Travelling from Pakistan to Iran by road offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of both countries. With several border crossings available, such as the popular Taftan border and the less frequented Gabd-Rimdan border, travellers have multiple options to choose from. In this article, we will discuss essential details for your journey from Quetta to Iran by road, including bus and train ticket prices, distances, and safety considerations. Whether you are planning a trip from Quetta to Tehran or simply want to explore the regions along the way, this guide will provide you with valuable information to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. Join us as we navigate the routes and experiences of travelling from Pakistan to Iran by road.

How to Travel from Pakistan to Iran by Road

Before delving into the routes for travelling to Iran from Pakistan, we should provide more details about its borders. The Taftan Mirjaveh Border is the most famous and safest land border crossing between Pakistan and Iran, located in Balochistan.

Since there is plenty of reliable information about this land border, many backpackers, pilgrims, and businesspeople from around the world enter Iran through this border.

Zahedan, Iran, and Chagai, Pakistan, are the two cities connected by Taftan Mirjaveh Border, with a journey of over 600 kilometres to Quetta which is the capital and largest city of the Pakistani province of Balochistan. A network of highways, railways, and an international airport near Quetta’s centre connect it to the rest of the country.

The Taftan Mirjaveh Border’s biggest drawback is its isolation. Not only is the area between Quetta and the border very desolate, but Quetta is also far from other Pakistani cities. As an example, travelling from Karachi to Taftan takes ten hours and another nine hours to Quetta. It is less time-consuming to reach Iran directly via the Makran Coastal Highway passing by Gwadar through the Gabd Rimdan Border.

You may wonder if it is possible to travel from Quetta to Iran by train. The answer is YES, but this option is limited. The train that operates between Pakistan and Iran is known as the Zahedan-Quetta International Train. Since the train does not run regularly and may have restrictions for ordinary travellers, It is highly recommended to consider other available options like travelling from Quetta to Iran by bus or car.

The Quetta to Iran bus ticket price and Quetta to Tehran bus ticket price typically vary and depend on several factors such as the travel date and type of service. To obtain more accurate information about the Quetta to Iran bus ticket price 2024 and Quetta to Iran train ticket price, it’s best to contact the railway companies or check relevant websites.

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Where is the Gabd Rimdan Border?

The Gabd Rimdan Border is located near the coast in between Gwadar and Chabahar and accessible to travellers and locals to travel to Iran.

Driving from Gwadar to the border takes around one hour, whereas from Chabahar, it takes about two hours. The famous Makran Coastal Highway in Pakistan, which links the port cities of Gwadar and Karachi alongside, ends at this border.

Best way to travel to Iran from Pakistan

In short, the best way to travel from Pakistan to Iran by road is typically up to you. Both the Taftan and Gabd-Rimdan borders are usable, but if you’re looking for more comfort and better services for travellers, the Taftan border is still the preferred choice. However, for those seeking a faster route to Chabahar or for trade purposes, Gabd-Rimdan might be a better option.

The Gabd Rimdan border has recently gained more attention as a viable option for crossing between Pakistan and Iran, especially for trade and cargo transportation. Some reasons, such as being less crowded and having a direct route to Chabahar port, made it a great option.

Here’s a general outline of the journey:

Your journey can begin in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan. You can hire a taxi, use a private vehicle, or take a bus from Quetta to Taftan. There are buses leaving Karachi’s Yousuf Goth bus station for the border. You can find out more about their availability at Al Mumtaz Coach. An alternate route is to go from Yousuf Goth to Gwadar by bus, and then to the border by taxi. The distance from the quetta to Iran border is approximately 100 km, which takes around 2-3 hours to travel from Quetta to Iran border.

Cars, bicycles, motorcycles, and other kinds of private vehicles are allowed to cross the border. Remember that Pakistan and Iran have different driving laws, so if you’re driving from Pakistan to Iran or the other way around, extra caution is required. Also, reviewing your insurance coverage and the laws of each country is essential.

It is also possible that the Pakistani authorities urge you to ride in their car and send your own to Karachi.

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Is it Safe to Travel from Pakistan to Iran by Road

Wherever you want to travel, safety should be considered as your top priority. I wish I could ignore this part, but the main issue is that Balochistan does indeed have a fair share of security issues. The Taftan Mirjaveh border is relatively secure, whereas the Gabd Rimdan Border lacks improvements in this remote area.

There are a few points that have been clarified in the following, so you can determine for yourself whether or not to take the risk:

Robberies: Robberies are common in isolated parts of Balochistan. Farsi-speaking Iranians and Pakistanis often get targeted. Travellers should keep should be cautious, avoid travelling at night, and ideally travel with a reliable local companion.

Female Safety: It is highly recommended not to travel as a solo female traveller since this concept is largely unheard of in Balochistan. This region is very conservative, where women rarely venture out alone. Due to safety concerns, being accompanied by trusted local male friends or family members is crucial.

Terrorism: Travellers in isolated parts of Balochistan should be concerned about kidnappings and terrorist attacks. Although military personnel are typically the target of attacks by state opposition groups, civilians, particularly foreign visitors, are constantly at risk.

Religiously motivated attacks due to the Inter-sectarian tensions between Shia and Sunni may also be possible. Even if there is a low chance of a significant incident happening, it is nevertheless vital to maintain a low profile and make an effort to blend in with the locals to mitigate the potential risks.

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Conclusion

Travelling from Pakistan to Iran by road presents a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures and landscapes of both nations. As outlined in this article, understanding the Quetta to Iran bus ticket price, the Quetta to Iran distance by road, and various transportation options is essential for a smooth journey. Whether you choose to travel by bus or train, knowing the details about ticket prices and routes will help you make informed decisions.

The Gabd Rimdan border offers an alternative crossing point that may provide a less crowded experience compared to more traditional routes. Regardless of your chosen border, ensuring your safety while travelling is paramount. By staying informed about local conditions and planning your trip carefully, you can enjoy a memorable adventure.

As you prepare for your journey from Quetta to Tehran or other destinations in Iran, embrace the excitement of this road trip and the rich experiences that await you. Safe travels!

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FAQs about travel to Iran by road from Pakistan

Can I travel to Iran by road from Pakistan?

Yes, you can travel to Iran by road from Pakistan by bus, your private vehicle, or even a bicycle.

how can I travel from pakistan to Iran by road?

You can travel to Iran by road from Pakistan, typically through two borders, Taftan Mirjaveh border or Gabd Rimdan border.

Which road connects Pakistan and Iran?

The N-40 Highway connects Pakistan and Iran through the Taftan Mirjaveh border.