Balochistan

Quetta: the fruit garden in the fortress valley

Pakistan's highest major city at 1,680 metres, ringed by mountains, and the orchard capital of the country.

6 min read Balochistan

Quetta sits at 1,680 metres in a valley closed in by mountains on every side, which is where the name comes from — kōta, Pashto for fortress.

It is the highest major city in Pakistan, it snows in winter, and it grows most of the country's stone fruit.

A short history

The Mughal emperor Humayun came through in 1543 on his way to Safavid Iran. When the British traveller Charles Masson saw it in 1828 he described a settlement of mud buildings.

The British occupied it and established control in 1883, valuing it for the route to Kandahar. It became the capital of Balochistan after 1947.

The defining event is the earthquake of 1935, which very nearly destroyed the city. What stands now is largely what was rebuilt afterwards.

Places worth your time

Hanna Lake: Ten kilometres out, a reservoir ringed by hills, and the standard afternoon trip.
Urak Valley: Orchards and a stream, and the best of the fruit country in blossom season.
Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park: South-west of the city, and the home of the Chiltan wild goat.
Quetta Geological Museum: Better than it sounds, in a province that is essentially one large geological exhibit.
The bazaars: For dried fruit, pine nuts and Balochi embroidery.

Before you go

April, May, September and October are best. Winters are cold with snow; summers are dry and hot. Check current travel advice for Balochistan before planning, and fly rather than drive.

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