Karachi's shoreline curves from Manora, a breakwater, to Cap mounts. It boasts of quite a few offshore retreats surrounded by mangroves which serve as nesting places for marine life and help maintain the ecological balance.
Here's a look at some of these:
Bhit Shah Island
It is located at a distance of seven kilometers from Karachi; it has around 12,000 katchi abadi (unestablished residential area) residents whose livelihood is fishing.
Bhundar (Bundal) and Dingi (Buddu) Islands
These islands belong to the port Qasim Authority. Located about 1.5 kilometers from Defence phase 8, between phitti and Korangi Creeks, plans are underway to build two resorts and a bridge to link phase 8 with the islands and rename them as Diamond Bar City. Construction is underway, with plans to sell 15,000 houses to the public in the first stage.
Oyster Rocks
Home to one of the world's tallest man-made fountains these picturesque rocks are visible from Clifton and reached via Karachi port trust (KPT) boats from Keamari. An underwater cave is reachable during low tide. Here you will find crystallized rocks that twinkle in the torch light.
Churna Rock
One of the biggest and most frequented fishing spots for fishing enthusiasts and fishermen alike. Divers of all levels hone their skills here as diving is undertaken up to a depth of 30 feet. There is also a smaller island by the name of Chota Churna which is apposite Gaddani.
Baba Island
Located about a kilometer from Keamari, this island is inhabited by fishermen. The island recently acquired a 12-bed dispensary, 24-hour emergency and maternity health facilities from a multinational concern.
Manora Island
The island of yore is now connected to the mainland via the 12 kilometer long causeway of Sandspit beach. Technically now a peninsula it has a population of approximately 10,000 people. It can be reached easily by boat from Keamari. Once there don't forget to visit the 91 feet high Manora lighthouse, a dilapidated but still attractive mandir, beautiful churches and Manora beach replete with camel rides.
