Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad
Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad
Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad
17 Days Starting in Karachi, Pakistan and ending in Islamabad, Pakistan
Visiting: Karachi, Hyderabad, Sehwan, Mohenjo Daro, Larkana, Sukkur, Bahawalpur, Multan, Lahore, Islamabad
Tour operator:
Tour code:
645
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 10
Age range:
12-85
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Ruins-Archaeology, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Pakistan with the "Indus Domes, Deserts & Islamabad" tour. Discover the rich cultural heritage at the National Museum in Karachi, unwind in the Manghopir hot sulphur springs, and experience the unique lifestyle of the Mohanas tribe on Manchar Lake. Explore the majestic Derawar Fort in the Cholistan desert, and immerse yourself in the vibrant city life of Multan and Lahore, including the famous flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagah border. This tour also includes visits to historical sites like Rohtas Fort, Harappa, and the Khewra Salt Mine, offering a comprehensive exploration of Pakistan's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and delicious meals throughout this captivating adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Karachi. Afternoon City Tour
Location: Karachi
Accommodation Name: Karachi hotel
Welcome in Pakistan at Karachi airport. Transfer to our hotel and take a rest before starting with our city tour.
Our tour begins on a high with a full day's sightseeing in and around Karachi. The National Museum gives us a complete vista of Pakistan’s cultural heritage from Stone Age to the birth of the nation. After visiting the oldest Sufi shrine in Karachi, Mohamad Ali Jinnah Mausoleum, we can unwind at Clifton Beach or maybe take a soak in the Manghopir hot sulphur springs, that many believe to have curative powers (and just a few crocodiles!)
We are sure to enjoy some of the variety of restaurants in around the city.
Day 2 : To Hyderabad Via Chaukundi, Thatta, Makli Hills & Kinjhar Lake
Location: Hyderabad
Accommodation Name: Hyderabad hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our destination today is Hyderabad, however we'll have a number of stops en-route to visit Chaukundi, Makli Hills and Thatta.
The Chaukundi Tombs are known for their elaborate and exquisite stone carvings and the style of architecture found here, is unique in that it can be found nowhere else in the Islamic world. Whilst in Thatta we'll visit the Shah Jahan Mosque, famous for its beautiful architecture, which was constructed during in the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan; better known as the visionary who created the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. Our final visit before heading to Hyderabad will be to the nearby Makli Hills. Makli Necropolis covers an area of around 10 kilometers and is thought to house up to 1 million tombs, built over a period of 400 years, it is perhaps the worlds largest necropolis
Before arriving in Hyderabad, we'll make a captivating stop at Kinjhar Lake, a wildlife haven and internationally recognized Ramsar site. This vast freshwater lake, the largest in Pakistan, teems with life. Lush reedbeds and vibrant underwater plants create a rich ecosystem that attracts a stunning array of birds.
Imagine flocks of ducks, geese, flamingos, and cormorants gracing the waters – a haven for both resident birds and those seeking a winter refuge. Kinjhar Lake is especially important for breeding birds like the Cotton Teal and the striking Pheasant-tailed Jacana.
Beyond its ecological significance, the lake supports a thriving fishing community of around 50,000 people, and even provides essential drinking water for Karachi. Since 1977, Keenjhar Lake has been protected as a Wildlife Sanctuary, ensuring this remarkable place remains a vibrant home for both nature and people.
Day 3 : Learn About Local Industries In Hyderabad, Hala & Bhit Shah And Join A Pottery Workshop
Location: Hyderabad
Accommodation Name: Hyderabad hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is all about the industries which the region around Hyderbad is famous for. In Hala and Bhit Shah, known as the hub of Sindhi handicrafts, we visit traditional craft workshops which are largely family-owned. Any purchases you choose to make here contribute to the local ecomony, with funds going directly into the hands of local artisans.
Amongst many handicrafts that Hala is known for, glazed ceramic, earthenware and terracotta are the most popular. These pots and tiles are available in various shapes and sizes and are famous for their exquisite hand painted designs. The artists use only signature colours which include: cobalt blue, turquoise, mustard, purple, brown and white; this form of art is known as ‘Kashi Kari’.
After seeing these talented artists at work, you'll have the opportunity to release your inner potter, as we join a pottery workshop, learn time-honored skills, and let your creativity flow as you mold the clay into your own unique masterpiece.
