Quetta to Kharmang Khas Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Kharmang Khas is a picturesque valley located in the Kharmang District of Gilgit-Baltistan, near the border with Ladakh. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, green valleys, and river-fed landscapes, it lies east of Skardu and offers a quiet yet awe-inspiring travel experience. Traveling from Quetta to Kharmang Khas involves a dramatic change in elevation, scenery, and climate, making it a compelling adventure for travelers who want to experience the transition from Pakistan’s arid southwest to its lush northern heights.

Distance Between Quetta and Kharmang Khas

• By Road: Approximately 1,135 kilometers (about 705 miles)

• By Air (to Skardu) + Road: About 675 kilometers (around 419 miles) in a straight line

Travel Duration from Quetta to Kharmang Khas

• By Road: 25 to 29 hours

• By Train (to Rawalpindi/Islamabad) + Road: 31 to 36 hours

• By Plane (to Skardu) + Road: 9 to 11 hours

1. Travel from Quetta to Kharmang Khas by Road

Traveling by road from Quetta to Kharmang Khas is a lengthy but scenic route that traverses through plains, cities, riversides, and finally the towering mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Possible Route:

Quetta → Sukkur → Multan → Islamabad → Chilas → Skardu → Kharmang Khas

Alternatively:
Quetta → Zhob → Dera Ismail Khan → Kohat → Abbottabad → Besham → Chilas → Skardu → Kharmang Khas

After reaching Skardu, travelers continue along the Kargil–Skardu Road, which leads toward Kharmang Khas. The last stretch from Skardu to Kharmang is full of natural beauty but involves narrow mountain roads.

Estimated Time by Road:

• Quetta to Skardu: 22 to 26 hours

• Skardu to Kharmang Khas: 3 to 4 hours

• Total Duration: 25 to 29 hours

Travelers should ensure they’re prepared for high-altitude driving, changing weather, and remote conditions.

2. Travel from Quetta to Kharmang Khas by Train

There is no direct train route to Kharmang or Skardu. However, a mixed-mode travel plan using rail and road can be done.

Train Segment:

• Quetta to Rawalpindi (via Jaffar Express):

  • Duration: 24 to 26 hours

Road Segment:

• Rawalpindi to Skardu: 15 to 18 hours

• Skardu to Kharmang Khas: 3 to 4 hours

Traveling from Rawalpindi to Skardu involves traversing the Karakoram Highway and then heading to Kharmang via the Skardu-Kargil route.

Total Duration (Train + Road):

• Train: 24 to 26 hours

• Road: 18 to 22 hours

• Total: Around 31 to 36 hours

This option offers a more relaxed start with the train, followed by a demanding but scenic mountain road journey.

3. Travel from Quetta to Kharmang Khas by Plane

This is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Kharmang Khas, although flights to the northern regions can be weather-dependent.

Flight Route:

• Quetta to Islamabad: 1.5 hours

• Islamabad to Skardu: 1.5 hours (daily flights available, subject to weather)

Road Segment:

• Skardu to Kharmang Khas: 3 to 4 hours by road along the Skardu–Kargil road.

The road from Skardu to Kharmang passes scenic villages, mountain cliffs, and the famous Manthokha Waterfall, a highlight on the way.

Total Duration (Plane + Road):

• Flights (including layover): 3 to 4 hours

• Road: 3 to 4 hours

• Total: 9 to 11 hours

Travel Tips for Visiting Kharmang Khas

• Best Time to Visit: May to October. The roads can be blocked in winter due to snow or landslides.

• Altitude: Kharmang lies around 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) above sea level. Take precautions for altitude sickness if traveling from low elevations.

• Popular Attractions:

  • Manthokha Waterfall

  • Mehdiabad Valley

  • Ghowari village

  • Indus River viewpoints

• Safety: Drive carefully on mountain roads and keep updated on local weather and road conditions.

• Accommodation: Guesthouses and homestays are available in the area, with more luxurious options in Skardu.

Conclusion

The journey from Quetta to Kharmang Khas is a rewarding trip for those seeking to escape into Pakistan’s northern natural wonders. Whether you take the long but adventurous road trip, opt for a train and road combination, or prefer the fast convenience of air travel, the destination promises breathtaking scenery, cultural richness, and peaceful isolation. Kharmang Khas is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and explorers wanting to experience untouched beauty in the Himalayas.