Karachi capital of the province of Sindh, is the Financial capital and the largest city of Pakistan, with a metropolitan population usually ranked among the top 5 cities in the world.
Karachi is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, north-west of the Indus River Delta and has a mild climate. The city is the financial and commercial centre as well as the largest port of the country. spread over 3,530 square kilometers. The city credits its growth to the mixed populations of economic and political migrants and refugees from different national, provincial, linguistic and religious origins who have largely come to settle here permanently. It is locally termed as the City of Lights for its liveliness and the City of The Quaid, for not only being both the birth and death place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah the founder of Pakistan but also his home after 1947.
Residents and those born in the city are called "Karachiites".
Jinnah International Airport (IATA: KHI), is Karachi's largest international and domestic airport. Built by a French company and opened in 1993, it's one of the best airports in South Asia. Facilities include a McDonald's outlet, a Citibank ATM (in Arrivals), hotels and a duty free shop that doesn't sell alcohol. Spotty lighting is a downside. Previously, immigration was a lengthy process, but after rearrangement of counters and the introduction of a green channel in 2006, this is no longer the case.
The main ways of getting around in Karachi is through buses, and it is used by the majority of the Karachi population. However, outsiders might be put off by the cramped conditions in the buses, and might prefer traveling in taxis. There are three kinds of taxis in Karachi, Metro, Yellow and Black. The yellow ones are generally thought to be better than the black ones. Although they do charge a greater mark up. The Metros are chains of taxis operated by different private sector companies (i.e. private version of NY's TLC). As in any nation, elements can overcharge "foreigners". Most of the Black and Yellow taxis don't have any meter, so you should first fix the charge and the location with the driver before getting in. The official per kilometer rate is around 7 Rupees but expect to pay around double of that.
There is also the so called "Radio/White Cab" service, which is air conditioned and can be called in at the airport or anywhere in the city. Typical cost for a full day (8 hours, 150 KM) is $25 (USD). White Cab Tel No. 00-92-111-789-786 or within Karachi 111-789-786. Per kilometer rate is 15 Rupees plus Rs. 50 calling charges.
A new company, "Metro Cabs" is considered highly efficient, their taxis are usually easily available from the airport, rates are very reasonable. Metro Cab Tel. No. 00-92-21-111-222-787 or within Karachi 111-222-787.
Once you get the hang of traveling in Karachi, it becomes a very entertaining experience. You meet new people and get to see really unexpected things. It's not very hard to find a mode of transportation and if you know what you are doing, very easy to get around.
There is much to do in Karachi, a city of 18 million people is unlikely to be short on activities!
You can shop to one's hearts content, in the massive range of markets and bazaars that dot the city, or one can shop at one of the many modern shopping malls that are found across the city's more affluent sectors, namely Defence and Clifton.
From a historical perspective, Karachi has a fine collection of Anglo-Indian architecture, a legacy of the British Raj, which can keep History buffs engaged. As well as a fine history in its own right, with ancient pre Islamic and later Muslim rulers leaving there mark on this enchanted area around which the modern city has formed.
On the sports front, one is spoilt for choice. Cricket can be found at every conceivable corner; in the lush grounds of the more wealthy professional clubs or elite schools, to the side streets of the working class Sadar City district of Karachi. There are several fine Golf courses-which host international tournaments such as the Pakistan Open on the Asian circuit, a bustling race track, and a wide range of water sports are accessible due to the City's Arabian Sea coast.
Culture vultures will find a city with 10 Art Galleries, displaying broad works from Asia, and some New Age works from aspiring Pakistani artists.
Walks along the beaches, under clear skies, at night are an experience worth the travel alone, as visitors can gaze towards the heavans with the Arabian sea cascading over there sandalled feet. Joyous memories are assured!
Simply let yourselves be overwhelmed by this city, its size and scope, its heart breaking disparity between rich and poor, and its breath taking sights and sounds. Karachi isn't a city, it is a world unto itself.
There are a great number of shopping places in Karachi, ranging from the traditional bazaar to the modern shopping malls. A first-time visitor should try and visit the bazaars, The bazaars usually consist of many small vendors selling a variety of products from accessories to clothes to food and drink. In addition, there are larger stores which are more specific in their products. Also one would find that the bazaars are a more culturally enriching experience, and everything's so cheap!
Another thing you might be interested in doing is catching a movie at the Karachi Cineplex. There is also a Chinese restaurant adjacent to the cinema where you can try a Pakistani Chinese meal, or not too far is the seaview McDonalds.
