Quetta to Naukot Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Quetta to Naukot: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane

Naukot is a historic town located in the southern region of Mirpurkhas District in Sindh, near the edge of the Thar Desert. Often referred to as the "Gateway to Thar," Naukot is known for its fort and its proximity to desert towns such as Mithi and Islamkot. Traveling from Quetta to Naukot requires crossing from Balochistan into Sindh and typically involves road travel, with supporting train or air routes through major cities. This article outlines the total distance, travel duration, and transportation methods from Quetta to Naukot.

Distance Between Quetta and Naukot

The approximate road distance between Quetta and Naukot is about 780 kilometers (485 miles). As Naukot does not have a railway station or airport, the nearest hubs such as Mirpurkhas and Hyderabad serve as intermediary points for travel.

Traveling from Quetta to Naukot by Road

Traveling by road is the most practical and direct method of reaching Naukot. The journey typically takes 13 to 15 hours, passing through several major cities and towns in both Balochistan and Sindh.

Recommended Route:

• Route: Quetta → Sibi → Sukkur → Nawabshah → Mirpurkhas → Naukot

• Total Distance: ~780 km (485 miles)

• Estimated Duration: 13 to 15 hours

After reaching Mirpurkhas, travelers head south toward Digri and then Naukot. Roads in the final stretch may be narrower and less maintained as one approaches the desert boundary.

Road Conditions:

• Highways such as N-65, N-5, and regional roads are generally in good shape.

• The last portion of the journey, particularly from Digri to Naukot, is rural and may require cautious driving, especially during rainy or sandstorm conditions.

Transportation Options:

• Private Car/Taxi: Ideal for families or groups who need flexibility.

• Intercity Bus Services: Operate from Quetta to Hyderabad or Mirpurkhas; local transport can be arranged from there to Naukot.

Traveling from Quetta to Naukot by Train

There is no direct railway link to Naukot. However, Pakistan Railways can take passengers most of the way, particularly up to Hyderabad or Mirpurkhas, from where road travel is required.

Train + Road Option:

1. Quetta to Hyderabad Junction:

   • Distance: ~685 km (426 miles)

   • Duration: 14 to 16 hours

   • Trains Available: Jaffar Express, Akbar Express

2. Hyderabad to Mirpurkhas (Local Train):

   • Distance: ~65 km (40 miles)

   • Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

3. Mirpurkhas to Naukot by Road:

   • Distance: ~65 km (40 miles)

   • Duration: Around 1.5 to 2 hours

Estimated Total Duration: 17 to 20 hours

While train travel is generally more affordable, it is slower and involves more transfers, particularly for the final rural stretch.

Traveling from Quetta to Naukot by Air

There is no airport in or near Naukot. The nearest options for air travel are Hyderabad and Karachi, with Karachi offering more frequent flights. Travelers can fly into Karachi and continue by road to reach Naukot.

Air + Road Route:

1. Flight from Quetta to Karachi:

   • Distance: ~600 km (373 miles)

   • Duration: ~1 hour 15 minutes

2. Karachi to Naukot by Road:

   • Distance: ~320 km (199 miles)

   • Duration: ~6 to 7 hours

   • Route: Karachi → Hyderabad → Mirpurkhas → Digri → Naukot

Alternative via Hyderabad (if available):

• Hyderabad to Naukot: ~165 km (103 miles)

• Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours by car

Estimated Total Duration: 8 to 10 hours

This method is recommended for travelers who prioritize comfort and time-saving. It also helps avoid the fatigue associated with long-distance road or train travel.

Summary

The journey from Quetta to Naukot is a long but rewarding trip, passing through both urban and rural areas, and ending at the edge of the Thar Desert. Since Naukot does not have direct train or air connectivity, all travel options ultimately involve a road journey for the final leg.

• By Road: 780 km (485 miles) – 13 to 15 hours

• By Train (via Hyderabad & Mirpurkhas): 685 km (426 miles) rail + 130 km (81 miles) road – 17 to 20 hours

• By Air (via Karachi): 600 km (373 miles) flight + 320 km (199 miles) road – 8 to 10 hours

Travelers are advised to plan the route in advance and check road conditions, especially when entering the more remote and desert-prone zones near Naukot.