Sindh, Pakistan Travel Guide

Discover Sindh: From ancient ruins to modern cities, Sindh offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Pakistan.

Sindh, a province in southern Pakistan, is a treasure trove of history and culture. It is home to the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro, one of the earliest urban settlements in the world, dating back to 2500 BCE. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Indus Valley Civilization, with its well-planned streets and advanced drainage system. Karachi, the capital of Sindh, is a bustling metropolis and a major port city. It is rich in diverse cultures, bustling markets, and delicious street food. The city’s Clifton Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning sunsets over the Arabian Sea. The Quaid-e-Azam's Mausoleum is another must-visit, honoring the founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Sindh’s interior is equally captivating. The city of Hyderabad boasts the historic Pakka Qila and the beautiful Rani Bagh. The Thar Desert, with its unique landscape and colorful festivals, offers a different kind of charm. Visitors can experience the local culture by visiting the Bhit Shah, a shrine dedicated to the famous Sufi poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Sindh is also known for its handicrafts, including Ajrak (block-printed shawls) and Sindhi topi (traditional caps). These items make perfect souvenirs, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region. The province's warm and hospitable people add to its allure, making it a memorable destination for travelers.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sindh.

Visit Mohenjo-Daro early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
In Karachi, try the local street food, especially biryani and kebabs, but make sure to eat at popular, well-reviewed stalls.
Carry cash when traveling to interior Sindh, as ATMs and card facilities may be scarce.
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Hire a local guide to get the most out of your visit to historical sites and to understand the cultural significance.

Top City Travel Guides in Sindh

The cities of Sindh, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Karachi

Destinations in Sindh

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Makran Coastal Highway

Explore Sindh: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Sindh

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Sindhology Museum

Explore the vibrant cultural heritage of Sindh at the Sindhology Museum, a treasure trove of historical artifacts and exhibits.

4.4

Rani Bagh Zoo

Discover the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes at Rani Bagh Zoo in Hyderabad, a family-friendly attraction for all ages.

3.6

Zero Point

Discover the breathtaking views and serene environment of Zero Point, a hidden gem in Jamshoro, Sindh, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

4.3

Pakka Qila Ground

Discover the historical marvels of Pakka Qila Ground in Hyderabad, where ancient architecture meets vibrant local culture.

4.1

Best landmarks in Sindh

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Mohenjo Daro

Discover the ancient wonders of Mohenjo Daro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the brilliance of the Indus Valley Civilization.

4.4

Kot Diji Fort

Discover the grandeur of Kot Diji Fort, a historical fortress in Khairpur, Sindh, showcasing stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the landscape.

4.5

RaniKot Fort Sindh

RaniKot Fort: Discover Pakistan's largest historical fort, rich in culture and breathtaking views, perfect for adventurers and history lovers.

4.5

Wazir Mansion ( Quaid-e-Azam Place)

Discover Wazir Mansion, the birthplace of Quaid-e-Azam, a captivating historical museum in Karachi showcasing Pakistan's rich heritage.

4.5

Best restaurants in Sindh

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Foods Inn

Discover authentic Pakistani fast food at Foods Inn in Karachi – a vibrant dining experience rich in flavor and local culture.

4.3

Ginsoy - SMCHS Branch

Explore the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine at Ginsoy - SMCHS Branch in Karachi, where tradition meets local taste in every dish.

4.3

Sindhri Restaurant Sukkur Sindh

Experience authentic Pakistani cuisine at Sindhri Restaurant in Sukkur—where every meal tells a story.

4.3

Bam-Bou Restaurant

Experience the best of Chinese cuisine at Bam-Bou Restaurant in Karachi - where flavors meet tradition in a delightful setting.

4.2

Best bars in Sindh

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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1°C - One Degree Centigrade: Gulshan e Iqbal Branch

Discover unique soda flavors at 1°C - One Degree Centigrade, a vibrant bar in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi, perfect for tourists seeking a refreshing escape.

4.4

Irish Night

Savor the authentic flavors of Ireland at Irish Night in Karachi, a top-tier restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.1

Arrival Lounge Domestic

Experience comfort and convenience at the Arrival Lounge Domestic in Karachi, the perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and amenities.

