Introduction: The Reliable Multan–Karachi Route
If you are looking for a reliable, affordable, and comfortable way to travel from Multan to Karachi or back, the Bahauddin Zakaria Express (بہاؤالدین زکریا ایکسپریس) is one of the best options on the Pakistan Railways network.
Named after the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya Multani, this train has been serving passengers for over five decades. Whether you are a businessman heading to Karachi, a student going home, or a family traveler, this train offers a balanced mix of speed, comfort, and economy.
In this complete guide for 2026, I will cover everything you need to know — from Bahauddin Zakaria Express live status tracking to timing 2026, full route, ticket prices, facilities, and passenger tips.
1. Train History and Background
The Bahauddin Zakaria Express was first introduced in 1973 by Pakistan Railways. It was named in honor of Abu Muhammad Bahauddin Zakariya (1171–1262), a renowned Sufi saint of the Suhrawardiyya order who lived in Multan. His shrine is located in Multan, which is one of the train’s two terminal cities.
For over 50 years, this train has operated daily between Karachi and Multan, covering a distance of approximately 929 to 934 kilometers. The train number for the Multan → Karachi direction is 26DN, and the opposite direction (Karachi → Multan) is 25UP.
Historical Incident
It is important to mention that on 4 January 1990, this train was involved in the Sukkur rail disaster, the worst in Pakistan’s history, when it collided with a freight train near Sangi village due to incorrectly set points. Over 300 people lost their lives. Since then, safety measures have been significantly improved.
Today, the train is operated by APNI RAIL (SSR Group) under a public-private partnership.
2. Complete Route with All Stops in Order (2026)
The train follows the Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line and makes 27 stops in the 26DN direction (Multan to Karachi).
Bahauddin Zakaria Express 26DN — Multan to Karachi (All Stops)
Here is the complete list of stations with arrival and departure times according to the 2026 summer/winter timetable:
| Station Name | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|
| Multan Cantt | Start | 16:00 |
| Shujabad | 16:30 | 16:32 |
| Zarif Shaheed | 16:45 | 16:47 |
| Gilawala | 17:00 | 17:02 |
| Lodhran Jn | 17:25 | 17:27 |
| Bahawalpur | 17:45 | 17:50 |
| Samasata Jn | 18:04 | 18:06 |
| Mubarakpur | 18:26 | 18:28 |
| Dera Nawab Sahib | 18:43 | 18:45 |
| Liaqatpur | 19:15 | 19:17 |
| Khanpur Jn | 20:00 | 20:05 |
| Rahim Yar Khan | 20:37 | 20:39 |
| Sadiqabad | 21:00 | 21:02 |
| Ghotki | 22:21 | 22:23 |
| Rohri Jn | 23:35 | 00:00 (midnight) |
| Mahrabpur Jn | 01:00 | 01:02 |
| Daur | 02:10 | 02:12 |
| Nawabshah Jn | 02:54 | 02:56 |
| Shahdadpur | 03:47 | 03:49 |
| Tando Adam Jn | 04:22 | 04:24 |
| Hyderabad Jn | 05:10 | 05:20 |
| Kotri Jn | 05:38 | 05:40 |
| Landhi Jn | 07:22 | 07:24 |
| Drig Road | 08:02 | 08:04 |
| Karachi Cantt | 08:30 | 08:45 |
| Karachi City | 08:55 | End |
3. Departure and Arrival Times Both Directions (2026)
26DN — Multan to Karachi (Down Train)
- Departure from Multan Cantt: 4:00 PM
- Arrival at Karachi City: 8:55 AM (next day)
- Journey Duration: Approx. 16 hours 55 minutes
25UP — Karachi to Multan (Up Train)
- Departure from Karachi City: 6:15 PM
- Arrival at Multan Cantt: 11:15 AM (next day)
- Journey Duration: Approx. 17 hours
4. Ticket Prices for All Classes (2026) in Pakistani Rupees
Ticket prices for Bahauddin Zakaria Express vary based on class. These rates are updated from the Pakistan Railways fare table of April 2026.
| Class | Fare (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Economy Seat | Rs. 2,750 |
| Economy Berth | Rs. 2,850 |
| AC Standard | Rs. 5,900 |
| AC Business | Rs. 8,400 |
| AC Sleeper | Rs. 11,200 |
Note: For shorter distances (e.g., Multan to Sadiqabad), Economy Seat costs around Rs. 1,250.
