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Karachi [1](Urdu: كراچى, Sindhi: ڪراچي) capital of the province of Sindh, is the financial capital and the largest city of Pakistan. It has a metropolitan population of 11.8 million and is currently ranked 20th in the world (by population).

Karachi, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, is the financial and commercial center of the nation, as well as its largest port. The city credits its growth to the mixed populations of economic and political migrants and refugees from different national, provincial, linguistic and religious origins, who generally come to the city to settle permanently. It is locally termed as the City of Lights, City of The Quaid, and City that Never Sleeps.

Residents and those born in the city are called "Karachiites".

[edit] Understand

Karachi is different from the rest of Pakistan in the same way that New York is different from the rest of the United States. The pace of life is more hurried; time is money, and money is life.

[edit] Climate

Located on the coast, Karachi has a relatively mild climate with low levels of precipitation (approximately 10 inches per annum), the bulk of which occurs during the July-August monsoon season. Winters are mild, and the summers are hot. The city's proximity to the sea keeps humidity levels at a near-constant high, and cool sea breezes relieve the heat of the summer months. Due to the high temperatures during the summer (ranging from 30-44°C from April to August), the winter months (November to February) are generally considered the best times to visit Karachi. July, December and January have pleasing and cloudy weather when most of the social events, ranging from weddings to charity fundraisers, frequently take place. Tourists and expatriates usually visit Karachi in these months. The highest ever recorded temperature in Karachi is 47.8 °C (118.0 °F) while the lowest is 0 °C (32 °F).

[edit] Culture

The everyday lifestyle of Karachi differs substantially from that of other cities and towns in Pakistan. Karachi's culture is characterized by the blending of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, South Asian and Western influences, as well as the city's status as a major international business center. As a whole, there is considerable diversity in culture, and this diversity has produced a unique cultural amalgam of its own type. Karachi also hosts the largest middle class stratum of the country.

Karachi is home to some of Pakistan's important cultural institutions. The National Academy of Performing Arts, located in the newly renovated Hindu Gymkhana offers a two-year diploma course in performing arts that includes classical music and contemporary theater. The All Pakistan Music Conference, linked to the 45-year old similar institution in Lahore, has been holding its Annual Music Festival since its inception in 2004. The Festival is now a well-established feature of the city life of Karachi that is awaited anxiously and attended by more than 3000 citizens of Karachi as well as people from other cities.

The National Arts Council (Koocha-e-Saqafat) also has musical performances and Mushaira (poetry recitations). The Kara Film Festival organized annually showcases independent Pakistani and international films and documentaries. Our Karachi Festival celebrates Architecture of Karachi.

[edit] Festivals

• Sindh Sea Festival [2]
• Kara Film Festival [3]
• Hamara Karachi [4]
• Arts Council [5]
• All Pakistan Music Conference [6]
• Karachi Expo Center [7] [8]

[edit] Get in

[edit] By Plane

Jinnah International Airport (IATA: KHI ICAO: OPKC), [9], is Karachi's largest international and domestic airport. It has connections to many other hubs such as Toronto, London, Dubai, Delhi and Singapore. It is also the hub for Pakistan International Airlines [10], Pakistan's national carrier, which flies to numerous destinations, including Lahore, Peshawar, Beijing and Tokyo. Facilities in the airport include a McDonald's, ATMs (in Arrivals), free internet (in departure), WiFi, hotels and a duty free shop that doesn't sell alcohol. Immigration used to be a lengthy process, but after a rearrangement of counters and the introduction of a green channel in 2006 this is no longer the case.

Karachi is very far from the rest of Pakistani cities, so try to come by plane only.

[edit] By Bus

Daewoo Sammi [11] offers some direct services to/from Karachi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Lahore and Islamabad, UAN 111-007-008.

[edit] By Train

First Class travel with Pakistan Railways [12] is good, and Karachi has railway connections with various major cities in Pakistan including Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Hyderabad, Rawalpindi, & Peshawar.

