Islands of Pakistan – Hidden Coastal Wonders to Explore

  • February 11, 2025
  • 0

Pakistan, with its vast coastline along the Arabian Sea, is home to several beautiful and mysterious islands. These islands are rich in marine biodiversity, offering opportunities for snorkeling,

Islands of Pakistan – Hidden Coastal Wonders to Explore

Pakistan, with its vast coastline along the Arabian Sea, is home to several beautiful and mysterious islands. These islands are rich in marine biodiversity, offering opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and eco-tourism. Some of them, like Astola Island, are untouched natural wonders, while others serve as important marine conservation sites.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most famous islands of Pakistan and what makes them special.


Famous Islands of Pakistan

1. Astola Island – The Island of Seven Hills

  • Location: Arabian Sea, off the coast of Balochistan
  • Best Time to Visit: October – April
  • Highlights: Marine biodiversity, snorkeling, untouched beaches

Astola Island, also known as Haft Talar (Island of Seven Hills), is Pakistan’s largest offshore island. It is an uninhabited island with crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and diverse marine life. Declared a marine protected area, it is a paradise for snorkelers and divers, featuring coral reefs, sea turtles, and exotic fish.


2. Churna Island – The Diver’s Paradise

  • Location: Near Karachi, Sindh
  • Best Time to Visit: September – May
  • Highlights: Scuba diving, coral reefs, marine life

Churna Island is one of the most famous adventure spots near Karachi. It is a small uninhabited island and a hotspot for water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, cliff diving, and jet skiing. The island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a great spot to see colorful fish, dolphins, and even whale sharks.


3. Bundal and Buddo Islands – Karachi’s Coastal Twins

  • Location: Off the coast of Karachi, Sindh
  • Best Time to Visit: November – March
  • Highlights: Fishing, boating, mangrove forests

Located near Karachi’s coastline, Bundal and Buddo Islands are famous for their serene landscapes, mangrove forests, and rich marine life. These islands are known for the annual Sufi shrine festival of Pir Haji Shah Bukhari, attracting visitors and devotees. Plans have been proposed for tourism development, but the islands remain largely unexplored.


4. Manora Island – A Historical Gem

  • Location: Karachi, Sindh
  • Best Time to Visit: October – April
  • Highlights: Sandy beaches, historic sites, Manora Fort

Manora Island is a historical island located at the entrance of Karachi’s harbor. The island is famous for its ancient Hindu temple, colonial-era lighthouse, and beautiful beaches. A newly constructed Manora Beach promenade makes it an accessible weekend getaway for Karachiites.


5. Zalzala Island – The Vanishing Island

  • Location: Near Gwadar, Balochistan
  • Best Time to Visit: Not accessible (natural phenomenon)
  • Highlights: Created by an earthquake, submerged over time

Zalzala Island (meaning “Earthquake Island”) emerged near Gwadar after a powerful earthquake in 2013. Mud volcano activity formed this island, but it gradually disappeared beneath the sea over the years. It remains a natural wonder and a reminder of Pakistan’s dynamic coastal geography.


Why Visit Pakistan’s Islands?

  • Marine Adventure – From snorkeling in Astola to scuba diving in Churna, Pakistan’s islands offer thrilling experiences.
  • Rich Biodiversity – These islands are home to rare marine species, coral reefs, and migratory birds.
  • Serene Getaways – Escape the city and explore untouched beaches, mangrove forests, and coastal beauty.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s islands are hidden gems, offering everything from adventure sports to wildlife exploration. Whether you want to dive in the waters of Churna, explore the remote beauty of Astola, or visit the historical sites of Manora, these coastal wonders have something for everyone.

Plan your next island adventure and explore the beauty of Pakistan’s shores!