Travel Options from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai
Kan Mehtarzai is a quaint and historically significant town located in the Ziarat District of Balochistan, Pakistan. It is famously known for having the highest railway station in Pakistan, which was once a vital part of the country’s rail network. Although the train service to Kan Mehtarzai has been discontinued, the town still draws attention for its scenic beauty and historical value. This article explores various travel options from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai, including road, train, and plane, along with details on distance, routes, and travel duration.
By Road
Distance and Duration: The road distance from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai is approximately 670 kilometers (416 miles). The journey by car typically takes around 10 to 12 hours, depending on the route chosen and the speed of travel.
Route: Traveling by road from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai offers the opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Sindh and Balochistan. The most commonly used route is as follows:
Karachi to Quetta: Start your journey from Karachi, heading north on the M-10 motorway, which connects to the N-25 National Highway, also known as the RCD Highway. This road will take you directly to Quetta, the capital of Balochistan. The distance from Karachi to Quetta is about 690 kilometers (428 miles), and it usually takes 8 to 9 hours.
Quetta to Kan Mehtarzai: From Quetta, you will take the Ziarat Road towards Ziarat. Kan Mehtarzai is located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Quetta, and this segment of the journey typically takes around 2 hours due to the mountainous terrain.
Travel Experience: The road journey from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai is an adventure in itself. As you leave the bustling city of Karachi, you will pass through arid landscapes, small towns, and eventually enter the rugged and mountainous region of Balochistan. The final stretch of the journey from Quetta to Kan Mehtarzai offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Pit Stops: Along the way, travelers can take breaks at various points such as Hub, Khuzdar, and Kalat. Quetta serves as a major stopover where you can rest and refuel before heading towards Kan Mehtarzai.
By Train
Distance and Duration: The train journey from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai used to be a popular option, covering a distance of approximately 800 kilometers (497 miles). However, it’s important to note that the train service to Kan Mehtarzai has been discontinued, making this option unavailable. When it was operational, the journey typically took about 15 to 18 hours, including a stopover in Quetta.
Route: The traditional train route would take passengers from Karachi to Quetta, passing through major stations like Hyderabad, Rohri, and Sibi. From Quetta, the train would continue on the historic route to Kan Mehtarzai, which was famous for its high-altitude rail tracks.
Current Situation: While the train service to Kan Mehtarzai is no longer operational, travelers can still take a train from Karachi to Quetta. From Quetta, the onward journey to Kan Mehtarzai must be completed by road. The train journey from Karachi to Quetta covers approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles) and takes around 12 to 14 hours.
Travel Experience: Traveling by train from Karachi to Quetta offers a unique experience as you pass through the diverse landscapes of Sindh and Balochistan. The train ride is comfortable, with opportunities to enjoy the scenic views of the countryside. However, since the train service to Kan Mehtarzai is discontinued, travelers must rely on road transport for the final leg of the journey.
By Plane
Distance and Duration: While there is no direct flight to Kan Mehtarzai, travelers can fly from Karachi to Quetta, which is the nearest major city with an airport. The aerial distance between Karachi and Quetta is approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles), and the flight duration is around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Route:
Karachi to Quetta by Air: There are several daily flights from Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport to Quetta’s Quetta International Airport, operated by major airlines such as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and AirSial. The flight duration is short, making it the quickest option to reach Quetta from Karachi.
Quetta to Kan Mehtarzai by Road: Upon arrival in Quetta, travelers must continue their journey by road to Kan Mehtarzai, covering the remaining 80 kilometers (50 miles). This road journey typically takes 2 hours.
Travel Experience: Flying from Karachi to Quetta is the fastest and most convenient option for travelers who prefer to save time. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the arid landscapes of Sindh and the rugged mountains of Balochistan. Once in Quetta, the road trip to Kan Mehtarzai provides a change of scenery, with the cool, mountainous air offering a refreshing contrast to the heat of Karachi.
Additional Tips:
- Weather Considerations: The weather in Kan Mehtarzai can be significantly cooler than in Karachi, especially in the winter months. Travelers should pack accordingly, with warm clothing recommended.
- Accommodation: While Kan Mehtarzai is a small town, Quetta offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to more luxurious stays. It’s advisable to book your stay in Quetta and make a day trip to Kan Mehtarzai.
- Travel Safety: The roads in Balochistan can be challenging, with some sections being narrow and winding. It’s recommended to travel during daylight hours and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
Conclusion
Traveling from Karachi to Kan Mehtarzai is an adventure that takes you through the diverse terrains of Pakistan, from the bustling city life of Karachi to the serene and historic town of Kan Mehtarzai in Balochistan. Whether you choose to travel by road, train (partially), or a combination of air and road, each option offers a unique experience. Although the train service to Kan Mehtarzai is no longer available, the journey remains memorable, especially for those interested in exploring the less-traveled paths of Pakistan.
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