[edit] By Boat

Karachi is a major trading hub for dhows from around the Indian Ocean. Travelers wanting to arrive in the city this way will probably need to make their own arrangements with the captain of the vessel.

[edit] Get around

Once you get the hang of traveling in Karachi, it becomes a very entertaining experience. You meet new people and get to see unexpected things. It's not very hard to find a mode of transportation and if you know what you are doing, it is very easy to get around.

[edit] By Bus

The most common method of getting around in Karachi is through buses, which are used by the majority of Karachiites. However, outsiders might be put off by the cramped conditions in the buses, and might prefer traveling in taxis.

[edit] By Taxi

There are three kinds of taxis in Karachi: Metro, Yellow and Black. The yellow ones are generally thought to be better than the black ones, although they charge a greater mark up.

The Metros are chains of taxis operated by different private sector companies (i.e. private version of NY's TLC). As in any nation, some of the taxi drivers overcharge "foreigners". Most of the Black and Yellow taxis don't have any meter, so you should first fix the charge and the location with the driver before getting in. The official rate per kilometer is around 7 Rupees but expect to pay around double.

There is also the so called Radio/White Cab service, which is air conditioned and can be called in at the airport or anywhere in the city. Typical cost for a full day (8 hours, 150 KM) is US$25. White Cab Tel No. +92-21-111-789-786 or within Karachi 111-789-786. Per kilometer rate is 15 Rupees plus Rs. 50 calling charges.

A new company, Metro Cabs, (Tel +92-21-111-222-787 or 111-222-787 (Karachi)) is considered highly efficient. Their taxis are usually easily available from the airport, and their rates are very reasonable, they have white corolla fleet - Per Km charges: Pak Rs. 15/= Min charges: Pak Rs. 310/= within 15 km. Others companies include Sky Cab [13] (Phone: 92-21-5677721-23) with Limousine fleets, Pak Radio Cabs (UAN: 111-732-732), Pearl Cabs (UAN: 111-725-786), Redtop Cabs (UAN: 111-733-867) - they have liana fleets, Citi Cab (021-5650581), FVG Cab (UAN: 111-126-111), Karachi Cab (UAN: 111-527-222), Sana Cabs (UAN: 111-222-787), Star Cabs (UAN: 111-567-827) - they have Lancer fleets, CallCar (UAN: 111-092-021)-Corolla Fleets and Smart Cabs (UAN: 111-000-747).

[edit] By Car Hire

It’s easier to hire a car with driver. Pearl Radio Cab (4604465) charges Rs 1500 per day including fuel, if you’re staying in the city limits and travel less than 100km. Walji’s (5660248; 13 Services Mess, Mereweather Rd) is recommended for self-drive cars. Prices are around Rs 2400 per day (without fuel; unlimited mileage).

[edit][add listing] See

[edit] Beaches and Waterfront

• Clifton Beach was the world's most popular silver-sand beach and health resort during 20th century but now it is affected by an oil spill that occurred in 2003.
• Beach Park
• Bagh-e-Ibn-e-Qasim located just next to the beach park, Bagh-e-Ibn-e-Qasim is the most famous park of the city. Attractions include: Lady Lloyd pier, Jahangri Kothari parade, a century old amusement park, an underground Hindu temple, a mosque and a mausoleum. Try to visit the park at late evening hours when the park is lit.
• Water Jet fountain is the world’s tallest fountain; the controversial fountain is open during weekends between 6PM and 12AM
• Floating Ship [14] at Sea View is a buffet-themed restaurant with thrilling experiences of Ocean turmoil (Thunderstorm, Lighting, Shark attack) and Kids theater with Fantasy world.

