Zhob Balochistan

Zhob is a district in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It locates in the north-western part of the province. Afghanistan borders it to the northwest, Killa Saifullah District to the northeast, Musakhel District to the east, the Loralai District to the south, and the Barkhan District and South Waziristan Agency to the west. The capital of the district is Zhob. It is an important agricultural and industrial area with several industrial and commercial centers in the section. The main languages spoken in the province are Balochi and Pashto. The community is known for producing quality fruit and vegetables and its natural beauty, including the Zhob Valley, the Khwaja Amran Hills, and the Sulaiman Mountain Range.

Zhob City – History, Famous Places, Weather & More!

It is the capital of the Zhob Division in Balochistan, Pakistan. It is located on the banks of the Zhob River and is the second-largest city in Balochistan after Quetta. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage and traditions and is home to several ethnic groups, including Baloch, Pashtuns, Hazaras, and Brahuis. The city has a long history, dating back to the 5th century BC when it was part of the ancient Achaemenid Empire. Various dynasties, including the Mauryans, the Mughals, and the British, then ruled it. The city is now an important trading hub and gateway to the rest of Balochistan.

Zhob History

The history dates back to the prehistoric period. It has existed since the Stone Age, and several archaeological sites exist. The place was part of the ancient Achaemenid Empire, and Mauryans and the Scythians conquered it. During the 6th century BC, the area was part of the Persian Achaemenid Empire. In the 16th century, the province was overwhelmed by the Mughal Empire. It remained under Mughal rule until the early 19th century. During the British Raj, the area was part of the Baluchistan Agency and was administered by the British. After 1947, the area became part of the newly formed country. Today, Zhob is a district in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It is the province’s largest district, with a population of about 400,000. The main econ in the region are agriculture, animal husbandry, and mining. The area is also known for its numerous historical sites, including the ruins of an old fort and several tombs.

Zhob Culture

Zhob culture is a rich cultural heritage of the Pashtun people of Pakistan. It is a unique blend of the traditional and modern cultures of the region, with a focus on the celebration of local festivities, music, art, and dance. The people in the area are known for their hospitality and generosity, and strong familial bonds, respect for elders, and a strong sense of loyalty and community characterize their culture. The people enjoy traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and jewelry-making and celebrate festivals such as Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, and Shab-e-Barat each year. Their culture is known for its distinctive pottery, decorated with delicate linear and geometric motifs, and its use of the wheel. It is also known for its unique burial practices, including cremation, burial objects, and pottery with the dead.

Best Time to Visit Zhob

The best time to visit is in the spring and fall months, from March to May and September to October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F). The days are sunny, and the nights are cool. It is the ideal time to explore the town’s attractions and enjoy the stunning views from the nearby mountains.

Tourist Places in Zhob

It has several places of attraction for tourists; let’s have a look at some of them.

Zhob river:

Zhob River is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. It is located in the eastern part of the city and is an excellent spot for relaxation and sightseeing. The river passes through the city, providing spectacular views of the beautiful architecture and landscapes. Visitors can take a boat ride or stroll along the river banks. There are several activities to enjoy, such as fishing, swimming, kayaking, and bird watching. A few restaurants along the river banks also provide a great place to enjoy the local cuisine.

Silyazzai:

Silyazzai is a small village in the Killa Saifullah District of Balochistan, Pakistan. It lies on the banks of the Zhob River. 

The village has a population of around 2,000 and is home to many tribes, including the Brohi, Bugti, Baloch, and Pashtun. The town locates near Zhob and Gomal rivers. It is a remote and isolated area with limited access to basic amenities such as electricity and water. The site is known for its scenic beauty and is popular among tourists for its rich wildlife and natural beauty. It is also renowned for its unique culture and traditional embroidery. Silyazzai is an ideal destination for those seeking to explore the outdoors and experience rural life in Pakistan. The village can also be a base for trekking and adventure activities.

Paryan-o-Ghundi(Hill of Fairies):

Paryan-o-Ghundi is a popular tourist destination located in Zhob, Balochistan, Pakistan. It is a mountainous region of many small villages and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It is also home to several historical sites, such as the ruins of an ancient fort, and many natural attractions, like lush green meadows, rivers, and waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy trekking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Family Park in Zhob:

The most popular family park is Zhob River Park. The park features a walking trail, a playground, a picnic area, and a children’s play area. It is located near the Stadium and provides a range of fun activities, including a mini-zoo, paddle boats, and a playground. The park is a great place to bring the family for an afternoon of relaxation and fun. There is also a restaurant and a snack bar located near the park. The park also has a beautiful view of the Zhob River.

Koh-e-Maran National Park:

Koh-e-Maran National Park locates in Zhob District, Balochistan, Pakistan. The park is located on the mountain range of Maran and covers an area of about 64,000 hectares. 

It is home to various wildlife and birds, including the endangered snow leopard, chukar partridge, black partridge, and Himalayan griffon vulture. 

It is also great for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. 

Killa Saifullah:

Killa Saifullah is an ideal tourist destination for exploring Balochistan’s diverse culture and stunning scenery. The nearby hills are perfect for trekking, hiking, and camping. The nearby villages of Jandola, Kot-e-Koh, and Kachar are also worth visiting. The area has many historical sites, including the ruins of a fort, a shrine, and an ancient cemetery. The Killa Saifullah Museum is also a great place to explore the region’s history and culture.

