Lahore to Qamar Din Karez: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Introduction
Qamar Din Karez is a small town located in the Zhob District of Balochistan, close to the border with Afghanistan and near the tribal areas of the province. Known for its rugged landscape, tribal heritage, and proximity to important mountain passes, this town is an entry point to understanding the unique culture and terrain of northern Balochistan. Traveling from Lahore to Qamar Din Karez requires thoughtful planning, as the town is located in a remote region with limited public transport.
Distance from Lahore to Qamar Din Karez
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By Road: Approximately 880 kilometers (547 miles)
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By Air (Lahore to Quetta, then road to Qamar Din Karez): About 725 kilometers (450 miles) by air + 260 kilometers by road
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By Train (Lahore to Quetta, then road): About 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) + 260 kilometers by road
Traveling from Lahore to Qamar Din Karez by Road
This route is ideal for those looking to explore remote Balochistan firsthand. It requires traveling through southern and western Punjab before entering the highlands of Balochistan.
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Suggested Route:
Lahore → Multan → Dera Ghazi Khan → Fort Munro → Barkhan → Zhob → Qamar Din Karez -
Distance:
Approximately 880 kilometers -
Estimated Travel Duration:
Around 15 to 17 hours, depending on vehicle type, road conditions, and stoppages -
Route Conditions:
The road through Fort Munro and beyond is mountainous and can be slow. Balochistan roads in some stretches may be less maintained, so be prepared for rough patches. -
Vehicle Type:
A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to the terrain beyond Barkhan and into Zhob District.
Traveling from Lahore to Qamar Din Karez by Train
There are no direct trains to Qamar Din Karez. However, travelers can take a train to Quetta and then continue the journey by road through Zhob.
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Train Route:
Lahore → Rohri Junction → Sibi Junction → Quetta -
Train Travel Duration:
Approximately 24 to 28 hours, depending on the service -
Available Trains:
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Jaffar Express
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Akbar Express
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From Quetta to Qamar Din Karez by Road:
The distance is about 260 kilometers, which takes roughly 5 to 6 hours by vehicle depending on road and security conditions. -
Note:
Public transport in this area is limited. Most travelers arrange private cars or shared jeeps from Quetta.
Traveling from Lahore to Qamar Din Karez by Plane
This is the fastest way to reach close to the destination. After landing in Quetta, a road journey is required to reach Qamar Din Karez.
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Flight Route:
Lahore (Allama Iqbal International Airport) → Quetta International Airport -
Flight Time:
Around 1 hour 30 minutes -
Quetta to Qamar Din Karez (by Road):
Approximately 260 kilometers, taking 5 to 6 hours -
Transportation from Quetta:
Hire a private vehicle or join a shared ride. Public options are rare and not on a fixed schedule.
Best Travel Option
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Fastest:
Flight to Quetta, then private car to Qamar Din Karez -
Adventurous:
Road trip from Lahore through the hilly terrain of Fort Munro and Balochistan -
Budget-Friendly:
Train to Quetta, followed by road journey (though this is the longest in duration)
Travel Tips for Visiting Qamar Din Karez
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Best Time to Visit:
Spring and autumn are ideal for travel. Winters can be cold due to elevation, and summers may bring dry heat. -
Travel Documents:
Keep your national ID and vehicle documents at all times. Checkpoints are common in Balochistan. -
Fuel and Food:
Refuel in major towns like Zhob or Barkhan. Carry snacks, water, and a first aid kit, as facilities can be scarce. -
Local Culture:
This region is deeply tribal and conservative. Dress modestly, and always be respectful to local customs and elders. -
Security Considerations:
Travel during daylight hours. Always check local advisories and inform someone of your travel route and timing.
Nearby Attractions and Interests
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Tribal Life:
An opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyles of Pashtun tribes in Balochistan. -
Natural Landscape:
The surrounding mountains and arid terrain are picturesque and starkly beautiful, especially during golden hour. -
Cultural Heritage:
The area is historically tied to trade and tribal governance and offers insight into centuries-old traditions.
Traveling to Qamar Din Karez from Lahore offers a glimpse into a part of Pakistan that remains untouched by commercial tourism. The journey is long and challenging but is a rare opportunity to witness raw landscapes and traditional communities in the heart of Balochistan. Whether by road, rail, or air, reaching Qamar Din Karez is an experience that takes you far from city life and deep into the tribal highlands of Pakistan.

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