The following beaches are located at the outskirts of the city, and are less strict about clothing:

• Sandspit Beach – also visit the WWF Wetland center
• Hawke's Bay Beach - breeding ground for endangered turtles
• Paradise Point - rock promontory in the sea with a natural arch
• French Beach - often cited as Karachi’s most beautiful beach.
• Russian Beach - near Gharo
• Islands: Oyster Rocks, Bundle Islands, Manora Island, Churna Island is a Naval gunnery site, as well as Pakistan's only coral reefs

[edit] Landmarks & Museums

• Quaid-e-Azam's Mausoleum and Museum, at the center of the city is the landmark of Karachi
• Masjid e Tooba, (in Defence) is the largest single-domed mosque in the world.
• Mereweather Tower, (on II Chundrigar road) is business landmark of the city. Also visit the nearby Stock Exchange building.
• Habib Bank plaza, (on II Chundrigar road) was the first skyscraper in the country.
• Aga Khan University hospital, (near Karsaz), famous for its modernist Islamic architecture, also see lake gardens & hill on its backside.
• Pakistan Air Force Museum [15], at Karsaz
• Pakistan Maritime Museum at Karsaz
• PIA Planetarium, near Karsaz on main University road; is a kind of virtual observatory which regularly puts on shows about the solar system and cosmic phenomenon. The shows in English are much more detailed, and are held every Sunday evening. On other days there are only Urdu shows. A ticketed, guided tour by an officer enables one to view the plane from the inside; its cockpit, pilot seats, and various other areas. Tickets for the planetarium show are Rs 45, and for the show plus the plane tour are Rs 60.
• Karachi Expo Centre, near Karsaz on main University road
• Mohatta palace Museum of regional history, at Clifton
• National Museum of Pakistan, collections at this museum focus on the cultural history of Pakistan. Items on display include archeological artifacts, Islamic Art, and historical documents. Located on Dr Ziau-ddin Ahmed Road, the museum is open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Saturday through Tuesday; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Koocha-e-Saqafat (National Arts Council), M.R. Kayani Road
• Frere Hall, Bagh-e-Jinnah, houses Sadequain Galerie, library plus a peaceful garden.
• Replica of the famous Charminar at Bahadurabad roundabout.
• Karsaz Road, famous for places like The 'Arena' games arcade, Aga Khan University hospital, Golf club, Expo center and museums like Air Force museum, Maritime museum and PIA Planetarium.

[edit] Amusement Parks & Wildlife

Dont miss the indoor kids theme parks that are located inside shopping malls, listed under Buy

• Aladdin Amusement Park [16], at Gulshan-e-Iqbal
• Askari Park, on Main University road. The reptilian house and aquarium are worth a visit.
• Arena [17], on Karsaz Road.
• Hill park & Jheel park, near Tariq road, offers Birds eye view of Karachi.
• Go-Aish Adventure park [18], at Gulshan-e-Iqbal
• Karachi Zoo, Garden road, Formerly called Gandhi garden has a Reptile House, a Natural History Museum, and a Mughal garden, not recommended
• Polo ground, Dr Ziauddin Ahmed road
• Safari Park [19], at Gulshan-e-Iqbal
• Samzu Zoo [20], near Super highway, Northern Bypass
• Sindbad Amusement Park, at Gulshan-e-Iqbal
• Water parks: located in the suburbs of the city near the Super highway like

Fiesta [21], Cosy [22], Samzu [23], Water world, Sunway Lagoon etc.

• WWF Wetland center [24] at Sandspit is located in the middle of mangrove forests on 35 minutes drive away from the city center. It arranges trip to Mangrove forests, Beaches, Bird Watching, Turtle watching, Lake watching and Nature excursion. It also houses a museum.
• Zamzama Park, DHA
• Dreamworld Resorts Though a member should accompany you.