Shin Ghar:

Shin Ghar is a popular tourist place in Zhob, Pakistan. It is located in the Zhob District of Balochistan Province and is known for its beautiful scenery and rich history.

 The area is home to several historic sites and monuments, including the ruins of a fort, the ancient city of Jandola, and a Buddhist stupa.

 It is also home to various wildlife, including leopards, bears, and deer. Other attractions in the area include trekking, camping, and birdwatching opportunities.

Top Facilities Available

The city has a variety of amenities and facilities available to its residents and visitors.

Zhob Airport

It is an airport located in Zhob in Balochistan, Pakistan. It is an elevation of 1,428 feet (435 m) above mean sea level. The Civil Aviation Authority operated this airport.

 The airport has a single runway measuring 5,900 feet (1,798 m) long.

 The airport has various facilities, including a terminal building, control tower, fire-fighting services, air traffic control, and navigational aids. The airport can accommodate small aircraft such as Cessna 182s and Pilatus Porters. The airport also serves as a domestic hub for connecting flights between Balochistan and other provinces of Pakistan.

Zhob Medical Complex

It is a government hospital located in Zhob, Balochistan, Pakistan. The hospital provides comprehensive health care services to the local population. 

It is a multi-specialty hospital with a 24-hour emergency department and an ICU. The hospital has a wide range of medical services. 

It includes general medicine, surgery, gynecology, ophthalmology, ENT, orthopedics, cardiology, neurology, oncology, pediatrics, and psychiatry.

The hospital has a laboratory, radiology, imaging facility, and pharmacy. The hospital provides free health care services to the people of Balochistan. 

Zhob Water & Power Development Authority

It is a government-run organization that provides electricity and water supply to the city of Zhob and its surroundings. It also operates several power plants in the region. 

Zhob Railway Station

It is a railway station located in Zhob, Balochistan. Pakistan Railways serve this station and provide train services to local destinations. 

Zhob Bus Station

It is a public bus station. Many local buses and companies provide services to nearby cities and towns. 

Zhob sports stadium

It is a multi-purpose stadium that hosts several sporting events, such as football, cricket, and hockey. 

Zhob Government College

It is a public higher education institution that offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines. 

Zhob Public Library

It is a public library that houses a collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and other resources. 

How to Reach Zhob?

Zhob is a city located in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It has an altitude of 790 m (2,592 ft) above sea level.

  • By Air: The Quetta International Airport is near Zhoblocated about 250 km from the city. The airport has domestic and international flights connecting it to other major cities in Pakistan and abroad.
  • By Train: It has a railway station called  Zhob Railway Station, located in the city. It connects to major cities in Pakistan, including Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, and Quetta.
  • By Bus: It connects to Quetta and other cities in Balochistan. Many bus companies offer regular bus services to and from here.
  • By Road: It also connects to major cities in Balochistan and other provinces. There are regular bus services available from Quetta and other cities in Balochistan.

Best Places to Stay in Zhob.

A few options are available if you’re looking for a place to stay in Zhob, Balochistan. The most popular choice is to stay in a hotel, such as

  • PTCL Guest House
  • Hotel Baloch International
  • Hotel Balochistan
  • Hotel Mehran
  • Hotel Mehran Residency
  • Hotel Seaham 
  • Hotel Landmark 
  • Hotel Zainab International 
  • Hotel K2 
  • Hotel Grand Plaza
  • Hotel Balochistan Inn

All these hotels offer comfortable accommodations and excellent services at affordable prices.

Distance from Quetta

The shortest distance between Zhob and Quetta is 266 km= 165 miles through the air. If you use a flight (which has an average speed of 560 miles) from Zhob to Quetta, It takes 0.3 hours to arrive.

Location

Coordinates: 31°20′30″N 69°26′55″E

Country: Pakistan

Province : Balochistan

District: Zhob

Area: Metro 20,297 km2 (7,837 sq mi)

Elevation: 1,426 m (4,678 ft)

Highways: N-50

FAQs:

Why is Zhob famous?

Zhob is located in the Balochistan province of Pakistan and is known for its unique culture and cuisine. The city is particularly famous for its vibrant handicrafts and the traditional art of carpet weaving. It is also known for its lush green landscape and proximity to the Sulaiman Mountains.

What is the old name of Zhob?

The city was initially named Apozai after a nearby village. During the colonial era, it was called Fort Sandeman.

How many tehsils are there in Zhob?

There are five tehsils in Zhob District, Balochistan:

 1. Karezat Tehsil

 2. Sherani Tehsil 

3. Loralai Tehsil 

4. Waziristan Tehsil

 5. Zhob Tehsil

Conclusion:

Zhob, Balochistan, is a small city in the southeastern region of Pakistan. It has a rich cultural heritage and is home to a diverse population of ethnic groups. The town has several attractions ranging from archaeological sites to natural wonders. It is also known for its hospitality and a warm welcome to visitors. With its distinct culture and stunning countryside, It is an excellent destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Balochistan.