List of Major Cities of Balochistan

Pakistan’s Balochistan province is home to vast, arid deserts, lush green valleys and lush mountains. It also houses some of the oldest and most fascinating cities in Pakistan. Whether you’re looking for great views or cultural immersion, these charming cities have something to offer everyone. From the captivating rural villages with ancient monuments scattered across their lands to bustling metropolises filled with modern infrastructure, this list of cities in Balochistan will surely ignite your curiosity and beckon you on an adventurous journey!

Cities of Balochistan

No	City	District	Population(2017)
1	Quetta	Quetta	1,001,205
2	Turbat	Kech	213,557
3	Khuzdar	Khuzdar	182,927
4	Hub	Hub	175,376
5	Chaman	Chaman District	123,191
6	Dera Murad Jamali	Nasirabad	96,591
7	Gwadar	Gwadar	90,762
8	Dera Allah Yar	Jaffarabad	80,908
9	Usta Mohammad	Jaffarabad	77,097
10	Sui Town	Dera Bugti	71,676
11	Sibi	Sibi	64,427
12	Loralai	Loralai	54,758
13	Tump	Kech	48,766
14	Nushki	Nushki	46,386
15	Zhob	Zhob	46,248
16	Kharan	Kharan	156,152
17	Chitkan	Panjgur	44,434
18	Khanozai	Pishin	40,238
19	Buleda	Kech	39,813
20	Saranan	Pishin	37,927
21	Zehri	Khuzdar	37,854
22	Qalat	Qalat	36,864
23	Tasp	Panjgur	35,890
24	Surab	Shaheed Sikandarabad	35,594
25	Pishin	Pishin	35,577
26	Mastung	Sibi	35,129
27	Qilla Saifullah	Qilla Saifullah	34,677
28	Pasni	Gwadar	34,524
29	Nal	Khuzdar	33,299
30	Winder	Lasbela	29,598
31	Uthal	Lasbela	29,414
32	Huramzai	Pishin	29,400
33	Muslim Bagh	Qilla Saifullah	28,066
34	Dera Bugti	Dera Bugti	27,625
35	Qilla Abdullah	Qila Abdullah	26,151
36	Bela	Lasbela	24,318
37	Wadh	Khuzdar	23,056
38	Washuk	Washuk	21,872
39	Awaran	Awaran	21,848
40	Machh	Kachhi	19,152
41	Jiwani	Gwadar	18,533
42	Ormara	Gwadar	17,780
43	Kohlu	Kohlu	17,426
44	Bhag	Sibi	16,608
45	Dalbandin	Chagai	16,319
46	Dhadar	Kachhi	15,280
47	Musakhel	Musakhel	14,138
48	Harnai	Harnai	13,297
49	Dureji	Lasbela	12,871
50	Sohbatpur	Sohbatpur	12,867
51	Gajjar Mashkay	Awaran	12,493
52	Barkhan	Barkhan	12,176
53	Shahrug	Harnai	11,257
54	Duki	Duki	10,180
55	Ziarat	Ziarat	160,422

Balochistan, a region rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, is home to numerous cities, each with its unique charm and significance. Quetta, the provincial capital, is the largest city with a population exceeding a million as of 2017. Turbat and Khuzdar follow with populations of 213,557 and 182,927 respectively. Hub, Chaman, and Dera Murad Jamali are notable urban centers, each hosting over 90,000 inhabitants.

The port city of Gwadar, known for its strategic importance, houses a population of approximately 90,762 residents. The region’s population diversity continues to more modestly sized cities such as Nushki, Zhob, and Loralai, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry that is Balochistan. Lastly, smaller towns such as Duki and Ziarat, despite their smaller populations, are no less significant in their cultural and historical contributions to the province.

List of Major Cities of Balochistan

1.Quetta

Quetta, often dubbed as the “Fruit Garden of Pakistan,” is known for its rich cultural heritage and a history that dates back centuries. The city’s strategic location near Afghanistan, eastern Iran, and Central Asia has made it a prominent point of trade and communication. Quetta’s vibrant past is evident in its architecture, with British influence still prevalent from when they occupied the city in 1876.

The city’s resilience is reflected in its prompt recovery from a massive earthquake in 1935, which claimed the lives of 20,000 residents. Today, Quetta stands as a symbol of strength and unity, with thriving industries ranging from cotton mills and sulfur refineries to fruit canneries. Moreover, the city is a hub for higher education, housing esteemed institutions such as the University of Balochistan.

2.Khuzdar

In addition to its historical significance, Khuzdar is an important economic hub in Balochistan. It is home to a thriving agricultural industry, bolstered by the fertile lands surrounding the city, and is renowned for its production of dates, wheat, and various other fruits. Khuzdar’s educational institutions, like the Khuzdar University of Engineering and Technology, contribute significantly to the region’s intellectual and social development. Khuzdar is also known for its cultural richness, with diverse traditions, languages, and cuisines coexisting harmoniously. The city’s picturesque landscapes – notably, the stunning Charo Machi Waterfall draw tourists from across the country, contributing to the local economy and enriching Pakistan’s tourism industry.