Karachi has several fantastic upscale restaurants, which serve a huge variety of cuisines. Most of the upper-end restaurants are either located within one of the major hotels in the city (the Sheraton, the Pearl Continental and Avari Towers), or in the trendy shopping district of Zamzama in Defence. For example, the Peal Continental is known for its Thai (The Blue Elephant), Japanese (Sakura), and Chinese (Tai Pan) restaurants; the Avari is known for its Japanese (Fujiyama) and Chinese (Dynasty), and the Sheraton for its Pakistani (the Pakistani).
Zamzama, however, is where much of Karachi's trendier restaurants, such as Okra , Cafe Aylanto, Gunsmoke, Pompeii, Baan Thai, Chatterbox and Aqua Lounge are located. Aqua Lounge is most popular for sea food and steaks and is highly recommended. More commercial (and less trendy) eateries include the Copper Kettle restaurant. Coffee-shops are aplenty, with the most trendy being Espresso (it has another/larger branch in Defence) at Espresso they also serve a good breakfast and yummy desserts. Latitute, Ciao and Costa are also popular for coffee, and new coffee places include The Avenue and Cafe Coffee Day. There are also several dozen different locations for international fast-food chains such as KFC, Pizza Hut and McDonalds in almost every Karachi locality. For people looking for a more central location would be well advised to try The Korean (near Schoen Circle, in Clifton), Cafe Flo (located in the Alliance Francaise, near the Three Swords), Thai Sea food (located at Old Sunset Boulevard), Kay Bees (located near Lal Qila Restaurant).
Four popular restaurants that give diners a chance to sample a variety of mostly Pakistani foods, buffet-style, are Lal Qila , Floating Kitchen, Revolving Restaurant and The Village. Built in the style of a 17th-century Moghul fort, Lal Qila offers barbecue, biryani, and a local beef-based delicacy, haleem, in its open brick courtyard. Beware long lines during the peak evening dining hours. The Village & Floating Kitchen is by the beach at Sea View (Clifton) and is very popular.
People with concerns about the spiciness and hygiene factor of the foods available, particularly those visiting from abroad, tend to find themselves at BBQ Tonight, which may well be one of Karachi's most popular restaurants. Spread over four stories of seating, the restaurant is almost always completely packed, but the turnover is high, so reservations aren't required. It is only open in the evenings. The rooftop at BBQ Tonite is recommended.
If anyone is looking for "chaat" (a local-fare of chickpeas mixed with other things) Chatkharay in Khadda Market (Defence) is good. There are lots of ice-cream and dessert parlours, these include Hot Spot, Gelato Affair, Movenpick etc.
For those on a more restricted budget (while Pakistani restaurants do not sell alcohol, most upscale ones will serve bottles if customers bring them; nonetheless, a full meal for two can be as expensive as US$50-100 at the top eateries, but not if you choose carefully), tourists and visitors are advised to try Karachi's Boat Basin, a central neighbourhood consisting of a mile-long strip of open-air street food/restaurants. Favourites tend to include Karachi Broast, Mr Burger, Qasr-Al-Nakheel, and Tandoori Hut. Boat Basin is where almost all of Karachi's late-partying citizens, regardless of social or economic standing, wind up since food is often available until 5:00 or 6:00 a.m., if not 24 hours. Many remain in their cars and are served by waiters there. Local style breakfast (such as halwa puri) is also served at Boat-Basin from 6-7am onwards. Visitors hoping to try more authentic cuisine are advised to try restaurants such as Bundoo Khan's, Student's Biryani or Sabri Nihari, all of which are located in the "old city" region of Karachi, known as Saddar. Bundoo Khan's also has other branches throughout the city. These places, and Burns Road (another street just full of local food cuisines) are immensely popular, but may not be a good idea for a foreigner's pallette.
Be warned that restaurants NOT located in either the hotels and/or Zamzama will usually tend to only accept cash payments, and not take any form of debit or credit card. It is a good idea to always carry enough cash to tide on over (at most of these locations, Rs. 1000-2000 [US$20-35 approx.] will be more than sufficient on a per head basis).
One can easily find a franchise of KFC, McDonald, Pizza Hut or Domino's across the street if you're in a good area. You can always ask a nearby shopkeeper in a shop or real estate officer about good places to eat.
Drinking alcohol in public areas is nominally banned, and most of the top end hotels have their own bars.
Of the local drinks, Lassi is a classic yogurt drink that is served either plain or sweet, and is sometimes flavored or even fused with fresh fruit. Highly recommended!
