Quetta to Kund Malir Desert Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 Quetta to Kund Malir Desert: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Kund Malir is a scenic desert beach area located along the Makran Coastal Highway in Balochistan, Pakistan. Nestled between mountains, desert, and the Arabian Sea, Kund Malir offers one of the most unique coastal experiences in the country. It is part of the Hingol National Park, Pakistan’s largest national park, and is known for its golden sand dunes, clear blue waters, and rugged cliffs. Travelers from Quetta seeking to experience this breathtaking spot can do so through road or air routes. This article details the distance, duration, and available modes of travel from Quetta to Kund Malir Desert.

Distance Between Quetta and Kund Malir

The journey from Quetta to Kund Malir involves traveling across Balochistan’s mountainous terrain and then along the Makran Coastal Highway.

• By road: Approximately 680 kilometers (423 miles)

• By air (Quetta to Karachi, then road to Kund Malir): ~590 kilometers (366 miles) air distance + 240 kilometers (149 miles) road distance

Travel by Road

The road journey from Quetta to Kund Malir is long but rewarding, passing through mountain passes, dry deserts, and coastal routes.

Route Description:

Quetta → Kalat → Khuzdar → Wadh → Uthal → Zero Point → Kund Malir

• Total Road Distance: 680 kilometers (423 miles)

• Estimated Travel Time: 12 to 14 hours depending on vehicle speed and stops

The first part of the route follows N-25 (RCD Highway), and from Zero Point, travelers take a right turn onto the Makran Coastal Highway (N-10), which leads directly to Kund Malir.

Road Highlights:

• Well-maintained segments along the Coastal Highway

• The journey from Zero Point to Kund Malir (about 110 km / 68 miles) is particularly scenic

• Gas stations, food stalls, and restrooms are limited along some parts of the route; plan accordingly

Vehicle Options:

• Private vehicle (preferably SUV or 4x4 for comfort)

• There are no direct buses from Quetta to Kund Malir

• Some travelers break the journey with an overnight stay in Uthal or Khuzdar

Travel by Train

There is no direct railway route to Kund Malir.

However, an indirect route involves:

1. Taking a train from Quetta to Karachi

2. Traveling by road from Karachi to Kund Malir

Details:

• Train Journey: Quetta to Karachi — approx. 17 to 20 hours

• Road Journey: Karachi to Kund Malir — approx. 240 kilometers (149 miles) taking about 4 to 5 hours via the Makran Coastal Highway

This method is slower and more cumbersome than traveling by road or air directly.

Travel by Air

Flying is the fastest option to cover the major portion of the journey. There is no airport in Kund Malir itself, but travelers can fly to Karachi and then continue by road.

Route Description:

Quetta → Karachi (by air) → Kund Malir (by road)

• Flight Distance: Approximately 590 kilometers (366 miles)

• Flight Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes (nonstop)

• Road Distance (Karachi to Kund Malir): 240 kilometers (149 miles)

• Road Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours

Flights from Quetta to Karachi are regularly operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

Road Route from Karachi to Kund Malir:

Karachi → Hub → Zero Point → Kund Malir

This is a well-traveled tourist route. Many travel companies and tour groups offer organized trips from Karachi to Kund Malir, especially on weekends.

Safety and Travel Tips

• Weather: Best time to visit Kund Malir is between October and March. Summer temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F).

• Supplies: No major shops or food stalls at Kund Malir — bring your own food, water, and camping gear.

• Network Coverage: Limited or no mobile signals in some areas near Kund Malir.

• Travel in Groups: Due to the remote nature of the area, traveling with companions is recommended.

• Check Vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and has a full fuel tank before starting from Uthal or Zero Point.

Attractions at Kund Malir

1. Desert Meets Sea: A rare view where sand dunes reach right up to the Arabian Sea.

2. Golden Sand Beach: Known for its clean, untouched shoreline and peaceful environment.

3. Princess of Hope: A natural rock formation shaped like a robed woman, located nearby.

4. Hingol National Park: Offers a chance to spot wildlife like ibex, foxes, and even crocodiles in the Hingol River.

5. Camping and Stargazing: The dark sky at night is perfect for stargazing and astrophotography.

Environmental Awareness

Kund Malir is part of a protected national park area:

• Avoid littering the beach or desert areas

• Do not disturb wildlife

• Camping is allowed, but fires should be handled responsibly

Respecting the local environment ensures that the area remains clean and beautiful for future visitors.

Conclusion

A trip from Quetta to Kund Malir Desert offers a unique blend of desert adventure and coastal serenity. Whether you choose to travel by road for a raw and immersive experience or take a flight to Karachi followed by a short road trip, Kund Malir is well worth the effort. This hidden gem of Balochistan, with its golden sands, blue waves, and tranquil atmosphere, is one of Pakistan’s most beautiful and underrated destinations.