Lahore to Mashkay Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

Lahore to Mashkay – Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Mashkay is a remote and rugged town located in the Awaran District of southern Balochistan. Surrounded by arid mountains and desert plains, it is one of Pakistan’s least accessible and most underdeveloped areas. Traveling from Lahore to Mashkay is an ambitious journey requiring time, preparation, and knowledge of Balochistan’s terrain. Whether for development work, research, or official missions, planning each step is crucial due to the limited infrastructure.

Distance Between Lahore and Mashkay

The estimated road distance from Lahore to Mashkay is approximately 1,080 kilometers (671 miles). The journey covers diverse landscapes, from Punjab’s fertile plains to Balochistan’s dry plateaus and rugged mountains.

Travel by Road

Traveling by road is the primary option to reach Mashkay, although it is a long and physically demanding route. The recommended path moves from Lahore to Multan, Sukkur, Khuzdar, and finally southward into Awaran District where Mashkay is located.

• Distance: 1,080 km (671 miles)

• Estimated Duration: 18 to 20 hours

This route passes through major highways such as N-5, N-65, and N-30, but road conditions significantly deteriorate after Khuzdar, especially between Awaran and Mashkay. Fuel stations, rest stops, and mobile networks are scarce in these areas, so travelers must carry provisions, spare tires, and extra fuel.

Due to periodic security restrictions in Balochistan, prior notification to local administration and coordination with law enforcement is strongly advised.

Travel by Train

Mashkay is not connected by railway, and there are no nearby stations that directly support access to Awaran District. The closest major railway station is Sukkur, which can serve as a stopping point before continuing by road.

Suggested Train Route:

1. Lahore to Sukkur: Multiple express trains connect Lahore to Sukkur, such as the Jaffar Express or Karachi Express.

2. Sukkur to Mashkay by Road: Travel via Khuzdar and Awaran.

• Train Duration (Lahore to Sukkur): 10 to 12 hours

• Road Duration (Sukkur to Mashkay): 8 to 9 hours

• Total Estimated Duration: 18 to 21 hours

While the train reduces some driving fatigue, it does not simplify the overall travel due to the extremely remote location of Mashkay.

Travel by Air

Mashkay has no airport, and the nearest airports are Turbat Airport, Gwadar Airport, and Quetta International Airport, each hundreds of kilometers away. Of these, Turbat is the closest but still requires long overland travel.

Recommended Route:

1. Flight from Lahore to Turbat (via Karachi): No direct flights exist, so a transfer through Karachi is required.

   • Total Flight Duration: 3 to 4 hours (including layover)

2. Road from Turbat to Mashkay: Around 300 km (186 miles), taking 7 to 8 hours through challenging roads.

• Total Estimated Duration (Air + Road): 10 to 12 hours

Though flying cuts down initial travel time, the road from Turbat to Mashkay remains demanding and may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle. This route also involves passing through regions where travel permits or escort arrangements may be necessary.

Summary

Traveling from Lahore to Mashkay is a journey through some of Pakistan’s most remote landscapes. It is not suitable for casual travel and demands serious logistical planning. Given the infrastructure limitations and long distances, the journey should only be undertaken with proper preparations.

• By Road: 18–20 hours (1,080 km / 671 miles)

• By Train + Road: 18–21 hours (via Sukkur)

• By Plane + Road: 10–12 hours (via Turbat and Karachi)

Security updates, road conditions, fuel planning, and permission from local authorities are all essential elements of this route. It is strongly advised to consult local administration in Awaran District before making the final leg to Mashkay.