Another favourite is Sugar Cane Juice. Extracted by mechanical force it is best when fresh. You can always get a fresh juice with froth on top for a nominal price. For someone who has never tasted this its a treat and something to remember. You would also love the Falouda and other fresh fruit juices, extracted right in front of you plus those common soft drinks including some like the local limca cola, which makes that "pop" sound when opened.
If you want to drink plain water, always prefer bottled water of a good brand, it just costs 40 cents (Rs. 25/ cold) for a 1.5 liter bottle of Nestle water.
Karachi is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, north-west of the Indus River Delta and has a mild climate. The city is the financial and commercial centre as well as the largest port of the country. spread over 3,530 square kilometers. The city credits its growth to the mixed populations of economic and political migrants and refugees from different national, provincial, linguistic and religious origins who have largely come to settle here permanently. It is locally termed as the City of Lights for its liveliness and the City of The Quaid, for not only being both the birth and death place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah the founder of Pakistan but also his home after 1947.
Residents and those born in the city are called "Karachiites".
Get in
Jinnah International Airport (IATA: KHI), is Karachi's largest international and domestic airport. Built by a French company and opened in 1993, it's one of the best airports in South Asia. Facilities include a McDonald's outlet, a Citibank ATM (in Arrivals), hotels and a duty free shop that doesn't sell alcohol. Spotty lighting is a downside. Previously, immigration was a lengthy process, but after rearrangement of counters and the introduction of a green channel in 2006, this is no longer the case.
Get around
The main ways of getting around in Karachi is through buses, and it is used by the majority of the Karachi population. However, outsiders might be put off by the cramped conditions in the buses, and might prefer traveling in taxis. There are three kinds of taxis in Karachi, Metro, Yellow and Black. The yellow ones are generally thought to be better than the black ones. Although they do charge a greater mark up. The Metros are chains of taxis operated by different private sector companies (i.e. private version of NY's TLC). As in any nation, elements can overcharge "foreigners". Most of the Black and Yellow taxis don't have any meter, so you should first fix the charge and the location with the driver before getting in. The official per kilometer rate is around 7 Rupees but expect to pay around double of that.
There is also the so called "Radio/White Cab" service, which is air conditioned and can be called in at the airport or anywhere in the city. Typical cost for a full day (8 hours, 150 KM) is $25 (USD). White Cab Tel No. 00-92-111-789-786 or within Karachi 111-789-786. Per kilometer rate is 15 Rupees plus Rs. 50 calling charges.
A new company, "Metro Cabs" is considered highly efficient, their taxis are usually easily available from the airport, rates are very reasonable. Metro Cab Tel. No. 00-92-21-111-222-787 or within Karachi 111-222-787.
Once you get the hang of traveling in Karachi, it becomes a very entertaining experience. You meet new people and get to see really unexpected things. It's not very hard to find a mode of transportation and if you know what you are doing, very easy to get around.
See
- Mazar-e-Quaid - tomb of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan
- Mohatta Palace and museum
- Lady Lloyd pier at Bin Qasim park
- Karachi Port Authority's Water Jet fountain
- Aga Khan University hospital - for its modernist Islamic architecture
- Masjid e Tooba - largest single-domed mosque in the world
Beaches and Waterfront
- Clifton Beach
- Beach Park
- Jehangir Kothari Parade
- Hawke's Bay Beach - breeding ground for endangered turtles
- Paradise Point - rock promontory in the sea with a natural arch
- Sandspit Beach
- French Beach
Museums
- Pakistan Air Force Museum
- Karachi Expo Centre
- PIA Planetarium
- Karachi Stock Exchange Building
- National Museum of Pakistan
- Koocha-e-Saqafat (National Arts Council)
- Pakistan Maritime Museum
- WWF Wetland center at Sandspit
Colonial Buildings
- Merewether Tower
- Frere Hall
- Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Karachi
- Sindh High Court
- National Academy of Performing Arts
- Empress Market
Islands
- Clifton Oyster Rocks
- Bundal Island
- Manora Island
- Churna Island (Naval gunnery site, as well as Pakistan's only coral reefs)
Clubs
- Karachi Boat Club
- DHA Creek Club
- Marina Club
- Arabian sea country club
- DHA Golf club
- Sindh club
- Karachi club
- Karachi Gymkhana
Amusement Parks
- Aladdin Amusement Park
- Sindbad Amuesment Park
- Safari Park
- Hill park
Famous Avenues
- Zamzama Avenue (famous for its designer outlets & clubs)
- Beach Avenue
- Karsaz Road (Karachi's pride)
- II Chundrigar Road (Karachi's Wall Street)
- Shahrah-e-Faisal
- Tariq Road (Shopping street)
Do
There is much to do in Karachi, a city of 18 million people is unlikely to be short on activities!