[edit] Colonial Public Buildings

There are many Colonial public buildings in the City’s Saddar district, but some of the well-known buildings are:

• Karachi Port Trust, MA Jinnah road, completed during the First World War, the building was converted to a 500-bed military hospital named as No. 1 India General Hospital and was one of the 'five great War hospitals' run under General Fowler
• Karachi Municipal Offices, MA Jinnah road
• Khaliqdina Hall, MA Jinnah road
• City Court Building, MA Jinnah road
• Denso Hall, MA Jinnah road
• Imperial Customs House, MA Jinnah road
• Napier Barracks, Club road
• Quaid-e-Azam house museum, Club road
• Trinity Church, Near Club road
• Sind Club [25], Club road
• Frere Hall, Opposite Marriott hotel, Abdullah haroon road
• Karachi Gymkhana [26], Club road

• Karachi Cotton Exchange, II Chundrigar road
• State Bank Annexe, II Chundrigar road, Formerly called Bank of India building was constructed following the first World War, currently it houses a library
• DJ Science College, Dr Ziauddin road
• Hindu Gymkhana, MR Kayani road, is one of the first Mughal Revival buildings in the city.
• Supreme Court, MR Kayani road, formerly called Prince of Wales museum
• Empress Market, Preedy Street
• Saint Andrews Church, Preedy Street
• Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Near Preedy Street
• Karachi Grammar School, Near Preedy Street
• Sindh High Court, Shahrah Kamaal Ataturk, built entirely out of pink-hued Jodhpur sandstone

[edit] Tours

• PIA Holidays [27]

[edit][add listing] Do

There is much to do in Karachi; a city of 12 million people is unlikely to be short on activities! Simply let yourself be overwhelmed by this city, its size and scope, its heart breaking disparity between rich and poor, and its breathtaking sights and sounds. Karachi isn't just a city, it is a world unto itself!

[edit] Shop

You can shop to your heart's content, in the massive range of markets and bazaars that dot the city, or you can shop & enjoy one of the many modern shopping malls that are found across the city's more affluent sectors, namely Defence and Clifton. And don't worry too much about your budget; a recent survey by the Times newspaper (UK) found Karachi to be the second-cheapest city in the world! [28].

[edit] Culture

Karachi has a fine collection of Anglo-Indian architecture, a legacy of the British Raj, which will keep history buffs engaged. Culture vultures will find a city with many art galleries, displaying a broad spectrum of works from Asia, and some New Age works from aspiring Pakistani artists.

[edit] Medical treatment

Medical tourism [29] is a growing industry in Karachi due to its high quality and low cost, especially in sectors like Dental treatment, Hair transplant [30], [31] , Cosmetic surgery [32], [33] and Open heart surgery.

[edit] Sports

One is spoiled for choice by the variety of sports that can be found in Karachi. Cricket can be found at every conceivable corner, from the lush grounds of the more wealthy professional clubs or elite schools to the side streets of the working class Saddar City district.

Adventure lovers can visit Go Aish Adventure park [34] on University road. Besides that, there are several fine golf courses which host international tournaments such as the Pakistan Open on the Asian circuit, a bustling race track, and a wide range of water sports - sailing (at the Karachi Yacht Club), Scuba diving [35], snorkelling, water-skiing, wind surfing, deep sea fishing which are accessible due to the City's Arabian Sea coast.

[edit] Amusement

There are a lot of water parks located in the suburbs of the city near the superhighway, like Fiesta [36], Cosy [37], Samzu [38], Water world, and Sunway Lagoon. Other things you might be interested in doing is catching a movie at the Karachi Cineplex [39]. Or catch a bird's-eye view of the animals from the Chair lifts at Karachi Safari park [40] or visit The Arena, [41] a gaming arcade at Karsaz offering an ice skating rink, bowling alley, minigolf, arcade games, rock-climbing and much more or Area 51, a bowling alley.

[edit] Relaxation

For those who love watching the city skyline, they can visit Hill Park, an amusement park, offering a nice view of the City or Polo ground or the Revolving Restaurant [42], which offers a good view of the Central Karachi.