Nearby Bhit Shah is best known for being the home to a shrine dedicated to the Sindhi Sufi Poet, Shah Abdul Latif-Bhittai, who also gave his name to the town. We'll take time to visit the shrine before moving on to learn about Ajrak; a traditional block printed cloth which was a hallmark of the Indus Civilisation.
Day 4 : 'The Great Wall Of Sindh' - Ranikot Fort. Drive To Sehwan.
Location: Sehwan
Accommodation Name: Sehwan hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A real treat is in store this morning as we visit Ranikot Fort, also known as the Great Wall of Sindh, due to its huge 32km circumference, making it the worlds largest fort. The ramparts of the fort have often been compared to those found along the Great Wall of China and we'll have time to explore and get some great photos of the walls straddling the nearby hillsides. Our day ends in Sehwan, a city famous for the shrine of the 13th century Sufi Saint, Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.
Day 5 : Visit The Mohanas Tribe And Incredible Mohenjo Daro
Location: Mohenjo Daro
Accommodation Name: Larkana hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we'll drive to Manchar Lake which is home to the Mohana Tribe who are thought to be descendants of the first inhabitants of the Indus Valley.
The Mohana are a fascinating people who live in houseboats at the heart of Lake Manchar. Their unique way of life centers around fishing, a skill they've honed for generations. They partner with trained cormorants and night herons, who help them catch an abundance of fish – enough to sustain both the birds and the Mohana families. Sadly, this traditional lifestyle is endangered. The Mohana lost their exclusive fishing rights, facing competition from larger contractors. Water shortages and dams further disrupt their livelihood.
To support the Mohana, we spend time with them, learning about their culture. We hire their boats to explore the lake (when water levels allow). This provides a crucial income source for the fishing community, which in turn helps to preserve their ancestral way of life.
After boating on the lake with the Mohanas, we'll visit their original settlement of Mohenjo Daro, be prepared to be impressed! Mohenjo Daro flourised as the centre of the Indus Civilisation for around 800 years, during the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC. The city was one of the largest in the old world and was the first city in South Asia to demonstrate urbanisation. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980, the first site in South Asia to be so designated.
Day 6 : Exploring Larkana And Kot Diji Fort
Location: Larkana
Accommodation Name: Sukkur hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Larkana is home to the famous Bhutto family, who have held the leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) since it's inception in 1967. Two members of the family have gone on to be Prime Ministers of Pakistan, including Benazir Bhutto, who's widower Asif Ali Zardari also went on to be President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013. Whilst exploring Larkana we'll make a stop at the Bhutto Family Mausoleum, an impressive building which attracts large crowds on a yearly basis, to commemorate the death of Benazir Bhutto.
As we leave Larkana behind, we'll make our way to Sukkur, with a stop en-route to visit Kot Diji Fort, an important Harappa site (3000–2600 BC), which is situated at the foot of the Rohri Hills where the fort stands majestically above us.
Day 7 : Sadhu Belo Temple, Visit The Indus Dolphin Conservation Centre
Location: Sukkur
Accommodation Name: Sukkur hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we'll visit the island of Sadhu Belo which is famous for the highly revered Hindu Temples located here, including Teerath Asthan which is the largest Hindu Temple in Pakistan.
After our visit to the island, we'll enjoy a boat ride on the Sukkur River, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of dolphins. A local legend says that the Indus River Dolphin was once a woman who was cursed to be transformed into a dolphin, by a local holy man, who was angry that she forgot to prepare his food one day. The species was once thought to be extinct, however numbers are now on the rise, though they're not yet off of the endangered species list.
By taking our travellers to visit this area, our funds are helping to support the efforts being made by the Indus Dolphin Conservation Centre to:
Inject funds and awareness to support vital conservation work for habitat protection, research, and anti-poaching efforts.
Empower local communities by creating economic opportunities that foster a commitment to dolphin and habitat protection.
Influence policy by highlighting the importance of Indus River dolphins, encouraging stricter regulations to safeguard their environment.
Our final visit of the day takes us to the Masoon Shah Jo Minaro Tower, which was once the highest point in Sukkur, after ascending the 84 steps, you'll be rewarded with views of Sukkur where we'll be spending the night.
Day 8 : Drive To Bahawalpur Via Bhong Mosque
Location: Bahawalpur
Accommodation Name: Bahawalpur hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our route today takes us to the city of Bahawalpur. The city of Bahawalpur was founded in 1748 and was the capital of the former princely state of Bahawalpur, which was ruled by the Abassi family. The state remained independant until the formation of Pakistan in 1947. En-route to Bahawalpur we'll visit the Bhong Mosque. With its unique design, taking stylistic elements from nearby Lahore as well as Iran, Spain and Turkey, the mosque won the Aga Khan award for architecture in 1986 after a construction period of around 50 years.
