Discover the Enchantment of Ranikot Fort: Unveiling Pariyan Jo Thar

Nestled within the ancient walls of Ranikot Fort lies a hidden gem that adds an extra layer of mystique and allure to this monumental fortress. Pariyan Jo Thar, translated as "The Fairy's Pond," is a serene body of water that exudes an otherworldly charm, captivating visitors with its tranquil beauty and mythical associations.

A Fairy's Oasis: Legend has it that Pariyan Jo Thar was created by a benevolent fairy queen who bestowed her magic upon the land, ensuring eternal prosperity and protection for those who sought refuge within the fort's walls. The pond, with its crystal-clear waters shimmering in the sunlight, is said to be a manifestation of her divine presence, offering solace to weary travelers and enchanting all who behold its ethereal beauty.

A Sanctuary of Serenity: Stepping into the vicinity of Pariyan Jo Thar feels like entering a realm untouched by time. Surrounded by ancient stone walls and lush vegetation, the pond exudes an aura of tranquility that invites visitors to pause and reflect amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether it's the gentle rustle of leaves or the melodious chirping of birds, every sound seems to harmonize with the peaceful ambiance of this hidden oasis.

A Living Legacy: Beyond its mythical charm, Ranikot Fort has a tangible connection to the region's history through its inhabitants. After the Samma period in Sindh, the Argons ruled the land, and today, Ranikot houses many families of the Argon clan. These descendants of the ancient rulers contribute to the fort's living legacy, preserving their cultural heritage and passing down stories of valor and resilience through generations.

Empowering Women through Handicrafts: In an effort to blend heritage preservation with economic development, the concept of establishing a Cox Bazar within Ranikot Fort emerges. This initiative aims to empower local women skilled in Sindhi and Balochi embroidery by providing them with a platform to showcase their craftsmanship to tourists and visitors.

Implementing Public-Private Partnership: To realize the vision of Cox Bazar at Ranikot Fort, a public-private partnership (PPP) model can be adopted. The government can provide necessary infrastructure, such as stalls or market spaces, within the fort premises, while private entities can collaborate in managing operations, marketing, and promotion.

Steps for Successful Implementation:

1. Planning and Research: Conduct thorough market research to identify tourist preferences and popular handicrafts. Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining objectives, strategies, and market positioning.

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3. Artisan Empowerment: Identify and train local women artisans in Sindhi and Balochi embroidery techniques, providing them with skill enhancement opportunities to ensure the production of high-quality handicrafts.

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5. Infrastructure Development: Identify suitable locations within Ranikot Fort for setting up Cox Bazar stalls. Obtain necessary permissions and collaborate with local authorities for infrastructural development.

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7. Advertisement and Promotion: Implement robust marketing strategies to attract tourists and visitors to Cox Bazar. Utilize digital platforms, traditional advertising, and word-of-mouth promotion to increase visibility and footfall.

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9. Operations and Management: Establish efficient management systems for day-to-day operations, financial management, and expansion plans. Ensure transparency, accountability, and sustainability in business practices.

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11. Sustainability Measures: Emphasize eco-friendly practices in handicraft production and bazar operations. Utilize sustainable materials, implement waste management strategies, and raise awareness among tourists about the importance of environmental conservation.

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Conclusion: Ranikot Fort, with its mystical charm and living legacy, presents a unique opportunity for combining heritage preservation with economic empowerment through initiatives like Cox Bazar. By fostering public-private partnerships and embracing sustainable practices, this endeavor can not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of Sindh but also contribute to the socio-economic development of local communities. As visitors embark on a journey through the ancient walls of Ranikot Fort and immerse themselves in the enchanting ambiance of Pariyan Jo Thar, they become part of a transformative experience that celebrates tradition, craftsmanship, and the timeless beauty of Sindh's heritage.

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 Rooplo Kolhi's Epic Saga and Nagarparkar's Enchanting Wilderness Beckon Adventure Seekers

In the heart of Tharparkar, where the golden sands of the world's 20th largest desert stretch across 22,000 square kilometers, lies the tale of Rooplo Kolhi, a fearless Sindhi freedom fighter who etched his legacy in the Karoonjhar Mountains of Nagarparkar District. As we explore the untamed beauty of Nagarparkar, let's delve into the riveting story of Rooplo Kolhi's valiant fight against the British rulers.Tharparkar, a region largely occupied by the indigenous Kolhi community, became a battleground for resistance against British occupation. Rooplo Kolhi, born in 1818 in Konbhari village, emerged as the leader of the Rajput army, comprising fighters from the Kolhi community. The lush Karoonjhar Mountains, surrounded by the vast Tharparkar desert, became the backdrop for Rooplo's defiance.

Between 1843 and 1859, Rooplo Kolhi led his Rajput army in a relentless battle against the British forces. Defeating Col George Tyrwhitt thrice in the challenging terrain of Karoonjhar, Rooplo proved that the British couldn't conquer the land of the Kolhis with their modern weaponry. The resistance used guerilla tactics, catapults, katars, and axes, facing the colonizers with unparalleled bravery.In 1859, the British, determined to crush the rebellion, arrested Rooplo Kolhi. Despite severe torture, Rooplo refused to disclose information about his comrades and remained steadfast in his commitment to resist British rule. Nearly 6,000 Rajput fighters laid down their lives in clashes with the British army, staining the rivers Patyani and Ghodhro red. Rooplo's wife, Meenawati, stood by his side, urging him to continue the struggle.

