Northern Sindh Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Northern Sindh with this comprehensive travel guide. From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and delicious cuisine, this guide has it all!


Introduction to Northern Sindh

Located in the southern province of Pakistan, Northern Sindh is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Northern Sindh is rich in culture and history, and it boasts breathtaking views of the surroundings landscapes. From ancient historical buildings and museums to natural attractions and outdoor adventures, Northern Sindh has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Sindh

Northern Sindh has a variety of destinations that travelers can visit during their trip. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in the area.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mohenjo-Daro: This ancient civilization is over 4,500 years old and has been unearthed as one of the most well preserved ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization. Located in the Larkana district of Sindh, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Rani Kot: This is the largest fort in the world, with an estimated perimeter of about 26 km. Rani Kot is also located in the Larkana District.
  • Gorakh Hill: This breathtaking mountain range is one of the highest places in the province and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Amri: This area boasts of thousands of prehistoric Buddhist ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to 3600 BCE.
  • *Faiz Mahal: This exquisite palace was built in 1798 in Khairpur and is a symbol of exquisite architecture and design.

Natural Attractions of Northern Sindh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Keenjhar Lake: Known as the “Jewel of Sindh,” Keenjhar Lake is the second largest freshwater lake in Pakistan and is located in Thatta district.
  • Kot Diji Fort: This fort is a stunning architectural marvel that dates back to the 18th century, and it offers a window into the past.
  • Churna Island: This island is a renowned spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports activities.
  • Kirthar National Park: This park is filled with wildlife, including barking deer, the Sind wild goat, Indian wolf, and many other animals.
  • Haleji Lake: This lake is famous for its bird species and is one of the largest fresh-water lakes in Pakistan.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Sindh

Northern Sindh has some of the best places for travelers who want to experience nature and adventure. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Northern Sindh:

  • Gorakh Hill: The Gorakh Hill base camp is an excellent spot for hikers and bikers. It offers scenic views and is a favorite spot for adventurers.
  • Keenjhar Lake: This lake is an outstanding spot to bike around and enjoy the serene views of the lake and surrounding hills.
  • Kirthar National Park: This park is an excellent spot for hikers and bikers who love nature and wildlife, which is found here in abundance.

Best Things to Do in Northern Sindh: Activities and Tours

Northern Sindh is packed with activities and tours that you can enjoy. Below are some of the best things to do in Northern Sindh:

  • Visit the Ancient Ruins: Northern Sindh is home to ancient ruins that reveal the province’s history and culture.
  • Enjoy the Scenic Views:Northern Sindh is filled with beautiful landscapes, including stunning mountain ranges, vast deserts, and sparkling lakes.
  • Taste the Local Cuisine: The food scene in Northern Sindh is a highlight of any trip, so make sure to try the famous Sindhi biryani, dal chaawal, and other local dishes.
  • Explore the Wildlife: Kirthar National Park is home to a variety of wildlife such as the Sind wild goat and Indian wolf.
  • Go Scuba Diving: Churna Island is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling, where you can explore the marine life in the vast sea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Sindh

A week-long itinerary is perfect for visiting Northern Sindh. Here’s an itinerary for one week of exploring Northern Sindh:

Day Destination
1 Arrival in Karachi, travel to Thatta district, visit Keenjhar Lake
2 Head to Gorakh Hill, hiking/biking, overnight stay
3 Visit Rani Kot and Kot Diji Fort, overnight stay in Larkana
4 Spend the day exploring Mohenjo-Daro, Faiz Mahal Palace, and the surrounding area
5 Visit Churna Island for water sports activities, overnight stay in Karachi
6 Enjoy the day at Haleji Lake, overnight stay in Hyderabad
7 End the trip with a visit to Kirthar National Park and experience the local culture, enjoy dinner in Karachi.

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Sindh

Sindhi cuisine is one of the most varied and delicious in all of Pakistan. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sindhi Biryani: This is a mix of spice, and rice made with chicken or meat and is cooked with potatoes and vegetables. It is typically served with raita.
  • Dal Chaawal: This is a popular vegetarian dish, and it’s made up of lentils and rice.
  • Kebabs: There are various types of kebabs in Northern Sindh, including beef, chicken, and lamb, which are cooked in different ways.