4.2

Chai Together

Discover the vibrant essence of Karachi at Chai Together, where every drink is a delightful journey through local flavors and hospitality.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Sindh

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Snoker Club

Dive into the lively nightlife of Hyderabad at Snoker Club, where unforgettable music and vibrant dance come alive in a dazzling atmosphere.

3.6

Season tonight

Experience elegance and unforgettable moments at Season Tonight, Karachi's premier wedding venue, perfect for your special celebrations.

4.4

Mama Chai Collection

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Karachi at Mama Chai Collection, where exquisite chai and pulsating music create unforgettable experiences.

4.3

Soomro Club

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Soomro Club in Jacobabad, where music, dance, and vibrant energy create unforgettable moments.

5.0

Best shops in Sindh

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Dolmen Mall Tariq Road

Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Dolmen Mall Tariq Road in Karachi, where fashion, food, and fun come together in a remarkable experience.

4.4

Resham Bazar

Discover the colorful fabrics and vibrant culture at Resham Bazar, Hyderabad's premier market for traditional and contemporary clothing.

4.1

Unofficial Clothing

Discover the latest fashion trends at Unofficial Clothing in Karachi, a vibrant store featuring unique styles and a friendly shopping atmosphere.

4.3

Bachaa Party | Kids Shopping Store | Hyderabad

Explore the magical shopping experience at Bachaa Party, Hyderabad's ultimate kids' fashion accessories store in Boulevard Mall.

4.9

Explore Sindh on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Sindh, mapped for you.

Sindh Essentials

Sindh is accessible via multiple entry points. The main international gateway is Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, which connects to various global destinations. Domestic travelers can also use the Hyderabad Airport for internal flights. Overland routes include trains and buses from major Pakistani cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Quetta. For those traveling by car, highways such as the M-9 Motorway connect Karachi to Hyderabad, making road travel convenient.
Within Sindh, transportation options include a mix of public and private services. Karachi has a robust network of buses, rickshaws, and taxis. Services like Careem and Uber are also available in major cities. For intercity travel, trains operated by Pakistan Railways are a reliable option. Buses and vans, known locally as 'coasters,' connect smaller towns and rural areas. Renting a car is an option, but it’s advisable to hire a driver if unfamiliar with local driving conditions.
The official currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, cash is essential for transactions in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in cities but may be scarce in remote locations, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling outside urban centers.
Sindh is generally safe for tourists, but certain precautions are necessary. Areas in Karachi like Lyari and some parts of Malir have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Be cautious in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid displaying valuable items. Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period.
In case of an emergency, dial 15 for police assistance and 115 for medical emergencies. Major cities have well-equipped hospitals, such as Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available. Always keep a list of emergency contacts, including your country's embassy or consulate.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Women should avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs. During the call to prayer, remain silent and respectful. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer seats to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; men should wait for women to extend their hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings gracefully. Don't use your left hand for eating or passing food, as it’s considered impolite.
To experience Sindh like a local, visit traditional bazaars such as Karachi's Empress Market or Hyderabad's Shahi Bazaar. Engage with locals, who are generally hospitable and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Enjoy traditional Sindhi cuisine, such as Sindhi Biryani and Saag. Attend local festivals like the annual Sindh Cultural Day to immerse yourself in the region's vibrant culture. Don’t miss a visit to historical sites like Mohenjo-daro and the Makli Necropolis for a deep dive into Sindh's rich history.

