The Kartarpur Corridor connects India and Pakistan, allowing Indian pilgrims to visit the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Punjab. Located near Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab, this corridor is a significant spiritual route for Sikhs and attracts many travelers from Delhi and other parts of India.

This guide explains the best ways to reach the Kartarpur Corridor from Delhi. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and a step-by-step plan to help you prepare for this unique journey.

Getting from Delhi to Kartarpur Corridor – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for reaching the Kartarpur Corridor from Delhi. The nearest major railway station to the corridor is Pathankot or Amritsar, from where you can take local transport to Dera Baba Nanak.

• Trains depart daily from New Delhi Railway Station to Amritsar Junction, covering approximately 450 km in 6 to 8 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on class.

• Amritsar Junction is well connected and offers frequent buses and taxis to Dera Baba Nanak, about 45 km away, which is the Indian side entry point for the Kartarpur Corridor.

• Pathankot Railway Station is another option, about 90 km from Dera Baba Nanak, but fewer direct trains run here from Delhi, making Amritsar more convenient.

• Train travel is comfortable with options like Shatabdi Express and other express trains, but book tickets early via IRCTC especially during festival seasons like Gurpurab to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• During winter months, fog can cause train delays in Punjab, so plan extra time if traveling between November and February.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and affordable way to reach Dera Baba Nanak from Delhi. State-run and private buses operate on this route, suitable for budget travelers and those who prefer road travel.

• Regular Volvo and deluxe buses run from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Dera Baba Nanak, covering around 480 km in 10 to 12 hours, with fares between ₹600 and ₹1200.

• Punjab Roadways and private operators offer night buses, allowing you to save daytime hours and arrive fresh for the pilgrimage.

• Bus frequency increases during Sikh festivals, so book tickets early through online portals or at ISBT counters to secure seats.

• The route passes via NH44 and NH503, with several toll plazas and highway dhabas offering food and rest stops along the way.

• Monsoon season may cause road delays due to waterlogging or traffic jams near border areas, so check weather updates before departure.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Kartarpur Corridor is a flexible option for those who prefer personalized travel schedules. The route is well connected by national highways and offers scenic views of Punjab countryside.

• The distance from Delhi to Dera Baba Nanak is about 480 km via NH44 and NH503, taking approximately 9 to 11 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Driving allows you to stop at key places like Jalandhar or Amritsar for meals or sightseeing, with many highway dhabas and restaurants available.

• Be prepared for toll charges at multiple plazas on NH44 and NH503; keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Self-drive vehicles can be hired from Delhi with options ranging from sedans to SUVs, costing ₹3500 to ₹6000 per day plus fuel.

• During peak festival times, traffic near border areas and Dera Baba Nanak can be heavy; start early in the morning to avoid delays and secure parking near the corridor.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach the region near Kartarpur Corridor, with Amritsar’s Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport serving as the nearest airport. This option suits travelers with limited time.

• Daily flights operate from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Amritsar, covering the distance in about 1.5 hours, with fares ranging from ₹2000 to ₹6000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Amritsar Airport, you can hire prepaid taxis or use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Dera Baba Nanak, which is about 45 km away and takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by road.

• Amritsar Airport has basic facilities including food outlets and car rental desks, making the transition smooth for travelers.

• Flight prices can surge during Sikh festivals and holidays, so book tickets well in advance to get the best rates.

• Weather conditions such as fog in winter can cause flight delays or cancellations, so monitor flight status closely before traveling.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to the Kartarpur Corridor. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

• Pack light but include essentials like valid photo ID, pilgrimage documents, and comfortable clothing suitable for Punjab’s weather.

• Reach the departure point (New Delhi Railway Station, ISBT Kashmiri Gate, or IGI Airport) at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure to manage security and boarding smoothly.

• If traveling by train, confirm your seat and coach number on the platform display boards and keep your ticket handy for ticket checking.

• On arrival at Amritsar or Pathankot, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach Dera Baba Nanak; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• At Dera Baba Nanak, follow local guidelines for the Kartarpur Corridor entry, including document verification and security checks, to ensure a smooth crossing.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of water and snacks, but avoid consuming street food near border areas to prevent stomach issues during the journey.

• Use official prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for local travel to avoid scams and ensure safety.

• Keep your original photo ID and pilgrimage permit documents accessible at all times, as these are mandatory for corridor entry and security checks.

• Book tickets for trains and buses well in advance through IRCTC and state transport websites, especially during festivals like Gurpurab and Baisakhi.

• Travel light to manage luggage easily during transfers between trains, buses, and taxis, as some stations have limited porter services.

• Be prepared for weather changes; carry an umbrella or raincoat during monsoon and warm clothes during winter mornings and evenings in Punjab.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit the Kartarpur Corridor is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoon rains may disrupt road travel.

Festival periods like Gurpurab attract large crowds, so plan your travel dates accordingly to avoid congestion and long waiting times at the corridor.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival days if you prefer less crowded experiences, as thousands of pilgrims visit the corridor then.

• Winter fog in Punjab from December to February can delay trains and flights, so allocate extra travel time during these months.

• Monsoon rains from July to September may cause road delays and slippery conditions on highways; check weather forecasts before departure.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Delhi and border area rush, making your journey smoother and quicker.

Arrival at Kartarpur Corridor & What to Expect

Upon reaching Dera Baba Nanak, you will find clear signage guiding you to the Kartarpur Corridor entry point. The area is well organized with security checks and document verification counters.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cabs for short distances. Accommodation options are available in nearby towns like Gurdaspur and Amritsar, with Amritsar being the most popular base for pilgrims.

Prepaid taxi counters near the railway station and bus stand help avoid bargaining and ensure fair pricing. The corridor area has basic amenities including food stalls and restrooms, but carrying your own water and snacks is advisable.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach the Kartarpur Corridor from Delhi is by train to Amritsar followed by a taxi to Dera Baba Nanak. This option balances comfort, cost, and convenience, especially when booked in advance. Flights are faster but more expensive, while buses and self-drive offer flexibility for different traveler preferences.

Planning your journey with early bookings, awareness of seasonal conditions, and local travel tips will help you enjoy a smooth pilgrimage experience. With proper preparation, you can confidently undertake this spiritual journey from Delhi to the Kartarpur Corridor and make the most of your visit.