Local Beverages

  • Sharbat: This is a traditional drink made from fruit or syrup, and it is commonly found in food markets in Northern Sindh.
  • Lassi: This is a yogurt-based drink that is popular in Northern Sindh, and it comes in various flavors, including mango and strawberry.

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

There are plenty of options for travelers who plan to visit Northern Sindh, and it offers as several accommodation options. Here are some of the best places to stay during your trip:

  • Hyderabad Marriott Hotel: This is a five-star hotel located in Hyderabad that offers luxurious amenities and a comfortable stay.
  • Harappa Renaissance Hotel: This hotel is located in Sukkur and is designed in a unique and traditional way. It offers excellent facilities and a variety of services.
  • Larkana Shahbaz Hotel: This hotel is located in Larkana and offers a comfortable stay for travelers who prefer budget-friendly options.

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

When visiting Northern Sindh, you can find plenty of locally made products and souvenirs to take back home. Some of the things that you should consider buying are:

  • Handicrafts: The province is home to a variety of handicrafts, including Ajrak, Khussa shoes, and handwoven carpets.
  • Spices: Northern Sindh is known for its spices such as cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. These products are famous among travelers for souvenirs.
  • Artifacts: Handmade artifacts made of wood, stone, and clay made by local artisans in the province make for great souvenir items.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Sindh

Northern Sindh has a rich cultural heritage, and its customs reflect the diversity of the region. One of the most prominent aspects of the Sindhi culture is their art and craft, depicting Sufism and mystic poetry. Although the culture is traditional, locals are welcoming and hospitable to tourists.

Best Time to Visit Northern Sindh

The best time to visit Northern Sindh is in the winter months between October and March when the weather is pleasant and not too hot.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Sindh

Do:

  • Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of the local culture and customs and dress modestly.
  • Enjoy Local Cuisine: Make the most out of your trip by indulging in the delicious local cuisine.
  • Engage with Locals: Interacting with locals is the best way to understand their lifestyle, culture, and customs.

Don’t:

  • Violate Public Conduct: Avoid any public display of affection such as kissing, hugging, or holding hands in public.
  • Don’t Wear Revealing Clothes: Women should follow dress codes that respect local culture.
  • Don’t Capture Photography without Permission: Before taking someone’s picture, make sure to ask their permission first.

Safety and Health

Northern Sindh is generally safe but it is advisable to take necessary precautions, particularly when traveling around remote areas.

Safety in Northern Sindh

  • Dress Modestly: Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention while exploring the area.
  • Stay Away from Crowds: Avoid large crowds and gatherings particularly, political rallies and demonstrations since they can sometimes get violent.

Health in Northern Sindh

Travelers should be vaccinated for diseases like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus/ diphtheria/ pertussis.

Getting to Northern Sindh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Various modes of transportation are available to travel to Northern Sindh. These modes of transportation include:

Airports Near Northern Sindh

  • Jinnah International Airport, Karachi
  • Moen Jo Daro International Airport, Larkana

Bus Stations Near Northern Sindh

  • Daewoo Express Bus Service
  • Faisal Movers

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars

How to Get Around in Northern Sindh

  • Private taxis
  • Public transport options such as buses and rickshaws are available for short distance travel.
  • Private car rentals and chauffeur-driven cars are more comfortable modes of transportation for tourists who are on a slightly higher budget.

Where to Go Next from Northern Sindh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of other destinations that travelers can explore after visiting Northern Sindh. These places include:

  • Karachi: Experience the cultural capital of Pakistan and explore the history and architecture of Karachi.
  • Thar Desert: Visit the desert and experience its vastness and unique landscape.
  • Balochistan: This area is filled with natural wonders that are waiting to be explored.

Conclusion

Northern Sindh is a destination that’s not to be missed for travelers. It’s a place filled with culture, nature, history, and adventure. From ancient ruins and museums to natural attractions and outdoor activities, Northern Sindh has something for everyone. This comprehensive guide has all the information you need to make the most out of your trip to Northern Sindh!



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