Introduction

Amritsar, known for the Golden Temple and its vibrant Punjabi culture, attracts thousands of visitors every day. But many travelers also plan to head onward to Chandigarh, the beautiful planned city known for its gardens, modern architecture, and serene vibe. If you are in Amritsar and wondering, “What’s the best way to reach Chandigarh?”, you’re not alone. The good news is that this route is well-connected with multiple travel options—by road, rail, and even air. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways people travel from Amritsar to Chandigarh, along with tips, costs, and helpful FAQs.

1. Traveling by Road – The Most Popular Option

Road travel is the most preferred way for many travelers. The distance between Amritsar and Chandigarh is approximately 225 km, and the journey takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

Options for Road Travel

• Private Taxi or Cab
  
  

  • Door-to-door convenience.
    
    

  • Great for families or travelers with luggage.
    
    

  • Fare for a sedan is usually between ₹3,500 and ₹4,500.
    
    

• Volvo or AC Buses
  
  

  • Frequent services run by Punjab Roadways and private operators.
    
    

  • Buses are available from Amritsar Bus Stand to Chandigarh ISBT (Sector 17 or 43).
    
    

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned, and budget-friendly.
    
    

Why Choose Road Travel?
  Flexible schedule
  Scenic drive through Punjab’s countryside
Easy availability of services

2. Traveling by Train – Comfort and Budget-Friendly

Trains are another excellent option for traveling between these two cities. Amritsar Junction is well connected to Chandigarh Railway Station with multiple trains operating daily.

Popular Trains

• Amritsar–Chandigarh Superfast Express
  
  

• Intercity Express
  
  

• Amritsar–Howrah Mail (via Chandigarh)
  
  

Travel Time: Around 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on the train.

Advantages of Train Travel:
  Affordable fares starting from ₹200–₹800 depending on class
  Comfortable seating and sleeper options
  Avoids road traffic and weather-related delays

3. Traveling by Air – Quick but Less Common

Although Amritsar (Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport) and Chandigarh both have airports, there are limited direct flights between the two cities. Flying is not the most common mode due to cost and availability.

When Should You Choose a Flight?

• If you are short on time and find a suitable flight.
  
  

• When traveling during festivals or peak tourist season and other modes are fully booked.
  
  

Travel Time:

• Flight time is around 45 minutes, but adding airport formalities makes total travel time closer to 3–4 hours.
  
  

4. Which Mode Should You Choose?

Before deciding, consider:

• Budget:
  
  

  • Buses and trains are more economical.
    
    

  • Taxis cost more but offer privacy and convenience.
    
    

  • Flights are expensive but fastest.
    
    

• Travel Group:
  
  

  • Family or group with luggage? A private taxi works best.
    
    

  • Solo traveler? A train or bus is cost-effective.
    
    

• Flexibility:
  
  

  • Want to stop for food or sightseeing? Road travel is ideal.
    
    

  • Want a fixed schedule? Choose a train.
    
    

Sample Travel Plan

• Morning: Take an early train like the Amritsar–Chandigarh Superfast Express.
  
  

• Afternoon: Arrive in Chandigarh and explore sights like Sukhna Lake or Rock Garden.
  OR
  
  

• Morning: Hire a cab, enjoy scenic dhaba stops en route.
  
  

• Evening: Reach Chandigarh relaxed and ready to explore.
  
  

Tips for a Smooth Journey

•  Book in advance for trains, buses, or taxis during peak seasons.
  
  

•  Carry water and light snacks for the road.
  
  

•  Check live traffic updates if traveling by road.
  
  

•  Use trusted platforms like RedBus, IRCTC, Ola, or Uber for bookings.
  
  

•  Plan your arrival time to match hotel check-ins or sightseeing schedules.
  
  

Conclusion

Traveling from Amritsar to Chandigarh is simple and offers multiple convenient options. Most travelers choose road travel—by taxi or bus—for its flexibility and comfort. Others prefer trains for affordability and reliability. Flying is less common but useful for those on tight schedules. By considering your budget, group size, and travel preferences, you can pick the perfect mode and enjoy a smooth journey between these two iconic cities of Punjab.

FAQs

Q1. How far is Chandigarh from Amritsar?
It’s approximately 225 km by road.

Q2. What is the fastest way to travel from Amritsar to Chandigarh?
A direct taxi or, if available, a flight would be the fastest option.

Q3. Are buses from Amritsar to Chandigarh comfortable?
Yes, AC and Volvo buses are comfortable and run frequently.

