Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Quetta. Quetta International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside UET
Three things to verify before you walk out of UET:
- Can you legally enter Pakistan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rickshaw, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the PKR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some PKR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Quetta, two standouts are:
- Hanna Lake — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Quetta.
- Quetta Bazaar (Liaqat Bazaar) — Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside UET — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- PIA Business Plus Lounge
- Airport Souvenir & Snack Shop
Food & Dining Options
For food in Quetta, local travelers recommend Lehri Sajji House. If you have time for a second stop, Lal Kebab is another popular pick.
Back at UET, Airport Terminal Cafe is the go-to. Snack & Juice Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting to Quetta from the Airport
From UET, the Taxi/Rickshaw gets you to Quetta in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Rickshaw offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Quetta, budget roughly $20 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $5 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Quetta.
Bag Storage Near UET
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At UET, you’ll find bag storage at Not available.
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at UET for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Quetta or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at UET, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Quetta doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from UET, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.