Quetta to Tarbela: Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Traveling from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, to Tarbela—a significant town near the world-renowned Tarbela Dam in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—offers a journey through a diverse landscape of mountains, plains, and rivers. Whether you're traveling for tourism, research, or work related to the dam or power sector, understanding the available travel options is essential for planning a smooth trip.
Distance Between Quetta and Tarbela
The approximate distance between Quetta and Tarbela is:
-
By road: 940 kilometers (about 584 miles)
-
By air (as the crow flies): Around 640 kilometers (about 398 miles)
However, the actual travel distance may vary depending on your route, road conditions, and choice of transport.
Travel Duration and Options from Quetta to Tarbela
You can travel from Quetta to Tarbela by road, train, or air (combined with road). Here is a detailed guide for each option:
1. Traveling by Road
Traveling by road from Quetta to Tarbela is a popular option, especially for those who prefer scenic journeys or are transporting goods. This journey involves traversing through major highways, towns, and regions of Pakistan.
Route:
The most common road route is:
-
Quetta → Loralai → Dera Ghazi Khan → Mianwali → Attock → Tarbela
This route follows the National Highway (N-70), then connects with N-55 and N-125.
Duration:
-
Estimated time: 14 to 16 hours (non-stop)
-
This depends on traffic, weather, rest breaks, and vehicle type.
Travel Tips:
-
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition due to long mountainous stretches.
-
Refuel in major towns, as fuel stations are sparse in remote areas.
-
It's advisable to start early to avoid nighttime travel through hills and isolated regions.
2. Traveling by Train
There is no direct train service to Tarbela, as it does not have a major railway station. However, you can travel part of the way by train and complete the rest by road.
Step-by-Step Journey:
-
Quetta to Rawalpindi/Islamabad by train
-
Several trains like Jaffar Express operate this route.
-
Duration: Approximately 24 to 26 hours
-
-
Rawalpindi/Islamabad to Tarbela by road
-
From Rawalpindi, you can travel via the Islamabad–Peshawar Motorway (M-1), then take the exit toward Haripur and Tarbela.
-
Distance: About 90 km (56 miles)
-
Duration: Around 2 hours
-
Total Estimated Duration:
-
26 to 28 hours (including transfers)
Note:
-
This option is suitable for travelers who prefer trains for long journeys and are comfortable switching to road transport for the final leg.
3. Traveling by Air (Flight + Road)
Tarbela does not have an airport, so the nearest accessible airport is Islamabad International Airport. The air route is ideal for those looking to save time and avoid long road travel.
Step-by-Step Journey:
-
Quetta to Islamabad by air
-
Several flights operate daily from Quetta International Airport to Islamabad International Airport.
-
Flight duration: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
-
-
Islamabad to Tarbela by road
-
After landing, take the M-1 motorway and exit near Burhan Interchange, then travel toward Haripur and onward to Tarbela.
-
Distance: Around 90 km (56 miles)
-
Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours by car or taxi
-
Total Estimated Duration:
-
3.5 to 4 hours (including airport time and road travel)
Tip:
-
This is the fastest travel option if you're on a tight schedule.
Summary of Travel Durations
| Mode of Travel | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Road (direct) | 14 – 16 hours |
| Train + Road | 26 – 28 hours |
| Plane + Road | 3.5 – 4 hours |
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Quetta to Tarbela gives you a chance to witness the incredible geographic and infrastructural diversity of Pakistan. Tarbela is home to the Tarbela Dam, one of the world’s largest earth-filled dams, making it a significant location for hydropower, irrigation, and engineering marvels.
Whether you choose a scenic road trip, a budget-friendly train ride, or a swift flight to Islamabad followed by a short drive, your journey to Tarbela promises a blend of adventure and discovery.
0 Comments