Traveling from Chandigarh to Malerkotla is one of the most convenient short intercity trips in Punjab. Covering roughly 115–130 km, the journey typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your route and traffic conditions.
Malerkotla stands out for its rich Mughal-era heritage, peaceful communal legacy, and vibrant bazaars, making it an ideal cultural getaway from the Tricity.
🚗 Section 1: Best Road Routes (All Alternatives Covered)
Driving remains the fastest and most flexible option, with multiple route choices depending on traffic and preference.
✅ Route A: Via Sirhind – Khanna (Fastest & Recommended)
- Path: Panchkula/Chandigarh → Landran → Chunni Kalan → Sirhind → Mandi Gobindgarh → Khanna → Amargarh → Malerkotla
- Distance: ~115 km
- Time: ~2.5 hours
- Road Type: NH 44 + State Highway
Why choose this?
This is the quickest and most efficient route, using the high-speed GT Road (NH44) and avoiding Ludhiana city traffic via Khanna diversion.
🌿 Route B: Via Patiala – Nabha (Scenic & Peaceful)
- Path: Chandigarh → Zirakpur → Rajpura → Patiala → Nabha → Malerkotla
- Distance: ~130 km
- Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Why choose this?
Perfect if you want a less congested, greener drive while passing through historic royal towns.
📊 Road Routes Comparison Table
| Route Name | Key Waypoints | Approx Distance | Est. Time | Verdict |
| Route A: Via Khanna (Recommended) | Sirhind → Khanna → Amargarh | ~115 km | ~2.5h | Best Choice. Uses the fast NH44 corridor before a quick diversion at Khanna. |
| Route B: Via Patiala & Nabha | Zirakpur →Patiala → Nabha | ~130 km | 2.5h – 3h | The Quiet Detour. Slightly longer but excellent for bypassing heavy trucking routes. |
🚌 Section 2: Bus Travel (Best Budget Option)
Direct Volvo buses are rare, so the “Khanna Switch” strategy works best.
✔️ Step-by-Step Bus Plan:
- Step 1: Board a Volvo/PRTC bus from ISBT Sector 43 Chandigarh to Khanna
- Time: ~1.5 hrs
- Cost: ₹150–₹300
- Step 2: Take a local bus from Khanna to Malerkotla
- Time: ~50 mins
- Cost: ₹40–₹60
Total Time: ~2.5–3 hours
Best for: Budget travelers
Bus Operators:
PRTC Ticket Booking: https://www.pepsuonline.com
🚆 Section 3: Train Travel (Via Ludhiana)
Malerkotla has a station, but no direct fast trains from Chandigarh.
✔️ Train Strategy:
- Leg 1: Chandigarh → Ludhiana
(Intercity/Paschim Express – ~2 hrs) - Leg 2: Ludhiana → Malerkotla
(Passenger train – ~1 hr)
Total Time: 3.5–4 hours
Cost: ₹150–₹600
Verdict:
Less convenient than road travel, but useful if you prefer trains.
IRCTC Train: https://www.irctc.co.in/nget/train-search
🚖 Section 4: Taxi & Cab Options
- Time: ~2.5 hours
- Cost: ₹2,200 – ₹3,000 (one way)
Best for: Families, business travelers, and comfort seekers.
📊 Overall Travel Options Comparison
| Travel Mode | Strategy | Travel Time | Est. Cost (One Way) | Best For |
| Personal Car / SUV | Drive via Sirhind & Khanna | ~2.5 Hours | Fuel & Tolls: ₹1,000 | Families & Professionals. Maximum freedom and the quickest door-to-door transit. |
| Private Taxi | Hire direct from the Tricity | ~2.5 Hours | ₹2,200 – ₹3,000 | Comfort Seekers. A hassle-free drop directly to your destination. |
| Bus Combo (Volvo + Local) | Bus to Khanna → Local Bus to Malerkotla | ~2.5 – 3 Hours | ₹190 – ₹360 | Budget Travelers. The most economical public transit method requiring one fast switch. |
| Train Combo | Train to Ludhiana → Train to Malerkotla | 3.5 – 4 Hours | ₹150 – ₹600 | Smart Commuters. Avoids highway fatigue if you align the timetables perfectly. |
🏁 Final Travel Tips
- Start early (6–8 AM) to avoid highway congestion
- Prefer Route A (Khanna) for fastest travel
- Use Route B (Patiala) if NH44 is jammed
- Avoid Ludhiana during peak hours
- In Malerkotla, park outside old city and use e-rickshaws
✨ Conclusion
The journey from Chandigarh to Malerkotla is short, smooth, and packed with cultural richness. Whether you prioritize speed, scenic beauty, or budget travel, there’s a route and mode perfectly suited for you.
🔷 FAQs – Chandigarh to Malerkotla Travel Guide
1. What is the distance from Chandigarh to Malerkotla?
The distance from Chandigarh to Malerkotla is approximately 115 to 130 km, depending on the route taken via Khanna or Patiala.
2. What is the fastest route from Chandigarh to Malerkotla?
The fastest route is via Sirhind and Khanna (NH44), taking around 2.5 hours with smooth highway conditions.
3. How can I travel from Chandigarh to Malerkotla by bus?
You can take a bus from Chandigarh to Khanna, then switch to a local bus to Malerkotla. Total travel time is about 2.5 to 3 hours.
4. Is there a direct train from Chandigarh to Malerkotla?
No, there is no direct train. You need to travel via Ludhiana and then take a connecting passenger train to Malerkotla.
5. What is the cheapest way to travel from Chandigarh to Malerkotla?
The cheapest option is the bus combination via Khanna, costing around ₹200–₹350.
6. How much time does it take to reach Malerkotla by car?
It takes approximately 2.5 hours by car via the Khanna route, depending on traffic.
7. Which route is best to avoid traffic?
The Patiala–Nabha route is best for avoiding heavy truck traffic on NH44.
8. Is Chandigarh to Malerkotla a good road trip?
Yes, it’s a short and smooth road trip with excellent highways, making it ideal for a half-day journey.