What is the Green Line Express?
The Green Line Express is Pakistan Railways' flagship intercity train, introduced in 2020 as a premium service connecting Karachi and Islamabad. Operating as Train 47UP (Karachi to Islamabad) and 48DN (Islamabad to Karachi), it is fully air-conditioned and offers the highest level of passenger comfort on the national rail network. The train was partly funded under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) development programme and uses upgraded Chinese-built passenger coaches.
Green Line Route and Stops
The Green Line covers 1,343 km between Karachi City Station and Islamabad Station, making 10 stops: Karachi City → Karachi Cantt → Hyderabad Junction → Sukkur → Rahim Yar Khan → Multan Cantt → Lahore Junction → Gujranwala → Rawalpindi → Islamabad. The limited stops make it the fastest train on this corridor, completing the journey in approximately 22 hours.
Green Line Schedule and Running Days
Train 47UP (Karachi to Islamabad) departs Karachi City at 18:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Train 48DN (Islamabad to Karachi) departs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Mondays. Due to the reduced-frequency schedule, booking in advance is essential — especially on Fridays and Sundays when demand is highest.
Green Line Ticket Prices and Classes
Green Line offers four classes: Economy (PKR 1,500), AC Standard (PKR 3,200), AC Sleeper (PKR 5,500), and Business/Premier class (PKR 8,500) for the full Karachi–Islamabad journey. Fares are proportional for intermediate stations. AC Sleeper provides berths for overnight travel. All coaches are air-conditioned regardless of class, making Economy on Green Line equivalent to AC Standard on many other trains.
What to Expect On Board
Green Line coaches are equipped with individual power sockets at each seat (Economy and AC Standard), reclining seats with headrests, clean onboard toilets, and a pantry car offering meals and snacks. Bedding is provided in AC Sleeper class. The train has WiFi in select coaches. Luggage racks above seats accommodate carry-on bags; larger luggage goes in the luggage van.
How to Book Green Line Tickets
Book online at booking.pakrail.gov.pk using your CNIC number — online booking opens 30 days before departure. You can also book at any Pakistan Railways booking office. Green Line sells out quickly for Friday and Sunday departures from Karachi (popular with business travellers returning to Lahore and Islamabad). Book at least 2 weeks in advance for weekend travel. Confirmation SMS/email is sent after payment.
Green Line vs Other Karachi–Islamabad Trains
The main alternative on this route is Khyber Mail 1UP, which continues to Peshawar Cantt and takes approximately 30 hours with more stops. Khyber Mail is cheaper but slower. Green Line is recommended for travellers prioritising comfort and speed. For short distances (e.g. Lahore to Islamabad only), Business Express or Rawalpindi-bound trains are more economical choices.
Tips for Travelling Green Line
1. Book AC Sleeper for overnight comfort — berths convert for sleeping. 2. Pack light snacks as the pantry gets busy during meal times. 3. Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure — Green Line departs from Platform 1 at Karachi City. 4. Keep your CNIC and ticket confirmation ready for verification. 5. Lahore Junction stop is approximately 7:30 AM — a key transfer point for Punjab travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Green Line Express have WiFi?
Yes, select Green Line coaches have WiFi, though coverage can be intermittent in remote areas of Balochistan and rural Sindh.
Can I get food on Green Line Express?
Yes. Green Line has a pantry car serving meals, snacks, and beverages. You can also carry your own food. Vendors board at major stations.
What is Green Line train number?
Green Line is Train 47UP from Karachi to Islamabad, and 48DN from Islamabad to Karachi. Always confirm the train number when booking to avoid confusion with other services.
Is Green Line Express currently operational?
As of 2026, Green Line operates on its standard schedule. Pakistan Railways occasionally suspends services for maintenance. Confirm current schedule at pakrail.gov.pk before booking.
Does Green Line stop at Lahore?
Yes. Green Line 47UP stops at Lahore Junction (07:30 approx.) and resumes to Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Many passengers board or alight at Lahore.