Keenjhar Lake, also known as Kalri Lake, is a large freshwater lake in the Thatta District of Sindh province. The lake is the second largest freshwater lake in Pakistan and an important source of drinking water for Thatta District and Karachi city. It is also a popular tourist destination offering activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating.

Keenjhar Lake History

KeenjharLake’s history is a blend of human intervention and natural formation. Local accounts suggest that before the 1950s, there were two separate lakes – Sonehri. These lakes joined naturally during the monsoon season due to overflowing waters. In the 1950s, to supply drinking water to Karachi, a bund or embankment was constructed on the eastern side. This bund essentially merged the two lakes, creating the present-day Keenjhar Lake. It is one of the most Famous Lakes in Pakistan.

Keenjhar Lake Depth

KeenjharLake’s depth varies slightly depending on the source. 7.9 meters (26 feet) is the most commonly cited figure and is mentioned in sources like Wikipedia.

Keenjhar Lake Area

The surface area of Keenjhar Lake is approximately 134.7 square kilometers, which is equivalent to 33,280 acres. The lake’s vast expanse provides a favorable habitat for various species of birds and fish, making it an important ecological site.

Kalan Kot Fort

The Kalan Kot Fort, also known as Samma Fort, is a historical site located in Thatta. It is situated five kilometers south of the famous Makli Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lastly, It was built in the 14th century, possibly by the Samma Dynasty, along with the city of Thatta itself.

Soonda Graveyard

The Soonda Graveyard is an ancient burial ground located about 20-22 kilometers from Thatta, along the main road to Hyderabad. The graveyard was the burial ground for many revered figures, including saints and scholars. These ornately decorated tombs showcase geometric patterns and some even have Quranic inscriptions.

Tomb of Sultan Ibrahim

The tomb stands out for its unique octagonal shape. It’s a departure from the rectangular enclosures commonly found in Makli. This characteristic makes it a visually striking structure within the necropolis.

KeenjharLake Grave of Noori

The raised tomb visible in the center of the lake is said to be that of Noori, a beautiful fisherwoman. Jam Tamachi was a local ruler who fell in love with her. Noori was buried on the banks of the lake after her death. Over time, due to rising water levels, her grave ended up submerged in the middle of the lake. The tomb structure in the lake is a popular tourist destination, particularly for those familiar with the Noori and Jam Tamachi’s story.

Keenjhar Lake Fishing

Keenjhar Lake is a popular fishing spot for both locals and tourists. The lake boasts a variety of fish species, including Mahseer, Labeo rohita (Rohu), Catla, Mrigal, Common carp, Silver carp, and Prawns. The best time to fish in KeenjharLake is generally considered to be during the cooler months, from November to March.

Camping at Keenjhar Lake

Camping is an option for those who want a more rustic experience. There are several designated camping spots around the lake, particularly on the eastern and western shores.

Shrine of Jam Tamach

The tomb of Jam Tamachi is famously identified near the mausoleum of Jam Nizamuddin and Sheikh Hammad Jamali.

Keenjhar Lake, Source of Water

KeenjharLake is the second largest freshwater lake in Pakistan and an important source of drinking water for Thatta District and Karachi City. The lake itself isn’t the source of the water, but rather a reservoir that stores and supplies freshwater from the Indus River. Finally, Freshwater from the Indus River is diverted through the Kotri Barrage into a canal system.

Things to do in Keenjhar Lake

Here are some things you can do while visiting Keenjhar Lake:

Boating: Take a relaxing boat ride on the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Motorboats are available for hire, and you can even find inner tubes for floating if you prefer a leisurely way to enjoy the water.
Birdwatching: The Lake is a haven for a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Ducks, geese, flamingos, cormorants, herons, egrets, ibises, terns, coots, and gulls are just some of the birds that can be found at the lake.
Picnic: Enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner by the lake. There are several designated picnic spots around the lake, with some offering basic amenities like tables and benches.
Swimming: The clean and calm waters of Keenjhar Lake make it a popular spot for swimming.

Keenjhar Lake Weather

Keenjhar Lake’s climate offers pleasant springs and mild winters, hot summers, and brief monsoon seasons. Autumn and winter (November-February) present the most comfortable conditions, with sunny days and cool nights.

Keenjhar Lake Map

Distance From Various Cities

Hyderabad to Keenjhar Lake

The distance from Hyderabad to KeenjharLake is 75.6 kilometers along NH 5/AH2. It should take about 1 hour and 41 minutes to drive.

Karachi to Keenjhar Lake

The best route to reach KeenjharLake from Karachi is via National Highway 5, with the total distance being over 100 kilometers and taking approximately 2 hours to reach the destination at a speed of 80-90 kilometers per hour.

Keenjhar Lake to Thatta Distance

The distance from KeenjharLake to Thatta is 1399 kilometers. It should take about 16 hours and 41 minutes to get there by car.

Keenjhar Lake Hotels

Since KeenjharLake is a natural area, there aren’t many large hotels or resorts right on the lake itself. However, these guesthouses in Thatta offer a variety of options for your stay;

M4 Guest House Makli – It has a user rating of 4.9 on Google Hotels.
Food Qila Hotel & Guest House – It has a user rating of 3.8 on Google Hotels.
ONE CALL Guest House – It has a user rating of 4.2 on Google Hotels.
SRO’s Guest House Thatta – It has a user rating of 3.8 on Google Hotels.
Lal Shahbaz Motel STDC – It has a user rating of 4.2 on Google Hotels.

Keenjhar Lake Huts

Keenjhar Lake offers a unique stay option – huts! These cabana-style huts are scattered along the shoreline of the lake and provide a rustic yet comfortable way to experience the natural beauty of the area. In addition, They provide shelter from the elements and a place to sleep. Don’t expect luxurious amenities, but they offer a clean and comfortable place to stay.

Keenjhar Lake Resorts

Keenjhar Lake Resort (STDC): This is the only proper resort accommodation on the lake. It offers a range of options, from simple huts to larger cottages, with a restaurant and a lawn facing the lake.
Desert Hawks Resort: This is a simple lodging facility with some cottages owned by the Pakistani Army. They may also provide rooms to visitors for overnight stays at nominal charges.

Conclusion

Keenjhar Lake is a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage, offering something for everyone. From the serenity of a boat ride to the thrill of fishing, Keenjhar Lake caters to outdoor enthusiasts. Keenjhar Lake Resort provides a comfortable stay, while camping under the starlit sky offers an unparalleled experience. Explore the rich history of the area with a visit to the Makli Necropolis, or delve into local folklore surrounding the tomb structure in the lake’s center.