You can shop to one's hearts content, in the massive range of markets and bazaars that dot the city, or one can shop at one of the many modern shopping malls that are found across the city's more affluent sectors, namely Defence and Clifton.
From a historical perspective, Karachi has a fine collection of Anglo-Indian architecture, a legacy of the British Raj, which can keep History buffs engaged. As well as a fine history in its own right, with ancient pre Islamic and later Muslim rulers leaving there mark on this enchanted area around which the modern city has formed.
On the sports front, one is spoilt for choice. Cricket can be found at every conceivable corner; in the lush grounds of the more wealthy professional clubs or elite schools, to the side streets of the working class Sadar City district of Karachi. There are several fine Golf courses-which host international tournaments such as the Pakistan Open on the Asian circuit, a bustling race track, and a wide range of water sports are accessible due to the City's Arabian Sea coast.
Culture vultures will find a city with 10 Art Galleries, displaying broad works from Asia, and some New Age works from aspiring Pakistani artists.
Walks along the beaches, under clear skies, at night are an experience worth the travel alone, as visitors can gaze towards the heavans with the Arabian sea cascading over there sandalled feet. Joyous memories are assured!
Simply let yourselves be overwhelmed by this city, its size and scope, its heart breaking disparity between rich and poor, and its breath taking sights and sounds. Karachi isn't a city, it is a world unto itself.
Buy
There are a great number of shopping places in Karachi, ranging from the traditional bazaar to the modern shopping malls. A first-time visitor should try and visit the bazaars, The bazaars usually consist of many small vendors selling a variety of products from accessories to clothes to food and drink. In addition, there are larger stores which are more specific in their products. Also one would find that the bazaars are a more culturally enriching experience, and everything's so cheap!
Buying Pakistani Currency
The Pakistani currency is Pakistani Rupees. It is usually advised to get your foreign currency converted in local currency before you buy stuff (off course thats only applicable if you're planning to buy with cash not credit card). A number of licensed Currency Exchange Companies operate their offices located in various parts of the cities that can be used for the exchange. A passport might be required as an identification document but the requirement is often ignored. Some good repute currency exchange companies are Khanani & Kalia, and Galaxy International. Most large department stores and souvenir shops, as well as all upscale restaurants accept major credit cards. Some small shops may choose to pass on their 2-3% service free on to you should you choose to use a credit card, but this is negotiable so don't hesitate to haggle.Places to Shop
Some of the major shopping malls in Karachi are:- The Forum
- Dolmen Mall (Located on Tariq Road)
- Millemium Mall (Located in Gulshan-e-Iqbal)
- ARY Cash 'n' Carry (Superstores chain)
- Park Towers (Located in Clifton)
- Dmart (Sea View)
- Jumeirah Mall (Located on Tariq Road)
- Naheed Super Market (Located near Tariq Road) (Superstores chain)
- Tariq Road Bazaar
- Zamzama Boulevard (Located in the Clifton/DHA area, worthwhile visitng for various local/western designer clothes and various places to eat and hang out including Costa Coffee, Copper Kettle, Dejavu, Roasters, Arizona Grill,Okra etc.)
- Gulf Area Market(many traditional vendors and more upscale boutiques and designer shoes)
- Zainab Market(If you are are looking for branded clothing for half the real price!)
- Hyderi Bazaar (North Nazimabad)
Another thing you might be interested in doing is catching a movie at the Karachi Cineplex. There is also a Chinese restaurant adjacent to the cinema where you can try a Pakistani Chinese meal, or not too far is the seaview McDonalds.
Eat
Karachi has several fantastic upscale restaurants, which serve a huge variety of cuisines. Most of the upper-end restaurants are either located within one of the major hotels in the city (the Sheraton, the Pearl Continental and Avari Towers), or in the trendy shopping district of Zamzama in Defence. For example, the Peal Continental is known for its Thai (The Blue Elephant), Japanese (Sakura), and Chinese (Tai Pan) restaurants; the Avari is known for its Japanese (Fujiyama) and Chinese (Dynasty), and the Sheraton for its Pakistani (the Pakistani).
