Karachi, the biggest metropolitan city of Pakistan and is the capital of Sindh was once the Sindhi fishermen’s humble abode. Due to its vast seaports, it is now a full-fledged urban economy sustaining the country.
It is well-known for its diverse advanced education system, culture, historical sites, rich cuisine, shopping malls, cinemas, farmhouses, and the beautiful blue ocean. If you are visiting Pakistan, be sure to include Karachi in your itinerary. In the following list, some top tourist attractions have been put together.
If you are looking for places to stay on your visit, you can go to places like Karachi-Hotels.co to find the best stay deals that align with your trip!
Churna Island
A couple of hours’ drive from central Karachi leads you to Churna Island. You can experience the reefs on the island by snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving. You will be able to spot sea inhabitants such as turtles and beautiful multi-colored fish.
Frere Hall
Built during the British colonial era in 1895, Frere hall was once the town hall in the city. It is a grand library and exhibition hall named after Sir Henry Bartle Edward Frere, Bombay’s former Governor. Its architecture blends together a peculiar mix of British and Venetian Gothic styles.
It features beautiful wall carvings, pillars made of mosaic, pointed arches, and oil paintings. There is a book fair in its courts on Sundays; many hawkers and booksellers sell books at very cheap prices.
Clifton Beach
Well-known for its eateries and recreational activities such as buggy rides, horse and camel riding, etc Clifton Beach is a popular beach, especially on public holidays and weekends. It’s not a good place to swim but if you want to take a lazy stroll there’s a little park by the promenade, collect seashells and enjoy a sunset, this is a good place to go.
Empress Market
In this colonial-era structure, you will find yourself amidst a chaotic, bustling, and crowded marketplace that sells just about anything. It is one of the most famous and oldest places in Karachi located at Saddar. Traces of British rule are very evident.
It is recommended to visit the market in the early hours of the day to avoid the huge evening crowds. There is a myriad of shops that sell fruit, vegetables, groceries, textiles, live animals and pets, stationery, jewelry, and much more.
Located near the market is a recreational park called Jahangir Park that is a great spot to take your kids.
PAF (Pakistan Air Force) Musuem
This museum is well-stocked and holds 30 aircrafts and more on display. The highlights include an Indian Gnat that was seized in 1965 by the Pakistani military, and Quaid-e-Azam – The Viking’s personal aircraft.
The Pakistan Air Force Women Association shop is a must-see when you’re here. Trinkets, fabrics and many locally-made goods are sold here. The association helps provide the community with social, educational, and financial welfare to Air Force’s underpaid workers.
National Museum of Pakistan
A varied collection of a large collection of coins, paintings, relics, a diverse range of art, models, and sculptures is held in this museum. It is a useful place to visit to have a pure depiction and learn about Pakistan’s turbulent history. The “Freedom Movement” gallery includes photographs and newspaper clippings from the Independence era.
There are 11 galleries that showcase Indus Valley Civilization’s artifacts and modern pieces. Other galleries include a Quran Gallery with 300 copies and rare manuscripts of the Quran and Islamic Art.
Chaukhandi Tombs
These ancient tombs were built during the Mughal era in the 15th and 18th centuries and are located in the Sindh province around 30 km east of Karachi. They boast intricate tombs that are beautifully carved and unique sand structures. It is recognized as a World Heritage Site under UNESCO.
The tombs are connected to the Jokhio tribes and are known to be the tribe’s family graveyards. If you have an aptitude for unique architecture and historical sites this place is perfect for you. The mornings are the best time to visit the place, you will be able to see the tomb’s beautiful carving and detailing.
Photo by Hamza Ali on Unsplash
