The journey from Hisar, a historic and educational center in Haryana, to Bathinda, one of Punjab’s oldest and culturally significant cities, is a short and well-connected inter-state trip. It links Haryana’s agricultural belt with the Malwa region of Punjab, making it a common route for daily commuters, business travelers, and tourists. Covering roughly 153 to 170 km depending on the road chosen, the drive generally takes between 2.5 and 4 hours thanks to well-maintained highways. This guide sets out the available road, rail, and bus options along with the practical details needed to plan the trip.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 153–170 km |
| Road travel time | 2.5–4 hours |
| Fastest road route | Via NH 148B and Mansa |
| Fastest train | Gorakhdham Express |
| Budget option | State buses or sleeper-class trains |
| Recommended overall | NH 148B via Tohana and Mansa |
Traveling by Road (Car or Taxi)
Driving remains the most preferred way to make this trip, given the relatively short distance and flexible scheduling it allows.
Option One: Via NH 148B and Mansa
This is generally the fastest and most direct of the three road options.
Path: Hisar → Barwala → Tohana → Jakhal → Budhlada → Mansa → Maur → Bathinda
- Distance: Approximately 153 km
- Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Road conditions: This route follows NH 148B for most of its length, offering smooth two-lane highway driving with moderate traffic and a direct link from Haryana into Punjab.
Taxi fares along this route generally run ₹1,600–₹2,000 for a hatchback, ₹2,000–₹2,500 for a sedan, and ₹2,600–₹3,100 for an SUV. The route also has minimal diversions and plenty of dhabas and fuel stations along the way.
Option Two: Via Fatehabad and Sirsa
A slightly longer option that suits travelers wanting wider highways or a stop in Sirsa.
Path: Hisar → Fatehabad → Sirsa → Kalanwali → Bathinda
- Distance: Approximately 170 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Road conditions: This route runs largely along the broader NH 9 corridor, offering wider lanes and easier overtaking, though it takes somewhat longer than the NH 148B route.
Option Three: Via Agroha and Sardulgarh
A quieter, more rural alternative for those wanting to avoid busier highways.
Path: Hisar → Agroha → Bhuna → Sardulgarh → Maur → Bathinda
- Distance: Approximately 160–165 km
- Time: 3.5–4 hours
- Road conditions: A mix of state highways and rural roads, generally motorable but with some stretches narrower than the main national highways. This can be a good option when the main highways are congested, offering a more peaceful countryside drive.
Road Route Comparison
| Route | Key Waypoints | Distance | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via NH 148B | Barwala → Tohana → Mansa | ~153 km | 2.5–3.5 hrs | Fastest, shortest overall option |
| Via Sirsa | Fatehabad → Sirsa → Kalanwali | ~170 km | 3–4 hrs | Travelers preferring wider highways |
| Via Sardulgarh | Agroha → Bhuna → Sardulgarh | ~160 km | 3.5–4 hrs | A quieter rural alternative |
Rail Connectivity Between Hisar and Bathinda
Train travel is one of the smarter choices for this route, with Hisar Junction offering several direct services to Bathinda Junction each day.
Major Direct Train Options
- Gorakhdham Express (12555) — departs 9:40 AM, arrives 12:25 PM, taking approximately 2 hours 45 minutes and standing as the fastest rail option.
- Kisan Express (14731) — departs 6:05 PM, arrives 9:15 PM, taking around 3 hours 10 minutes.
- MUT SGNR Express (14030) — departs 4:10 PM, arrives around 8:55 PM, taking approximately 4 hours 45 minutes.
Train travel avoids highway stress entirely and remains a reliable, comfortable option for daily commuters and students alike, running consistently throughout the year.
Bus Options for This Route
Bus connectivity is strong, with frequent services running throughout the day.
- Operators: Haryana Roadways, PRTC, and various private companies, with tickets bookable through Redbus and Abhibus.
- Common route: Hisar → Barwala → Tohana → Mansa → Bathinda
- Travel time: Approximately 3–4.5 hours
- Fares: Non-AC government buses cost ₹200–₹300, while private AC coaches range from ₹350–₹700.
These services work well for students, daily commuters, and budget-conscious travelers who want flexible, same-day departure options.
Why Flying Isn’t Worth Considering
Although Bathinda does have its own airport, there are no practical direct commercial flights connecting it to Hisar. Given that the road journey itself takes under 3.5 hours in most cases, air travel offers no meaningful time savings and isn’t a realistic option for this route.
