Keenjhar Lake Kalri Lake Freshwater Paradise and Noori Shrine
Keenjhar Lake in Thatta also known as Kalri Lake is Pakistans second largest freshwater lake featuring motorboating water sports and the historic shrine of Noori Jam Tamachi.
ExploreHaleji Lake Bird Sanctuary International Wetland Reserve Thatta
Thatta, Sindh
Overview
Sprawling across 19 square kilometers of serene turquoise waters and lush aquatic flora near Thatta Sindh Haleji Lake holds the global title of The Birds Paradise of Asia. Designated as a Ramsar International Wetland Sanctuary in 1976 this artificial freshwater reservoir was originally constructed during World War II by the British administration to supply clean water to American and British troops stationed in Karachi. Surrounded by a 17-kilometer raised earth embankment and thick marshy reed beds Haleji Lake serves as one of South Asias most crucial winter habitats welcoming over 100000 migratory waterfowl Siberian ducks pelicans flamingos egrets and marsh crocodiles. Located just 88 kilometers east of Karachi Haleji Lake is a world-class haven for eco-tourists wildlife photographers and birdwatchers.
Highlights
- Universally celebrated as The Birds Paradise of Asia and a premier Ramsar International Wetland
- Winter sanctuary for over 100000 migratory Siberian birds waterfowl pelicans and flamingos
- Historic World War II artificial freshwater reservoir surrounded by a 17 km embankment drive
- Home to native Mugger marsh crocodiles white-tailed eagles white pelicans and purple gallinules
- Surrounded by shaded green forest trees lotus marshlands and scenic wildlife viewing towers
- Conveniently located along National Highway N-5 just 88 kilometers east of Karachi near Thatta
Things To Do
- Take scenic eco-drives or bike rides along the 17-kilometer raised lake embankment perimeter
- Spot rare winter migratory Siberian ducks white pelicans flamingos and purple moorhens
- View wild marsh crocodiles basking along marshy reed banks from elevated wildlife observation towers
- Capture world-class bird photography nature shots and golden hour lake reflections
- Enjoy peaceful family eco-picnics under shaded trees near the Sindh Wildlife Department center
Local Transportation
Located 88 km east of Karachi and 15 km west of Thatta city center off the main National Highway N-5. Easily accessible via private cars, sedans, SUVs, tour coaster buses, or local intercity transport.
Accommodation
Day-trip eco-tourism destination. Sindh Wildlife Department operates basic inspection rest houses on site; luxury five-star hotels exist in Karachi (1 hour drive away) and resort cottages operate at nearby Keenjhar Lake (25 minutes drive away).
Food & Cuisine
Highway culinary corridor. Enjoy fresh live-cooked Indus River Palla fish, fried Carp, Sindhi Biryani, local parathas, and hot cardamom green tea at roadside dhabas near Gharo and Thatta city 10 minutes drive away.
Safety Information
Protected wildlife reserve managed by Sindh Wildlife Department and local administration. Remain on designated raised embankment roads, refrain from walking into deep marshy reed beds, keep a safe distance from marsh crocodile nesting areas, carry physical CNIC cards, and do not litter.
Travel Tips
Carry high-magnification binoculars or telephoto camera lenses for birdwatching, wear comfortable walking shoes and earth-toned clothing, bring sun hats and water bottles, and combine with nearby Banbhore or Makli Hill.