Thatta Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Thatta, Pakistan with our comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Thatta

Located in the southern province of Sindh, Pakistan, Thatta is a historic city full of Islamic architecture and beautiful landmarks. Known for its rich history, Thatta was once a flourishing port that served as the capital of the Thatta Kingdom during the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the city is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore its beautiful mosques, mausoleums, and museums.

List of Places to Visit in Thatta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Shah Jahan Mosque

One of the most notable landmarks in Thatta is the beautiful Shah Jahan Mosque. Built in the mid-17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the mosque boasts stunning architecture, intricate tile work, and beautiful calligraphy.

Makli Necropolis

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Makli Necropolis is a large cemetery with over 500,000 tombs spread across more than 10 square kilometers. It is said to be one of the largest and most densely populated cemeteries in the world.

Keenjhar Lake

Located in the Thatta district, Keenjhar Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Pakistan. It is a popular destination for boating, picnicking, and enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Thatta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ranikot Fort

Ranikot Fort is the largest fort in Pakistan, spanning over 26 kilometers. It is located in the Kirthar Mountains and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Kirthar National Park

Located near the border of Balochistan, Kirthar National Park is a beautiful and ecologically diverse park that features a range of wildlife, including gazelles, ibex, and leopards. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and nature walks in the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thatta

For outdoor enthusiasts, Thatta offers several hiking and biking routes, including trails in the Kirthar Mountains and Keenjhar Lake.

Best Things to Do in Thatta: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Thatta, including visiting the city’s beautiful mosques and mausoleums, exploring its museums and galleries, and taking a boat ride on Keenjhar Lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thatta

Day 1: Visit Shah Jahan Mosque and explore the city’s bazaars. Day 2: Visit Makli Necropolis and Kirthar National Park. Day 3: Take a boat ride on Keenjhar Lake and enjoy a picnic in the park. Day 4-5: Hiking and camping in Kirthar Mountains. Day 6: Visit Ranikot Fort and explore the surrounding countryside. Day 7: Relax on the beach at nearby Karachi or Hyderabad.

Food and Drink Scene of Thatta

Must-Try Dishes

Thatta is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including fish tikka, jheenga biryani, and prawn curry. Other popular dishes include biryani, chicken karahi, and haleem.

Local Beverages

Thatta is known for its sweet and fruity drinks, including mango lassi and sugarcane juice.

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

There are several accommodation options in Thatta, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Hotel Shahjahan, Makli Hills Motel, and Thatta Guest House.

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

Thatta is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including pottery, woven textiles, and embroidered clothing. Visitors can also purchase traditional jewelry, incense, and leather goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Thatta

Thatta is a conservative city, and visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. It is also important to remove shoes when entering mosques and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Thatta

The best time to visit Thatta is from October to March when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thatta

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the delicious seafood dishes and sweet drinks.
  • Visit the city’s mosques and mausoleums.

Don’t:

  • Do not drink or eat in public during the holy month of Ramadan.
  • Do not wear revealing clothing or act inappropriately in public.
  • Do not take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Thatta

Thatta is a generally safe city, but visitors should take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes. It is also advised to avoid travelling alone at night.

Health in Thatta

Visitors should drink bottled water and avoid uncooked or street food in order to prevent water-borne illnesses.

Getting to Thatta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Thatta

The nearest airport to Thatta is the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, which is located approximately 101 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Thatta

There are several bus stations in Thatta, including the Jinnah Bus Stand and the Makli Bus Stop.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Thatta by train or private car.

How to Get Around in Thatta

The best way to get around Thatta is by taxi, which is affordable and widely available in the city. Bus services are also available but can be overcrowded and uncomfortable.

Where to Go Next from Thatta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular destinations to visit from Thatta include Hyderabad, Karachi, and Badin. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Chaukundi Necropolis or the Kirthar Mountains.

Conclusion

Thatta is a beautiful and historic city full of mosques, mausoleums, and natural wonders. With a range of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food, Thatta is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pakistan.

View of beautiful Shah Jahan Mosque View of beautiful Shah Jahan Mosque Shah Jahan Mosque was a gift to people of Thatta by that Mughal King Shah Jahan Mosque was a gift to people of Thatta by that Mughal King Tomb of Prince Sultan Ibrahim bin Mirza Muhammad Isa Tarkhan Tomb of Prince Sultan Ibrahim bin Mirza Muhammad Isa Tarkhan Congested and busy Shahi Bazaar of Thatta Congested and busy Shahi Bazaar of Thatta Tomb of Mirza Isa Khan Tarkhan in the Makli Necropolis Tomb of Mirza Isa Khan Tarkhan in the Makli Necropolis