Quetta to Gujar Khan Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Quetta to Gujar Khan Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Traveling from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, to Gujar Khan, a city in the Rawalpindi District of Punjab, involves traversing a significant part of Pakistan from southwest to northeast. The journey is scenic and offers travelers a chance to witness the diverse geographical and cultural landscapes of the country. Whether you are planning a visit for personal reasons, business, or tourism, understanding the travel options and distances between these two cities is essential for planning a smooth journey.

Distance Between Quetta and Gujar Khan

The approximate distance from Quetta to Gujar Khan by road is about 910 kilometers (565 miles). However, the actual distance may vary slightly depending on the exact route chosen, especially considering detours and road conditions. If one opts for train or flight options, the distances covered may be different due to route alignment and connections via other cities.

Travel from Quetta to Gujar Khan by Road

Distance:

Approximately 910 kilometers (565 miles)

Duration:

Traveling by road typically takes 14 to 16 hours, depending on the vehicle, traffic, weather, and road conditions.

Route Details:

The journey by road from Quetta to Gujar Khan primarily involves using the N-50 and N-5 National Highways. Below is a commonly used route:

1. Start from Quetta on N-50 National Highway, passing through Qila Saifullah and Zhob.

2. Connect to Dera Ismail Khan, then proceed toward Mianwali.

3. From Mianwali, continue on to Talagang and then toward Rawalpindi using N-5.

4. Gujar Khan lies roughly 55 kilometers southeast of Rawalpindi, and this final stretch can be completed in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

This route is widely used for private vehicles and bus services. It passes through some mountainous terrain and plains, providing beautiful views along the way. Major cities en route such as Dera Ismail Khan and Mianwali serve as rest stops or overnight halts for long-distance travelers.

Road Travel Experience:

Traveling by road is ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, flexibility in stops, and the freedom to explore smaller towns along the way. Bus services, both air-conditioned and standard, are available from Quetta to major hubs like Rawalpindi or Islamabad. From there, passengers can board a local bus or hire a taxi to reach Gujar Khan. This method is often preferred by families or groups traveling together.

Travel from Quetta to Gujar Khan by Train

Distance:

While the direct rail distance is roughly 950 to 1,000 kilometers (590 to 620 miles), actual travel may include changes or connections via other cities, particularly Rawalpindi.

Duration:

The total journey by train can take approximately 22 to 28 hours, depending on the route, train schedule, waiting times during transfers, and delays.

Route Details:

There is no direct train service from Quetta to Gujar Khan. The journey typically involves the following steps:

1. Board a train from Quetta to Rawalpindi – this is the longest segment and can take 22 to 24 hours. Common trains operating on this route include the Jaffar Express, which passes through major stations such as Sibi, Rohri, Multan, Lahore, and finally Rawalpindi.

2. Once in Rawalpindi, travelers can either take a local passenger train to Gujar Khan (if available) or use a road transport service (bus, van, or taxi) for the remaining 55 kilometers (34 miles), which usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours.

Train Travel Experience:

Train travel is a comfortable and affordable option for long journeys in Pakistan. The route from Quetta to Rawalpindi is well-served, and travelers can book economy, AC standard, or sleeper class tickets. The trains pass through the plains of Punjab and the rugged terrain of Balochistan, offering varied scenery. Though slower than road or air travel, train journeys are often enjoyed for their leisurely pace and cultural immersion. Passengers get the opportunity to interact with locals and sample food from different regions at station stops.

Travel from Quetta to Gujar Khan by Plane

Distance (Flight Path):

The aerial distance between Quetta and Islamabad (nearest airport to Gujar Khan) is approximately 690 kilometers (429 miles).

Duration:

• Flight Time: Approximately 1.5 hours

• Additional Time (to Gujar Khan): Add 1.5 to 2 hours for airport procedures and road travel to Gujar Khan.

• Total Estimated Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours, including all transfers and waiting times.

Route Details:

There are no direct flights from Quetta to Gujar Khan, as Gujar Khan does not have its own airport. Instead, travelers fly from:

1. Quetta International Airport (UET) to Islamabad International Airport (ISB) – this is a direct domestic flight available through Pakistan’s national and private airlines.

2. From Islamabad Airport, travelers can take a taxi, bus, or private car to Gujar Khan. The distance between Islamabad and Gujar Khan is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) and takes around 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Air Travel Experience:

Air travel is the fastest and most convenient option, particularly for business travelers or those with time constraints. The Quetta to Islamabad flight is smooth and allows passengers to avoid long road or train journeys. With regular flight schedules, it's possible to complete the entire trip in half a day. However, it requires planning ahead to book flights and coordinate ground transportation from Islamabad to Gujar Khan.

Summary of Travel Options

• Road: 910 km / 565 miles – Takes about 14 to 16 hours.

• Train: ~950–1000 km / 590–620 miles – Takes about 22 to 28 hours including transfers.

• Plane: 690 km (flight path) / 429 miles – Total travel time around 4 to 5 hours.

Conclusion

Traveling from Quetta to Gujar Khan is a long journey that can be undertaken by road, rail, or air, depending on your priorities such as time, comfort, or experience. Road travel offers flexibility and scenic views, making it a popular option for families and groups. Train journeys provide a cultural and relaxed experience, ideal for those who have time and enjoy travel at a leisurely pace. Air travel, on the other hand, is the most time-efficient method and is best suited for those who want to minimize travel duration.

Each option offers its own unique experience. With proper planning, travelers can enjoy a safe and memorable journey between Quetta and Gujar Khan, two cities that are culturally rich and geographically diverse parts of Pakistan.