Quetta to Sadpara Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

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

Traveling from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, to Sadpara, a scenic and significant village near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan, is a journey that offers stunning views of Pakistan’s northern terrain. Sadpara is famous for its beautiful lake—Sadpara Lake—and as a gateway to several high-altitude treks. Here's a detailed guide to cover the distance from Quetta to Sadpara using road, train, and air travel options.

Distance Between Quetta and Sadpara

• By Road: Approximately 1,370 kilometers (about 851 miles).

• By Air (via Skardu Airport): The aerial distance between Quetta and Skardu is around 950 kilometers (about 590 miles), and from Skardu to Sadpara it’s an additional 8 km (5 miles) by road.

Traveling from Quetta to Sadpara by Road

Traveling by road offers a chance to explore diverse landscapes, from the dry plateaus of Balochistan to the lush valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan. However, the route is long and requires careful planning due to the terrain and weather conditions.

Recommended Route:

1. Quetta → Sukkur via N-65 (680 km)

2. Sukkur → Multan via N-5 (370 km)

3. Multan → Islamabad via M-4/M-2 (540 km)

4. Islamabad → Chilas via Hazara Expressway and N-15 through Besham (460 km)

5. Chilas → Skardu via Jaglot and the Skardu Road (290 km)

6. Skardu → Sadpara (8 km)

Total Distance: Around 1,370 kilometers

Estimated Duration:

• Non-stop driving time: ~28 to 32 hours

• With overnight stops: 2 to 3 days, depending on rest and sightseeing

Important Notes:

• Roads from Jaglot to Skardu and onward to Sadpara can be narrow, winding, and prone to weather-related closures.

• A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for mountainous sections.

• Check road conditions ahead of travel, especially in winter months.

Traveling from Quetta to Sadpara by Train

There is no direct train to Skardu or Sadpara, but you can take a train from Quetta to Rawalpindi and then travel by road or air.

Step-by-Step Train Journey:

1. Quetta → Rawalpindi

   • Operated by Pakistan Railways

   • Major trains: Jaffar Express

   • Duration: ~24 to 26 hours

2. Rawalpindi → Skardu (by road)

   • Route: Rawalpindi → Besham → Chilas → Jaglot → Skardu

   • Distance: ~630 km

   • Duration: ~16 to 18 hours

3. Skardu → Sadpara

   • Short 8 km road journey

   • Duration: ~20 to 30 minutes

Total Duration by Train + Road:

Around 40 to 45 hours

Notes:

• This option allows for a more budget-friendly travel experience.

• The road from Rawalpindi to Skardu is long but incredibly scenic.

Traveling from Quetta to Sadpara by Plane

This is the fastest and most convenient option, though it requires connecting flights.

Step-by-Step Air Journey:

1. Quetta → Islamabad (ISB)

   • Duration: ~1.5 hours

   • Multiple airlines operate this route.

2. Islamabad → Skardu (KDU)

   • Duration: ~1 hour

   • Operated by PIA and other carriers

   • Flights are weather-dependent and may face cancellations.

3. Skardu → Sadpara (by road)

   • Distance: 8 kilometers

   • Duration: ~20 minutes via local transport or taxi

Total Travel Time (Air + Road):

Around 4 to 6 hours, including airport transfers and waiting times

Notes:

• Flights to Skardu operate seasonally and can be affected by weather conditions, especially in winter.

• Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly during tourist season.

Conclusion

Sadpara, with its sparkling lake and tranquil surroundings, is a must-visit destination in Gilgit-Baltistan. While reaching it from Quetta requires a long journey, the experience is unforgettable. Whether you choose to drive across the country, travel partway by train, or opt for the convenience of flights, the journey to Sadpara will reward you with majestic views and a peaceful escape into nature.