Quetta to Gupis Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Gupis, a serene valley in the Ghizer District of Gilgit-Baltistan, is a dream destination for nature lovers, known for its lush green landscapes, turquoise rivers, and peaceful ambiance. Traveling from Quetta to Gupis offers a remarkable journey through the diverse geography of Pakistan—from Balochistan's rugged terrain to the mountainous wonders of the north. This article outlines the distance, travel routes, and options by road, train, and air to help you plan your trip from Quetta to Gupis.

Distance from Quetta to Gupis

• By road: Approximately 1,230 kilometers (around 764 miles)

• By air (Quetta to Gilgit, then road to Gupis): Approximate flying distance from Quetta to Gilgit is 700 kilometers (around 435 miles), followed by a road journey of around 190 kilometers (118 miles) from Gilgit to Gupis.

Travel by Road

Traveling by road from Quetta to Gupis is a long but scenic adventure that takes you through several key cities and mountain routes. The most common route includes passing through:

• Quetta → Sukkur → Rahim Yar Khan → Multan → Islamabad → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Besham → Chilas → Gilgit → Gupis

This journey takes about 24 to 30 hours, depending on traffic conditions, rest stops, and road status. Most travelers break this trip into stages with overnight stays in cities such as Islamabad or Gilgit.

Recommended Route

1. Start from Quetta on the N-50 Highway.

2. Continue via Sibbi, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and then move towards Islamabad using the M-4 and M-2 motorways.

3. From Islamabad, take the Karakoram Highway (N-35) through Abbottabad, Chilas, and then on to Gilgit.

4. From Gilgit, follow the Gilgit–Shandur Road (also called the Gilgit-Gupis road), leading directly into Gupis valley.

The drive from Gilgit to Gupis alone takes around 5 to 6 hours depending on road conditions. It passes through beautiful spots such as Sherqilla, Singal, and Yasin, making the final stretch especially memorable.

Travel by Train

There is no direct train service between Quetta and Gupis or even Gilgit, as the railway network in Pakistan does not extend to Gilgit-Baltistan due to the mountainous terrain. However, you can use a train-road hybrid option:

1. Take a train from Quetta to Rawalpindi, which typically takes 25 to 30 hours, depending on the train and schedule.

2. From Rawalpindi, travel by road to Gilgit using the Karakoram Highway, which can take around 16 to 18 hours.

3. From Gilgit, continue to Gupis by road as described above (5–6 hours).

Though longer and requiring multiple transitions, this option suits those who prefer trains over long road trips and wish to explore various cities along the way.

Travel by Air

There is no direct flight from Quetta to Gilgit. The most feasible air travel route involves a flight from Quetta to Islamabad, followed by a connecting flight to Gilgit.

Flight Route and Duration

1. Quetta to Islamabad: Approximately 1.5 hours by flight.

2. Islamabad to Gilgit: Around 1 hour by flight (subject to weather, since Gilgit airport is sensitive to visibility and conditions).

Once you reach Gilgit, you will need to travel by road to Gupis, which takes 5 to 6 hours. The total duration by air (excluding layovers and waiting time) is around 8 to 10 hours from Quetta to Gupis, including the drive from Gilgit.

Note: Flights from Islamabad to Gilgit are operated by PIA and can be delayed or canceled due to bad weather in the mountains. Always have a buffer in your travel plan if flying.

Scenic Highlights Along the Journey

Whether by road or a combination of flight and road, the journey to Gupis offers a treasure trove of natural beauty:

• The lush meadows of Punial and Yasin Valley

• The turquoise waters of Khalti Lake

• Snow-covered peaks and thick pine forests

• Traditional stone houses and local wooden bridges

Traveling north from Gilgit into Gupis opens a window into the cultural richness and natural elegance of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Best Travel Option

While road travel from Quetta to Gupis offers unmatched scenic beauty and flexibility, it is time-consuming and physically demanding. If convenience is a priority, the air travel option (Quetta → Islamabad → Gilgit → Gupis) is the fastest and most efficient, though dependent on flight availability and weather conditions.

Final Tips for Travelers

• Best time to visit: May to October, when roads are open and weather is pleasant.

• Road conditions: Mountain roads beyond Gilgit can be narrow and winding. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

• Health & safety: Always carry basic medication, warm clothing, and snacks for long drives.

• Accommodation: Lodges and guest houses are available in Gupis and nearby areas like Phander and Khalti.

Reaching Gupis from Quetta is not just about covering distance—it’s about experiencing Pakistan’s incredible natural transition from deserts to high-altitude valleys. With the right planning, this journey becomes one of the most rewarding travel experiences in the country.