Quetta to Bela Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Bela is a historic town located in the Lasbela District of Balochistan, Pakistan. Surrounded by mountains and desert plains, Bela is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the region. It holds archaeological and religious significance and serves as a gateway to other coastal and desert destinations such as Kund Malir and Hingol National Park. Traveling from Quetta to Bela offers a scenic and culturally rich journey through the heart of Balochistan. This article explores the distance, duration, and travel options by road, train, and air.

Distance Between Quetta and Bela

Bela lies to the south of Quetta, near the Makran Coastal Highway. The town is located just off the N-25 National Highway.

• By road: Approximately 630 kilometers (391 miles)

• By air (Quetta to Karachi, then road to Bela): ~590 kilometers (366 miles) air distance + 180 kilometers (112 miles) by road from Karachi to Bela

Travel by Road

Traveling by road from Quetta to Bela is the most direct and commonly used method. The route offers breathtaking views of Balochistan’s rugged landscapes and desert terrain.

Route Description:

Quetta → Kalat → Khuzdar → Wadh → Uthal → Bela

• Total Distance: Around 630 kilometers (391 miles)

• Estimated Travel Time: 11 to 13 hours

The journey primarily follows the N-25 National Highway (RCD Highway), which runs through major towns of central Balochistan. Bela is located just before Uthal when traveling from the north.

Vehicle Options:

• Private car or SUV is ideal for long-distance travel

• Intercity buses and vans may operate between Quetta and Lasbela district, but services are limited

• Self-driving allows flexibility and stopovers at interesting spots along the route

Road Conditions:

• The highway is mostly paved but may have some uneven stretches

• Fuel stations and small eateries are available in major towns like Khuzdar and Wadh

• Security checkpoints exist throughout the region; carry valid identification

Travel by Train

There is no direct train service to Bela, as the town does not have a railway station.

An indirect option includes:

1. Traveling by train from Quetta to Karachi

2. Continuing by road from Karachi to Bela

Details:

• Train Duration (Quetta to Karachi): Approximately 17 to 20 hours

• Road Distance (Karachi to Bela): 180 kilometers (112 miles)

• Road Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours

This is not a practical or time-saving option compared to direct road travel from Quetta.

Travel by Air

There are no direct flights to Bela, but the nearest major airport is Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.

Route Description:

Quetta → Karachi (by air) → Bela (by road)

• Air Distance: Approximately 590 kilometers (366 miles)

• Flight Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes (nonstop)

• Road Distance (Karachi to Bela): 180 kilometers (112 miles)

• Road Travel Time: Around 3 to 4 hours via the N-25

Flight Options:

• Regular flights are available between Quetta and Karachi via Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

• From Karachi, travelers can rent a car or hire a driver to reach Bela

This route is useful for those preferring a faster journey or international travelers landing in Karachi.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Bela

Bela has deep historical roots:

• Alexander the Great is believed to have passed through this region during his campaign.

• Ancient Buddhist and Hindu ruins exist in and around Bela.

• The area is known for its temples, archaeological mounds, and caves, many yet to be fully excavated.

It is also a center of spiritual heritage for the Hinglaj Mata Temple, located nearby in Hingol National Park, attracting Hindu pilgrims annually.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

• Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather; summers can be extremely hot.

• Fuel and Supplies: Ensure your vehicle has a full tank before leaving Khuzdar or Karachi. Carry food and water for the road.

• Safety: Check current security conditions with local authorities or travel forums. Daytime travel is recommended.

• Accommodation: Basic hotels and guesthouses may be found in Bela or nearby towns like Uthal or Hub.

Places to Visit Near Bela

1. Hingol National Park: Known for wildlife, rivers, and rock formations such as Princess of Hope and the Sphinx.

2. Kund Malir Beach: A serene coastal desert destination about 100 km (62 miles) from Bela.

3. Hinglaj Mata Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site located within a cave inside Hingol National Park.

4. Chaukundi Tombs (near Karachi): Historical sandstone-carved graves worth visiting if continuing toward Karachi.

Environmental and Cultural Respect

While traveling in Balochistan:

• Respect local tribal customs and dress modestly

• Avoid photographing people without permission

• Do not litter, especially in protected areas like Hingol Park and Kund Malir

Conclusion

Bela is more than just a stopover town — it’s a historic location that offers access to some of the most stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks in Balochistan. Whether you're traveling directly by road from Quetta or flying into Karachi and continuing by car, the journey to Bela is both scenic and enriching. With proper planning, it can serve as a memorable entry point to explore Pakistan’s coastal and desert wonders.