3.Ziarat

Ziarat is an important cultural and historical center for the people of Balochistan. It is home to several Sufi shrines, including the Shrine of Baba Kharwari, which is visited by thousands of devotees each year. The city has a number of historic buildings, such as the fort of Nawab Jaffar Khan and Nabi Qabar, the Royal Mosque of Nasser Khan, and the British cantonment of Ziarat.

The town is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and juniper forests. While tourism in the area has received a major boost since the earthquake, sustainable development initiatives have been slow to take hold. There are still many villages that lack access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water. There is also a lack of infrastructure that would allow tourism to grow in the area. Therefore, more investment needs to be directed towards developing initiatives that will benefit local communities as well as tourists.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Ziarat is also an important ecotourism destination. The Ziarat Juniper Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, foxes, leopards, wild boar, and various species of birds. The forest also supports human activity such as grazing and harvesting juniper berries for sale in local markets. This makes it an important source of income for the local people.

4.Qalat

Cradled in the rugged terrains of Balochistan, the city of Kalat is steeped in history and tradition. It whispers tales of the legendary Brahui hero, Sewa, whose name it proudly bears. Once a thriving kingdom, Kalat has seen rulers come and go from the Brahui tribes who established their reign in the 15th century, to the Mughals, and later, the British in the 19th century. Despite the decline of its political power, the vestiges of its glory can still be seen in the enduring legacy of the Khans of Kalat, who were influential figures from the 17th century until the mid-20th century.

The current Khan of Kalat, Mir Suleman Dawood Jan, though a ceremonial figure, is a poignant reminder of the city’s illustrious past. Despite the shifts in political landscapes and the ebb and flow of power, Kalat remains a proud emblem of Balochistan’s rich history.

5.Sui

The Sui gas field, the town’s lifeblood, has become one of Pakistan’s most vital natural resources, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and energy infrastructure. Despite the geographical challenges, the gas compression facilities in Sui ensure a reliable supply of natural gas to Quetta and other surrounding towns, even those situated over 200 miles away. Furthermore, Sui’s unique location at the intersection of three provinces Balochistan, Sindh, and Punjab makes it a critical hub for inter-provincial commerce and connectivity. Notably, the Indus River’s proximity adds another dimension to Sui, presenting opportunities for irrigation, fishing, and transportation. As the administrative center of the Sui tehsil and a union council, Sui is a significant pillar of governance and administration within the Dera Bugti district.

6.Pishin

Pishin, the capital of the Pishin district, is an integral city in Balochistan, Pakistan. Serving as a crucial conduit between Quetta the province’s capital and the rest of the country, it holds immense strategic importance. Predominantly inhabited by the Pashtun tribes, the largest ethnic group in the district, it is a vibrant center showcasing the rich Pashtun culture and traditions.

The city’s establishment dates back to 1883 during the British rule. Its historical significance is further highlighted during the Anglo-Afghan Wars when the local tribes launched attacks against British convoys headed towards Afghanistan. The region’s strategic value was acknowledged once more during World War II with the construction of two air basesone near Pishin and the other in Saranan. These historical events and developments have shaped Pishin’s unique cultural and socio-political landscape.

7.Sibi

Sibi, the bustling city in Balochistan, is not just known for its historical significance but also for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. This vibrant city is a melting pot of languages and cultures, brought together by its diverse population. The dominant languages, Balochi, Sindhi, and Saraiki, showcase the city’s multicultural roots. However, the linguistic landscape of Sibi does not end there. Smaller, yet significant communities communicate in Pashto and Brahui, adding to the city’s linguistic diversity.

This array of languages has significantly influenced and enriched the city’s culture, shaping its unique identity. Moreover, Sibi’s historical timeline, marked by the reins of various dynasties and empires, has left an indelible mark on its architecture, traditions, and cityscape. From being a major railway junction under British rule to becoming an integral part of the independent nation of Pakistan, Sibi’s journey is a testament to its resilience and evolving character. Today, it stands as a symbol of unity in diversity, a city with a multifaceted history and a vibrant mixture of cultures.

8.Hub

Today, Hub city is a hub of economic activity, housing various industries and factories that contribute significantly to the economy of Balochistan and Pakistan as a whole. Its strategic location near Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, has also made it a convenient commuting town. Despite its modern industrial persona, Hub carries a rich history it was part of the Kalmati Malik Principality following the fall of the Sultanate of Makran, and the renowned Baloch state of Kalmat once spanned this area. This fusion of historic grandeur and modern industrialization makes Hub a unique city in the landscape of Pakistan.

9.Gwadar

Gwadar is not just a city, but a symbol of future potential and prosperity for Pakistan. The once small fishing village is being transformed into a bustling port city, becoming an economic hub for the region. The Gwadar Free Zone is an integral part of this development, offering foreign and local businesses incentives and facilities to set up and operate. The city also boasts the beautiful Gwadar Marine Drive that provides stunning views of the Arabian Sea along with a plethora of recreational activities.

