The Sindh Tourism Development Corporation has launched the Thar Desert Train Safari. It runs in partnership with Pakistan Railways. The initiative promotes Sindh’s culture and desert landscape.
This journey follows a two-day route. It starts in Karachi and ends near the Pakistan-India border. Travelers get a mix of scenery, history, and local culture along the way.
Route and schedule
The train departs from Karachi Cantonment Station at 9:00 AM. The safari is currently running on its scheduled weekend departures from Karachi. It passes through Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, and Umerkot. These cities offer glimpses of Sindh’s rural life.
- On Day 1, the train reaches Chhor by 4:00 PM. This stop is known as Parchi Ji Veri. Evening festivities begin here as the sun sets over the desert.
- Day 2 starts early. At 7:00 AM, the train departs Chhor. It arrives at Khokhrapar Zero Point by 8:30 AM. This station sits right on the border with India.
- The return journey begins around 11:00 AM. The train leaves Khokhrapar and heads back to Karachi. It arrives at Karachi Cantt by 6:00 PM.
Highlights and activities
- Evening events at Parchi Ji Veri are a major draw. Travelers enjoy a desert sunset, a bonfire, and Sindhi folk music. A local buffet dinner follows the music.
- At Khokhrapar, Pakistan Rangers give visitors a border briefing. Tourists learn about the site’s history and significance. It remains one of the trip’s most memorable stops.
- Other activities keep guests engaged throughout the trip. These include camel rides, archery, and handicraft stalls. Local vendors sell traditional Sindhi crafts at these stalls.
Ticket prices and booking
Prices for the Thar Desert Train Safari vary by package. Standard eco packages, like the Jashan-e-Azadi trips, cost around Rs. 15,000 per adult. Children under 12 get a 50 percent discount.
This price covers train travel and transport. It also includes meals and camping equipment. Premium packages cost more than the standard option.
Private operators offer business class berths on guided tours. These packages range from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 32,000. Prices depend on inclusions and guesthouse upgrades.
Travelers can check upcoming dates online. Bookings open through the official Sindh Tourism web portal. Seats often fill quickly during peak travel seasons.
Conclusion
The Thar Desert Train Safari continues to attract tourists from across Pakistan. It combines rail travel with cultural immersion in a unique format. The initiative also supports local businesses along the route.