Quetta to Chakesar Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Chakesar is a scenic town located in the Shangla District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. Known for its mountainous terrain, rich greenery, and traditional Pashtun culture, Chakesar serves as a vital link between Alpuri and other parts of Shangla. Traveling from Quetta to Chakesar offers a unique cross-country experience that passes through multiple provinces, cultures, and landscapes. This guide provides detailed information about the distance, route options, and travel durations from Quetta to Chakesar by road, train, and plane.

Distance Between Quetta and Chakesar

• By Road: Approximately 1,050 kilometers (652 miles)

• By Air (Direct/Aerial Distance): Around 630 kilometers (392 miles)

Due to the absence of an airport or railway station in Chakesar, the journey requires a combination of transport methods, primarily road travel.

Travel by Road

The most common and direct way to reach Chakesar from Quetta is via road. The route passes through southern and central Punjab into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and finally enters the mountainous Shangla District.

Primary Route:

• Quetta → Dera Ghazi Khan → Multan → Faisalabad → Islamabad → Abbottabad → Battagram → Besham → Alpuri → Chakesar

Alternate Route:

• Quetta → Zhob → Dera Ismail Khan → Kohat → Peshawar → Mardan → Swat Expressway → Alpuri → Chakesar

Travel Duration:

• Estimated Time: 21 to 25 hours (depending on route and road conditions)

• Rest Points: Multan, Islamabad, Abbottabad, and Besham are good stopovers for food, fuel, and overnight stays

Road Conditions:

• Highways from Quetta to Islamabad are mostly in good condition

• After Besham, the terrain becomes mountainous with narrow, winding roads

• The final stretch to Chakesar requires cautious driving due to unpaved or semi-paved roads in some sections

Scenic Highlights:

• Lush valleys and rivers in the Shangla region

• Breathtaking views from high-altitude roads

• Traditional villages and local hospitality

Travel by Train

As Chakesar lacks a railway station, you must first travel by train to a nearby major city like Rawalpindi or Islamabad, and then continue by road.

Recommended Route:

1. Quetta to Rawalpindi by Train:

   • Service: Pakistan Railways offers several long-distance trains from Quetta

   • Duration: Approximately 24 to 26 hours

2. Rawalpindi to Chakesar by Road:

   • Distance: About 340 kilometers (211 miles)

   • Travel Time: 8 to 9 hours by car or bus

Total Duration (Train + Road):
Approximately 32 to 35 hours

Advantages:

• Economical

• Allows time to rest on the train

• Access to a well-connected road network from Rawalpindi

Drawbacks:

• Longer journey time

• Requires coordination between train and bus/car travel

Travel by Plane

Although Chakesar has no airport, you can fly to a nearby city—either Islamabad or Peshawar—and continue your journey by road. This method significantly reduces travel time and fatigue.

Route via Islamabad:

1. Quetta to Islamabad by Air:

   • Duration: Around 1 hour 20 minutes

2. Islamabad to Chakesar by Road:

   • Via Abbottabad → Battagram → Besham → Alpuri → Chakesar

   • Distance: Approximately 340 kilometers (211 miles)

   • Duration: 8 to 9 hours

Alternative Route via Peshawar:

1. Quetta to Peshawar by Air: Around 1.5 hours

2. Peshawar to Chakesar (via Swat and Shangla): Approx. 310 kilometers (193 miles)

   • Travel Duration: 7 to 9 hours

Total Duration (Air + Road):
Around 9 to 10 hours

Advantages:

• Fastest overall travel time

• Comfortable, especially for long-distance journeys

• Ideal for professionals or urgent trips

Travel Tips

1. Plan for Weather: Chakesar has cold winters and frequent rain during monsoon. Travel during daylight and avoid mountain roads at night.

2. Vehicle Type: A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the mountain roads leading to Chakesar, particularly during winter or rainy seasons.

3. Fuel & Food Stops: Refill fuel in major towns like Abbottabad or Besham. Bring snacks and water as options become limited in remote areas.

4. Local Connectivity: Mobile networks may be unreliable in the deeper parts of Shangla. Download offline maps before traveling.

5. Cultural Note: Chakesar is a traditional town—dress modestly and show respect to local customs and elders.

Conclusion

The journey from Quetta to Chakesar is long and adventurous, showcasing Pakistan’s geographic diversity. Traveling by road offers the most flexibility and access to scenic locations. Air travel combined with road transport is the most time-efficient method. Train travel remains an economical option but involves longer total duration. Whichever mode you choose, Chakesar welcomes visitors with natural beauty, cultural richness, and a tranquil environment nestled deep within the hills of Shangla.