Comparing the Available Options
| Travel mode | Strategy | Travel time | Estimated cost | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal car/SUV | Via NH 148B | 2.5–3.5 hrs | Fuel and tolls | Families, professionals, flexible travelers |
| Direct train | From Hisar Junction | 2h45m–4 hrs | ₹150–₹565+ | Budget-conscious travelers and commuters |
| Private taxi | Direct transfer | 2.5–3.5 hrs | ₹1,600–₹3,100 | Comfortable, point-to-point travel |
| State bus | Via Tohana and Mansa | 3–4.5 hrs | ₹200–₹700 | Budget and student travelers |
When to Make This Trip
The route is accessible year-round, though conditions vary somewhat by season.
- October–March: Pleasant weather and comfortable driving conditions.
- April–June: Hot daytime temperatures make early morning travel advisable.
- July–September: Occasional rainfall may slow travel on certain stretches.
Useful Stops Along the Way
Travelers can find food outlets, fuel stations, and rest facilities at:
- Barwala
- Tohana
- Jakhal
- Mansa
- Maur
These towns are commonly used as refreshment and fuel stops during the journey.
Tips for a Smoother Trip
- Check traffic and weather updates before setting out.
- Carry sufficient drinking water, particularly during summer months.
- Keep both digital payment options and some cash on hand.
- Observe highway speed limits and local traffic regulations.
- Confirm train or bus timings in advance of booking.
Choosing the Best Option for You
- Best Overall Route: NH 148B via Tohana and Mansa
- Fastest Public Transport: Direct train from Hisar Junction
- Most Budget-Friendly Option: Haryana Roadways or PRTC buses
- Most Comfortable Option: Private taxi or self-drive car
For most travelers, the direct NH 148B highway route provides the perfect balance of speed, comfort, and convenience, while train travel remains the top choice for economical and stress-free commuting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Hisar to Bathinda Travel Guide
1. What is the distance between Hisar and Bathinda?
The road distance between Hisar and Bathinda ranges from approximately 153 to 170 kilometers, depending on the route chosen.
2. How much time does it take to travel from Hisar to Bathinda by road?
A road journey typically takes around 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the selected route.
3. Which is the best road route from Hisar to Bathinda?
The NH 148B route via Barwala, Tohana, and Mansa is considered the best and fastest route because it is shorter, smoother, and more direct.
4. Is the Hisar to Bathinda highway in good condition?
Yes, most sections of the highway are in good condition with smooth driving surfaces. NH 148B and NH 9 stretches are generally well-maintained.
5. Are there direct trains from Hisar to Bathinda?
Yes, multiple direct trains operate daily between Hisar Junction Railway Station and Bathinda Junction Railway Station.
6. Which is the fastest train from Hisar to Bathinda?
The Gorakhdham Express (12555) is among the fastest options, taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
7. What is the train ticket price from Hisar to Bathinda?
Train fares usually start from:
- Sleeper Class: ₹150+
- 3AC: ₹520 – ₹565+
Prices may vary depending on availability and season.
8. Are buses available from Hisar to Bathinda?
Yes, regular buses are available through Haryana Roadways, Punjab Roadways (PRTC), and private operators throughout the day.
9. How much does a bus ticket cost from Hisar to Bathinda?
Bus fares generally range between:
- ₹200 – ₹300 for ordinary buses
- ₹350 – ₹700 for AC/private coaches
10. Is a taxi easily available for this route?
Yes, one-way and round-trip taxis are easily available from Hisar. Taxi fares usually range from ₹1,600 to ₹3,100 depending on vehicle type.
11. Are there tolls on the Hisar to Bathinda route?
Some highway stretches may include toll plazas, especially on broader national highway sections. However, toll expenses are generally minimal for this short trip.
12. Which travel option is the cheapest?
State transport buses and sleeper-class train tickets are the most economical travel options.
13. Which travel option is the most comfortable?
A private car or taxi provides the most comfortable and flexible door-to-door travel experience.
14. Is air travel available between Hisar and Bathinda?
No practical direct commercial flight connectivity exists between the two cities. Since the road journey is short, flights are not recommended.
15. What are the major stops between Hisar and Bathinda?
Important towns and transit points include:
- Barwala
- Tohana
- Jakhal
- Mansa
- Maur
- Sirsa (alternative route)
16. Is the route safe for night travel?
Yes, the route is generally safe for night driving, especially on NH corridors. However, travelers should remain cautious around rural stretches and avoid overspeeding.
17. Which is better: train or road travel from Hisar to Bathinda?
- Train is best for affordability and avoiding traffic.
- Road travel is better for flexibility, family trips, and direct connectivity.
18. Are food and fuel stops available on the way?
Yes, numerous petrol pumps, dhabas, restaurants, and tea stalls are available throughout the route, especially near Tohana, Mansa, and Sirsa.
Disclaimer: Travel distances, durations, fares, and schedules mentioned in this guide are approximate and subject to change due to traffic, weather, infrastructure work, or operational updates. Travelers are encouraged to verify the latest information through official transport operators and railway authorities before departure.