Mithi Travel Guide (Southern Sindh/Sindh/Pakistan/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Mithi

Mithi, located in Southern Sindh, Pakistan, is a charming town rich in culture, history and natural beauty. It is home to the Tharparkar District and is known for its traditional architecture, colorful markets, and warm hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to Mithi, there are a few must-visit places you need to add to your list. This guide will take you through the best attractions in Mithi, give you tips on where to stay, eat and shop, and prepare you with essential travel tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Mithi

Here are the places you should add to your list when planning a trip to Mithi.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

(1) Achro Thar Desert: The Achro Thar Desert is a natural wonder and a must-visit attraction in Mithi. It’s known for its stunning sand dunes and unique wildlife, including the desert fox, the great Indian bustard, and the Indian gazelle.
(2) Shiv Mandir: The Shiv Mandir is one of the most famous Hindu temples in Pakistan. It’s well-known for its intricate carvings, paintings and sculptures - and it’s open to everyone who wants to visit and learn more about Hinduism and its practices in the country.
(3) Islamkot Fort: The Islamkot Fort is a famous historical landmark in Mithi. It’s said to have been built in the 17th century and stands tall with its impressive architecture and imposing stone walls. It’s a great place to go if you want to learn more about the region’s history and appreciate the breathtaking views.
(4) Chauhtaro Shrine: The Chauhtaro Shrine is a Sufi shrine located in the Thar Desert in southeastern Pakistan. It is dedicated to Pir Umer Shah, a Muslim saint known for his miracles and healing powers. It’s a great place to visit if you want to experience the spiritual side of Mithi.

Natural Attractions of Mithi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

(1) Nagarparkar: Nagarparkar is a great place to go if you’re looking for outdoor adventure and scenic views. This national park is home to several different species of animals, including leopards, hyenas, and foxes, and has many hiking trails for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of the area.
(2) Gokur Lake: The Gokur Lake is a popular spot for picnics, fishing, and boating in Mithi. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and is said to have healing powers.
(3) Naukot Fort: Naukot Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to several different species of animals, including leopards, hyenas, and foxes, and has many hiking trails for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of the area.
(4) Karoonjhar Mountains: The Karoonjhar Mountains are an impressive range of hills and mountains that rise over the surrounding landscape. They offer amazing views of the desert, the rolling hills, and Mithi itself. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a challenging hike, mountain biking or just to take in the stunning scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mithi

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and love to hike, bike or run, then you’ll be happy to know that Mithi has plenty of scenic routes to explore.

(1) Nagarparkar to Gadhon: This is a popular hiking trail that takes you through the Achro Thar desert and up the Karoonjhar Mountains. It’s a challenging hike but has rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.
(2) Karoonjhar Mountains: There are several different trails that take you up the Karoonjhar Mountains. They range from easy to challenging and offer stunning views of Mithi and the surrounding areas.
(3) Gokur Lake: The trail around Gokur Lake is an easy walk that’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxing stroll.

Best Things to Do in Mithi: Activities and Tours

(1) Visit the Shiv Mandir: The Shiv Mandir is one of the most famous Hindu temples in Pakistan. It’s open to visitors who want to learn more about Hinduism and its practices in the country.
(2) Go on a jeep safari: If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Mithi’s natural beauty, then you should go on a jeep safari. It’s a great way to see the Achro Thar desert and spot wildlife that you wouldn’t see otherwise.
(3) Attend a cultural festival: Mithi is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, which take place throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include the Diwali festival, the Holi festival and the Eid al-Fitr festival.
(4) Take a cooking class: Pakistani cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique spices. Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn more about the local cuisine and bring home new recipes to try.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mithi

If you have a week to spend in Mithi, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day	Activity
1	Explore Mithi Town, visit the Shiv Mandir
2	Hike the Karoonjhar Mountains
3	Take a jeep safari to the Achro Thar Desert
4	Visit the Islamkot Fort and Chauhtaro Shrine
5	Explore Nagarparkar, go on a nature walk
6	Visit the Gokur Lake, relax and enjoy the views
7	Attend a cultural festival, try local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Mithi

The food scene in Mithi is a blend of traditional Pakistani cuisine and local Thari delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

(1) Spicy Biryani: Biryani is a Pakistani staple that’s often enjoyed with a side of raita (a yogurt-based dip). The version in Mithi is known for its spicy flavors and use of local spices.
(2) Dabeli: Dabeli is a popular street food snack that’s made out of a sweet and spicy potato filling and is sandwiched between two pieces of bread.
(3) Halwa Puri: Halwa Puri is a breakfast dish that’s enjoyed throughout Pakistan. It’s made up of a sweet halwa (a sticky, wheat-based dessert) and puri (a deep-fried flatbread).