When is the best time to visit Sindh?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Sindh

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Sindh. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloالسلام علیکم
  [Assalam Alaikum]
- Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [Khuda Hafiz]
- Yesجی ہاں
  [Ji Haan]
- Noنہیں
  [Nahin]
- Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم/خوش آمدید
  [Barah-e-Karam/Khosh Aamdeed]
- Thank youشکریہ
  [Shukriya]
- Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کرنا
  [Maaf Karna]
- How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [Aap Kaise Hain?]
- Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ اور آپ؟
  [Theek Hoon. Aur Aap?]
- Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [Kya Aap Angrezi Bolte Hain?]
- I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آتی
  [Mujhe Samajh Nahin Aati]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دکھائیں
  [Barah-e-Karam Menu Dikhain]
- I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [Main Gosht Nahin Khata]
- Cheers!چینج!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم میں ادائیگی کرنا چاہتا ہوں
  [Barah-e-Karam Main Adaigi Karna Chahta Hoon]
- Help!مدد!
  [Madad!]
- Go away!چلے جاؤ!
  [Chalay Jao!]
- Call the Police!پولیس کو بلائیں!
  [Police Ko Bulain!]
- Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلائیں!
  [Doctor Ko Bulain!]
- I'm lostمیں کھو گیا ہوں
  [Main Kho Gaya Hoon]
- I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [Main Bimar Hoon]
- I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
  [Main Kharidna Chahta Hoon...]
- I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
  [Main Sirf Dekh Raha Hoon]
- How much is it?یہ کتنے کا ہے؟
  [Yeh Kitne Ka Hai?]
- That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [Yeh Bohat Mehnga Hai]
- Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
  [Kya Aap Qeemat Kam Kar Sakte Hain?]
- What time is it?کیا وقت ہے؟
  [Kya Waqt Hai?]
- It's one o'clockیہ ایک بجے ہیں
  [Yeh Aik Baje Hain]
- Half past (10)ساڑھے (10)
  [Saadhe (10)]
- Morningصبح
  [Subah]
- Afternoonدوپہر
  [Dopahar]
- Eveningشام
  [Shaam]
- Yesterdayکل
  [Kal]
- Todayآج
  [Aaj]
- Tomorrowکل
  [Kal]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?کہاں ہے ...؟
  [Kahan Hai ...?]
- What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [Pata Kya Hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے (نقشے پر) دکھا سکتے ہیں؟
  [Kya Aap Mujhe (Naqshe Par) Dikhah Sakte Hain?]
- When's the next (bus)?اگلی (بس) کب ہے؟
  [Aagli (Bus) Kab Hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (.... کے لیے)
  [Aik Ticket (.... Ke Liye)]

History of Sindh

Sindh is home to one of the world's earliest urban civilizations, the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around 2600 to 1900 BCE. The city of Mohenjo-Daro, located near the Indus River, is one of the most significant archaeological sites of this civilization. The ruins suggest a highly advanced society with impressive urban planning, including well-laid-out streets, sophisticated drainage systems, and multistoried houses.
In 711 CE, the Umayyad Caliphate led by Muhammad bin Qasim conquered Sindh, marking the arrival of Islam in the Indian subcontinent. This conquest laid the foundations for Islamic culture and governance in the region. The city of Thatta became an early center of Islamic learning and culture, featuring numerous mosques, tombs, and other architectural marvels.
The Samma Dynasty ruled Sindh from 1351 to 1524 CE and significantly contributed to the region's cultural and architectural heritage. The rulers of this dynasty were known for their patronage of arts and architecture. The Makli Necropolis near Thatta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an extensive collection of elaborate tombs and mausoleums from this era, showcasing the intricate stone carvings and tile work characteristic of Samma architecture.
Sindh came under the control of the Mughal Empire in the early 16th century. During this period, the region experienced political stability and economic prosperity. The Mughals introduced new administrative systems and further enriched the cultural landscape with their architectural and artistic contributions. The Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is a prime example of Mughal architecture with its exquisite tile work and intricate design.
Sindh was annexed by the British East India Company in 1843 after the Battle of Miani. Under British rule, the region saw significant changes in its infrastructure, including the development of Karachi as a major port city. The British also introduced modern education and legal systems, which had a lasting impact on the region's socio-economic fabric. The colonial architecture in Karachi, including the Frere Hall and Empress Market, reflects this period of Sindh's history.
With the partition of British India in 1947, Sindh became a part of the newly formed state of Pakistan. Karachi was chosen as the country's first capital, making it a hub of political and economic activity. Since independence, Sindh has continued to grow and develop, balancing its rich historical heritage with modern advancements. The region remains a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and contemporary culture, offering a unique experience for travelers.