Islamabad to Qalat Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Qalat can be an enriching journey through Pakistan, offering a glimpse into diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Qalat, located in Balochistan, is approximately 800 kilometers (497 miles) southwest of Islamabad. Here, I'll detail all possible ways to travel between these two destinations, including distance, route options, and estimated travel durations.

By Road

Route 1: Via National Highway (N-25)

1. Distance: 800 kilometers (497 miles)
2. Route:
   • Start from Islamabad and head southwest on the M-2 Motorway.
   • Continue on M-2 till you reach the interchange for M-4.
   • Merge onto M-4 and continue until you reach the town of Shorkot.
   • From Shorkot, take the National Highway (N-70) and head towards Dera Ghazi Khan.
   • From Dera Ghazi Khan, continue on N-70 to Loralai.
   • From Loralai, head southwest on N-25 towards Qalat.
3. Travel Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route 2: Via Quetta

1. Distance: 960 kilometers (597 miles)
2. Route:
   • Start from Islamabad and take the M-2 Motorway towards Lahore.
   • From Lahore, take the M-5 Motorway towards Multan.
   • Continue on M-5 and merge onto N-70 towards Dera Ghazi Khan.
   • From Dera Ghazi Khan, follow N-70 to Loralai and then take N-25 towards Quetta.
   • From Quetta, take N-25 southeast to reach Qalat.
3. Travel Duration: Approximately 15-17 hours.

By Air

Option 1: Islamabad to Quetta by Air, Then by Road

1. Flight Distance: Approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles)
2. Route:
   • Take a flight from Islamabad International Airport (ISB) to Quetta International Airport (UET).
   • Flights are typically around 1.5 hours.
3. Road Distance from Quetta to Qalat: Approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles)
4. Travel Duration:
   • Flight: 1.5 hours
   • Road: 2.5-3 hours
   • Total: Approximately 5-6 hours including layover and travel to/from airports.

By Train

Option 1: Islamabad to Quetta by Train, Then by Road

1. Train Route:
   • Take the Pakistan Railways service from Rawalpindi Railway Station to Quetta Railway Station.
   • The train journey can take around 24 hours due to multiple stops and potential delays.
2. Road Distance from Quetta to Qalat: 145 kilometers (90 miles)
3. Travel Duration:
   • Train: Approximately 24 hours
   • Road: 2.5-3 hours
   • Total: Approximately 27-28 hours.

By Bus

Option 1: Direct Bus Service

1. Distance: 800 kilometers (497 miles)
2. Route:
   • Several bus companies offer direct services from Islamabad to Qalat, usually with a stopover in Quetta.
   • The buses typically take the same route as described in the road travel section, either via N-25 or N-70.
3. Travel Duration: Approximately 15-18 hours depending on the number of stops and traffic conditions.

Option 2: Islamabad to Quetta by Bus, Then by Road

1. Bus Distance to Quetta: Approximately 960 kilometers (597 miles)
2. Route:
   • Board a bus from Islamabad to Quetta.
   • Upon arrival in Quetta, take a local bus or taxi to Qalat.
3. Travel Duration:
   • Islamabad to Quetta by Bus: Approximately 16-18 hours.
   • Quetta to Qalat by Road: 2.5-3 hours.
   • Total: Approximately 19-21 hours.

By Car Rental or Private Vehicle

Self-Drive

1. Distance: 800 kilometers (497 miles)
2. Route:
   • Same as described in the road travel section.
3. Travel Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours.
4. Considerations:
   • Driving your own car or renting a vehicle offers flexibility in terms of stops and detours.
   • Ensure the vehicle is well-maintained for a long journey, and check for any travel advisories for the regions you'll be passing through.

By Motorcycle

Route

1. Distance: 800 kilometers (497 miles)
2. Route:
   • Same as described in the road travel section.
3. Travel Duration: Approximately 14-16 hours.
4. Considerations:
   • Riding a motorcycle allows for a more adventurous and scenic experience but requires careful planning and preparation.
   • Make sure to have a reliable motorcycle, safety gear, and be aware of the weather and road conditions.

Travel Tips

1. Check Road Conditions: Before embarking on your journey, check for any road closures or construction updates. The National Highway Authority of Pakistan often posts updates.
2. Safety: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry a spare tire, extra fuel, and emergency supplies.
3. Rest Stops: Plan for rest stops along the way, especially if traveling by road or motorcycle. Major cities and towns along the route provide opportunities for breaks.
4. Accommodation: If you plan to break your journey overnight, consider booking accommodation in advance, especially in Quetta or Loralai.
5. Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of local customs and traditions, especially when traveling through rural and tribal areas. Respect local cultures and dress modestly.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Qalat offers a variety of transportation options, each with its own set of advantages. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel, the comfort of a train, the adventure of a road trip, or the economy of a bus, there's a suitable option for every traveler. The journey through Pakistan's diverse regions not only provides an opportunity to experience different landscapes but also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the country.