Southern Sindh Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Southern Sindh with this comprehensive travel guide, covering everything from notable attractions to local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Southern Sindh

Welcome to Southern Sindh, a region situated in the southern part of Sindh province in Pakistan. A land of ancient Indus Valley civilization, the region is replete with cultural and archaeological sites, as well as natural marvels. Southern Sindh has long been known for its rich history, unique culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality. In this travel guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information to plan a memorable trip to this fascinating region.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Sindh

Here is a comprehensive list of places of interest you should visit during your trip to Southern Sindh:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mohenjo-daro: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mohenjo-Daro is an archaeological site that dates back to 2600 BCE, making it one of the oldest and most developed cities of its time. The site features an extensive museum and several ruins to explore.
  • Chaukhandi Tombs: A group of tombs from the medieval era that feature intricate carvings and designs.
  • Shah Jahan Mosque: A stunning mosque built in 1659 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Makli Necropolis: A vast funerary complex featuring tombs and monuments from the 14th to the 18th centuries.
  • Bhanbhore: A historical site dating back to 1st century BC, Bhanbhore features ruins of ancient Indus Valley civilization.

Natural Attractions of Southern Sindh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Keenjhar Lake: Also known as Kalri Lake, this is the largest freshwater lake in Pakistan and a popular spot for boating, fishing and bird-watching.
  • Kirthar National Park: A wildlife sanctuary that is home to several species of mammals, birds and reptiles, including the endangered Asiatic cheetah.
  • Gorakh Hill Station: A scenic hill station located at an altitude of more than 5,000 feet, known for its stunning sunsets and cool weather.
  • Haleji Lake: A bird sanctuary featuring a wide variety of migratory and resident birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Sindh

  • Gorakh Hill Trekking: A four-hour trek from the base of Gorakh Hill to the summit, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Keenjhar Cycling: A leisurely 20-kilometer ride around the Keenjhar Lake, offering beautiful views of the lake and the lush green hills.

Best Things to Do in Southern Sindh: Activities and Tours

  • Shopping in Thatta: A town near Makli Necropolis known for its lively bazaars and handicrafts.
  • Attend the Urs Festival: A spiritual event that takes place annually at the Bari Imam Shrine.
  • Visit the Ranikot Fort: The Ranikot Fort is the world’s largest fort, stretching over 26 kilometers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Sindh

Day 1: Visit Mohenjo-daro and its museum, followed by a tour of Bhanbhore. Day 2: Spend a day at Keenjhar Lake and explore its surroundings. Day 3: Visit the Chaukhandi Tombs and Shah Jahan Mosque. Day 4: Explore Makli Necropolis and its stunning architecture, followed by a visit to Thatta bazaar. Day 5: Go hiking at Gorakh Hill Station. Day 6: Attend the Urs Festival, a spiritual event that takes place annually at the Bari Imam Shrine. Day 7: Visit the Ranikot Fort, the world’s largest fort.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Sindh

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sindhi Biryani: A spicy and flavorful rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables.
  • Sai Bhaaji: A vegetarian dish made with spinach and a variety of lentils.
  • Aloo Tuk: A fried potato snack, often served as a side dish.
  • Sohan Halwa: A sweet dessert made with semolina, sugar, and ghee.

Local Beverages

  • Sharbat: A refreshing drink made with rose petals, sugar, and water.
  • Lassi: A creamy yogurt-based drink that comes in sweet or salty flavors.

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

There are several accommodation options available in Southern Sindh, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Some of the notable ones are:

  • Mohenjodaro Guest House
  • Makli Lodge
  • Bhawani Guest House

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

  • Ajraks: A traditional Sindhi garment made of colorful fabric, typically worn on special occasions.
  • Sindhi Caps: A handmade cap that is popular among the men in the region.
  • Wooden Handicrafts: Decorative items made of carved wood are a popular souvenir item.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Sindh

The people of Southern Sindh are warm, hospitable, and deeply proud of their rich cultural heritage. Sindhi is the local language spoken in the region, though many people also speak Urdu and English. The majority of the population is Muslim, and Islamic culture is deeply rooted in the region. Hospitality is an essential part of Sindhi culture. Upon visiting a house, it’s customary to be greeted with a warm welcome and offered tea, sweets, and snacks.

Best Time to Visit Southern Sindh

The best time to visit Southern Sindh is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During summers, the temperature can go up to 45 degrees Celsius, making it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Sindh

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Carry cash as ATMs can be scarce in some areas.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Sindhi to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs of people without their permission, especially women.
  • Don’t indulge in public displays of affection, as it’s not culturally acceptable.
  • Don’t drink alcohol in public places, as it’s against the law and could be disrespectful to local customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Sindh

Southern Sindh is generally a safe region to travel to, but it’s always advisable to take some precautions. Avoid traveling alone after dark and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. It’s also advisable to avoid large public gatherings or political rallies, which can lead to unrest in the region.

Health in Southern Sindh

Make sure to get vaccinated for common diseases like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and polio, especially if you’re traveling during monsoon season. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food, especially if you have a weak immune system.

Getting to Southern Sindh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Sindh is well-connected to other parts of Pakistan with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Southern Sindh

  • Jinnah International Airport: Located in Karachi, which is the largest city and commercial hub of Pakistan.
  • Sukkur Airport: Located in Sukkur, a city located north of Southern Sindh.

Bus Stations Near Southern Sindh

There are several bus stations in Karachi that connect to other parts of Sindh, including Southern Sindh. Some of the notable ones are:

  • Daewoo Bus Station
  • Faisal Movers Bus Terminal

Other Options

Taxis and rented vehicles are also available for traveling within Southern Sindh.

How to Get Around in Southern Sindh

The best way to get around Southern Sindh is by hired car, taxi or rented vehicle. Alternatively, you can also use bus services to travel between cities, but it can be time-consuming and uncomfortable.

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

After exploring Southern Sindh, there are several exciting destinations that you can visit nearby, including:

  • Karachi: Pakistan’s largest city and commercial center, located approximately 150 km away from Southern Sindh.
  • Hyderabad: A historic city located on the banks of the Indus River, known for its ornate buildings, bazaars, and museums.
  • Lahore: Often regarded as the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore is home to incredible architecture, art, and food.

Conclusion

Southern Sindh is a melting pot of culture, history, and traditions, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. With its impressive architectural ruins, breathtaking natural landscapes, and hospitable people, this region has so much to offer. We hope that this travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Southern Sindh and that the experience will leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime.



    Kirthar National Park
    Mirpur Khas
    Mithi
    Nagarparkar
    Sehwan
    Thatta