Islamabad to Quaidabad Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Traveling from Islamabad to Quaidabad, a town in Khushab District, Punjab, Pakistan, can be accomplished through various modes of transportation, including by car, bus, or train. The distance between Islamabad and Quaidabad is approximately 280 kilometers (about 174 miles). Here’s a detailed guide on the possible ways to travel between these two locations, including routes, travel durations, and additional tips.

By Car

Distance: 280 kilometers (174 miles)
Travel Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Route Options:

1. Route 1: Via M-2 Motorway

   • Route: Islamabad → M-2 Motorway → Kallar Kahar → Khushab → Quaidabad
   • Details: Start your journey from Islamabad by taking the M-2 Motorway. This is the fastest and most convenient route. Continue on the M-2, passing through Kallar Kahar. After exiting the motorway, head towards Khushab via the Khushab-Mianwali Road. From Khushab, follow the signs to Quaidabad.
   • Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours.

2. Route 2: Via M-1 Motorway and GT Road

   • Route: Islamabad → M-1 Motorway → Fateh Jang → Talagang → Khushab → Quaidabad
   • Details: Start from Islamabad on the M-1 Motorway, then take the exit towards Fateh Jang. Follow the road towards Talagang and then continue to Khushab. From Khushab, proceed to Quaidabad.
   • Travel Time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours.

Tips:

• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry essential supplies, including water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
• Use a GPS device or a smartphone navigation app for real-time traffic updates and accurate directions.
• Take breaks during the journey to rest and refresh.

By Bus

Distance: 280 kilometers (174 miles)
Travel Duration: Approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the bus service and traffic conditions.

Bus Services:

1. Daewoo Express: A reliable and comfortable bus service operating between major cities in Pakistan.
2. Faisal Movers: Known for its extensive network and good service.

Route:

• Route: Islamabad → Kallar Kahar → Khushab → Quaidabad
• Details: Buses usually follow a route similar to the car route via the M-2 Motorway. They stop at major towns along the way, such as Kallar Kahar and Khushab.

Booking and Departure Points:

• Islamabad Bus Terminals: Daewoo Express and Faisal Movers have terminals in Islamabad where you can book tickets and board the bus.
• Online Booking: Most bus services offer online booking through their websites or mobile apps.

Tips:

• Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Arrive at the bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure.
• Carry snacks, water, and entertainment for the journey.

By Train

Distance: 280 kilometers (174 miles)
Travel Duration: Approximately 7 to 8 hours, including transfers.

Route:

• Route: Islamabad → Khushab → Quaidabad
• Details: There is no direct train from Islamabad to Quaidabad. You need to take a train from Islamabad to Khushab and then use local transportation to reach Quaidabad. The nearest major railway station to Quaidabad is in Khushab.

Train Services:

1. Pakistan Railways: The primary railway service in Pakistan, offering different classes of travel.

Travel Plan:

1. Islamabad to Khushab:
   • Take a train from Islamabad (Margalla Railway Station) to Khushab.
   • Trains: Check the Pakistan Railways schedule for trains heading towards Khushab. Trains may not run daily, so plan accordingly.
2. Khushab to Quaidabad:
   • From Khushab Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or use local buses to reach Quaidabad. The distance from Khushab to Quaidabad is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles).

Tips:

• Check the train schedule in advance and book tickets early.
• Trains in Pakistan can be delayed, so keep some buffer time in your travel plans.
• Carry food, water, and any other essentials as train journeys can be long.

Comparison of Travel Modes

Car:

• Pros: Flexibility, convenience, direct route.
• Cons: Driving fatigue, higher cost of fuel and tolls.

Bus:

• Pros: Affordable, no driving required, various service options.
• Cons: Longer travel time, less flexibility with stops.

Train:

• Pros: Comfortable, scenic views, affordable.
• Cons: No direct route, longer travel time, possible delays.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Quaidabad offers several options, each with its advantages and disadvantages. If you prefer convenience and flexibility, traveling by car is the best option, although it comes with the cost of fuel and tolls. Buses provide an affordable and relatively comfortable alternative, though they take slightly longer. Trains, while scenic and comfortable, do not offer a direct route and require additional local transport from Khushab to Quaidabad.

Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, planning ahead and being prepared for the journey will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip from Islamabad to Quaidabad.