Traveling between Chandigarh and Malerkotla is a quick, pleasant intercity trip, spanning roughly 115 to 130 km through a mix of modern highways and rural Punjab countryside. Malerkotla itself stands out for its Mughal-era heritage, its peaceful communal legacy, and its lively bazaars, making it a worthwhile cultural detour from the Tricity. This guide sets out the available road, bus, and rail options along with the practical details needed to plan the trip.
Distance, Duration, and the Best Route
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance | 115–130 km (fastest route via Sirhind and Khanna) |
| Travel time | 2.5–3 hours by car/SUV |
| Best route | Chandigarh → Landran → Sirhind → Khanna → Amargarh → Malerkotla |
| Fastest option | Private car/SUV via NH 44 (Sirhind–Khanna) |
| Most comfortable | Private taxi, direct and hassle-free |
| Budget option | Bus combination via Khanna (₹190–₹360) |
Choosing Your Driving Route
Driving remains the fastest and most flexible option, with two distinct route choices depending on traffic conditions and personal preference.
The Sirhind–Khanna Highway
Path: Panchkula/Chandigarh → Landran → Chunni Kalan → Sirhind → Mandi Gobindgarh → Khanna → Amargarh → Malerkotla
- Distance: Approximately 115 km
- Time: ~2.5 hours
- Road type: NH 44 combined with a state highway stretch
This is the quickest, most efficient option, using the fast GT Road (NH44) corridor while sidestepping Ludhiana’s city traffic via the Khanna diversion.
The Patiala–Nabha Countryside Road
Path: Chandigarh → Zirakpur → Rajpura → Patiala → Nabha → Malerkotla
- Distance: Approximately 130 km
- Time: 2.5–3 hours
This route suits travelers wanting a greener, less congested drive that passes through several historic royal towns along the way.
The Two Routes, Side by Side
| Route | Key Waypoints | Distance | Time | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via Khanna (recommended) | Sirhind → Khanna → Amargarh | ~115 km | ~2.5 hrs | The fast NH44 corridor with a quick diversion at Khanna |
| Via Patiala and Nabha | Zirakpur → Patiala → Nabha | ~130 km | 2.5–3 hrs | A quieter detour, useful for avoiding heavy truck traffic |
The Bus Journey, Step by Step
Direct Volvo buses to Malerkotla are uncommon, so the “Khanna switch” strategy tends to work best.
Step one: Board a Volvo or PRTC bus from ISBT Sector 43 in Chandigarh to Khanna — approximately 1.5 hours, costing ₹150–₹300.
Step two: Take a local bus from Khanna onward to Malerkotla — around 50 minutes, costing ₹40–₹60.
Total time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours, making this a solid choice for budget travelers.
Taking the Train, With a Stop at Ludhiana
Malerkotla does have its own railway station, though there are no direct fast trains connecting it to Chandigarh.
Leg one: Chandigarh to Ludhiana via an Intercity service — approximately 2 hours.
Leg two: Ludhiana to Malerkotla via passenger train — approximately 1 hour.
Total time: 3.5–4 hours
Cost: ₹150–₹600
This option is generally less convenient than driving, though it may appeal to travelers who specifically prefer rail journeys.
Getting There by Taxi
- Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
- Cost: ₹2,200–₹3,000 one-way
This works well for families, business travelers, and anyone wanting a direct, comfortable journey without driving themselves.
Which Way Should You Travel?
| Travel Mode | Strategy | Travel Time | Est. Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal car / SUV | Drive via Sirhind & Khanna | ~2.5 hours | Fuel and tolls: ₹1,000 | Families and 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, then 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, then train to Malerkotla | 3.5 – 4 hours | ₹150 – ₹600 | Smart commuters. Avoids highway fatigue if you align the timetables well. |
Best Months to Make This Trip
- October–March: Pleasant weather and comfortable driving conditions.
- April–June: Still workable, though daytime temperatures can climb.
- July–September: Occasional rainfall may add to travel time.
- Winter months: Morning fog can reduce visibility on some highway stretches.
Stopover Towns Along the Way
Travelers may encounter several important towns and transit points:
- Zirakpur (fuel, food)
- Rajpura (rest stops)
- Sirhind (historical site, fuel)
- Khanna (major junction, dhabas)
- Patiala (shopping, hotels)
- Nabha (heritage site)
- Amargarh (local food outlets)
These locations offer fuel stations, restaurants, rest stops, and local food outlets.
Sights to See in Malerkotla
- Malerkotla Fort — historic Mughal-era ruins
- Vibrant bazaars — traditional Punjabi markets worth exploring
- The town’s communal legacy — a unique aspect of local cultural history
- Nearby Patiala sites — Qila Mubarak and Baradari Garden, about 40 km away
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Check traffic conditions before departure.
- Keep FASTag active for toll plazas.
- Carry drinking water and essential travel documents.
- Allow extra travel time during weekends and public holidays.
- Follow local traffic regulations and speed limits.
- Use navigation apps for real-time route updates.
Before You Hit the Road
- Start early, ideally between 6 and 8 AM, to avoid highway congestion.
- Prefer the Khanna route for the fastest overall travel time.
- Switch to the Patiala route if NH 44 is heavily jammed.
- Try to avoid Ludhiana during peak hours.
- Once in Malerkotla, park outside the old city and use e-rickshaws to get around.
- Carry valid government-issued ID in case it’s needed for hotels.
- Mobile connectivity is generally reliable throughout the route, with ATMs available in Khanna, Patiala, and Malerkotla.
Helplines to Keep on Hand
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| National Emergency | 112 |
| Ambulance | 108 |
| Punjab Police | 100 |
| Roadside Assistance | Contact your insurer |
| PRTC Enquiry | Official PRTC channels |
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.
- Best overall: Drive via Sirhind and Khanna (NH 44)
- Best budget: Bus via Khanna
- Alternative: Train via Ludhiana
Frequently Asked Questions
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 ₹190–₹360.
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.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only. Distances, travel durations, ticket prices, transportation schedules, and road conditions may change over time. Readers should confirm the latest updates through official sources such as IRCTC, PRTC, Punjab Tourism, and navigation services before making travel arrangements. ReachbyRoutes shall not be held responsible for any inconvenience, delays, losses, or changes resulting from reliance on this information.