Parkes, New South Wales to Lightning Ridge, New South Wales from AU$29: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Parkes to Lightning Ridge: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$29 by busBest price

476 kmDistance

5h 6m Fastest

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Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Parkes to Lightning Ridge with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Parkes to Lightning Ridge

The journey from Parkes to Lightning Ridge takes you from a charming rural town known for its iconic radio telescope to a quirky outback destination famous for its opal mining and rich Indigenous culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge offers distinct neighborhoods that each showcase its unique charm.

Opal Cove

• Home to many opal shops and galleries.

• Bustling atmosphere with local artisans.

The Wards

• Known for its friendly local community.

• Close to scenic parks and walking trails.

Lightning Ridge Town Centre

• Centrally located with various amenities.

• Features popular restaurants and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Lightning Ridge's Attractions

Understanding the best times to visit attractions in Lightning Ridge can greatly enhance your experience.

The Chambers of the Black Hand

Visiting early morning during weekdays allows a quieter exploration of this artistic wonder.

The Lightning Ridge Opal Mine

Afternoons on weekdays tend to be less crowded, giving you more time to dig for treasures.

The Artesian Bore Baths

Soaking in the evenings provides a serene atmosphere with stunning sunsets.

Lightning Ridge Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lightning Ridge experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for adventure. While the spring and autumn months boast pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, be prepared for summer heat and occasional storms.

Dining in Lightning Ridge: A Taste of the Outback

A visit to Lightning Ridge offers the opportunity to try the locally loved dish of barramundi, served fresh at the iconic Opal Inn, where the relaxed atmosphere captures the essence of the outback. This culinary experience contrasts with the home-style meals of Parkes, showcasing bold flavors and a vibrant local flair that celebrates the region's unique heritage.

Parkes - Lightning Ridge operators

Explore transport companies operating between Parkes and Lightning Ridge, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus

Contact phone

131 500

Website

https://transportnsw.info/regional

Bus from Parkes Station, Coach Stop to Dubbo Station, Coach Bay 1

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

AU$7.8-12

Bus from Dubbo Station, Coach Bay 3 to Morilla St Opp Lightning Ridge Post Office

Average Duration

4h 30m

Estimated price

AU$22-32

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between Parkes and Lightning Ridge is approximately 415.2 km by road. The road distance is slightly longer, at 476.4 km. Alternatively, it takes around 4 hours and 37 minutes to travel from Parkes to Lightning Ridge by taking a bus and then flying. On the other hand, driving from Lightning Ridge to Parkes typically takes around 5 hours and 6 minutes by car. Finally, if traveling by bus, it takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes to reach Lightning Ridge from Parkes.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Parkes to Lightning Ridge is by bus, with tickets ranging from $28 to $50. This mode of transportation takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a combination of bus and fly, which takes around 4 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $170 and $220.

The prices for a bus ticket between Lightning Ridge and Parkes range from $29 to $46.

To get from Parkes to Lightning Ridge without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 476.4 km which takes around 5 hours and 6 minutes. The drive offers the freedom to explore the scenic route at your own pace. The estimated cost of the journey by car ranges between $60 to $90, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees.

The most convenient way to travel from Parkes to Lightning Ridge without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes. Bus tickets typically cost between $28 and $50.

There is no direct link between Parkes and Lightning Ridge. However, there are bus services operated by NSW TrainLink that connect the two towns. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes, including transfers in Dubbo. The bus departs from Parkes Station, Coach Stop and arrives at Lightning Ridge Coach Stop, Morilla St.

The flight duration between Parkes and Lightning Ridge varies depending on the stopover. The quickest flight, with one stopover, takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes. However, it's important to note that there is no direct flight from Dubbo Airport to Lightning Ridge Airport.

There are several options for accommodation near Lightning Ridge. Some of the hotels available include the Outback Cellar & Country Cottage, which starts at $78 per night, the Wallangulla Motel, which starts at $90 per night, the Lightning Ridge Outback Resort & Caravan Park, which starts at $110 per night, and the Opal Village Holiday Units, which also start at $110 per night.