Islamabad to Suntsar – Distance, Travel Options by Road, Train, and Plane
Suntsar is a small but culturally rich settlement in the Gwadar District of Balochistan, Pakistan. It is surrounded by arid mountains and close to the Arabian Sea, offering a unique blend of coastal and desert landscapes. Traveling from Islamabad to Suntsar is a journey through some of the most diverse terrains in the country, making the trip an experience in itself.
Distance from Islamabad to Suntsar
The distance between Islamabad and Suntsar is approximately 1,880 kilometers (about 1,168 miles) by road. The exact travel time will depend on your chosen transportation method.
Traveling from Islamabad to Suntsar by Road
Road travel offers the chance to witness Pakistan’s changing landscapes—from the lush Potohar Plateau to the rugged Makran coast. The usual route is:
- Islamabad → Lahore → Multan → Sukkur → Khuzdar → Gwadar → Suntsar
Most of the journey follows major highways such as the M-1, M-2, M-4, N-65, and N-10 (Makran Coastal Highway).
Estimated Duration: 28–30 hours of driving time, excluding stops for rest and refueling.
Traveling from Islamabad to Suntsar by Train
There is no direct train service to Suntsar. However, a train-and-road combination can be used:
- Take a train from Islamabad to Karachi via Pakistan Railways.
- From Karachi, travel by road to Gwadar, then proceed to Suntsar.
Islamabad to Karachi by Train: Around 20–22 hours.
Karachi to Suntsar by Road: About 12–13 hours.
Total Estimated Duration: 32–35 hours including connections.
Traveling from Islamabad to Suntsar by Plane
Air travel significantly shortens the journey, though no direct flights land in Suntsar. The nearest airport is Gwadar International Airport.
- Fly from Islamabad to Gwadar.
- Travel by road from Gwadar to Suntsar (approximately 80–90 km).
Islamabad to Gwadar by Air: About 2.5–3 hours (often with a Karachi stopover).
Gwadar to Suntsar by Road: Around 1.5–2 hours.
Total Estimated Duration: 4–5 hours.
Best Time to Visit Suntsar
The most suitable time to visit Suntsar is from November to March when temperatures are mild. Summers can be extremely hot, making travel less comfortable.
Things to See and Do in Suntsar
- Makran Coastal Views: Enjoy panoramic views along the route to Suntsar.
- Fishing Villages: Visit local communities to learn about traditional fishing techniques.
- Nearby Gwadar: Explore Gwadar’s beaches, markets, and harbor.
- Desert Scenery: Capture photographs of the unique desert-coastal landscape.
Travel Tips
- Prepare for long stretches without fuel stations; fill up whenever possible.
- Carry sufficient drinking water, snacks, and essential supplies.
- Check the weather forecast before departure to avoid extreme heat or coastal storms.
- Respect the customs of local communities and dress modestly.
Conclusion
The trip from Islamabad to Suntsar is ideal for travelers seeking to explore lesser-known parts of Pakistan. Whether by road, train-road combination, or air-road mix, this journey offers an opportunity to see Pakistan’s diverse geography and experience the cultural richness of Balochistan’s coastal belt. Suntsar, with its peaceful atmosphere and natural charm, rewards every traveler willing to make the effort to reach it.
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