Q4. How long does the train take from Amritsar to Chandigarh?
Most trains take around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Introduction

Amritsar, known for the Golden Temple and its vibrant Punjabi culture, attracts thousands of visitors every day. But many travelers also plan to head onward to Chandigarh, the beautiful planned city known for its gardens, modern architecture, and serene vibe. If you are in Amritsar and wondering, “What’s the best way to reach Chandigarh?”, you’re not alone. The good news is that this route is well-connected with multiple travel options—by road, rail, and even air. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways people travel from Amritsar to Chandigarh, along with tips, costs, and helpful FAQs.

1. Traveling by Road – The Most Popular Option

Road travel is the most preferred way for many travelers. The distance between Amritsar and Chandigarh is approximately 225 km, and the journey takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

Options for Road Travel

• Private Taxi or Cab

  • Door-to-door convenience.

  • Great for families or travelers with luggage.

  • Fare for a sedan is usually between ₹3,500 and ₹4,500.
    
    

• Volvo or AC Buses
  
  

  • Frequent services run by Punjab Roadways and private operators.

  • Buses are available from Amritsar Bus Stand to Chandigarh ISBT (Sector 17 or 43).

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned, and budget-friendly.
    
    

Why Choose Road Travel?
  Flexible schedule
  Scenic drive through Punjab’s countryside
Easy availability of services

2. Traveling by Train – Comfort and Budget-Friendly

Trains are another excellent option for traveling between these two cities. Amritsar Junction is well connected to Chandigarh Railway Station with multiple trains operating daily.

Popular Trains

• Amritsar–Chandigarh Superfast Express
  
  

• Intercity Express
  
  

• Amritsar–Howrah Mail (via Chandigarh)
  
  

Travel Time: Around 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on the train.

Advantages of Train Travel:
  Affordable fares starting from ₹200–₹800 depending on class
  Comfortable seating and sleeper options
  Avoids road traffic and weather-related delays

3. Traveling by Air – Quick but Less Common

Although Amritsar (Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport) and Chandigarh both have airports, there are limited direct flights between the two cities. Flying is not the most common mode due to cost and availability.

When Should You Choose a Flight?

• If you are short on time and find a suitable flight.
  
  

• When traveling during festivals or peak tourist season and other modes are fully booked.
  
  

Travel Time:

• Flight time is around 45 minutes, but adding airport formalities makes total travel time closer to 3–4 hours.
  
  

Which Mode Should You Choose?

Before deciding, consider:

• Budget:

  • Buses and trains are more economical.

  • Taxis cost more but offer privacy and convenience.

  • Flights are expensive but fastest.
    
    

• Travel Group:

  • Family or group with luggage? A private taxi works best.

  • Solo traveler? A train or bus is cost-effective.
    
    

• Flexibility:

  • Want to stop for food or sightseeing? Road travel is ideal.

  • Want a fixed schedule? Choose a train.
    
    

Sample Travel Plan

• Morning: Take an early train like the Amritsar–Chandigarh Superfast Express.

• Afternoon: Arrive in Chandigarh and explore sights like Sukhna Lake or Rock Garden.
  OR

• Morning: Hire a cab, enjoy scenic dhaba stops en route.

• Evening: Reach Chandigarh relaxed and ready to explore.
  
  

Tips for a Smooth Journey

•  Book in advance for trains, buses, or taxis during peak seasons.

•  Carry water and light snacks for the road.

•  Check live traffic updates if traveling by road.

•  Use trusted platforms like RedBus, IRCTC, Ola, or Uber for bookings.

•  Plan your arrival time to match hotel check-ins or sightseeing schedules.
  
  

Conclusion

Traveling from Chandigarh to Amritsar is simple and offers multiple convenient options. Most travelers choose road travel—by taxi or bus—for its flexibility and comfort. Others prefer trains for affordability and reliability. Flying is less common but useful for those on tight schedules. By considering your budget, group size, and travel preferences, you can pick the perfect mode and enjoy a smooth journey between these two iconic cities of Punjab.

FAQs

Q1. How far is Chandigarh from Amritsar?
It’s approximately 225 km by road.

Q2. What is the fastest way to travel from Amritsar to Chandigarh?
A direct taxi or, if available, a flight would be the fastest option.

Q3. Are buses from Amritsar to Chandigarh comfortable?
Yes, AC and Volvo buses are comfortable and run frequently.

Q4. How long does the train take from Amritsar to Chandigarh?
Most trains take around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Q5. Can I hire a taxi directly from Amritsar Airport to Chandigarh?
Yes, you can book prepaid taxis or app-based cabs directly from the airport.

Yes, you can book prepaid taxis or app-based cabs directly from the airport.