Day 9 : Cholistan Desert, Derawar Fort And Tombs Of The Nawabs Of Bahawalpur
Location: Bahawalpur
Accommodation Name: Bahawalpur hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we drive into the Cholistan desert, where standing proudly we'll see the Derawar Fort, a famed hallmark of Bahawalpur. The Derawar Fort has around 40 bastions that stand 30 feet high and the walls have a circumference of approximately 1.5km. The Nawab of Bahawalpur, Sadeq Mohammad Khan I, captured the fort in 1733 and had it rebuilt into the design that you see today.
In front of the fort stands the Derawar mosque, which was constructed in 1844 AD. The mosque has three domes and two minarets built in the style of Moti Masjid at the Red Fort in Delhi.
We also visit the tombs of Nawabs of Bahawalpur, the royal graveyard of the Abbasi family. The Abbasi family was the ruling Nawab family of Bahawalpur and all of the previous Nawabs are buried here. The graveyard is still owned and controlled by the surviving family members of the Nawabs.
There is also an option to do camel safari in the Cholistan desert around Derawar Fort. Drive back to Bahawalpur, visiting Bibi Jaiwandi Tomb in Ucch along the way.
Day 10 : Exploring The Former Princely State Of Bahawalpur. Drive To Multan
Location: Bahawalpur
Accommodation Name: Multan hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Founded in 1748 by Nawab Bahawal Khan, the former state of Bahawalpur remained independant until the formation of Pakistan in 1947. The Nawabs left behind a wealth of culture and beautiful architecture and today we'll visit Nur Mahal, Bahawalpur Mosque, the Museum and the Bazaar. Later, we'll leave the city behind and make our way to Multan.
Day 11 : Multan, The City Of Saints, Mystics And Shrines
Location: Multan
Accommodation Name: Multan hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We have a full day of sightseeing ahead of us today, exploring the city of Multan. We'll start by exploring a number of shrines, dedicated to the great mystics Bahauddin Zakaria, Shah Rukn e Alam and Shams Tabrez which are decorated with beautiful glazed blue tiles. Later, we'll explore the old city of Multan, which has a bustling bazaar where you may see artisans making painted camel skin vases and lamp shades. We'll also visit the Eidgah Mosque which dates from the 16th to 17th century. Our evening will be spent in Multan.
Day 12 : Visit Harappa En-Route To Lahore
Location: Lahore
Accommodation Name: Lahore hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The archaeological site of Harappa provides us with an interesting stop off, on our way to Lahore. The town flourished as a centre of the Indus Valley Civilization and dates back to 3000 BC. Later in the day, we'll arrive in Lahore where we'll have a free evening to settle in.
Day 13 : Begin Exploring The City Of Lahore
Location: Lahore
Accommodation Name: Lahore hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We'll begin exploring Lahore today, making our first stop at Lahore Fort, a marvel of Moghul architecture which was constructed between the 11th and 16th centuries. Overlooking the Fort is the Badshahi Mosque (the Royal Mosque). the world’s largest, and our next stop. The mosque was constructed during the reign of Emperor Aurengzeb. Pakistan's most famous poet-philosopher, Dr Mohamad Iqbal, lies buried outside the mosque.
From here we move to Jahangir's Tomb. The Tomb was built by his son Shah Jahan (who is best known for constructed the Taj Mahal) in 1627. After making a stop at the Lahore Museum, we will enjoy the city’s love of food by visiting the ‘food street’ in the old town, where we can find many different dishes and flavours.
Day 14 : Old Walled City Of Lahore And The Wagah Border Ceremony
Location: Lahore
Accommodation Name: Lahore hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Old Walled City is our next stop with its narrow and dimly lit alleys leading from Sarafa Bazaar to Kashmiri Bazaar. Brass inlay work, as well as local handicrafts can be found in abundance here. We visit Shahi Hamam (Royal Bath) and the Wazir Khan Mosque before heading to the Wagah border with India to watch the flag lowering ceremony. Each day there is an elaborate military drill which symbolizes the 2 countries’ rivalry over the last 60 years.