You can also walk along the beaches, under clear skies, which at night is an experience worth the travel alone, as visitors can gaze towards the heavens while the Arabian sea cascades over their sandalled feet. Streetlights dotting the coast of Karachi increase the beauty of the sea and surrounding areas. Most city dwellers visit other beaches at the outskirt of the city like Hawksbay, Paradise Point, Sansdpit & French Beaches. Huts are available on these far-flung beaches, where you can also fish, yacht, ride horses and camels, collect sea shells and dive! Explore the under water world, marine life and coral reefs via Scuba Diving [43]. Manora Island, next to Clifton Beach, is another breathtaking place for a picnic. Private boats are the easiest way to reach the Island; they can be hired at the marshes of the PNSC building. Manora Island also has a shrine and some hundred-year old monuments. A Riding Victoria type horse carriage from Polo ground to Clifton can be a memorable experience.

Karachi has recently been experiencing a spa boom, and there is now plenty of choice for everything from holistic Ayurveda to green tea hydrotherapy. Good spas can be found in most five-star hotels such as Avari, PC and on Zamzama Avenue.

If you have the time, and inclination to smoke, check out one of Karachi's Cigar Lounges. They stock quality international brands including authentic Cuban Cigars at Club Havana (DHA 5). Other notable lounges are Castro's and the Cigar Bar in Zamzama. These places have luxurious interiors and can give the illusion of being in a 1950's film! Note that you will have to pay a handsome sum for the pleasure of genuine Cubans! You can also try shisha at Cafe Shisha or at Indulge.

[edit] Clubs

Karachi has numerous quality country clubs. If you know anyone who has membership (they are, of course, restricted) check them out.

• Arabian Sea Country Club [44], [45], Bin Qasim
• Aga Khan sports club, Stadium road
• Auto travel club[46], 72 Garden road
• Arena [47], Karsaz Road, "offers Ice Skating rink, Bowling alley, Mini Golf, Arcade Games, Rock Climbing and much more".
• Civil Aviation Club, Star gate, Sharah-e-Faisal
• Carlton resort hotel & club, DC-5, Opp. Zulfiqar Street, Phase 8, D.H.A. UAN: 111-72-72-72, Dinner & boating excursion. Call for more details.
• Countryside Chalets - Club E Resort [48], Super Highway
• DHA Creek Club, Phase 8, DHA
• DHA Golf Club[49], Phase 8 DHA
• Dream world family resort[50], Northern Bypass
• Karachi Boat Club, MT Khan road
• Karachi Club, Ziauddin Ahmed road
• Karachi Gymkhana[51], 4 Club road
• Karachi Race club
• Karachi Scuba Diving club [52]
• Karsaz golf club[53] , Karsaz
• Kashmir Club, Kashmir road, PECHS
• Marina Club[54], DHA
• PAF Yacht club, Korangi creek
• Pavilion end club [55], Adjacent to Alladin park on Rashid Minhas road, offers Club house, Sporting facilities and Swimming pools.
• Sea View riding & Equestrian club, Clifton
• Sind Club[56], Abdullah haroon road
• Sunset Club, Khayaban-e-Jami, Phase 2 Extension, D.H.A
• The Royal Rodale, a sports and recreational complex. [57] TC-V, 34th Street, Khayaban-e-Sehar, Phase-V, Ext.,DHA UAN: 111-000-168. It offers dining, banquets, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, swimming pool, yoga, aerobics, tennis, billiards, snooker and much more.
• The Yacht club[58], Standard Chartered Bank, (Compound), I.I. Chundrigar Road

[edit] Learn

• Actone, 2nd Floor, Sawasdee Thai Restaurant Building, Main Khayaban-e-Shahbaz, Tel: (92-21) 0333-311-3060, Power Yoga & Bollywood Dance Workout.

• Alliance Francaise[59], St 1, Block 8, Kehkashan, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 587-3402, 586-2864, Call for activity information, classes offered & exhibition schedule. One of the world's largest schools of French language, the Karachi Alliance Française has a wide variety of courses for a visitor to choose from.

