Quetta to Takht Bhai Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

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

Takht Bhai, a historic town in the Mardan District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Site—Buddhist monastic ruins dating back to the 1st century CE. A journey from Quetta to Takht Bhai blends cultural exploration with inter-provincial travel. While the town is not directly accessible via plane or train, nearby cities like Mardan, Nowshera, and Peshawar make the trip feasible through a mix of transportation options.

Distance Between Quetta and Takht Bhai

The road distance from Quetta to Takht Bhai is approximately 880 kilometers (547 miles). The aerial (straight-line) distance is about 650 kilometers (404 miles). Due to Takht Bhai's inland location and lack of an airport or major railway station, road transport is the most common mode of travel, often combined with nearby urban transit.

Travel by Road

Road travel is the most accessible way to reach Takht Bhai from Quetta. The route takes travelers across Balochistan and into the northwestern region of Pakistan.

Recommended Route:

• Quetta → Dera Ghazi Khan → Dera Ismail Khan → Kohat → Nowshera → Mardan → Takht Bhai

This path covers major highways such as N-70, N-55 (Indus Highway), and N-5 (GT Road) before connecting with Mardan Road (N-45).

Travel Duration by Road:
The road journey usually takes around 15 to 18 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, weather, and stopovers.

Private Car:
This is a flexible and preferred option for families or individuals who want to take breaks and detours along the way. However, long drives require caution, especially through hilly regions near D.G. Khan and Kohat.

Bus Services:
Intercity buses from Quetta to Dera Ismail Khan or Kohat are available through services like Skyways and Faisal Movers. From Kohat or Nowshera, travelers can board connecting buses or local vans to Mardan and onward to Takht Bhai, which is around 15 kilometers (9 miles) northwest of Mardan city.

Travel by Train

Takht Bhai does not have a railway station. The closest rail access point is Mardan Junction, although service here is limited. More commonly, travelers use Nowshera Junction or Peshawar Railway Station and proceed by road to Takht Bhai.

Suggested Train Route:

• Quetta → Rawalpindi (by train)

• Rawalpindi → Nowshera or Peshawar (by train)

• Nowshera/Peshawar → Takht Bhai (by road)

Train Duration:

• Quetta to Rawalpindi: 24 to 30 hours

• Rawalpindi to Nowshera: 4 to 5 hours

• Final drive from Nowshera to Takht Bhai: 1.5 to 2 hours

Train Notes:
Though inexpensive, this route involves long travel hours and several transitions. It is best suited for passengers comfortable with extended train journeys and coordinating transfers.

Travel by Air

There is no airport in Takht Bhai. The nearest commercial airport is Peshawar International Airport, which offers domestic flights including those from Quetta.

Air Route:

• Quetta → Peshawar (by air)

• Peshawar → Takht Bhai (by road)

Air Travel Duration:

• Flight from Quetta to Peshawar: 1.5 to 2 hours

• Road journey from Peshawar to Takht Bhai: 2 to 2.5 hours, via N-5 and Mardan Road.

Flight Availability:
There are limited but functional flight options between Quetta and Peshawar. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during holidays or peak travel seasons.

Summary

The journey from Quetta to Takht Bhai spans about 880 kilometers (547 miles) by road and takes you through changing landscapes and cultures. Due to Takht Bhai’s limited infrastructure, travelers often rely on nearby hubs like Mardan or Peshawar for access.

• By Road: The most direct and accessible option, taking around 15–18 hours.

• By Train: Feasible with multiple transfers through Rawalpindi, Nowshera, or Peshawar, totaling 30+ hours.

• By Air: Involves a 1.5-hour flight to Peshawar and 2–2.5 hours by road to reach Takht Bhai.

Choose the option that aligns with your time, comfort level, and logistical preferences. Early planning and route familiarity can ensure a smooth and memorable trip.