Quetta to Ayubia Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan, is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Pakistan. Nestled among rocky hills and surrounded by mountains, Quetta attracts tourists with its chilly weather, fruit orchards, and traditional bazaars. On the other hand, Ayubia, located in the Abbottabad District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is a charming hill station known for its pine forests, cool climate, and the famous Ayubia National Park. Many travelers plan a trip from Quetta to Ayubia to escape the dry climate of Balochistan and enjoy the lush greenery and serene environment of the northern regions.
If you’re planning to travel from Quetta to Ayubia, this comprehensive guide outlines the distance, travel options, estimated travel durations, and key considerations for journeying by road, train, and air. Each mode of transport offers a different experience, depending on your budget, comfort level, and time constraints.
Total Distance from Quetta to Ayubia
The distance between Quetta and Ayubia is approximately:
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By road: 990 kilometers (615 miles)
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By air (Quetta to Islamabad) and then road: Approx. 850 kilometers (528 miles) in total, including both air and ground travel
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By train (Quetta to Rawalpindi) and then road: Approx. 1,050 kilometers (652 miles)
Traveling from Quetta to Ayubia by Road
Traveling by road offers scenic views and flexibility in terms of stopovers. The journey covers approximately 990 kilometers (615 miles) and passes through several cities including Loralai, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Lahore Bypass, Rawalpindi, Murree, and then up to Ayubia.
Duration:
The road journey takes around 16 to 18 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way. The best route typically involves taking N-70 and then merging onto M-2 Motorway, followed by the Murree Expressway towards Nathia Gali and Ayubia.
Best For:
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Road trip enthusiasts
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Families or groups preferring private vehicles
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Adventure seekers who want to explore cities en route
Considerations:
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Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountainous terrain after Murree
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Plan breaks for food, fuel, and rest
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Avoid nighttime driving in hilly areas due to fog and low visibility
Traveling from Quetta to Ayubia by Train
Though there is no direct train to Ayubia, travelers can take a train from Quetta Railway Station to Rawalpindi Railway Station, and then continue the journey by road towards Ayubia.
Step 1: Train from Quetta to Rawalpindi
This leg of the journey covers around 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) and usually takes 24 to 28 hours, depending on the train type and schedule. Major stops include Multan, Khanewal, Lahore, Jhelum, and Rawalpindi.
Step 2: Road from Rawalpindi to Ayubia
From Rawalpindi, Ayubia is around 80 kilometers (50 miles) away, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via Murree and Nathia Gali.
Total Duration (Train + Road):
26.5 to 31 hours
Best For:
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Budget-conscious travelers
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People with time to spare
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Those wanting to experience scenic train rides through Punjab
Considerations:
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Train schedules may vary, and delays are possible
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Overnight train travel requires preparation (blankets, food, etc.)
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Last-mile travel to Ayubia involves steep and narrow roads, so hiring a local driver may help
Traveling from Quetta to Ayubia by Air
There is no direct flight to Ayubia, but one can fly from Quetta International Airport (UET) to Islamabad International Airport (ISB). From Islamabad, Ayubia can be reached by road.
Step 1: Flight from Quetta to Islamabad
The flight distance is approximately 630 kilometers (391 miles). Flight time is about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 2: Road from Islamabad to Ayubia
From Islamabad, Ayubia is around 95 kilometers (59 miles) away, and it takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours to reach by car via Murree Expressway and Nathia Gali Road.
Total Duration (Air + Road):
Approximately 5 to 6 hours, including airport waiting time and drive to Ayubia.
Best For:
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Travelers with limited time
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Tourists preferring comfort
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Families with children or elderly members
Considerations:
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Weather can impact flight schedules, especially in winter
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Car rentals or taxi services needed from Islamabad to Ayubia
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Hilly roads require cautious driving
Comparison Table: Travel Options from Quetta to Ayubia
| Mode of Travel | Total Distance (KM/Miles) | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| By Road | 990 km / 615 miles | 16–18 hours | Direct route, scenic but tiring |
| By Train + Road | 1,050 km / 652 miles | 26.5–31 hours | Budget-friendly, time-consuming |
| By Plane + Road | 850 km / 528 miles | 5–6 hours | Fastest, comfortable, indirect |
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Quetta to Ayubia offers a delightful mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty regardless of the mode of transport. The road trip is long but scenic, perfect for travelers who want to explore Pakistan's diverse landscapes. The train option is economical and gives a classic Pakistani travel experience, especially for those with time to spare. However, if you’re looking for speed and comfort, flying to Islamabad and then continuing by road is the most efficient route.
No matter which mode you choose, planning ahead is key. Check the weather conditions in Ayubia, especially in winter when snowfall can block roads. Keep safety, rest breaks, and local conditions in mind for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Whether you're visiting Ayubia for hiking, wildlife, or simply to escape the hustle of city life, the journey from Quetta will be a memorable part of the experience.
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