Zamzama, however, is where much of Karachi's trendier restaurants, such as Okra , Cafe Aylanto, Gunsmoke, Pompeii, Baan Thai, Chatterbox and Aqua Lounge are located. Aqua Lounge is most popular for sea food and steaks and is highly recommended. More commercial (and less trendy) eateries include the Copper Kettle restaurant. Coffee-shops are aplenty, with the most trendy being Espresso (it has another/larger branch in Defence) at Espresso they also serve a good breakfast and yummy desserts. Latitute, Ciao and Costa are also popular for coffee, and new coffee places include The Avenue and Cafe Coffee Day. There are also several dozen different locations for international fast-food chains such as KFC, Pizza Hut and McDonalds in almost every Karachi locality. For people looking for a more central location would be well advised to try The Korean (near Schoen Circle, in Clifton), Cafe Flo (located in the Alliance Francaise, near the Three Swords), Thai Sea food (located at Old Sunset Boulevard), Kay Bees (located near Lal Qila Restaurant).
Four popular restaurants that give diners a chance to sample a variety of mostly Pakistani foods, buffet-style, are Lal Qila , Floating Kitchen, Revolving Restaurant and The Village. Built in the style of a 17th-century Moghul fort, Lal Qila offers barbecue, biryani, and a local beef-based delicacy, haleem, in its open brick courtyard. Beware long lines during the peak evening dining hours. The Village & Floating Kitchen is by the beach at Sea View (Clifton) and is very popular.
People with concerns about the spiciness and hygiene factor of the foods available, particularly those visiting from abroad, tend to find themselves at BBQ Tonight, which may well be one of Karachi's most popular restaurants. Spread over four stories of seating, the restaurant is almost always completely packed, but the turnover is high, so reservations aren't required. It is only open in the evenings. The rooftop at BBQ Tonite is recommended.
If anyone is looking for "chaat" (a local-fare of chickpeas mixed with other things) Chatkharay in Khadda Market (Defence) is good. There are lots of ice-cream and dessert parlours, these include Hot Spot, Gelato Affair, Movenpick etc.
For those on a more restricted budget (while Pakistani restaurants do not sell alcohol, most upscale ones will serve bottles if customers bring them; nonetheless, a full meal for two can be as expensive as US$50-100 at the top eateries, but not if you choose carefully), tourists and visitors are advised to try Karachi's Boat Basin, a central neighbourhood consisting of a mile-long strip of open-air street food/restaurants. Favourites tend to include Karachi Broast, Mr Burger, Qasr-Al-Nakheel, and Tandoori Hut. Boat Basin is where almost all of Karachi's late-partying citizens, regardless of social or economic standing, wind up since food is often available until 5:00 or 6:00 a.m., if not 24 hours. Many remain in their cars and are served by waiters there. Local style breakfast (such as halwa puri) is also served at Boat-Basin from 6-7am onwards. Visitors hoping to try more authentic cuisine are advised to try restaurants such as Bundoo Khan's, Student's Biryani or Sabri Nihari, all of which are located in the "old city" region of Karachi, known as Saddar. Bundoo Khan's also has other branches throughout the city. These places, and Burns Road (another street just full of local food cuisines) are immensely popular, but may not be a good idea for a foreigner's pallette.
Be warned that restaurants NOT located in either the hotels and/or Zamzama will usually tend to only accept cash payments, and not take any form of debit or credit card. It is a good idea to always carry enough cash to tide on over (at most of these locations, Rs. 1000-2000 [US$20-35 approx.] will be more than sufficient on a per head basis).
One can easily find a franchise of KFC, McDonald, Pizza Hut or Domino's across the street if you're in a good area. You can always ask a nearby shopkeeper in a shop or real estate officer about good places to eat.
Drink
Drinking alcohol in public areas is nominally banned, and most of the top end hotels have their own bars.
Of the local drinks, Lassi is a classic yogurt drink that is served either plain or sweet, and is sometimes flavored or even fused with fresh fruit. Highly recommended!
Another favourite is Sugar Cane Juice. Extracted by mechanical force it is best when fresh. You can always get a fresh juice with froth on top for a nominal price. For someone who has never tasted this its a treat and something to remember. You would also love the Falouda and other fresh fruit juices, extracted right in front of you plus those common soft drinks including some like the local limca cola, which makes that "pop" sound when opened.
If you want to drink plain water, always prefer bottled water of a good brand, it just costs 40 cents (Rs. 25/ cold) for a 1.5 liter bottle of Nestle water.
