In This Post:
Twin Islands
Khiprianwala Island
Charna Island
Manora Beach
We are all aware of the fact that the northern areas are becoming synonymous with tourism in Pakistan, yet only a few of us have ever considered exploring other parts of the country. It might sound hard for you to believe, but we say so because among the less and unexplored sites is the coastline in Karachi. So, if you have ever been curious to discover the islands near Karachi, you’ve stopped at the right place.
Let’s go on a voyage to discover some of the magical islands near Karachi!
Here Are Some Must-Visit Islands near Karachi
Well, if you are a resident of Karachi, you might have a faded nostalgia of sailing to Manora Beach from Kemari and the mixed-feelings of fright and thrill attached to it. Special thanks to global connectivity, seamless communication, and curious explorers, the city of lights has been entirely explored, but the same cannot be said for some gems hidden nearby. So, if you want to experience a dozen shades of blue and get closer to marine life, visit these islands near Karachi:
- Twin Islands
- Khiprianwala Island
- Charna Island
- Manora Beach
Twin Islands
Situated near the coastline of Clifton Beach and extremely close to each other, Buddo Island and Bundal Island are also known as the Twin Islands of Karachi. The islands were previously known as Dingi Island (Buddo Island) and Bhundaar Island (Bundal Island) by the people dwelling in nearby areas.
The twin islands are conveniently positioned near Do Darya, DHA Phase 8, which is famous for its fine-dining restaurants and high-end eateries. Since the restaurants become functional near evening so, these massive islands are barely visible to the visitors. However, if someone wishes to explore, they must know that Bundal Island is quite easy to access from the seashore, while Buddo Island is situated on the west of this landmass.
Furthermore, these two islands are also a livelihood source for the local fishermen and are most frequently visited by them only. However, the shrine of a Muslim saint named Yusuf Shah becomes the main attraction during the annual urs. So, if you want to witness the devotees and their affection, you should plan on visiting the annual urs of the Muslim Sufi.
Additionally, the twin islands gained popularity only recently when PM Khan reviewed some developmental plans for Bundal Island on October 7th, 2019. Currently, Bundal Island is emerging as a global attraction for investment ever since a Dubai-based developer is focusing on executing Emaar Crescent Bay, one of the biggest under-construction projects near the seashore.
Nearest City Gateway: DHA Phase 8, Karachi.
Khiprianwala Island
Khiprianwala Island is located amidst the picturesque views of the Arabian Sea and close to Landhi Town and Port Qasim. The twin islands exist closely near the southeastern ends of this island. According to visitors, the island is losing a great part of the land to the sea, and it is on the verge of sinking. It is only populated with coastal swamps, which are among the largest mangrove forest ecosystems in the country.
Tourists and explorers are often hesitant to visit the place due to the lack of necessary facilities, and hence, it remains unexplored. However, if you plan to visit the island, you can easily hire a boat from the nearby fishermen or ask them to accompany you on your journey. The sea near the landmass is hugely famous for fishing since it is closely connected to Port Qasim. It is home to a lot of sea creatures and scrumptious fish that are the favourite food of Karachittes. Some of the fishes found near Khipiranwala Island are rainji, luar, palla, dhothar, heera, dandia, bangra, baam, and sufaid papleit.
Nearby City Gateway: Landhi Town and Port Qasim
Charna Island
Charna Island, also known as a diver’s paradise, is the favourite gateway for sports enthusiasts residing in and near Karachi. Formerly known as Cheerno, the island is situated a 1.5-hour cruise away from the main city. Closely connected to the coastline of Mubarak Village – one of the best fishing spots in Karachi – Charna Island is only populated by visitors and water sports enthusiasts.
The landmass is mostly occupied by Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Game Fishing Association (PGFA), and hence, it is a haven for sea explorers. Popular sports near Charna Island are scuba diving, cliff diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, and speed boating.
The best time to visit Charna Island is between February and March and several tour companies in Karachi offer attractive packages for both individuals and groups. It is easier to get information about the list of different packages by entering “Charna island packages” into any search engine and deciding for yourself.
Additionally, Charna Island is also an important wildlife sanctuary. As such, several measures have been taken by the National Coordinating Body of the Mangroves for the Future Programme Pakistan to declare Charna Island a Marine Protected Area (MPA).
Nearby City Gateway: Mubarak Village, Karachi.
Manora Beach
Manora Beach is one of the best beaches in Karachi for summer picnics. Situated near the Kemari Port and accessible from its docks, Manora was previously believed to be an island but was later entitled to be a peninsula due to its connectivity with Hawks Bay and Sandspit Road. The beach is populated with restaurants serving fresh and deliciously cooked fish seasoned with spices and desi flavours. Taking a dip into the seawater is not suggested due to strong tides. You must also know that photography is banned at the beach due to security concerns.
The core attraction of this place is a lighthouse from the British era and a 19th century Hindu Temple.
Situated close to Manora Beach, there are three more islands near Karachi, including Sham Pir Island, Bhit Island, and Baba Island. To begin with, Shams Pir Island is named after the name of a Muslim saint. The island is a top pick for several water sports such as boating, yachting, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. However, Bhit Island and Baba Island are small fishing islands and serve as remote residential areas for fishermen.
Nearby City Gateway: Kemari Port, Karachi.
Bon Voyage! Make sure to add these places to your list and sail beyond the city at the earliest. If you’ve already been to any of these islands, share your experience with us at blogs@zameen.com. Subscribe to our newsletters to discover Pakistan with us by entering your email address in the box given at the right side of your screen.