Not to forget, the recently constructed Gwadar Cricket Stadium, a world-class facility that’s caught the attention of international cricket bodies and enthusiasts alike. Gwadar’s rise to prominence is indicative of Balochistan’s vast untapped potential and serves as a beacon of development for the region. The city’s transformation and strategic importance underline its crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity and trade. It’s not just a city, it’s a testament to the power of vision and strategic partnerships.

10.Mastung

Mastung is a district located in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, rich in history and culture. Known for its diverse landscape, featuring mountains, valleys, and desert areas, the region is the home of various tribes, each with unique traditions and customs. Historically, Mastung has been a contributing region in Pakistan’s agricultural sector due to its fertile lands, aiding in the growth of numerous crops. Being a district with an incredible past and promising future, Mastung is a noteworthy mention in the tapestry of Pakistan’s diverse regions.

It is a land of contrast, from the widely celebrated annual events and festivals to its serene mountain views and beautiful desert landscapes. The region has much to offer to those visiting, whether it be for sightseeing or just to experience the culture first-hand. Mastung’s position as one of the main cities in Balochistan also makes it an important hub for trade, business, and industry. The city is home to many respected educational institutions that offer courses in different fields of study, making it a great place to learn and grow. With its vast potential for development, Mastung promises to be an even more important region in the years to come.

11.Kharan

Kharan, a town in Balochistan, boasts a rich cultural heritage, with diverse tribes and clans adding to its vibrant social fabric. The town has had the honor of being the home of esteemed individuals, including Mohammad Noor Meskanzai, a former chief justice of both the Federal Shariat Court and the Balochistan High Court. Situated at an altitude of 2,273 feet (692 metres) in the Kharan district, it serves as the headquarters of the Rakhshan Division. It is often characterized by its dry landscape, a testament to its resilience and adaptability in the face of nature’s elements.

12.Usta Muhammad

Usta Muhammad, a city embedded within the rich cultural expanse of Balochistan, has a diverse community shaped by a multitude of Baloch tribes. It spreads across an expansive 978 square kilometers, accommodating a population of 76,753 as per the Census of 2017 in Pakistan. The residents are primarily from the Baloch, Brahui, and Jamote communities, creating a unique cultural tapestry. The Baloch tribes in particular include several subgroups: Jamali, Babbar, Umrani, Rind, Bulledi, Jatoi, Marri, Hijwani, Bugti, Mastoi Chandia among others. This diversity contributes to the city’s vibrant and dynamic social structure.

13.Zhob

The city of Zhob, steeped in rich history and cultural heritage, is nestled in the heart of Balochistan. It serves as a testament to the area’s diverse past, with its name and identity shifting over the years. From its original moniker of Appozai to the colonial title of Fort Sandeman, Zhob has retained its vibrant spirit. The renaming in 1976 by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto marked a significant moment in the city’s timeline, symbolizing a return to its roots. Today, Zhob stands proudly on the banks of the Zhob River, 337 km away from Quetta, a beacon of Balochistan’s past, present, and future.

14.Chaman

Chaman’s strategic location has shaped its evolution into a bustling hub of commerce. The trade dynamic is particularly vibrant due to its proximity to the Afghanistan border and its serving as a transit point for goods flowing between Afghanistan and other regions. Its vast import portfolio is highly diversified, encompassing vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and rickshaws, as well as an extensive range of consumer products, from mobile phones to cosmetics and perfumes.

This continuous flow of goods through Chaman bolsters its economy and reaffirms its vital role in regional trade. Moreover, the city’s rich history is embodied in its landmarks, the most notable being the 19th-century Chaman Fort, a testament to its strategic importance throughout the ages. Despite facing turbulent times during the martial law period in the 1980s, Chaman has demonstrated resilience, undergoing significant urban development and emerging as a city of importance within Balochistan.

15.Turbat

Turbat’s strategic location and natural resources have played a key role in its evolution. While its agricultural vitality is well-known, the city also stands as a critical junction in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), promoting economic connectivity and fostering regional integration. Moreover, Turbat is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people, who persevere despite the city being one of the hottest places on earth. Its climatic conditions, however, do not deter the progress of the city.

As of today, Turbat is home to a thriving livestock industry and is fast becoming a key military hub with a new Pakistan Navy base. The city’s geographical proximity to the coastal city of Pasni and its 120 km-border with Iran further enhance its strategic importance. Despite the harsh weather, Turbat continues to surge forward, underlining its significance in Balochistan’s socio-economic landscape.

Conclusion:

To conclude, Balochistan is home to many diverse cities each as remarkable and unique as the next. Quetta is the biggest city in Balochistan with a population of more than one million, while Turbat and Khuzdar come in at a close second and third, respectively with populations of over 200,000.

While these three cities are the most populous, every other city has its own charm and draws tourists from near and far. From Chaman to Usta Mohammad, Dhadar to Jaywani there’s something for everyone in Balochistan that few other places can match. As we salute the vibrant cultures, traditions and architecture of all these cities throughout this great province, let us keep in mind that they hold much potential for development which will benefit not only Balochistan but our shared country as well.