Quetta to Phandar Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Phandar, located in the Ghizer District of Gilgit-Baltistan, is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, tranquil lakes, and peaceful valleys. Traveling from Quetta to Phandar is a journey through the heart of Pakistan, transitioning from the arid landscapes of Balochistan to the green, mountainous beauty of the north. Below is a detailed guide to cover the distance from Quetta to Phandar via road, train, and air.

Distance Between Quetta and Phandar

• By Road: Approximately 1,020 kilometers (about 634 miles)

• By Air (to Gilgit, then by road): Around 685 kilometers (426 miles) by air + 170 kilometers (105 miles) by road from Gilgit to Phandar

Travel Options

1. By Road

Traveling by road from Quetta to Phandar is a long but rewarding experience, offering an opportunity to witness Pakistan's diverse geography. The route winds through major cities and mountain passes before reaching the serene valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Route:

Quetta → Sibi → Sukkur → Rahim Yar Khan → Multan → Lahore → Rawalpindi → Mansehra → Besham → Chilas → Gilgit → Gupis → Phandar

Alternatively, a more direct but challenging route can be:
Quetta → Zhob → Dera Ismail Khan → Kohat → Peshawar → Gilgit → Gupis → Phandar

Duration:

• Total Travel Time by Road: Approximately 22 to 26 hours, depending on road conditions, rest stops, and vehicle type.

• This journey is best broken down into several stops or done with overnight stays due to long hours and varying terrains.

Road Conditions:

• The initial part of the route through Balochistan and Punjab is via national highways and motorways with good infrastructure.

• Roads beyond Gilgit toward Gupis and Phandar are mountainous, narrow, and sometimes prone to landslides or closures, especially during winter.

2. By Train and Road

There is no direct train service to Phandar, but you can utilize Pakistan Railways to travel part of the distance, primarily to reach Rawalpindi or Gilgit (via connecting routes), and then switch to road transport for the rest of the journey.

Route:

Quetta Railway Station → Lahore or Rawalpindi by train → Gilgit via road → Phandar via road

Train Journey:

• Quetta to Lahore or Rawalpindi: Pakistan Railways operates daily and weekly services.

  • Distance: Approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles)

  • Duration: Around 24 to 30 hours

Road from Rawalpindi to Phandar:

• From Rawalpindi, you can travel to Gilgit via the Karakoram Highway and then continue to Phandar via Gupis.

  • Rawalpindi to Gilgit: 510 km (317 miles), approx. 12–14 hours

  • Gilgit to Phandar: 170 km (105 miles), approx. 5–6 hours

Total Duration (Train + Road):

• Around 40 to 45 hours, including transfer and wait times

3. By Air and Road

The most efficient and fastest way to reach Phandar from Quetta is to combine air and road travel.

Step-by-Step Route:

• Quetta to Islamabad by Air

• Islamabad to Gilgit by Air

• Gilgit to Phandar by Road

Flights:

• Quetta to Islamabad: Daily flights available (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes)

• Islamabad to Gilgit: Operated by PIA, usually morning flights depending on weather (approx. 1 hour)

Gilgit to Phandar:

• By road, around 170 km (105 miles), typically 5 to 6 hours drive via Gupis.

• The road is narrow and winding, but extremely scenic, passing through valleys and beside rivers.

Total Duration (Air + Road):

• 6.5 to 9 hours, including layover and road journey

Best Travel Option

• By Air and Road is the most time-efficient, though subject to weather delays in Gilgit.

• By Road offers the chance to explore the country, ideal for road-trippers.

• By Train and Road can be economical but is the longest option in terms of time.

Conclusion

Phandar is a remote yet spectacular destination that rewards travelers with mesmerizing views, crystal-clear lakes, and calm alpine surroundings. Whether you're an adventurer driving across the country or someone seeking a quick retreat by air, getting to Phandar from Quetta is a journey rich with natural beauty and cultural encounters. Careful planning—especially considering weather and road conditions—is key to enjoying this unforgettable trip.