5. Journey Total Duration
The total journey duration for Bahauddin Zakaria Express 26DN from Multan to Karachi is approximately 16 hours and 55 minutes. This includes all scheduled halts at 27 stations.
6. On-Board Facilities
While Bahauddin Zakaria Express is not a luxury “business train” like the Green Line, it offers solid basic amenities for long-distance travel.
- Classes Available: AC Business, AC Standard, and Economy.
- Sleeping Arrangements: Berths are available in Economy and all AC classes. Bedding is not officially provided by default in Economy, but AC Sleeper class includes bedding.
- Catering/Food: Pantry services are available. Vendors also board at major stations like Rohri, Hyderabad, and Bahawalpur. You can order tea, snacks, and full meals.
- AC: Fully operational in AC Business and AC Standard coaches.
- WiFi: Not available on this train.
- Power Outlets: Available in AC classes (limited in Economy).
- Cleanliness: Acceptable, though AC Business is noticeably cleaner.
7. How to Track Bahauddin Zakaria Express Live
Want to check the Bahauddin Zakaria Express live status before heading to the station? You can track this train easily online.
To track the train online, simply visit the Bahauddin Zakaria Express Live Status Page.
On this page, you will see:
- Real-time current location of train 26DN or 25UP.
- Expected arrival time at the next station.
- Minutes of delay (if any).
This is the most accurate way to get Bahauddin Zakaria Express delay today information without relying on rumors.
8. Common Delay Reasons and Average Delay Times
Like most long-distance trains in Pakistan, Bahauddin Zakaria Express can face delays.
Common reasons:
- Freight train crossings on single track sections between Rohri and Multan.
- Fog during winter (December–January) in Punjab.
- Signal issues near Hyderabad and Landhi junctions.
- Passenger loading at major stations (Rohri, Nawabshah).
Average delay times:
- Normal days: 30–60 minutes
- Fog season (Dec–Jan): 1.5 to 3 hours
- Karachi-bound: Usually arrives 45–90 minutes late
For the most accurate train delay today info, always check the live status link above.
9. Best Tips for Passengers
- Book AC Business for night travel — It is quieter and safer, especially for families.
- Reach the station 45 minutes early — Karachi Cantt and Multan Cantt can be very crowded.
- Carry your own snacks — While vendors are available, quality varies. Pack water and food for the first few hours.
- Keep a power bank — Economy class has limited charging points.
- Use live tracking before leaving home — Don’t rely only on the printed timetable.
- Avoid economy berth near the washroom — Odors and crowds are worse near the end of the coach.
10. FAQ Section (Real Passenger Questions)
Q1: What is Bahauddin Zakaria Express train number from Multan to Karachi?
The train number from Multan to Karachi is 26DN. The opposite direction (Karachi to Multan) is 25UP.
Q2: Bahauddin Zakaria Express mein kya kya facilities hain?
Is train mein AC Business, AC Standard, aur Economy class hain. AC classes mein air conditioning aur berths hote hain. Khana paneer ke liye vendors major stations par chadh te hain. WiFi nahi hai.
Q3: Is Bahauddin Zakaria Express running today?
Yes, this train runs daily (7 days a week) unless there is a special holiday cancellation or strike. Check the Bahauddin Zakaria Express Live Status Page to confirm today’s running status.
Q4: What is the ticket price of Bahauddin Zakaria Express from Multan to Karachi?
Economy Seat is Rs. 2,750, AC Standard is Rs. 5,900, and AC Business is Rs. 8,400 (2026 rates).
Q5: How long does Bahauddin Zakaria Express take from Multan to Karachi?
The total journey duration is approximately 16 hours and 55 minutes.
Final Words
The Bahauddin Zakaria Express (26DN) remains one of the most trusted trains on the Multan–Karachi route. While it may not be the fastest, it is reliable, affordable, and connects two of Pakistan’s most important cities. Always remember to track the Bahauddin Zakaria Express live status on trains.metro-status.com before your journey to avoid unexpected waiting.
Safe travels!