The betrayal of Rooplo Kolhi by his own people led to his arrest and eventual hanging on August 22, 1858. The traitors were rewarded with land, while Rooplo's family migrated to Kunri. Despite the hardships faced by Rooplo's descendants, his legacy lives on, and visitors from India and Pakistan pay tribute to this national hero in the rugged mountains of Karoonjhar.After Rooplo's death, his mother Kesrbai and wife Meenawati migrated to Kunri, a part of today's Umerkot district, where his later descendants settled. The story of Rooplo Kolhi is etched in the history of Sindh, taught in schools, and celebrated through various tributes, including the Rooplo Kolhi Resort in Nagarparkar.

In 2017, a resort named Rooplo Kolhi Resort was inaugurated in Nagarparkar by the Sindh Tourism Development Corporation. Chief Minister of Sindh published a book about Rooplo Kolhi in October 2022, and civil society organizations advocate for declaring Karoonjhar Mountains a world heritage site, recognizing its significance in the fight against the British.

Nagarparkar's allure extends far beyond its historical significance. The desert's enchanting wilderness invites adventurers to witness a rich variety of wildlife, including the majestic peacocks adorning the arid landscape and migratory birds like Egyptian vultures and flamingos painting the sky with their vibrant hues.Marvel at the vibrant plumage of peacocks as they dance gracefully in the desert, creating a living tapestry against the golden sands. Look to the skies for avian spectacles, as migratory birds like Egyptian vultures and flamingos find sanctuary in Nagarparkar's serene landscapes.

For those seeking this unique blend of history and nature, reaching Nagarparkar from Karachi is an adventure in itself. Begin your journey from Karachi, the bustling metropolis on the Arabian Sea. Opt for a thrilling road trip! Take the National Highway (N-5) from Karachi towards Mirpurkhas. From Mirpurkhas, follow the road signs to reach Nagarparkar, approximately 300 kilometers away. The scenic journey promises glimpses of rural Sindh and the evolving landscapes as you approach the desert.

Embark on a journey that intertwines history, nature, and adventure, immersing yourself in the tales of Rooplo Kolhi and the captivating beauty of Nagarparkar. Tharparkar awaits, inviting international tourists to discover its hidden gems and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Sindh.

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Indus valley Cultural & Heritage Tourism - An Ethical Tourism

Indus valley Cultural & Heritage Tourism
An Ethical Tourism

 

Tour Sindh seeks to ensure the world’s unique attributes, history and cultural values are celebrated and preserved for generations to come.

Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night

Trip Cost: Rs 17,000/person

Start Date: Saturday, 4th March, 2023

End Date: Sunday, 5th March, 2023

Contact Details: Rehan Adil - 03002541383

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 01:
• Meetup Time at 12:00 AM
• Departure from Karachi 12:15 AM
• Breakfast at Ranipur
• Explore Sachal Sarmast Tomb
• Arrival and explore Kot Digi Fort, Khairpur
• Arrival at Sukkur
• Visit of Satin jo Astano
• Visit of Lanswdown Bridge
• Night Stay

Day 02:
• Breakfast at Sukkur
• Visit Sadhu Bela Mandir (Boat trip to Island)
• Sightseeing at Mohen-jo-Daro
• Departure for Karachi
• Reach Karachi

Khairpur:

1)     Kot Digi Fort:

The fort was built in 1785 by Mir Sohrab Khan Talpur, also the founder of the Kingdom in northern Sindh. The fort is situated in the Kot Diji town which is a few miles east of the Indus River and at the edge of Nara-Rajasthan desert.
At the entrance of the main gate to the fort, a drug addict is begging for a few rupees and a middle-aged man is selling plastic toys on his wooden cart. “A few years back there used to be traditional dresses and replicas of antiques but now the number of visitors to the fort has gone down so nothing sells here,” said a local shopkeeper, sitting in his shop a few yards away.
The entrance to the main 18 feet gate is through a small four feet gate. Both the gates have huge (two feet) pointed edges made of iron probably to stop elephants as during the era when the fort was built elephants were used in war. 

2)     Faiz Mahal:

It was built in Khairpur Mirs in 1798 as the principal building serving as the sovereign's court for the royal palace complex of Talpur monarchs of the Khairpur dynasty. Originally it included the ruler's chambers along with 16 waiting rooms for courtiers and guest rooms for royal guests alongside the durbar and dining halls. Additionally, there was the Hathi Khana for the royal elephant and the horse’s stables where today there is a mango orchard. 

Sukkur:

3)     Sadho Bela Mandir:

It is an island in the Indus River near Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan that is famous for its highly revered Hindu temples. The temples are associated with the syncretic Udasi movement. The island is famous for Teerath Asthan which is the biggest Hindu temple in Pakistan. The complex has eight other temples, a library, dining areas, a huge garden, along with rooms and residences for monks and people who want to stay on the island on a spiritual retreat. 

