Quetta to Chilam Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Quetta to Chilam – Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Traveling from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, to Chilam, a scenic location near Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan, offers an adventurous journey through some of Pakistan's most dramatic landscapes. Chilam is known as the gateway to the breathtaking Deosai Plains, a high-altitude plateau often called the "roof of the world." Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, getting to Chilam from Quetta requires a bit of planning due to its remote location.

Distance Between Quetta and Chilam

• By road: Approximately 1,190 kilometers (739 miles)

• By air (as the crow flies): Around 660 kilometers (410 miles)

Traveling by Road from Quetta to Chilam

Road travel is the only direct way to reach Chilam since it does not have an airport or train station. The journey by road is long and challenging but offers unforgettable scenery and cultural experiences along the way.

Route Overview:

1. Quetta → Sukkur via National Highway N-65

2. Sukkur → Multan via N-5

3. Multan → Islamabad via M-4 and M-2 Motorways

4. Islamabad → Chilas via Hazara Expressway and Karakoram Highway (N-35)

5. Chilas → Astore → Chilam

Road Distance and Duration:

• Total Distance: Approx. 1,190 km (739 miles)

• Estimated Travel Time: 24–28 hours (excluding overnight halts)

This journey requires multiple stopovers due to the terrain and long driving hours. The road conditions from Chilas to Astore and Chilam are narrow and often unpaved, so a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended.

Traveling by Train from Quetta to Chilam (Indirect Route)

There is no direct train service to Chilam or even nearby Astore. However, travelers can take the train for part of the journey, making it a feasible option for those wanting a mix of train and road travel.

Train Route (Partial):

1. Quetta → Rawalpindi via Pakistan Railways (Jaffar Express or Akbar Express)

2. Rawalpindi → Astore → Chilam by road

• Quetta to Rawalpindi Train Distance: Approx. 1,400 km (870 miles)

• Travel Time by Train: Around 24–28 hours

• Rawalpindi to Chilam by Road: Approx. 450 km (280 miles), taking 12–14 hours

While this option is longer in terms of overall duration, it reduces the physical fatigue of driving continuously. However, travel from Rawalpindi to Astore and onward to Chilam still involves high-altitude driving with sharp bends and rough roads.

Traveling by Air from Quetta to Chilam (Via Skardu or Gilgit)

Chilam does not have its own airport. The closest airports are located in Skardu and Gilgit. Travelers can fly part of the journey, then continue by road.

Option 1: Quetta → Islamabad → Skardu → Chilam

• Quetta to Islamabad Flight Duration: Around 1.5 hours

• Islamabad to Skardu Flight Duration: Around 1 hour

• Skardu to Chilam by Road: Approx. 200 km (124 miles) via Astore, taking 6–8 hours

Option 2: Quetta → Islamabad → Gilgit → Chilam

• Quetta to Islamabad Flight: 1.5 hours

• Islamabad to Gilgit Flight: 1 hour

• Gilgit to Chilam by Road: Approx. 190 km (118 miles), taking 7–9 hours

Note: Flights to Skardu and Gilgit are subject to weather conditions and are sometimes delayed or canceled, especially during winter.

This option is suitable for those looking to save time and reduce physical strain. It offers a balance of air travel and scenic road adventure through the mountains.

Best Time to Travel

• May to October is the best travel window. During this period, the Deosai route via Chilam is open and the weather is relatively mild.

• Winter travel is not recommended as roads to Astore and Chilam are often blocked due to heavy snowfall.

Travel Tips

• Permits: As Chilam is close to the Deosai Plains and some restricted areas, it’s advisable to carry CNIC and obtain necessary permits, especially for foreign travelers.

• Fuel and Supplies: Fuel stations are sparse after Astore, so ensure your vehicle is filled and carry extra fuel if possible.

• Accommodation: Basic guest houses are available in Astore. There are limited options in Chilam, so plan overnight stays in Astore or Skardu.

• Mobile Signals: Mobile networks may not work consistently in remote areas, especially past Astore.

• Health Precautions: The high altitude can cause breathing issues; carry necessary medicines and stay hydrated.

Traveling from Quetta to Chilam is a thrilling journey combining the rugged terrains of Balochistan, the fertile plains of Punjab, and the majestic mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan. Whether you choose to go by road, train, or air, the trip offers a unique opportunity to witness the cultural and geographical diversity of Pakistan en route to one of the most picturesque regions in the country.