Quetta to Nomal Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Nomal is a peaceful valley town located about 25 kilometers north of Gilgit in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It sits along the Nomal River and is surrounded by majestic mountains, offering easy access to both Naltar Valley and Gilgit. Known for its natural beauty, fruit orchards, and traditional village life, Nomal is an emerging destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers. If you’re planning a trip from Quetta to Nomal, this guide outlines the travel distance and available options by road, train, and air.

Distance from Quetta to Nomal

• By road: Approximately 1,225 kilometers (about 761 miles)

• By air (Quetta to Gilgit, then road to Nomal): About 700 kilometers (435 miles) by air to Gilgit, then an additional 25 kilometers (15 miles) by road to Nomal.

Travel by Road

Traveling from Quetta to Nomal by road is a long but adventurous journey that takes you through several regions of Pakistan—from Balochistan’s rugged hills to the northern valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Suggested Route

• Quetta → Dera Ghazi Khan → Multan → Lahore → Islamabad → Abbottabad → Besham → Chilas → Gilgit → Nomal

This road journey covers around 1,225 kilometers and can take 25 to 32 hours depending on rest stops, road conditions, and weather. Travelers usually divide the trip over two or three days, with overnight stays in cities such as Islamabad, Besham, or Gilgit.

Route Highlights

1. Quetta to Islamabad: Via N-70, M-4, and M-2 highways – around 14–16 hours.

2. Islamabad to Gilgit: Via the Karakoram Highway (KKH) – around 14–16 hours, passing through Mansehra, Dassu, and Chilas.

3. Gilgit to Nomal: A short drive of 40 to 45 minutes (25 km) along the Gilgit–Nomal Road, passing through scenic terrain along the Gilgit River.

Travel by Train

There is no direct train service to Gilgit or Nomal, but you can use Pakistan Railways to reach a nearby major city and continue by road.

Train + Road Travel Plan

1. Train from Quetta to Rawalpindi: This journey takes 25 to 30 hours, with several class options.

2. Rawalpindi to Gilgit by road: Around 16 to 18 hours along the Karakoram Highway.

3. Gilgit to Nomal: Around 40–45 minutes by car or jeep.

While slower than air travel, this method suits travelers who enjoy traditional rail experiences and are not in a rush.

Travel by Air

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Nomal from Quetta involves two flights and a short road journey.

Air Route Summary

1. Quetta to Islamabad: About 1.5 hours by flight.

2. Islamabad to Gilgit: Around 1 hour by flight, operated by PIA (Pakistan International Airlines). These flights are subject to weather conditions.

3. Gilgit to Nomal: Around 40–45 minutes drive by car, taxi, or local transport.

The total travel time, excluding layovers and airport wait times, is approximately 8 to 10 hours.

Note: Flights to Gilgit are prone to delays or cancellations due to weather. Always plan for flexibility in your schedule.

Attractions and Natural Beauty

• Nomal Valley: Known for its serenity, fresh water streams, and agricultural fields.

• Fruit Orchards: The valley is famous for apples, cherries, and apricots.

• Old Nomal Bridge: A photogenic wooden bridge over the Nomal River connecting two parts of the valley.

• Trek to Naltar: Nomal is the gateway to Naltar Valley, one of Pakistan’s most scenic high-altitude regions. The road to Naltar starts from Nomal and goes deep into the forested mountains.

Best Travel Option

For comfort and speed, the best travel option is flying from Quetta to Gilgit (via Islamabad), then driving to Nomal. However, if you want to experience the terrain of Pakistan and enjoy multiple cities along the way, the road trip offers a rewarding experience despite the long duration.

Travel Tips

• When to Visit: The best months are May to October, when the weather is mild and roads are accessible.

• Vehicle Type: A 4x4 vehicle is ideal for the Gilgit–Nomal–Naltar segment due to the rough terrain.

• Road Conditions: The road from Gilgit to Nomal is generally paved and motorable, but conditions may change with weather.

• Supplies: Carry enough water, snacks, cash, and a first-aid kit, especially if you plan to head further toward Naltar.

• Lodging: Basic guest houses and lodges are available in Nomal. For more comfortable accommodation, Gilgit offers better options just 40 minutes away.

Nomal is a quiet escape from the bustling tourist hubs and offers a more authentic view of life in the valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan. With its beautiful river, traditional homes, and mountain trails, it's a destination worth the long journey. Whether you choose to travel by road, air, or a combination, the route from Quetta to Nomal will take you through the heart of Pakistan's geographical diversity and natural splendor.