Day 15 : To Islamabad Via The Rohtas Fort & Khewra Salt Mine
Location: Islamabad
Accommodation Name: Islamabad hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Islamabad, en-route visit the Rohtas Fort and Khewra Salt Mine. Rohtas Fort was built in 1540 by Sher Shah Suri. It is one of the most imposing historical monuments in Pakistan especially attractive for anyone with a taste for castles in the most romantic tradition. Sher Shah Suri built this fort to keep the Ghakkar tribe in check and kept around12000 men here. The fort also guarded his famous Grand Truck Road on which you will travel. Next we'll stop at the Khewra Salt Mine where we'll take a guided train ride into the mine complex. Explore various chambers highlighting different salt colors and formations. We'll also visit the underground mosque. After arriving in Islamabad you'll have a free evening.
Day 16 : Tours Of Islamabad, Taxila And Rawalpindi
Location: Islamabad
Accommodation Name: Islamabad hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Islamabad is a city of many contrasts with green avenues, splendid views of the surrounding hills and busy city life. We have a full day's guided tour around the major sights, including the old city of Rawalpindi, Daman e Koh view point and the huge structure of Shah Faisal Mosque.
A short drive away is the museum of Taxila and the remains of Jaulian Monastery. We have time to browse in the museum at the artefacts, many dating back over 2000 years.
Day 17 : Transfer To Islamabad Airport For Departure
Location: Islamabad
Accommodation Name: N/A
Meals Included: Breakfast
You'll have some free time in Islamabad today until you are transferred to the airport for departure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in twin share simple hostels/hotels.
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Karachi City Tour
A full day tour of Karachi city and its surroundings.
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Manghopir Sufi Shrine
Visit to Manghopir Sufi Shrine and hot sulphur springs.
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Ajrak Factory Visit
Visit to an Ajrak factory to see traditional block printed cloth.
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Boating on Manchar Lake
Boating with the Mohanas tribe on Manchar Lake.
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Boat Safari to Sukkur Island
Boat safari to Sukkur Island.
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Sadu Bela Hindu Temple
Visit to Sadu Bela Hindu Temple.
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Derawar Fort
Visit to Derawar Fort.
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Multan City Tour
Tour of Multan city.
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Harappa Archaeological Site
Visit to the Harappa archaeological site.
What's Not Included
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Visas
Visas are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information are not included.
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Flights
Flights are not included.
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Airport Taxes & Transfers
Airport taxes and transfers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Drinks
Drinks are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included.
Mode of Transport
All transport is included, with various modes of travel such as boat trips, safaris, and guided tours to different locations.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in twin-share simple hostels and hotels throughout the tour.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The accommodation provided during the tour consists of twin-share simple hostels and hotels.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes three meals per day, along with tea and coffee in the morning and afternoon.
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Is there an English-speaking guide available during the tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide is included in the tour.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
All transport is included in the tour package.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, airport transfers are included in the tour package.
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What activities are included in the Karachi city tour?
The Karachi city tour includes a visit to the National Museum, the oldest Sufi shrine in Karachi, Mohamad Ali Jinnah Mausoleum, Clifton Beach, and the Manghopir hot sulphur springs.
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What can I expect during the visit to Manchar Lake?
At Manchar Lake, you will have the opportunity to boat with the Mohanas tribe, who are known for their unique fishing techniques using trained cormorants and night herons.
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What is special about the Ranikot Fort visit?
Ranikot Fort, also known as the Great Wall of Sindh, has a 32km circumference, making it the world's largest fort. The ramparts of the fort are often compared to the Great Wall of China.
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What will we see at the Harappa archaeological site?
The Harappa archaeological site is a significant location of the Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to 3000 BC. It provides insights into one of the earliest urbanized cities in South Asia.
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What is the significance of the Wagah Border Ceremony?
The Wagah Border Ceremony is an elaborate military drill that symbolizes the rivalry between India and Pakistan over the last 60 years. It is a daily flag-lowering ceremony that attracts many visitors.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Khewra Salt Mine?
During the visit to the Khewra Salt Mine, you will take a guided train ride into the mine complex, explore various chambers with different salt colors and formations, and visit an underground mosque.
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What are some of the highlights of the Lahore city tour?
The Lahore city tour includes visits to Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, Jahangir's Tomb, Lahore Museum, and the famous 'food street' in the old town where you can try various culinary dishes.
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What is included in the Islamabad city tour?
The Islamabad city tour includes visits to the old city of Rawalpindi, Daman e Koh viewpoint, Shah Faisal Mosque, and the Taxila museum.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.
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How many people do you take on your Trips?
On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.
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Low Deposit
Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of oasis overland charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 33% of booking price.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.