The Sindh Culture and Tourism Department, in collaboration with Pakistan Railways, has launched the Karachi to Thar Desert Safari Train — an exciting initiative aimed at boosting tourism and showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness of Sindh. This two-day safari offers an immersive experience into the historic and scenic wonders of Tharparkar, making it a must-try adventure for travel enthusiasts.
Journey Itinerary and Experience
Route:
Karachi – Hyderabad – Mirpurkhas – Chhor – Khokhrapar Zero Point – Karachi
Departure & Schedule:
- Departure: Every Saturday at 10:00 AM from Karachi Cantt Station.
- Arrival at Khokhrapar Zero Point: 5:00 PM on Saturday with an overnight stay onboard.
- Return: Departs from Khokhrapar on Sunday at 11:00 AM, reaching Karachi by 10:00 PM.
Onboard Experience & Stay Options:
- Train Coaches: 2 Business Class coaches and 1 Dining Car for a comfortable and premium journey.
- Overnight Stay: Passengers can choose between staying onboard, camping, or temporary night stay arrangements on the ground.
- Meals & Entertainment: The journey includes enroute lunch and entertainment at Perchi Javeri to enhance the travel experience.
- Tentative Date of Operation: First week of February 2025.
Day 1 (Saturday) – The Adventure Begins
- Morning Departure from Karachi: The train departs from Karachi Cantt Station at 10:00 AM, embarking on a scenic ride through Sindh’s diverse landscapes.
- Major Stops: The train makes key stops at Hyderabad and Mirpurkhas, offering glimpses of Sindh’s cultural heartland before reaching Chhor by 5:00 PM.
- Arrival at Khokhrapar Zero Point: Travelers reach Khokhrapar by evening, a historically significant town near the Pakistan-India border.
- Desert Safari & Cultural Evening: A mesmerizing night in Thar Desert, featuring traditional Sindhi music, bonfires, and a lavish local dinner. Visitors can choose to camp under the stars or stay onboard the train.
Day 2 (Sunday) – Exploring Thar and the Return Journey
- Morning Sightseeing & Breakfast at Khokhrapar: Travelers explore Khokhrapar’s historical sites while enjoying a delicious traditional breakfast.
- Return Journey: The train departs at 11:00 AM, stopping for lunch and entertainment at Perchi Javeri.
- Arrival in Karachi: The journey concludes as the train reaches Karachi Cantt Station by 10:00 PM.
Exploring Chhor: A Hidden Gem in Sindh
Chhor is more than just a stop; it’s a gateway to the Thar Desert with a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
- Chhor Cantonment: A historic military base with deep strategic significance.
- Desert Wildlife: Home to Indian gazelles (Chinkara), monitor lizards, and migratory birds.
- Sindhi Culture: Experience handicrafts, embroidery, and pottery crafted by local artisans.
The Enchanting Beauty of Tharparkar
The Thar Desert is a land of golden sand dunes, rich folklore, and historical landmarks. Some must-visit locations include:
- Karoonjhar Mountains: Stunning rock formations with deep historical and religious significance.
- Nagarparkar Jain Temples: 12th-15th century temples, showcasing intricate carvings and history.
- Marvi’s Well (Marvi Jo Khooh): A legendary Sindhi site symbolizing cultural pride.
- Churrio Jabal Durga Mata Temple: A Hindu pilgrimage site offering panoramic desert views.
- Thar Wildlife Sanctuary: A sanctuary preserving blackbucks, desert foxes, and rare bird species.
A Boost to Sustainable Tourism
The Karachi to Thar Desert Safari Train is more than just a travel route; it’s a strategic effort to promote sustainable tourism by:
- Encouraging Economic Growth: Boosting local businesses, artisans, and hospitality services.
- Preserving Cultural Heritage: Showcasing Sindh’s rich traditions, arts, and music.
- Raising Environmental Awareness: Educating travelers about the Thar Desert’s unique ecosystem.
Ticket Price and Booking Details
- Ticket Price: Rs 30,000 per adult.
- Booking: Available through the Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) website.
- Contact Numbers: +92 021-35140424, +92 321-7053020.
Final Thoughts
The Karachi to Thar Desert Safari Train offers a rare opportunity to explore Sindh’s hidden wonders, blending adventure, history, and cultural immersion. Whether it’s witnessing the mesmerizing dunes, visiting ancient temples, or experiencing Sindhi folklore firsthand, this journey is bound to be an unforgettable adventure.
Book your ticket and embark on a safari through time and beauty!
