Sindh Travel Guide (Pakistan/South Asia/Asia)

If you’re planning to visit Pakistan, don’t miss out on exploring the vibrant province of Sindh. The region is known for its rich history and culture, outdoor adventures, and mouth-watering cuisine. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the must-visit attractions, best activities, and local customs of Sindh.

Introduction to Sindh

Sindh is a province located in the southeast region of Pakistan. Its name is derived from the Indus River, which flows through the province. Sindh is home to bustling cities, ancient historical sites, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a unique blend of cultural influences. Sindhi, Urdu, and English are the primary languages spoken in the province.

List of Places to Visit in Sindh

Sindh boasts numerous culturally rich attractions and natural wonders that are perfect for exploring. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in the province:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mohenjo-Daro: An ancient archeological site, Mohenjo-Daro was once a thriving city of the Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to 2500 BCE. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history buffs.
National Museum of Pakistan: Located in Karachi, this museum features an extensive collection of historical artifacts, including Gandhara sculptures, Islamic art, and coins.
Chaukhandi Tombs: Situated in the outskirts of Karachi, the Chaukhandi Tombs feature uniquely decorated tombs from the 15th century.

Natural Attractions of Sindh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Keenjhar Lake: Located near Thatta, Keenjhar Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Pakistan. Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing in crystal-clear waters.
Gorakh Hill Station: Gorakh Hill Station is situated in the Kirthar mountain range and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. It’s an ideal location for hiking, trekking, and camping.
Kirthar National Park: A wildlife sanctuary in the Kirthar Mountains, Kirthar National Park is home to over 40 species of mammals, including blackbuck, gazelle, and wild sheep.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sindh

Sindh has plenty of hiking and biking routes suitable for different skill levels. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Gorakh Hill Trek
Kirthar Mountain Trek
Manghopir Hills Trek
Charai Dam Bike Trail

Best Things to Do in Sindh: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Sindh offers plenty of other activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in the province:

Karachi City Tour: Explore the bustling metropolis of Karachi with a guided city tour, taking you through historical landmarks and cultural hotspots.
Sindh Festivals: Sindh is home to several colorful festivals, including the Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, Makli Mela, and Thar Festival. They offer a chance to experience the unique culture of the province.
Sindh Coastal Tour: Take a trip along the sandy beaches of the Arabian Sea and explore the historic towns and fishing villages along the coast.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sindh

If you have a week to spare, here’s a suggested itinerary for exploring Sindh:

Day	Destination
1	Karachi City Tour
2	Mohenjo-Daro and Larkana
3	Keenjhar Lake and Thatta
4	Gorakh Hill Station
5	Kirthar National Park
6-7	Coastal Tour: Karachi to Gwadar

Food and Drink Scene of Sindh

Sindhi cuisine is a blend of South Asian, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Sai Bhaji: A vegetable and lentil stew served with rice or bread.
Haleem: A slow-cooked meat and lentil stew, served with naan bread.
Biryani: A spicy rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Local Beverages

Lassi: A refreshing drink made from yogurt and blended with sugar, water, and ice.
Sattu: A drink made from roasted gram flour, mixed with water and sweetened with sugar or jaggery.

Where to Stay in Sindh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sindh offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

Luxury: Pearl Continental Hotel Karachi, Movenpick Hotel Karachi, Beach Luxury Hotel Karachi
Mid-range: Mehran Hotel Hyderabad, Indus Hotel Hyderabad, Hotel Mehran Karachi
Budget: Backpackers Inn Karachi, Karachi Guest House, Guest House Karachi

What to Buy in Sindh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the unique souvenirs and products to buy in Sindh:

Ajrak: A hand-printed shawl made in Sindh, featuring block prints in natural dye colors.
Sindhi Caps: A traditional embroidered cap worn by men in Sindh.
Hala Pottery: Eco-friendly pottery made in Hala, Sindh, using traditional techniques.

Local Culture and Customs of Sindh

Sindh has a diverse cultural heritage, shaped by its historic links with various civilizations, including the Indus Valley Civilization and the Islamic Empire. Respect for elders and hospitality towards guests are core values in Sindhi culture.

Best Time to Visit Sindh

The best time to visit Sindh is during the winter months, from November to February, when the climate is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sindh

Do:

Dress modestly, especially in religious places.
Try local food and drinks.
Be respectful towards local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

Drink tap water.
Disrespect religious sentiments.
Engage in public displays of affection.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sindh

Sindh is generally safe for travelers, but visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, including avoiding deserted areas and crowded public places, and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Sindh

Visitors are advised to get vaccinated against diseases such as Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and polio, and take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Sindh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sindh is accessible via air, road, and railway. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Sindh

Jinnah International Airport, Karachi: Located in Karachi, the airport is the largest in Pakistan and connects Sindh to major national and international destinations.
Sukkur Airport: Located in Sukkur, the airport connects Sindh to other domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Sindh

Daewoo Express: A popular intercity bus service that connects Sindh to other parts of Pakistan.
Faisal Movers: Another popular intercity bus service, connecting Sindh with major cities such as Lahore and Islamabad.

Other Options

Railways: Pakistan Railway’s network connects Sindh to other parts of the country.
Private Taxis: Private taxi services, such as Uber and Careem, are available in major cities of Sindh.

How to Get Around in Sindh

Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is available in Sindh. However, many tourists prefer hiring private cars or taking guided tours to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from Sindh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sindh is located in close proximity to other popular tourist destinations in Pakistan, including:

Karachi: The largest city in Pakistan, Karachi offers a mix of cultural and historical attractions, including the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum, Frere Hall, and Clifton Beach.
Islamabad: The capital of Pakistan, Islamabad is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and offers natural beauty, including the Margalla Hills National Park and Rawal Lake.

Conclusion

Sindh is a culturally rich province that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro or hiking in the Kirthar Mountains, Sindh is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Sindh Image Gallery

This fascinating archaeological site of Mohenjo-daro presents the best-preserved ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's earliest.

A view of lush green Kirthar National Park during the monsoon season

Ajrak

Northern Sindh

Southern Sindh