4)     Seven Sister Tomb:

The resting place for Seven Female-friends according to folklore.

Locals believe that These female friends resided here. The unmarried female-friends veiled themselves from all males, a practice called purdah (the practice of preventing men from seeing women). But for the fear of a tyrannical raja resulted in their disappearance, possibly in a cave in the side of a hill. Thus, they became satti. It is probable that this folklore has its origins in the Hindu ritual of sati, an inhumane ritual where widows burnt themselves or were burnt on their dead husband's pyre.

In reality however, this is the burial place of a ruler from Sukkur, Mir Abu Al-Qasim Namkeen (961 A.H). The tomb complex was ordered to be built by him. It was constructed in the ochre stone similar to that used in the necropolis of Makli Hill. Inscriptions and Quranic verses in the finest Naskh script adorn the walls and interior of these structures. Rows of hujras (rooms on the ground floor) were constructed for travellers and students. The famous blue tiles of Sindh were used to enhance the aesthetic impact. 

5)     Lansdown Bridge:

Jamalo Khoso Baloch, also known as Jamalo Sheedi, was born in Sukkur during the colonial rule of the British East India Company.  At some point, he was sentenced to hanging by a company officer, and was held in a jail near what was then the newly constructed Sukkur Bridge. When the East India Company announced a prize for anyone willing to test drive a train across the bridge, Jamalo was the only one to volunteer. His only condition was that he be completely pardoned when the job was done.  As Jamalo took the train across the bridge, there is rumoured to have been some nervy scenes, with the bridge sinking by nearly 4.5 inches when the train was near the midpoint of its course. Despite what must at the time have seemed like certain disaster, the bridge somehow managed to settle at the 4.5 inch dip and Jamalo made his way across. It is said that Jamalo’s wife was so relieved at his safe return, it is said that Jamalo’s wife composed the ‘Ho Jamalo’ song in jubilation of his safe return. 

LARKANA:

6) Mohen-jo-daro

The History of Mohen-jo-daro is of Mature Harappan Phase (2600 BCE–1900 BCE) shown in below mentioned picture ground level, while one can easily identify an Stupa built by Buddhist who had probably never ruled Sindh but occupy greater area along the river Sindh in 3 AD. Mohen-Jo-Daro (Mount of Death) inherits its name for the stupa built by Buddist in memory of the great nation who may provided the resting place to Buddhist forefathers while being on the trade journey.

Facilities included:
AC Transport round the trip
5 times standard meals during trip
Hotel Accommodation (4 Person Sharing)

REFUND/CANCELLATION
************
– 50% Refund if Cancellation 7 Days Before the Event
– 30% Refund if Cancellation 3 Days Before the Event
– 0% Refund if Cancellation Less than 2 Days Before Event

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Bunder Road - M. A. Jinnah Road

We started our photo walk from Pakistan Chawk, education hub of Karachi where institution such as my alma mater D.J. Sindh Government Science College, NED University and SM College are situated. 

Old Karachi has a good collection of architectural styles, ranging from early 19th-Century to Neo-Classical buildings to classical British, Indo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance and our very own Hindu architecture.

The best part of the old city is the majority of markets or roads are named after the products they sell such as Botal Galli, Paper Market e.t.c.

Our last stop was at the Shri Swaminarayan Temple, located in the midst of the Hindu neighbourhood, opposite KMC building on M. A. Jinnah Road, formerly Bunder Road. This Hindu temple was built in the year 1849 and belongs to Narnarayan Dev and Lord Swaminarayanin.

Shikhar (Mountain Peak) of the Swaminarayan Temple Karachi

There is only one Swaminarayan temple found in Pakistan. To visit this temple, one need to take prior permission from the temple management. Thanks to the management who granted us permission to visit the temple and Mr. Heralasi who showed us around.

Group Picture with Mr. HeraLasi at Swaminarayan Temple, Karachi
( Photo credit Razin Rubin)

The original images of Swaminarayan were removed and taken to India during the turbulent times of independence. One murti that was originally present here at that time, is now located in Khan Village, Rajasthan.

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Hawk's Bay Beach

Hawk's Bay Beach

Karachi, which was prehistorically a fishermen village, is now an economic hub of Pakistan with its largest seaport. Karachi always remains up and that I believe is due to cacophony of colourful buses shouting "Sedah Bandar road, Kemariee Towereayh". Karachites have infectious energy and remain busy in daily hustle.

There are many attractions that makes you forget all the chaos but amongst them beaches with ladies wearing gharara & sharara is the best option to enjoy....

Karachi is home to many exuberant beaches amongst them Hawke’s bay beach is an alluring picnic point for everyone. 

Hawke’s Bay provides a cleaner atmosphere with the clear water of the Arabian Sea flowing majestically as compared to Clifton beach.

Mostly people prefer going to Hawke’s Bay beach because of the availability of facilities, specially accommodation. It offers great range of accommodation from broken huts gallery to furnished huts, where one can stay a day or a night.

In short Hawke’s Bay beach provides refreshing ambiance where you can have a mirthful time with your friends and family members.

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