Quetta to Chakri Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Traveling across Pakistan from Quetta to Chakri offers an insightful journey through the diverse geography of the country. Quetta, located in Balochistan, is known for its mountainous terrain and strategic significance, while Chakri is a small town located near Rawalpindi in Punjab, known mostly for the Chakri Interchange on the M-2 Motorway. Whether you are planning your journey for business, tourism, or to meet family and friends, there are multiple ways to travel between these two locations — by road, train, or air. Each option offers its own unique experience in terms of travel time, comfort, and convenience.
Distance Between Quetta and Chakri
The approximate distance between Quetta and Chakri is:
-
By road: Around 960 kilometers (597 miles)
-
By train route: Approximately 1,050 kilometers (652 miles), considering train tracks and stops
-
By air (straight-line distance): Nearly 750 kilometers (466 miles)
Actual distances may vary slightly depending on the selected route or transport service. Now let’s explore each travel option in detail.
Traveling from Quetta to Chakri by Road
Traveling by road from Quetta to Chakri is a common option for those who prefer flexibility and the ability to explore towns and cities along the way. The road trip involves a scenic journey through varying landscapes, from the rocky hills of Balochistan to the fertile plains of Punjab.
Route:
The most commonly used route is as follows:
-
Quetta → Sibi → Dera Ghazi Khan → Multan → Khanewal → Lahore → Chakri (via M-2 Motorway)
Alternatively, you can also opt for:
-
Quetta → Loralai → Dera Ismail Khan → Mianwali → Chakri
However, the first route is more developed and widely used.
Travel Duration:
-
Duration: Approximately 13 to 15 hours of continuous driving.
-
This time can extend depending on traffic, rest stops, and weather conditions.
Road Conditions and Travel Tips:
-
Major portions of the road, especially the M-2 Motorway, are well-maintained.
-
The initial leg of the journey through Balochistan requires caution due to mountainous terrain and relatively sparse traffic.
-
It's advisable to travel during the day and avoid remote areas at night.
-
Fuel stations, rest stops, and restaurants are available intermittently, especially after entering Punjab.
Road travel is ideal for those who want to enjoy the landscape, stop at historic cities, or carry luggage without restrictions. It also allows group travel in private vehicles or buses.
Traveling from Quetta to Chakri by Train
Another viable travel option is the railway network, connecting major cities and towns across Pakistan. While there’s no direct train to Chakri, the closest major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station, located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Chakri.
Train Route:
-
Quetta to Rawalpindi – You can board long-distance express trains like the Jaffar Express or Akbar Express, which travel from Quetta to Rawalpindi via major junctions including:
-
Sibi
-
Multan
-
Lahore
-
Rawalpindi
-
-
Rawalpindi to Chakri – After reaching Rawalpindi, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or local transport to Chakri.
Travel Duration:
-
Quetta to Rawalpindi by train: Around 24 to 26 hours
-
Rawalpindi to Chakri by road: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic
So, the total travel time by train including the final road leg would be approximately 25 to 27 hours.
Train Facilities and Tips:
-
Pakistan Railways provides various classes like economy, business, and AC sleepers.
-
It’s best to book tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
-
Carry snacks, water, and essentials, as train stops are infrequent and short.
-
Trains may face delays, so a flexible schedule is advisable.
Though longer, train travel is cost-effective and can be comfortable, especially in AC compartments.
Traveling from Quetta to Chakri by Air
Air travel is the fastest way to cover the long distance between Quetta and Chakri. While Chakri doesn’t have an airport, the nearest major airport is Islamabad International Airport, which is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Chakri via the M-2 Motorway.
Flight Route:
-
Quetta to Islamabad (Air Travel) – Multiple domestic flights are available daily, operated by airlines like PIA and AirSial.
-
Islamabad to Chakri (Road Travel) – After landing at Islamabad International Airport, you can travel by taxi or ride-sharing services to Chakri.
Travel Duration:
-
Flight time from Quetta to Islamabad: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes
-
Airport check-in and security clearance: Add 2 to 3 hours
-
Road travel from Islamabad Airport to Chakri: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
So, the total travel time by air, including all transitions, is about 4 to 5 hours.
Air Travel Tips:
-
Check flight availability in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
-
Keep all necessary identification documents ready.
-
Airport transportation to Chakri is easily available, and roads are in good condition.
Air travel is ideal for professionals, urgent trips, or those preferring the quickest option.
Conclusion
The journey from Quetta to Chakri covers a considerable distance of approximately 960 kilometers (597 miles) by road, making it a significant cross-country trip. Each mode of transport—road, train, or air—has its advantages based on your priorities, whether they are time, convenience, or budget.
-
By Road: A scenic journey taking 13 to 15 hours, good for those who enjoy driving and exploring different areas.
-
By Train: A long yet affordable trip taking 25 to 27 hours including a road transfer from Rawalpindi.
-
By Air: The fastest option, covering the entire journey in 4 to 5 hours including road travel from Islamabad.
No matter which travel mode you choose, proper planning, time management, and safety precautions can make your trip from Quetta to Chakri smooth and enjoyable.
0 Comments