Local Beverages

(1) Thari Lassi: Lassi is a popular drink in Pakistan and is made out of yogurt, water, and spices. The version in Mithi often includes local fruits, like mangoes or strawberries.
(2) Sattu Sherbet: Sattu Sherbet is a refreshing drink that’s often enjoyed during the summers. It’s made up of roasted gram flour, sugar, and water.

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

Mithi has a range of accommodation options for all types of travelers. Here are some suggestions:

(1) Mithi Rest House: Located near Mithi town, the Mithi Rest House is a budget-friendly option that provides clean and comfortable rooms. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save on accommodation costs.
(2) Caravan Guest House: The Caravan Guest House is an upscale option that offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms. It’s great for travelers who are looking for a bit more luxury during their stay.
(3) Hotel Darshan: Hotel Darshan offers spacious rooms and a rooftop restaurant with amazing views of Mithi. It’s a mid-range option that’s great for families or couples.

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

Mithi is known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and pottery. Here are some souvenirs and local products you should consider bringing home:

(1) Ajrak: Ajrak is a traditional block-printed cloth that’s often used for clothing, tablecloths, or scarves. It’s known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs.
(2) Pottery: Mithi is known for its handmade pottery, which is often used for cooking or decoration.
(3) Embroidered Textiles: Hand-embroidered textiles are a popular souvenir in Mithi. You can find everything from pillowcases to bed sheets that are intricately embroidered with local motifs.

Local Culture and Customs of Mithi

Mithi is home to diverse communities with distinct cultural and religious practices. Here are some customs to keep in mind when visiting:

(1) Dress Modestly: As with most of Pakistan, it’s important to dress modestly in Mithi. Women should cover their shoulders, and men should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts.
(2) Respect Local Customs: Mithi is home to diverse communities with different customs and practices. It’s important to respect these customs and avoid doing anything that could be seen as disrespectful or offensive.
(3) Greet Locals with Salam: Saying “Salam” (a traditional Arabic greeting) when you arrive is a sign of courtesy and respect in Pakistan.

Best Time to Visit Mithi

The best time to visit Mithi is during the winter months (November - March) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mithi

When visiting Mithi, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

(1) Try the local cuisine: Mithi is known for its unique cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes.
(2) Respect local customs: As discussed earlier, it’s important to respect local customs and practices to avoid offending anyone.
(3) Bargain with street vendors: When shopping in Mithi’s markets, bargaining is expected, and you can often get a better deal if you bargain with the vendors.

Don’t:

(1) Drink tap water: It’s not safe to drink tap water in Mithi, so make sure to stick to bottled water.
(2) Take photographs of people without permission: It’s always polite to ask for permission before taking someone’s photograph.
(3) Overstay your visa: Make sure to check the visa requirements before traveling to Pakistan and avoid overstaying your visa.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mithi

Mithi is a relatively safe town, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Make sure to:

(1) Avoid traveling alone at night: It’s best to stay in groups or travel during the day when exploring Mithi.
(2) Keep your valuables safe: As with any travel destination, keep your valuables (like your passport and cash) in a secure location.
(3) Be mindful of your surroundings: As with any unfamiliar place, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid traveling to areas where there’s unrest or violence.

Health in Mithi

Here are some tips to stay healthy during your trip to Mithi:

(1) Drink bottled water: It’s not safe to drink tap water in Mithi, so make sure to stick to bottled water.
(2) Pack sunscreen and insect repellent: Mithi is a desert town, and it’s important to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
(3) Visit a clinic if you’re feeling unwell: If you’re feeling unwell during your trip, visit a medical clinic or hospital.

Getting to Mithi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mithi

The nearest airport to Mithi is the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, which is approximately 370 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Mithi

Mithi has a bus station that connects to other cities in the region, including Karachi and Hyderabad.

Other Options

If you’re looking for a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, you could consider hiring a car or taking a taxi from Karachi or Hyderabad. Alternatively, you could also take a train to Hyderabad and then a bus or taxi to Mithi.

How to Get Around in Mithi

The best way to get around Mithi is by hiring a car or taking a taxi. Alternatively, you could also rent a bicycle or motorcycle to explore the town and surrounding areas at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Mithi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

(1) Hyderabad: Hyderabad is a city in Sindh that’s known for its historical landmarks, including the iconic Charminar monument.
(2) Thatta: Thatta is a small town located near Karachi that’s famous for its intricate architecture and historic landmarks.
(3) Karachi: Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan, and it’s known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning beaches.

Conclusion

Mithi is a charming town with a rich culture and history. It’s the perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique experience and a chance to explore the natural beauty of Pakistan’s Thar Desert. With this travel guide, you’re now equipped to plan an unforgettable trip to Mithi.

Mithi Image Gallery

Gadi Bhit monument view

Way to top of sand mound of Gadi Bhit

A view of bazaar after sunsets

Traditional Thari houses styled huts of guest house run by STDC