting from India to Hinglaj Devi Temple – Main Options
Train
Train travel from India to Pakistan is limited and requires advance planning due to visa and border formalities. The nearest major Pakistani railway station to Hinglaj is Gwadar or Karachi, but no direct train reaches the temple area.
The Samjhauta Express runs between Delhi and Lahore, but you must arrange onward travel from Lahore to Karachi by train or bus, covering about 1,200 km over 18–24 hours.
From Karachi, you can take local transport or hire a car to reach Hinglaj, approximately 350 km away, as no direct train serves the temple region.
Train travel in Pakistan is affordable but can be crowded and subject to delays, especially during monsoon or festival seasons.
Booking tickets via Pakistan Railways online or at stations is necessary, and carrying valid travel documents is mandatory for border crossing.
Bus
Buses offer a practical way to reach Pakistan from India and then travel closer to Hinglaj. However, direct bus services to the temple area are unavailable, so multiple transfers are needed.
The Delhi to Lahore bus service is a common cross-border option, taking about 8–10 hours including customs checks, with fares around INR 1,500–2,500.
From Lahore, you can take intercity buses to Karachi, which take approximately 20–24 hours covering over 1,200 km, with fares ranging INR 1,200–2,000.
Local buses or shared taxis operate from Karachi to the Hingol National Park area, but these are infrequent and may not be comfortable for long journeys.
Bus travel can be affected by border delays, road conditions, and seasonal weather, so plan extra time and carry snacks and water.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving yourself or hiring a car is the most flexible way to reach Hinglaj Devi Temple, especially once inside Pakistan. The route passes through desert and mountainous terrain, requiring careful preparation.
From Karachi, the journey to Hinglaj is about 350 km via the Makran Coastal Highway (N-10), taking 6–8 hours depending on stops and road conditions.
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies, as service stations are sparse along the route.
Crossing the India-Pakistan border by car is complex and generally not permitted for private vehicles; most travelers arrange car hire after entering Pakistan.
Hiring a local driver familiar with the region is recommended due to challenging roads and limited signage near Hinglaj.
Toll plazas on the Makran Coastal Highway require cash payment; keep Pakistani rupees handy.
Flight
Flying is the fastest way to reach the region near Hinglaj Devi Temple, with Karachi being the nearest major airport. From there, you must use road transport to reach the temple.
Jinnah International Airport in Karachi connects to major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai via direct or connecting flights, taking 2–3 hours.
Flight fares vary widely but generally range from INR 8,000 to 15,000 one-way, depending on booking time and airline.
From Karachi airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to travel 350 km to Hinglaj, which takes about 6–8 hours on the Makran Coastal Highway.
Domestic flights within Pakistan to smaller airports near Hinglaj are unavailable; road travel is necessary for the last leg.
Booking flights well in advance is advised, especially during festival seasons when demand rises.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from India to Hinglaj Devi Temple, helping you navigate border formalities and remote travel challenges.
Obtain a valid Pakistan visa well in advance, ensuring your pilgrimage purpose is clearly stated to avoid delays at the border.
Book your flight or train ticket to Karachi or Lahore early through official portals like IRCTC for Indian trains or airline websites for flights.
Cross the India-Pakistan border at Wagah or Attari with all necessary documents, arriving early to allow for customs and immigration processing.
From Karachi, hire a trusted local driver or taxi service familiar with the Makran Coastal Highway to reach Hinglaj safely, as public transport options are limited.
Carry sufficient water, snacks, and emergency supplies for the 6–8 hour road journey, and plan rest stops at towns like Ormara or Kund Malir.
Confirm your accommodation near Hinglaj Devi Temple in advance, as options are limited and often fully booked during pilgrimage seasons.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in remote areas of Pakistan.
Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Careem in Karachi for safer and more reliable local transport.
Book all tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during the Hinglaj pilgrimage season in March-April, to avoid last-minute hassles.
Dress modestly and respectfully, as Hinglaj is a sacred Hindu site in a predominantly Muslim region; this helps ensure a smooth experience.
Keep your valuables secure and avoid traveling alone after dark on the highway due to limited lighting and sparse traffic.
Check weather forecasts before traveling; monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and delays on the Makran Coastal Highway.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Hinglaj Devi Temple is during the spring months of March and April, coinciding with the annual Hinglaj Yatra festival. Weather is mild and roads are generally clear.
Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of June to August due to extreme heat in Balochistan, which can make road travel uncomfortable and risky.
Festival periods like the Hinglaj Yatra see increased traffic and accommodation demand; book early to secure your spot.
Monsoon season from July to September can cause flooding and road damage, leading to travel delays and safety concerns.
Early morning departures are best to avoid daytime heat and to reach the temple before sunset, as the area is remote and lacks street lighting.
Winter months can be chilly at night but are generally dry and suitable for travel if you prefer cooler weather.
Arrival at Hinglaj Devi Temple & What to Expect
Upon arrival at Hinglaj Devi Temple, you will find a simple but spiritually significant environment nestled in the rugged Hingol National Park. The temple is accessible by a short walk from the parking area.
Local transport options are minimal; most pilgrims arrive by private vehicle or hired taxi. Basic amenities are available near the temple, but it is advisable to carry your own food and water. Nearby towns like Kund Malir offer limited accommodation and facilities.
Prepaid taxis or arranged transport from Karachi or Gwadar are recommended for the return journey. Mobile network coverage is patchy, so plan communications accordingly.
Conclusion
Traveling to Hinglaj Devi Temple requires careful planning due to its remote location and cross-border complexities. Flying into Karachi and then hiring a local driver for the coastal highway journey is the most efficient and comfortable option for most pilgrims.
Ensure you secure your visa, book transport and accommodation well in advance, and prepare for the desert climate and limited facilities. With proper planning and respect for local customs, your pilgrimage to Hinglaj Devi Temple can be a safe and spiritually rewarding experience.