Quetta to Gilgit: Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, is a stunning region in northern Pakistan, famous for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and rich culture. The journey from Quetta to Gilgit can be taken via road, train, or air, each offering distinct experiences. Here's a detailed guide on how to travel between these two cities.
By Road
The distance between Quetta and Gilgit by road is approximately 730 kilometers (453 miles). The journey takes you through a range of mountainous terrains, providing some of the most scenic views in Pakistan.
Route:
- Start your journey from Quetta, heading north towards Zhob and then proceed on the N-50 highway towards Dera Ismail Khan.
- Continue on the N-55, passing through Mingora (Swat), and then follow the road to Chilas, a key town in the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
- From Chilas, take the N-15 highway to reach Gilgit.
This road trip covers a variety of landscapes, from dry plateaus to lush green valleys, and offers an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful rugged mountains of northern Pakistan. However, the roads are narrow and winding in many parts, especially near the mountainous regions, and can be dangerous during adverse weather conditions.
Travel Duration: The drive from Quetta to Gilgit usually takes around 16 to 18 hours. The travel time may increase due to the challenging road conditions, especially during the winter months when snowfall can block certain passes.
By Train
Currently, there is no direct train service between Quetta and Gilgit, so train travel requires a combination of train and road journeys.
Train Journey:
- First, take a train from Quetta to Rawalpindi or Islamabad. The train ride covers approximately 1,000 kilometers and takes around 15 to 16 hours.
- From Rawalpindi or Islamabad, continue your journey by road to Gilgit. The road trip from Islamabad to Gilgit takes around 8 to 10 hours and covers a distance of about 300 kilometers.
Total Travel Time: Combining the train and road trip, the total journey time from Quetta to Gilgit could range from 22 to 26 hours depending on the waiting times, road conditions, and train schedules.
By Plane
Flying from Quetta to Gilgit is the most convenient and fastest way to reach Gilgit, though there are no direct flights from Quetta. You will need to take a connecting flight through Islamabad.
Flight Route:
- First, fly from Quetta International Airport to Islamabad. This flight typically takes about 1.5 hours.
- From Islamabad, board a flight to Gilgit, which takes around 1 hour.
Travel Duration: The total travel time by air, including layovers, can range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the flight schedules and waiting times between connections.
Conclusion
Traveling from Quetta to Gilgit offers a range of options, each with its own advantages. The road journey is long but provides an immersive experience of the stunning northern landscapes, though it can be tiring and challenging. Train travel, while an indirect route, can be a scenic option if combined with road travel. However, the fastest and most convenient way to travel between these two cities is by air, despite the need for a connection in Islamabad. Ultimately, your choice of transport will depend on your priorities, whether it's speed, comfort, or the desire to experience Pakistan's natural beauty on the way to Gilgit.
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