Traveling from Karachi to Surab: A Comprehensive Guide
Surab is a small town located in the Kalat District of Balochistan, Pakistan, and is approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles) north of Karachi. It is a significant stop along the Quetta-Karachi route and plays a role in connecting Karachi with the interior regions of Balochistan. While it might not be the most common tourist destination, Surab is often a waypoint for travelers going to Quetta or deeper into Balochistan. This guide will explore three primary travel options for making the journey from Karachi to Surab: by road, by train, and by air.
1. By Road:
Traveling from Karachi to Surab by road is the most practical and straightforward option. Although Balochistan's terrain can be challenging in places, the highways connecting Karachi and Surab are well-maintained, making it possible to complete the journey without major issues. The following information outlines the key aspects of traveling by road.
Distance and Route:
- Distance: 290 kilometers (180 miles)
- Primary Route:
- Karachi → Hub → Uthal → Bela → Wadh → Surab via National Highway N-25 (RCD Highway)
Travel Duration:
- Estimated Time: 6 to 8 hours (without extended stops)
The journey duration can vary depending on road conditions, weather, and the number of stops you make along the way. While the road is generally in good condition, some sections, particularly after Bela, can be narrow or uneven due to ongoing construction or road maintenance.
Recommended Stops and Fuel:
There are a few small towns along the way where you can stop for fuel, food, or rest. Hub, being close to Karachi, is a good first stop, while Bela and Wadh offer options for refreshments and vehicle checks. Make sure to keep your fuel tank full, especially beyond Bela, as gas stations become less frequent.
Safety Considerations:
- Travel during daylight hours for better visibility.
- Keep updated on the road conditions and any security advisories for Balochistan.
- Carry extra food, water, and a first-aid kit, as some stretches between towns can be remote.
2. By Train:
While the train is a popular mode of transportation for many long-distance routes in Pakistan, there is currently no direct train service between Karachi and Surab. However, you can travel to nearby cities like Kalat or Quetta by train and continue your journey by road.
Closest Train Station:
- Kalat Station: Located around 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Surab, Kalat is the closest train station. However, train services to Kalat are irregular and not widely used by travelers from Karachi.
- Quetta Station: A more common option is to take a train to Quetta, which is around 230 kilometers (143 miles) from Surab. The journey from Quetta to Surab can be completed by road via the N-25 highway.
Train Options from Karachi to Quetta:
The Pakistan Railways operates several trains between Karachi and Quetta. The two most popular options include:
Bolan Mail
- Departure from Karachi: Daily service from Karachi Cantonment Station
- Duration: Approximately 18-20 hours to Quetta
- Fare: Varies based on class, ranging from economy class to air-conditioned sleeper
Jaffar Express
- Departure from Karachi: Daily service
- Duration: Approximately 18-20 hours
- Fare: Varies based on class
Continuing to Surab:
After reaching Quetta, travelers can either hire a private vehicle, use a bus, or a local van service to continue to Surab. The road journey from Quetta to Surab takes around 4 to 5 hours. While buses may not run directly to Surab from Quetta, shared vans and taxis often make this trip.
Pros and Cons of Train Travel:
- Pros: Train travel is usually more comfortable than long road trips, with options for sleeping cars. It is also affordable.
- Cons: No direct train route to Surab means you will need to combine train and road travel, which can increase overall travel time.
3. By Plane:
Air travel offers the fastest means of transportation from Karachi to Surab, but since there is no airport in Surab, travelers will have to fly to Quetta, the nearest city with an airport, and then continue the journey by road.
Distance and Route:
- Flight Distance (Karachi to Quetta): Approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles)
- Road Distance (Quetta to Surab): 230 kilometers (143 miles)
Airlines and Flight Options:
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates daily flights between Karachi's Jinnah International Airport and Quetta International Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Travel Duration:
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (Karachi to Quetta)
- Road Travel Duration: 4 to 5 hours (Quetta to Surab by road)
Airfare:
- Economy class tickets generally range from PKR 5,000 to PKR 10,000, depending on how early you book and the season.
Travel from Quetta to Surab by Road:
Upon landing in Quetta, travelers have the option of hiring a private vehicle or taking a local bus/van service to Surab. As mentioned earlier, this road trip takes 4 to 5 hours via the N-25 highway.
Pros and Cons of Air Travel:
- Pros: The fastest travel option from Karachi to Quetta; suitable for those who prefer shorter travel times.
- Cons: No direct flight to Surab; you'll need to continue by road from Quetta. Additionally, air travel can be more expensive than road or train options.
Conclusion:
Traveling from Karachi to Surab offers various transportation options depending on your preferences and time constraints. The most direct way is by road, covering 290 kilometers (180 miles) in about 6 to 8 hours. However, if you're open to combining transportation methods, traveling by air or train to Quetta and then completing the journey by road is another viable option.
For those who prefer a straightforward journey, taking the road is recommended, especially with stops in Hub, Bela, and Wadh for rest or refueling. If comfort is your priority, air travel or a train journey to Quetta followed by a road trip may be more suitable. Be sure to consider road conditions, weather, and personal safety when planning your trip to Surab.
0 Comments