Pakistan Railways has officially reduced saloon fares on major long-distance routes after new directives from the Federal Minister for Railways. The fresh decision aims to make these special saloons more affordable while improving accessibility and service quality.

These saloons, also known as VIP Railway Saloons, are mostly used by top officials, including the Railways Minister, Chairman, CEO, and Inspector General Railways, but they are also available for public booking.

The sharp reduction in saloon fares has taken effect immediately across Pakistan.

What Are Railway Saloons? (Quick Overview)

Railway saloons are special luxury coaches attached to trains on long routes. They include:

Sleeping cabins
Kitchenette
Lounge area
Washroom
Dedicated attendants
Private security (for officials)

While traditionally used by officials, many private individuals—especially for family tours, business travel, and tourism—also book these saloons.

Major Fare Reductions by Pakistan Railways (Official Updated Rates)

Pakistan Railways has cut the fares by more than 60%, making them the lowest in recent years. Below is the comparison:

1. Karachi to Rawalpindi (Biggest Drop)

Old Fare: Rs. 500,000
New Fare: Rs. 172,000
➡️ Total Reduction: Rs. 328,000

2. Karachi to Lahore

Old Fare: Rs. 420,000
New Fare: Rs. 150,000
➡️ Total Reduction: Rs. 270,000

3. Lahore to Rawalpindi

Old Fare: Rs. 105,000
New Fare: Rs. 44,000
➡️ Total Reduction: Rs. 61,000

These rates apply immediately and will remain active until the next fare revision.

Why Pakistan Railways Reduced Saloon Fares?

The fare reduction is part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Railways to:

✔️ Make Rail Travel Affordable

High fares kept public from booking saloons.
The new prices aim to increase bookings and revenue.

✔️ Improve Railway Reputation

Lower fares attract families, business groups, and tourists.

✔️ Increase Railway Revenue

Affordable fares = more bookings = more income for Pakistan Railways.

✔️ Promote Long-Distance Tourism

Routes like Karachi–Lahore and Lahore–Rawalpindi are popular for:

Tourism
Corporate travel
Family trips
Government delegations

Saloon Booking Now Available at All Divisional Offices

Pakistan Railways has simplified the booking process by opening reservations at all divisional headquarters, including:

Karachi
Lahore
Quetta
Rawalpindi
Peshawar
Multan
Sukkur

If booking through headquarters:

You can contact Office of the Chief Commercial Manager (CCM) for slot and route confirmation.

What Facilities Do Railway Saloons Offer?

Each saloon contains:

Air-conditioned rooms
Comfortable beds
Living lounge
Dining space
Staff kitchen
Clean washrooms
Sofa seating area
Secure and private environment
Personalized travel schedule
Dedicated support staff

These facilities make saloons ideal for group travel, VIP delegations, and tourist families.

Pakistan Railways Saloon Routes in High Demand

Some popular long routes where saloon booking is most common:

Karachi → Lahore
Karachi → Islamabad / Rawalpindi
Lahore → Rawalpindi
Lahore → Quetta
Karachi → Multan
Karachi → Peshawar

After the new fare reduction, demand is expected to rise significantly.

How Saloon Fare Reduction Helps General Public

Although mainly used by officials, many public groups book saloons for:

VIP Family Tours

Safe and comfortable for elderly and kids.

Business Delegations

Perfect for private corporate trips.

Tourist Groups

Good for long journeys across beautiful routes.

Event-Based Travel

Ideal for weddings, political events, and media teams.

Secure Travel for Women & Families

A separate space ensures safe and peaceful travel.

With the huge drop in fares, public demand is expected to surge.

How Much Percentage Was Reduced? (Simple Breakdown)

Route	Old Fare	New Fare	Reduction %
Karachi–Rawalpindi	500,000	172,000	65%
Karachi–Lahore	420,000	150,000	64%
Lahore–Rawalpindi	105,000	44,000	58%

Average overall reduction = 62%

Officials’ Statement on Fare Reduction

Railway authorities highlighted that:

Fare reduction is part of public-friendly reforms
Aimed at cost-effectiveness and service quality improvement
The decision will boost public confidence in Pakistan Railways
More initiatives are planned for 2025 to modernize the fleet

Future Plans for Pakistan Railways (Expected in 2025)

According to officials, the department is planning:

Launch of new AC coaches
Digital saloon booking portals
Upgraded washroom and seating facilities
Safety improvements
Dedicated Tourism Saloons
Refurbishment of old carriages
Improved punctuality system

These steps are expected to enhance the overall passenger experience.

How to Book a Pakistan Railways Saloon? (Easy Guide)

Step 1: Visit your nearest Railway Divisional Office

Step 2: Submit CNIC + route + date request

Step 3: Pay the booking fee

Step 4: Get confirmation from the booking clerk

Step 5: Arrive early on the departure day

You may also contact the office of the Chief Commercial Manager (CCM).

Why People Search Pakistan Railways Saloon Fares on Google? (SEO Insight)

These are the most searched terms:

Pakistan Railways saloon fare
Railway saloon booking price
Karachi to Lahore saloon fare
VIP saloon booking Pakistan Railways
Railway saloon facilities
Pakistan Railway VIP coach fare
Karachi to Rawalpindi saloon price
Lahore to Rawalpindi saloon new fare
Railway saloon booking office
Railway saloon price reduction

All these keywords are naturally included in the article for SEO ranking.

Pros & Cons of Railway Saloons (Quick Review)

Pros

Private and safe
Comfortable for families
High-quality facilities
Best for long journeys
No disturbance from other passengers

Cons

Limited availability
Advance booking required
Applicable only on selected routes

Final Thoughts – A Big Relief for Long-Distance Travelers

The Pakistan Railways saloon fare reduction is a highly positive step toward making railway travel more affordable and accessible. The new rates will encourage public usage, increase revenue, support tourism, and build confidence in the national railway system.

With improved booking options, better facilities, and significantly lower prices, 2025 is expected to be a major year of revival for Pakistan Railways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the new saloon fare from Karachi to Rawalpindi?

The new reduced saloon fare from Karachi to Rawalpindi is Rs. 172,000.

2. How much does a railway saloon cost from Karachi to Lahore now?

Pakistan Railways has reduced the Karachi to Lahore saloon fare to Rs. 150,000.

3. Can the general public book a railway saloon?

Yes, private individuals, families, and groups can book railway saloons through divisional offices.

4. Where can I book a Pakistan Railways saloon?

Saloons can be booked at all divisional headquarters or through the Chief Commercial Manager (CCM) office.

5. What facilities are included in a railway saloon?

Facilities include AC rooms, beds, lounge, dining area, washrooms, kitchen, and complete privacy for safe and comfortable travel.