Quetta to Hunza Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

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

Hunza is one of the most iconic and breathtaking valleys in Pakistan, located in Gilgit-Baltistan. With its majestic snow-capped mountains, turquoise rivers, centuries-old forts, and warm hospitality, Hunza attracts travelers from around the world. Reaching Hunza from Quetta is a long but rewarding journey that takes you through Pakistan’s diverse terrain. This article explains the distance from Quetta to Hunza and explores travel options by road, train, and air.

Distance from Quetta to Hunza

• By road: Approximately 1,280 kilometers (around 796 miles)

• By air (Quetta to Gilgit, then road to Hunza): Around 700 kilometers (435 miles) by air to Gilgit, followed by a 100-kilometer (62 miles) road journey to Hunza.

Travel by Road

Traveling from Quetta to Hunza by road is a journey across Pakistan, starting from the rugged hills of Balochistan, passing through the plains of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and ending in the towering mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Typical Route

• Quetta → Dera Ghazi Khan → Multan → Faisalabad → Islamabad → Abbottabad → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza

This full road trip takes about 30 to 36 hours, depending on weather, traffic, and the number of stops. Most travelers break it into 2–3 stages, staying overnight in cities such as Islamabad, Besham, or Gilgit.

Segment Breakdown

1. Quetta to Islamabad: Via N-70 and motorways – around 14–16 hours.

2. Islamabad to Gilgit: Via the Karakoram Highway (N-35) – around 14–16 hours.

3. Gilgit to Hunza (Aliabad/Karimabad): Around 2 to 2.5 hours by road, passing through stunning landscapes and famous spots like Rakaposhi View Point, Nagar, and Ganish Bridge.

Hunza is composed of several towns and villages including Aliabad, Karimabad, Altit, Baltit, Passu, and Sost. Most travelers aim for Karimabad or Aliabad as a base.

Travel by Train

There is no railway connection to Gilgit-Baltistan, including Hunza. However, you can utilize Pakistan Railways to cover a major portion of the trip before continuing by road.

Train + Road Travel Plan

1. Train from Quetta to Rawalpindi (Islamabad): Duration is around 25 to 30 hours.

2. Rawalpindi to Gilgit by road: Via Karakoram Highway, about 16 to 18 hours.

3. Gilgit to Hunza: Another 2 to 2.5 hours drive.

This travel method suits those who prefer long train rides and aren’t constrained by time. It also allows for a more gradual immersion into the mountainous landscapes of the north.

Travel by Air

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Hunza from Quetta is via air travel, followed by a road trip.

Flight Route Overview

1. Quetta to Islamabad: Direct flight takes about 1.5 hours.

2. Islamabad to Gilgit: Domestic flight of approximately 1 hour (operated by PIA). These flights are weather-dependent and may be delayed or canceled due to low visibility or cloud cover.

3. Gilgit to Hunza: Around 2 to 2.5 hours drive, with the journey offering spectacular views of the Hunza River, Rakaposhi, and Ultar Sar.

Total estimated travel time by this method (excluding layovers) is about 8 to 10 hours.

Key Attractions in Hunza

• Baltit Fort: A 700-year-old fort with Tibetan-style architecture.

• Altit Fort: Even older than Baltit, recently restored with UNESCO support.

• Eagle’s Nest: Offers panoramic views of Hunza Valley and surrounding peaks.

• Attabad Lake: A stunning turquoise lake formed by a landslide in 2010.

• Passu Cones: Unique pointed peaks rising dramatically from the Hunza River.

• Hussaini Suspension Bridge: Considered one of the most dangerous bridges in the world.

Hunza is not just about sightseeing—it’s a cultural and spiritual experience deeply connected to nature and history.

Best Travel Option

• For speed and comfort: The air travel route (Quetta → Islamabad → Gilgit → Hunza) is the best, though it requires flexibility due to potential flight delays.

• For adventure and scenery: The road journey is long but provides unmatched views, particularly along the Karakoram Highway.

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: April to October is ideal. Spring offers cherry blossoms; autumn brings golden colors. Winters are beautiful but harsh and may include road closures.

• Vehicle type: A 4x4 is preferable for the Gilgit-Hunza stretch, especially if you plan to go beyond Karimabad (like Khunjerab Pass).

• Weather: Nights are cold even in summer. Carry warm layers.

• Fuel & Cash: Carry extra fuel and keep cash, as ATMs may be limited in remote areas.

• Accommodation: Hunza offers everything from guesthouses to boutique resorts. Advance booking is recommended in peak season.

The journey from Quetta to Hunza is long, but each mile reveals the incredible beauty and diversity of Pakistan. From deserts to glaciers, and from flat plains to towering peaks, the route is as memorable as the destination. Hunza offers a magical experience—whether you’re seeking peace, culture, adventure, or simply a view that stays with you forever.