Upgraded Safari Tourist Train Launched in Rawalpindi

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi inaugurated an upgraded Safari Tourist Train service on April 12, 2026, at the Rawalpindi Railway Station. The relaunch of the service is part of a broader effort by Pakistan Railways to modernize the national railway system and promote domestic tourism.

The Safari Tourist Train is scheduled to operate once a week, every Sunday, departing from Rawalpindi Railway Station at 10:00 am. The service is designed as a tourism-oriented experience, running from Rawalpindi to Attock Khurd with planned short stopovers along the route.

Route and Scenic Highlights

The route has been designed to showcase various scenic and historical sites. During the journey, the train passes through several key landmarks, including:

• Margalla Hills
• Golra Sharif
• Sangjani Tunnel
• Taxila
• Wah Cantt
• Chablal Bridge
• Haro Bridge

A significant feature of the journey is the crossing of a 160-year-old iron bridge in Attock, which dates back to the British era. The route also takes passengers across the Ghazi Barotha Canal before arriving at the Attock Khurd station.

Passenger Experience and Amenities

The modernized train features air-conditioned coaches, improved seating, and a family-friendly environment. According to official sources, the service is operated under the private sector to provide a unique travel experience.

Passengers are provided with several onboard facilities to enhance comfort, including Wi-Fi access, meals, tea, biscuits, and cold drinks. The initiative aims to strengthen the role of Pakistan Railways in the tourism sector by offering a more convenient and enjoyable experience for travelers.

Upon arriving at Attock Khurd, the train maintains a stopover of four to six hours. During this time, tourists can engage in various recreational activities, such as:

• Horse and camel riding
• Boating in the Indus River
• Visits to the historic Attock Bridge
• Dining facilities at scenic destinations

Following these activities, the train returns to Rawalpindi later the same day.

Fare Revisions and Financial Context

Pakistan Railways has implemented a revised fare structure for the Safari Tourist Train. Ticket prices for AC business and economy classes have been increased by 15 to 20 percent, with fares now set between Rs2,500 and Rs4,000. The railway authority has reduced the discounts previously available for children.

This launch marks the fourth time the Safari Tourist Train service has been introduced. Previous attempts to run the service, launched by former railways ministers Sheikh Rashid and Azam Khan Swati, were suspended after a limited number of trips due to financial losses.

Modernization and Operational Reforms

Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated that the relaunch is part of wider reforms intended to upgrade railway infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and introduce modern facilities across the network. He noted that the initiative reflects the government’s focus on enhancing travel comfort while promoting domestic tourism.

The minister highlighted a rise in passenger occupancy as an indicator of growing public confidence in rail services. He further noted that Pakistan Railways has generated record daily revenue, surpassing figures recorded over the past 30 years.

Officials expect that the upgraded service will attract more visitors to the scenic and historical sites along the Rawalpindi-Attock Khurd route, further integrating the railway system into the country’s tourism infrastructure.