The road journey from Bathinda to Malout is a short and frequently traveled stretch of about 45 km. While most commuters use NH 7 via Gidderbaha, there is a smoother and less congested alternative route via Badal village that many locals prefer—especially during traffic bottlenecks or highway disruptions.
If you’re looking to avoid truck-heavy traffic and enjoy a peaceful rural drive, here’s everything you need to know.
🚗The “Main Route”: NH 7 via Gidderbaha (The Standard Choice)
Route: Bathinda → Balluana → Gidderbaha → Malout
Distance: ~45 km
Time: 45–55 minutes
✔ Advantages
- Shortest and most direct route
- Multi-lane national highway
- Plenty of petrol pumps and dhabas
- Easy navigation
✖ Disadvantages
- Heavy commercial truck traffic
- Occasional congestion near Gidderbaha
- Possible protest-related slowdowns
This is the fastest route when traffic is clear.
🌾 Alternate Route 1: The “Badal Village” Route (The VIP Bypass)
If NH 7 is congested, the Badal village route is the best alternative from Bathinda to Malout.
📍 Route Overview:
Bathinda (via Ring Road) → Ghudda → Badal → Malout
Distance: ~50 km
Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour
🛣 Step-by-Step Driving Guide
1️⃣ Exit Bathinda Smartly
Use Ring Road Phase II to bypass inner-city traffic (especially near Bibiwala Chowk) and head toward Ghudda.
2️⃣ Drive Through Badal
This stretch is known for:
- Smooth and wide road surface
- Minimal heavy vehicle movement
- Peaceful agricultural surroundings
Because of its regional importance, this road is generally well-maintained.
3️⃣ Continue Toward Malout
From Badal, it’s a straight northwest drive directly into Malout without entering the busy Gidderbaha corridor.
Alternate Route 2: The “Sri Muktsar Sahib” Detour (The Emergency Loop)
If both the main highway and Badal route are blocked, you can take a longer loop:
Bathinda → Sri Muktsar Sahib → Malout
- Distance: 70–75 km
- Time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes
- Best used only during major closures
✅ Why Choose the Badal Route?
- 🚫 Avoids NH 7 truck congestion
- 🛣 Known for smooth road quality
- 🌿 Scenic rural farmland views
- 🧘 Less stressful driving experience
⚠ Travel Tips
- Adds about 5 km compared to NH 7
- Limited large dhabas on this stretch
- Winter fog (Dec–Jan) can reduce visibility
- Best traveled during daylight if unfamiliar
📊 Quick Route Comparison
| Route | Distance | Traffic Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| NH 7 via Gidderbaha | ~45 km | Medium–High | Fastest travel |
| Via Badal Village | ~50 km | Low | Smooth & peaceful drive |
| Via Sri Muktsar Sahib | ~75 km | Low | Emergency detour |
🧭 Final Verdict
The main NH 7 route is ideal for quick travel when traffic is light.
However, the Badal village route is the best alternative route from Bathinda to Malout if you want to avoid congestion and enjoy a smooth, relaxed drive through Punjab’s countryside.
Always check live traffic updates before starting your journey and choose the route accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1️⃣ What is the best alternative route from Bathinda to Malout?
The best alternate route is:
Bathinda → Ghudda → Badal → Malout
This route avoids the heavy truck traffic on NH 7 via Gidderbaha and offers a smoother rural drive.
2️⃣ How much longer is the Badal route compared to NH 7?
- NH 7 Route: ~45 km
- Badal Route: ~50 km
It adds around 5 kilometers, but can save time during traffic congestion.
3️⃣ How much time does the alternate route take?
The Badal route usually takes 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
4️⃣ When should I avoid the main NH 7 route?
You should consider the alternate route if:
- There is heavy truck traffic
- Road construction is ongoing
- Farmer protests or blockades are reported
- Peak hour congestion near Gidderbaha
5️⃣ Is the Badal route safe for night travel?
Yes, it is generally safe. However:
- It is mostly a 2-lane road
- Street lighting is limited in rural stretches
- Winter fog (December–January) can reduce visibility
For late-night winter travel, NH 7 may be better due to lane reflectors and wider carriageways.
6️⃣ Are there petrol pumps and dhabas on the alternate route?
There are local fuel stations and small eateries, but NH 7 has more options for large dhabas and highway facilities.
7️⃣ Is there a toll on the alternate route?
No major toll plazas like NH 7. This makes the Badal route slightly more economical.
8️⃣ What is the emergency detour if both routes are blocked?
You can travel via:
Bathinda → Sri Muktsar Sahib → Malout
This route is longer (70–75 km) but reliable during major closures.
9️⃣ Which route is more scenic?
The Badal route offers:
- Peaceful agricultural landscapes
- Less commercial traffic
- A calmer driving experience
🔟 Which route is best overall?
- Choose NH 7 for speed when traffic is clear.
- Choose the Badal village route for a smooth, stress-free drive with minimal congestion.
Both routes are reliable — your choice depends on traffic conditions and travel preference.