Shikarpur Travel Guide

If you're planning a visit to the beautiful city of Shikarpur, this guide will help you discover the best places to visit, food to try, things to do, and the local culture and customs to keep in mind. From historical landmarks to stunning natural scenery, Shikarpur is a must-visit destination in Northern Sindh, Pakistan.


Shikarpur Travel Guide - Discovering the Hidden Gems of Northern Sindh

If you’re looking to explore Northern Sindh in Pakistan, don’t miss out on Shikarpur, a small yet beautiful city located in the heart of the province. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, Shikarpur is a must-visit destination that offers something for every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, food to try, things to do, and the local culture and customs you should keep in mind when exploring this hidden gem of Northern Sindh.

Introduction to Shikarpur

Shikarpur is a city located in Northern Sindh, Pakistan. It is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty. Shikarpur is located on the banks of the mighty Indus River and is surrounded by lush green fields, hills, and plateaus. The city has a great significance in the history of Sindh, as it was once an important center of trade and commerce during the medieval period. Today, Shikarpur is a bustling city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

List of Places to Visit in Shikarpur

When it comes to places to visit in Shikarpur, there are plenty of options that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best places to explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shahi Bazaar
  • Lakhi Dar
  • Old Shikarpur City
  • Shikarpur Fort
  • Sachal Sarmast Shrine
  • Jhirk Marri Temple

Natural Attractions of Shikarpur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kirthar National Park
  • Sukkur Barrage
  • Indus River
  • Sui Gas Field
  • Kachh Mallah

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shikarpur

Shikarpur offers several hiking and biking trails that are perfect for adventure enthusiasts. For those who love a bit of adrenaline rush after a long day, Shikarpur offers several biking and trekking routes that are perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Some trails to explore around Shikarpur include:

  • Kirthar National Park Trek
  • Kachh to Wahi Pandhi Bicycle Ride
  • Nindwani Hill Trek

Best Things to Do in Shikarpur: Activities and Tours

Apart from exploring the city’s museums, historical sites, natural attractions, and hiking/biking routes, there are several other fun things to do in Shikarpur. Here are some of the best activities and tours to check out:

  • Boat ride on Indus River
  • Shopping at Shahi Bazaar
  • Cultural and Heritage tour of Old City
  • Wildlife Safari in Kirthar National Park
  • Food Tour of the Local Cuisine

Week-Long Itinerary for Shikarpur

To make the most of your visit to Shikarpur, here’s a sample week-long itinerary that covers the city’s most popular attractions and activities:

Day 1: Explore Old Shikarpur City, including Shahi Bazaar, Lakhi Dar, Shikarpur Fort, and the Sachal Sarmast Shrine.

Day 2: Visit the Jhirk Marri Temple and take a boat ride on the Indus River.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Kirthar National Park for a wildlife safari and adventure.

Day 4: Go on a cultural and heritage tour of the local customs and traditions of Shikarpur.

Day 5: Go hiking or biking to Nindwani Hill and other nearby trails.

Day 6: Indulge in the local cuisine with a food tour of Shikarpur.

Day 7: Shop at the local markets and prepare to say goodbye to Shikarpur.

Food and Drink Scene of Shikarpur

If you’re a foodie, then Shikarpur has a lot in store for you. From traditional Sindhi dishes to local street food, the city’s food scene is diverse and flavorful.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sindhi Biryani
  • Sai Bhaji
  • Aloo tikki
  • Bun kebab
  • Sweets like Khoya, Sheer Khurma, and Jalebi

Local Beverages

  • Lassi
  • Saffron Tea

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

Shikarpur offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay. Some popular options include:

  • Shikarpur Regency Hotel
  • Al-Madina Guest House
  • Al-Madina Executive Suites

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

For those who love to shop, Shikarpur offers several options where you can find great souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best places to shop:

  • Shahi Bazaar
  • Old City Market
  • Kachh Mallah Market

Local Culture and Customs of Shikarpur

Like many cities in Pakistan, Shikarpur has a vibrant culture that is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Some of the customs and traditions you’ll encounter include:

  • Eid celebrations
  • Folk music and dance
  • Sindhi wedding customs
  • Traditional dress styles

Best Time to Visit Shikarpur

The best time to visit Shikarpur is during the winter season, from November to March, when the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are moderate. However, if you don’t mind the heat, you can also visit Shikarpur during the summer season from April to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shikarpur

When traveling to Shikarpur, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Respect the local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Engage in public displays of affection
  • Use disrespectful language or gestures

Safety and Health

Safety in Shikarpur

Shikarpur is a relatively safe city, but like any other place, there are a few safety measures you should take:

  • Avoid going out alone in the late hours
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure

Health in Shikarpur

When traveling to Shikarpur, it’s advisable to take some basic health precautions to avoid getting sick:

  • Drink bottled water
  • Avoid street food that looks unhygienic.
  • Take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Getting to Shikarpur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shikarpur is well-connected to major cities in Pakistan and can be easily accessed by air, road, and rail. Here are some of the best ways to get to Shikarpur:

Airports Near Shikarpur

  • Sui Airport
  • Sukkur Airport

Bus Stations Near Shikarpur

  • Shikarpur Bus Stand
  • Sukkur Bus Stand

Other Options

  • You can also take a train to Sukkur and then take a taxi or bus to Shikarpur.
  • Taxis and rental cars are also available.

How to Get Around in Shikarpur

To get around Shikarpur, you can use local transport options like buses or taxis. You can also rent a car or bike if you want more autonomy and flexibility.

Where to Go Next from Shikarpur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re thinking of extending your trip and exploring more of Northern Sindh, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Sukkur
  • Rohri
  • Khairpur
  • Larkana
  • Mohenjo-Daro

Conclusion

With its rich history, vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and delicious food, Shikarpur is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern Sindh. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history buff, this charming city offers something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to Shikarpur and discover its hidden gems like a true explorer.

Deewan Ramchand's historical restaurant is very famous for its Sweets and Kulfi-Falooda Deewan Ramchand's historical restaurant is very famous for its Sweets and Kulfi-Falooda