Haleji Lake Bird Sanctuary International Wetland Reserve Thatta
Haleji Lake near Thatta is widely celebrated as the Birds Paradise of Asia and a premier Ramsar International Wetland hosting thousands of winter migratory Siberian birds.
ExploreKeenjhar Lake Kalri Lake Freshwater Paradise and Noori Shrine
Thatta, Sindh
Overview
Sprawling across 24 kilometers in length and 6 kilometers in width near Thatta Sindh Keenjhar Lake also popularly known as Kalri Lake is Pakistans second largest freshwater lake and an indispensable ecological sanctuary. Formed by the union of two natural lakes Keenjhar and Soniari this massive body of water supplies crucial freshwater to Karachi while serving as a premier weekend resort for watersports powerboating and family picnics. Deeply rooted in Sindhi folklore Keenjhar Lake is legendary as the setting of the tragic romance between Prince Jam Tamachi and the fisherwoman Noori immortalized by Sufi poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. At the heart of the lake rests an island housing the revered Shrine of Noori accessible exclusively by motorboats surrounded by serene migratory bird breeding grounds.
Highlights
- Pakistans second largest freshwater lake spanning over 24 kilometers in length
- Island shrine of Noori Jam Tamachi situated right in the center of deep blue waters
- Famous Sindh tourism resort offering speedboating jet skiing and passenger motorboats
- Immortalized in Sindhi Sufi folklore by Saint Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai in Shah Jo Risalo
- Designated Ramsar International Wetland site hosting thousands of winter migratory birds
- Located conveniently along National Highway N-5 just 122 km east of Karachi and 19 km from Thatta
Things To Do
- Take scenic speedboats or motorboat rides across the vast expanse to Noori Island Shrine
- Enjoy family lakeside picnics swimming cabana rentals and water jet ski rides
- Spot rare winter migratory waterfowl pelicans and Siberian ducks across the calm waters
- Savor fresh live-cooked Indus River Palla and Carp fish fry served hot at lakeside restaurants
- Capture stunning golden hour sunset photography over deep turquoise lake waters
Local Transportation
Located along National Highway N-5 / Indus Highway 19 km north of Thatta city center and 122 km east of Karachi. Accessible via private cars, sedans, SUVs, tour coaster buses, or local taxis from Karachi and Thatta.
Accommodation
Premier lake resort hub. STDC Keenjhar Resort operates air-conditioned lakeside VIP cottages and cabanas overlooking the water. Luxury five-star hotels exist in Karachi (1.5 hours drive away) and Hyderabad (1 hour drive away).
Food & Cuisine
Authentic lakeside seafood destination. Enjoy live-cooked fresh fried Palla fish (Indus Shad), Carp, fried prawns, chicken karahi, and hot cardamom green tea served at STDC resort dining halls and roadside dhabas.
Safety Information
Active tourist water site guarded by Sindh Tourism Police, Sindh Wildlife Department, and local boat captains. Always wear certified lifejackets during boat cruises, swim only in designated shallow beach zones, carry physical CNIC cards, and keep children supervised near water piers.
Travel Tips
Book motorboats from official STDC boat piers, carry extra dry clothes and sunblock, visit on weekdays to avoid heavy weekend crowds, and pair with Makli Hill and Shah Jahan Mosque Thatta.