Quetta to Kharian Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Quetta to Kharian Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Traveling from Quetta to Kharian offers a journey from the southwestern part of Pakistan to the northern Punjab region. Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, is nestled in mountainous terrain, while Kharian lies in the fertile plains of the Gujrat district. Whether you're planning a personal trip, a business journey, or visiting relatives, it's essential to understand the distance, routes, and travel options available. This article provides comprehensive information on the travel distance, duration, and transportation options from Quetta to Kharian by road, train, and plane.

1. Quetta to Kharian Distance

The distance between Quetta and Kharian varies depending on the mode of transportation and the route chosen.

• By Road: Approximately 1,070 kilometers (665 miles)

• By Train: Rail routes are longer due to indirect connections and transfers, with an estimated distance of 1,150 kilometers (715 miles)

• By Air (Direct Flight + Road Transfer): The aerial distance from Quetta to Islamabad is around 690 kilometers (429 miles), and from Islamabad to Kharian by road adds another 150 kilometers (93 miles), making a combined travel route of approximately 840 kilometers (522 miles).

2. Travel by Road

Traveling by road from Quetta to Kharian is a long but scenic journey that takes you through different terrains, including mountain ranges, deserts, and agricultural lands. This route is suitable for those who prefer to travel at their own pace or want to explore places along the way.

Route Description

The most commonly used route goes through the following major cities and highways:

• Quetta → Sibi → Sukkur → Multan → Lahore → Gujrat → Kharian

This route includes parts of:

• N-65 (Quetta to Sukkur)

• N-5 (Sukkur to Lahore and onward to Kharian)

Some travelers may also opt for the M-5 (Multan to Sukkur Motorway) and M-3/M-2 Motorways (from Multan to Lahore and Lahore to Kharian) to speed up their journey.

Road Travel Duration

The road trip from Quetta to Kharian takes approximately 16 to 18 hours, depending on:

• Traffic conditions

• Road quality

• Number of rest stops

• Weather

If you’re driving your own car, the travel experience offers flexibility. Alternatively, buses or private hire vans also operate on this long-haul route.

3. Travel by Train

Train travel is another viable option, especially for those who prefer a comfortable and cost-effective means of transportation. However, there's no direct train from Quetta to Kharian, and passengers must make at least one transfer, typically at Lahore or Rawalpindi.

Route and Train Details

Here’s a common train travel itinerary:

• Quetta to Lahore via services like Jaffar Express or Akbar Express

• From Lahore to Kharian, travelers can use a local train that stops at Kharian Railway Station or travel to Gujrat and then use local transport to Kharian.

Alternatively, another route could involve:

• Quetta to Rawalpindi (via Jaffar Express)

• Then Rawalpindi to Kharian by a local or intercity train

Rail Travel Duration

Train travel can take a considerable amount of time due to the long route and train schedules:

• Quetta to Lahore or Rawalpindi: Around 22 to 26 hours

• Lahore/Rawalpindi to Kharian: Around 2 to 3 hours

So, the total journey duration by train ranges from 24 to 30 hours, depending on transfer timings and waiting periods.

Train Station Access

• Quetta Railway Station is well connected and serves as the main hub for Balochistan.

• Kharian Railway Station is a small but active station served by various passenger trains coming from Lahore or Rawalpindi.

4. Travel by Air

Although there is no airport in Kharian itself, travelers can use air travel to reach a nearby city and then cover the remaining distance by road. The closest major airport to Kharian is Islamabad International Airport.

Flight Route

• Quetta International Airport (UET) to Islamabad International Airport (ISB)

Flights are available daily or on alternate days depending on airline schedules. These are domestic flights, and the journey is significantly shorter compared to road or train.

Air Travel Duration

• Flight Duration (Quetta to Islamabad): Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

• Road Duration (Islamabad to Kharian): Around 2 to 2.5 hours, covering about 150 kilometers (93 miles) via M-2 Motorway and N-5

Total Duration by Plane

The total travel time including airport formalities and road transfer ranges from 5 to 7 hours. This includes:

• Check-in and security (at least 1 hour before flight)

• Flight time

• Baggage claim and exit

• Road journey to Kharian

Airport Access

• Quetta International Airport is easily accessible within the city.

• Upon arrival in Islamabad, you can use a private car, rental, or intercity bus to reach Kharian.

5. Which Travel Option is Best for You?

Each travel method from Quetta to Kharian serves different needs:

• Road: Best for those who enjoy long drives, have flexibility in time, and may want to visit cities along the way.

• Train: Suitable for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer not to drive. Although time-consuming, trains offer a laid-back travel experience.

• Air + Road: The fastest option in terms of duration. Ideal for professionals, urgent travelers, or those wanting to minimize travel fatigue.

6. Tips for Travelers

• Plan ahead: Book tickets in advance during holidays or weekends.

• Pack essentials: Especially for long train or bus rides—snacks, water, power banks, and basic medicines.

• Check weather: Winters can bring fog in Punjab, while Balochistan may have unpredictable mountain weather.

• Stay informed: Road conditions, train schedules, and flight timings may change, so check with official sources before travel.

Conclusion

Traveling from Quetta to Kharian spans a distance of over 1,000 kilometers and offers multiple transportation options. Whether you're choosing a direct and swift flight with a short road transfer, an adventurous road journey, or an economical train trip, the route provides a comprehensive glimpse into Pakistan's diverse landscape—from rugged mountains to bustling plains. Understanding the distance and travel durations helps you choose the option that best matches your needs and schedule, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.