• Beatles Music Academy, 919 C-C Area, Jheel Park, P.E.C.H.S. offers Guitar & Keyboard lessons.

• Body Beat, Shapes Health Studio, 139 McNeil Road, Cant, Tel: (92-21) 565-5971, 565-59712, Dance workout set to the latest Indian and Hip-Hop music.

• Candela is a salsa dance group which teaches classes right here in Karachi. The instructors are from USA & Canada and have been dancing salsa and other Latin dance styles for over 10 years. Learn the hottest salsa moves from New York & Los Angeles. The Original & Classic Salsa from Puerto Rico.

• Capa Performing Arts Academy, 19-C Ittehad Lane 2, Phase 6, D.H.A. offers Guital, drums, piano, keyboard, violin, cello, flute, clarinet & saxophone lessons.

• Goethe institute, 2 Brunton Road, Civil Lines, Tel: (92-21) 566-1633, 566-1634, Call for more information & exhibition schedule.

*Indus Scuba; PADI Scuba Diving Centre with Scuba Diving classes and equipment sales & service. No. C-23, Small Bukhari Commercial Street 5, Phase 6, D.H.A. Tel: (92-21) 3-524-3153 & 63 email info@indusscuba.com www.indusscuba.com

• Indus Valley school of Art & Architecture [60], Block 2, Clifton

• National Academy of performing Arts (NAPA), [61] Hindu Gymkhana, M.R. Kiyani Road, Opposite Arts Council, Tel: (92-21) 569-3701, 569-3703, Offers academic programs for Music, Theater Arts and Dance

• Rangoonwala Community center, Dhoraji Colony, Offers a variety of classes on cooking, computers, handicrafts, sewing, textile designing, English, fitness and more. Art gallery and other exhibitions.

• Swimming Classes at the Marriott Hotel (During Summer).

• Seaview Riding & Equestrian Club for Horse riding instructions.

Karachi universities are generally well-regarded and draw exchange students from near and far.

• University of Karachi [62], simply referred as KU, is the largest university in Pakistan having one of the largest faculties in the world

• Institute of Business Administration (IBA) [63], founded in 1955 is the oldest business school outside North America, Alumni of IBA include former Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz

• Agha Khan Medical University [64] is Pakistan's first private university.

• NED University [65] the oldest engineering institute of Pakistan

• Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) [66] the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan is a professional body of Chartered Accountants in Pakistan, and represents accountants employed in public practice, business and industry, in the public and private sectors. Chartered Accountants Avenue, Clifton, Tel: 92-21-111-000-422, Fax: 92-21-9251626.

• DOW University of Health Sciences [67] is a public sector university for health and medical sciences which was founded in 1945 by Sir Hugh Dow (Second Governor General of Sind)

• Hamdard University [68] is a Private Sector University and one of its kind in The country. It was founded by Shaheed Hakim Muhammad Saeed, former Governor of Sindh and a renowned Philanthropist. It offers Courses in Medical, Business Management, Social Sciences, Engineering and other disciplines. It also offers Courses in Eastern Medicine.Hamdard University, Sharae Madinat Al-Hikmah, Muhammad Bin Qasim Avenue, Karachi, 74600 Tel: 9221-6440041-42

[edit] Work

Karachi is the financial and commercial capital of the country, there are many jobs available in the financial sector such as Banking, in IT/ Media sector such as BPO, Call center etc. A part-time job can pay you as much as $450 a month for just six hours a day for five days in a week. Only good for English speaking travellers. For more [69]

[edit][add listing] Buy

There are a great number of shopping places in Karachi, ranging from the traditional bazaar to the modern shopping malls. A first-time visitor should try and visit the bazaars, The bazaars usually consist of many small vendors selling a variety of products from accessories to clothes to food and drink. In addition, there are larger stores which are more specific in their products. Also one would find that the bazaars are a more culturally enriching experience. A recent survey by the Times newspaper (UK) found Karachi to be the 2nd cheapest city in the world [70].

