Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, is a bustling metropolis known for its diverse culture, historical landmarks, and vibrant street life. For those considering things to do in Karachi, exploring the Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum, the final resting place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, and wandering through the bustling streets of Saddar, the city’s commercial heart, are top activities.

The city’s Clifton Beach offers a respite from the urban hustle, providing a space for leisure and relaxation along the Arabian Sea. Nearby, the Mohatta Palace, a stunning pink stone palace, now serves as a museum showcasing Pakistani arts and culture.

Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Karachi is renowned for its culinary scene, with street food stalls and high-end restaurants serving a wide array of delicious Pakistani dishes. For those seeking the best places to visit in Pakistan, Karachi’s blend of history, culture, and gastronomy makes it a compelling destination.

Attractions & Things to Do in Karachi, Pakistan

1. Clifton Beach

Sunset at Clifton Beach, Karachi, Pakistan.
Sunset at Clifton Beach, Karachi, Pakistan.

Clifton Beach, also known as Sea View, is a bustling strip along the Arabian Sea where locals come to enjoy the ocean breeze, camel and horse rides, and the vibrant atmosphere.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early evening to catch the sunset and stay to experience the lively night scene, with plenty of local food vendors around.

2. Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum

Mazar-e-Quaid, also known as the Jinnah Mausoleum or the National Mausoleum, is the final resting place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
Mazar-e-Quaid, also known as the Jinnah Mausoleum or the National Mausoleum, is the final resting place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.

This impressive white marble mausoleum is the final resting place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. Its modern design and peaceful surroundings make it a significant landmark in Karachi.

Travel Tip: Dress conservatively when visiting and try to go during the cooler parts of the day, as it can get quite hot.

3. Mohatta Palace Museum

Karachi, Pakistan - February 17, 2015: The Mohatta Palace Museum is located inside the home of a Hindu Rajasthani business called Shivratan Chandraratan Mohatta. His palace was constructed as his summer home in 1927. It was constructed using pink stones from Jodhpur and local yellow stones. The architect was Agha Ahmed Hussain. The building was acquired by the Pakistan Foreign Ministry after independence in 1947. In the 1960s it came to be occupied by Ms Fatima Jinnah, the sister of Pakistan's Founder. Ultimately, in 1995, the palace was purchased by the Government of Sindh and converted into a museum.
Karachi, Pakistan – February 17, 2015: The Mohatta Palace Museum is located inside the home of a Hindu Rajasthani business called Shivratan Chandraratan Mohatta. His palace was constructed as his summer home in 1927. It was constructed using pink stones from Jodhpur and local yellow stones. The architect was Agha Ahmed Hussain. The building was acquired by the Pakistan Foreign Ministry after independence in 1947. In the 1960s it came to be occupied by Ms Fatima Jinnah, the sister of Pakistan’s Founder. Ultimately, in 1995, the palace was purchased by the Government of Sindh and converted into a museum.

Mohatta Palace is a stunning pink sandstone palace that now serves as an art museum. It was built by a Hindu prince in the colonial era and now showcases various exhibits, including Pakistani arts and crafts.

Travel Tip: Check the exhibition schedule before your visit to see if there are any special arts or cultural exhibits that interest you.

4. Karachi Zoo

A cute monkey in zoo Karachi Pakistan.
A cute monkey in zoo Karachi Pakistan.

Karachi Zoo, also known as Karachi Zoological Gardens, is home to a wide range of animals, including an elephant house, a natural history museum, and a botanical garden.

Travel Tip: Visit the zoo in the morning when the animals are most active and the weather is cooler.

5. Empress Market

Karachi, Pakistan - March 23, 2010: An adult Pakistani man selling knifes and scissors sitting beside the gates of Empress Market in Karachi, Pakistan. Buit in 1889 to commemorate the assertion of Queen Victoria, Empress of India hence named Empress Market after her. Situatied in Saddar Town, the heart of old city, itAs amongst most popular and busy places for shopping.
Karachi, Pakistan – March 23, 2010: An adult Pakistani man selling knifes and scissors sitting beside the gates of Empress Market in Karachi, Pakistan. Buit in 1889 to commemorate the assertion of Queen Victoria, Empress of India hence named Empress Market after her. Situatied in Saddar Town, the heart of old city, itAs amongst most popular and busy places for shopping.

