Quetta to Astola Island Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Quetta to Astola Island: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Astola Island, also known as Jazira Haft Talar (Island of the Seven Hills), is Pakistan’s largest offshore island located in the Arabian Sea near the port of Pasni in Balochistan. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity, Astola is an emerging destination for eco-tourists, divers, and adventure lovers. Traveling from Quetta to Astola Island involves multiple stages, including travel to the coastal city of Pasni and then a sea journey to the island. This article provides complete details on distance, travel routes, and transportation options by road, train, and air.

Distance Between Quetta and Astola Island

Astola Island lies off the coast of Pasni. Therefore, the journey is divided into two main parts:

1. From Quetta to Pasni (by land or air)

2. From Pasni to Astola Island (by boat)

• Quetta to Pasni (by road): 720 kilometers (447 miles)

• Quetta to Pasni (by air via Gwadar or Ormara): ~590 kilometers (366 miles) by air + road to Pasni

• Pasni to Astola Island (by sea): ~39 kilometers (24 miles) via boat

Travel by Road

Traveling from Quetta to Astola Island by road involves reaching Pasni first and then taking a boat to the island.

Route Description:

Quetta → Kalat → Khuzdar → Wadh → Uthal → Ormara → Pasni → Astola Island

• Total Land Distance: Approx. 720 km (447 miles)

• Estimated Road Duration (Quetta to Pasni): 13 to 15 hours

• Boat Ride (Pasni to Astola): 2 to 3 hours (weather dependent)

The journey begins on N-25 National Highway until Uthal, then transitions onto the Makran Coastal Highway (N-10) all the way to Pasni. From Pasni, motorized fishing boats or private chartered boats are used to reach Astola Island.

Vehicle and Boat Options:

• 4x4 or sturdy vehicles recommended for long-distance road travel.

• Boats can be hired from Pasni’s fishing harbor. It is recommended to arrange the boat in advance via a local guide or tour operator.

• The sea journey is best undertaken in the morning and during calm weather.

Travel by Train

There is no train service to Pasni or any location directly connected to Astola Island. The Pakistan Railways network does not extend to this part of Balochistan’s coastal region.

Closest train stations from Quetta would be:

• Karachi (via Quetta-Karachi trains): From Karachi, travelers can continue by road to Pasni (approx. 620 km / 385 miles)

• This makes train travel impractical for reaching Astola Island.

Travel by Air

There is no direct flight from Quetta to Pasni, but nearby airports can be utilized:

1. Quetta to Gwadar (by air) → Gwadar to Pasni (by road) → Astola Island (by boat)

2. Quetta to Karachi (by air) → Karachi to Pasni (by road)

Option 1: Via Gwadar

• Flight Distance (Quetta to Gwadar): ~590 kilometers (366 miles)

• Flight Duration: Around 1 hour 20 minutes

• Road Distance (Gwadar to Pasni): 115 kilometers (71 miles)

• Road Travel Time: 2 hours

• Boat Ride (Pasni to Astola): 2 to 3 hours

Option 2: Via Karachi

• Flight Duration (Quetta to Karachi): 1 hour

• Road Distance (Karachi to Pasni): 620 kilometers (385 miles)

• Road Travel Time: 10 to 11 hours

Gwadar is closer to Pasni than Karachi and offers a more efficient route if direct flights from Quetta to Gwadar are available.

Sea Journey from Pasni to Astola Island

The only way to reach Astola Island from the mainland is by boat:

• Distance: 39 kilometers (24 miles)

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours (each way)

• Boat Options: Fishing boats, chartered vessels, or organized tours (advance arrangement recommended)

• Weather Dependency: Travel is highly weather-dependent; rough sea conditions may delay or cancel trips.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

• Permits & Clearance: No formal permit is required for Pakistani citizens, but informing local coastguards in Pasni before departure is recommended.

• Safety: Ensure life jackets and emergency supplies are available in the boat.

• Weather Caution: Best to travel in calmer months (October to March). Avoid during monsoon or high tides.

• Supplies: Astola is uninhabited. Carry all essentials including food, water, tents, and medical supplies.

• Camping: Overnight camping is popular, but travelers must be self-sufficient and environmentally conscious.

• Mobile Network: Little to no coverage on the island. Inform someone before departure.

Astola Island Attractions

Astola is known for:

• Crystal-clear water ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and boating

• Marine life: including sea turtles, dolphins, and a wide variety of fish

• Bird Watching: migratory birds use the island as a seasonal stop

• Adventure Camping: pitch tents and enjoy stargazing

• Coral Reefs: some of the rare coral reef ecosystems in Pakistan

• Ruins of a Hindu temple which reflect the island’s historical significance

Environmental Considerations

Astola is part of Pakistan’s first Marine Protected Area (declared in 2017). Visitors must:

• Avoid littering

• Not harm coral reefs or marine species

• Bring back all waste

• Refrain from lighting campfires on vegetation

Conclusion

Traveling from Quetta to Astola Island is a multi-modal adventure requiring road, air, and sea travel. While the journey may be long, the reward is access to Pakistan’s most pristine island destination. With proper planning and respect for the environment, visiting Astola can be a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.