Written by: Dr. Saba Noor
Posted on: April 09, 2020 | 
A Bird's-eye View of the Lake and Resort
Unbeknownst to many in Pakistan, there is a hidden retreat that captures the best of nature and culture. Kheenjar Lake, also known as Kalri Lake, is located in Thatta, Sindh, about 36 kilometers from the main city, and a three-hour drive from Karachi city. It is a man-made lake, which is also the 2nd largest fresh water lake of Pakistan. The lake is 24 kilometers long and 6 kilometers wide, with an irregular shoreline of about 192 kilometers. The maximum depth is 26 feet.
Keenjhar Lake’s landscape is not unlike a painting. The clear water meets soft, stony soil on the shore. The abundance of Lotus leaves and flowers color the water, and is a sight to see once the flowers are in full bloom. When the sun sets on the lake, the orange and yellow hue of the water is breathtaking.
Keenjhar Lake at Sunset
Historically, Keenjhar Lake was formed by the union of two lakes, Keenjhar and Sonehri, through the construction of an embankment in the 1950s. These lakes came from the Indus River, and would organically come together during monsoon seasons, before the dam was built. Initially, it was intended to supply drinking water to the residents of Karachi.
Now, it is also a popular tourist resort, with many restaurants, guest houses and activity centers. Currently, the area is under the control of the Sindh Tourist Development Corporation (STDC), which has provided all the necessary amenities. According to STDC’s statistics in 2019, over 12,000 tourists visited the lake each week, to boat, swim, fish and take pictures.
The View from the Resort
Keenjhar lake boasts an impressive mélange of fauna and flora. It provides a favorable habitat for winter migratory birds like ducks, coots, gulls, geese, flamingos, cormorants, waders, along with snakes, lizards and over 48 species of fish. There are over 136 species of plants to be found in the area, and fishing is the main occupation of the locals.
Unfortunately, the lake is also subject to pollution, deforestation, illegal hunting and poor implementation of environment-friendly policies. The lack of environmentally friendly infrastructure, and the introduction of alien species of plants and animals have been particularly harmful for local wildlife. STDC has been taking steps to clean the lake, and prevent further degradation, as Keenjhar lake is the main source of drinking water for the people of Karachi.
The View of the Lake from the Shore
Though it’s natural beauty is endless, Keenjhar holds an important place in the history and culture of Sindh. Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai often praised this lake in his poems, and the lake is closely associated to the legend of Noori Jam Tamachi. Noori Jam Tamachi’s story is one of the seven folk tales in Shah Bhittai’s Shah Jo Risalo. In fact, the name “Keenjhar” comes from Noori’s father, a fisherman from the area.
Noori Jam Tamachi was a fisherwoman, who caught the eye of Prince Jam Tamachi, who was of the Samma Tribe which ruled Sindh at the time. Her simplicity, humility and kind heart raised her above Jam Tamachi’s other wives. Locals believe that this folktale is a metaphor for Divine Love. Other folk stories too are linked to this lake, including Jhum Pir and Sonehri, the prince and the fairy.
Noori Jam Tamachi’s tomb is situated in the center of the lake, and it was constructed on a patch of land that was initially dry. When the area was covered in water in the 1950s, the top of the shrine remained visible and is accessible by boat. Devotees still venture out into open waters to pray and celebrate Noori’s everlasting love.
Noori Jam Tamachi's Tomb (photo credits to Jahanzeb Hussain)
The best time to visit Keenjhar lake are the months of April to August, when the cool breeze brings relief from the scorching beams of the sun. Some enjoy visiting the lake on moon-lit nights, when the water perfectly reflects the moon, as if there were two moons. Keenjhar lake is a must-visit place for all travel enthusiasts, and those who wish to discover Pakistan’s boundless natural beauty.
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