Empress Market is a bustling bazaar located in the Saddar Town locality. It’s a historic building dating back to the British Raj, and visitors can find a wide array of goods, from food and spices to textiles and handicrafts.

Travel Tip: Be ready to haggle if you want to get the best prices and visit earlier in the day when it’s less crowded.

6. Chaukhandi Tombs

The Chaukhandi tombs form an early Islamic cemetery situated 29 km east of Karachi, in the Sindh province of Pakistan.
The Chaukhandi tombs form an early Islamic cemetery situated 29 km east of Karachi, in the Sindh province of Pakistan.

Situated 29 kilometers east of Karachi, the Chaukhandi tombs are notable for their elaborate sandstone carvings. They are a unique example of Sindh’s early Islamic architecture.

Travel Tip: Hire a guide when you arrive to fully appreciate the historical context of the tombs.

7. National Museum of Pakistan

The National Museum of Pakistan holds a vast collection of items relating to Pakistan’s heritage, including ancient relics, Islamic art, and historical documents.

Travel Tip: Allow a few hours to thoroughly explore the museum’s extensive collection.

8. Port Grand

Port Grand is a waterfront dining and entertainment complex offering a variety of food stalls, restaurants, and recreational activities. It’s a great place to experience Karachi’s nightlife.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit around sunset to enjoy waterfront dining against the backdrop of the setting sun.

9. Frere Hall

Frere Hall is a building in Karachi, Pakistan, that dates from the early British colonial-era in Sindh. Completed in 1865, Frere Hall was originally intended to serve as Karachi's town hall, and now serves as an exhibition space and library. It is considered one of Karachi's most iconic buildings.
Frere Hall is a building in Karachi, Pakistan, that dates from the early British colonial-era in Sindh. Completed in 1865, Frere Hall was originally intended to serve as Karachi’s town hall, and now serves as an exhibition space and library. It is considered one of Karachi’s most iconic buildings.

Frere Hall is a beautifully preserved example of colonial-era architecture that now hosts a library and art exhibitions. Its lawns are a popular place for picnics and cultural events.

Travel Tip: Visit on the weekend when the surrounding park becomes a lively spot for families and cultural events like book fairs.

10. Pakistan Air Force Museum

The museum is dedicated to the history of the Pakistan Air Force and has an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts, both military and civilian.

Travel Tip: Check out the outdoor display that includes historical aircraft; it makes for great photo opportunities.

FAQ About Things to Do in Karachi, Pakistan

What are the must-visit places in Karachi for first-time visitors?

For first-time visitors, the Karachi coastline including Clifton Beach, the historical Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum, the Pakistan Maritime Museum, and the bustling Saddar Town are essential places to visit.

Can I visit any historical sites in Karachi?

Yes, Karachi is home to several historical sites such as the Mohatta Palace, Frere Hall, and the National Museum of Pakistan, where you can delve into the country’s rich heritage.

Are there any parks or gardens to visit in Karachi?

Karachi features numerous parks and gardens such as Bagh Ibne Qasim, Karachi Zoo, and the Hill Park, which provide a green escape from the city life.

What shopping experiences can I have in Karachi?

Karachi offers a vibrant shopping experience from high-end malls like Dolmen Mall to traditional bazaars such as Zainab Market and Empress Market where you can find a variety of goods from clothes to spices.

Is there a place to experience wildlife or sea life in Karachi?

Yes, you can visit the Karachi Safari Park for wildlife encounters or the Churna Island for snorkeling and scuba diving to explore marine life.

What cultural experiences does Karachi offer?

Karachi is a cultural hub with regular events at the National Academy of Performing Arts, exhibitions at the Karachi Biennale, and the annual Karachi Literature Festival.

Where can I find the best local food in Karachi?

Karachi is famous for its diverse cuisine. Areas like Boat Basin, Burns Road, and Port Grand offer a wide range of local dishes such as Biryani, Haleem, and Nihari.

Are there any beach activities in Karachi?

Clifton Beach and Hawke’s Bay Beach are popular spots for camel rides, horseback riding, and enjoying the seaside. For more adventurous activities, you can try jet skiing and beach buggy rides.

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karachi
https://www.getyourguide.com/karachi-l156904/