*** Trips to Balochistan and most of Sindh are best done between November and March. From April to September it is too hot, especially in the desert areas.
*** Know that itineraries can always change, we try to do our best to see as much as possible.
*** For this trip you need an NOC (special government permission), to be arrange two months before! These cost at least 150 USD per person.
Hingol National Park has an alien looking landscape with unique rock formations, vast canyons, dramatic views and even a mud volcano, making you feel like you’re stranded on another planet.
It is the largest national park in Pakistan and covers over 6.100 sq km and is located 190 km from Karachi, making it an ideal trip for those staying in Karachi. The park is named after the Hingul river which flows into the Arabian Sea and is home to large numbers of marine life. As it has six different ecosystems with desert, plains, forest, mountains and home to a large number of birds, reptiles and elusive mammals such as leopards, wolves and ibex, it’s one of the most unique national parks in Pakistan and maybe even its neighbouring countries. Because of the highway which runs through the park it is easily accessible, drawing many visitors who come to stare in awe at the rock formations.
We start our tour early in the morning leaving from Karachi to Gondrani Caves, which is believed to once have been a Buddhist monastery from the eighth century. The caves are carved into the rocks and are connected by pathways. We can find several rooms and spaces to put lamps. There are around 500 caves left and nothing is being done to preserve this archeological site.
Exploring the area is satisfying as the caves are located in an interesting landscape. We’ll afterwards go to Kund Malir Beach at Hingol National Park, where we will stay for the night, either camping or either at the small chalets there.
On our second day we’ll drive through the national park and stop at many points of interest, such as Princess of Hope, an incredible rock formation
on a mountain range. The entire landscape of the park is dotted with these strange and incredible twists of nature. Sometimes you won’t help thinking the site reminds you of the Grand Canyon. Other stops include the Lion of Balochistan, which looks like a sphinx, the Hinglaj Temple, a hindu temple in a cave. We’ll also visit the mud volcano and the oases. In the evening we’ll be staying at Turtle Beach near Karachi.
On our third day we’ll have an interesting journey in front of us with many interesting stops. Our first stop will be at the beach of Bhit Khori which is known for its golden sand and beautiful blue waters. The beach is known for its bioluminescent plankton which is sometimes observed at night. We’ll take our time to discover the beach and the surrounding areas.
Please, bring enough clothes, hiking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, mosquito repellent, towels, swimming clothes and anything else you think you might need for camping. You’re also welcome to bring your own camping gear.
Itinerary:
– Day 1: Start from Karachi, then Gondrani Caves, camp in Kund Malir Beach
– Day 2: Hingol exploration, stay in Turtle Beach, Karachi
– Day 3: Bhit Khori and other beaches from Karachi
Included:
– Professional English speaking guide
– All entrance fees – Private vehicle (not a tour group!)
– Camping
– Simple meals for during camping
Price:
1 person: 1890 usd
2 persons: 999 usd per person
3 persons: 739 usd per person
4 persons: 599 usd per person