[edit] Buying Pakistani Currency

The Pakistani currency is the Pakistani Rupee. It is usually advised to get your foreign currency converted in local currency before you buy stuff (off course thats only applicable if you're planning to buy with cash not credit card). A number of licensed Currency Exchange Companies operate their offices located in various parts of the cities that can be used for the exchange. A passport might be required as an identification document but the requirement is often ignored. Some good repute currency exchange companies are Khanani & Kalia, and Galaxy International. Most large department stores and souvenir shops, as well as all upscale restaurants accept major credit cards. Some small shops may choose to pass on their 2-3% service free on to you should you choose to use a credit card, but this is negotiable so don't hesitate to haggle.

ATMs exist in most areas and accept major credit cards.

[edit] Places to Shop

Some of the major shopping malls in Karachi are:

• Millennium Mall, Gulshan-e-Iqbal - Includes shops, restaurants, Indoor kids theme park, Dmart superstore, Cocktail bar and a bowling alley
• The Forum, Clifton - Includes shops, food court and Ebco superstore.
• Park Towers [71], Clifton - Includes Shop, food court, a superstore, an indoor kids theme park, art gallery etc.
• Dolmen Mall,Tariq Road - Includes shops, food court and Indoor kids theme park
• Lavish Mall, Tariq Road
• Jumeirah Mall, Tariq Road
• Atrium Mall [72], Zebunissa Street
• Makro Wholesale Center, Saddar, Sharah-e-Faisal, SITE [73]. Also houses famous clothing brands like Gul Ahmed, Kurta corner, Cambridge and Junaid Jamshed.
• Metro Cash & Carry [74], University road, before Go Aish Adventure park
• Awami Markaz, Sharah-e-Faisal
• Naheed Super Market, near Tariq Road. (Superstores chain)
• Dmart, Sea View, Bahadurabad (Superstores chain) [75]
• Dreams, Mohd Ali Society near Kay bees restaurant, Lal Qila lane, Karsaz
• ARY Cash 'n' Carry, in Gulshan-e-Iqbal (Superstores chain) [76]

Some of the main bazaars in Karachi that deserve a visit:

• Tariq Road Bazaar also houses several malls such as Dolmen, Jumeirah, Lavish etc.
• Bahadurabad Bazaar adjacent to Tariq Road
• Zamzama Boulevard for upscale designers boutiques, clubs and restaurants.
• Gulf Area Market many traditional vendors and more upscale boutiques and designer shoes
• Hyderi Bazaar, North Nazimabad, also visit malls such as Dolmen Hyderi, Madni and Saima mall.
• KDA Market, Gulshan Iqbal. Comparatively small than other Bazaars of Karachi, but KDA offers wide range of branded/non-branded clothes, foot-wear and cosmetics.
• Zainab Market For branded clothing for half the real price!
• Zebunissa Street, Formerly known as Elphinistone Street.

There are also three underground bazaars in Karachi at Bohri Bazaar, Nazimabad chowrangi and Liaqatabad No. 10. These are just a few to mention. On the whole, shopping in Karachi is an interesting, exhilarating (because of the low prices!) and often tiring experience.

[edit] What

• You can buy very cheap garments, bed sheets, shirts, T-shirts from any store located at Tariq road or Zainab market; local branded stores include Chen One, Bonanza, Ideas (Gul Ahmed), Cambridge Shop [77]. For upscale designers boutiques go to Zamzama Avenue, It is to be mentioned that many world renowned brands like Adidas, Levis, Slazenger, HangTen, Wal-Mart etc get their products prepared from Faisalabad which has got one of the largest textile industries of the World. You can find cheap products of these brands at local stores. You can get a pair of Levis jeans (or any other good brand for that matter) for just 300 PKR (5 USD).
• Buy leather goods like shoes, jackets and bags are also a specialty of Pakistan. Go to English Boot house [78], Sputnik, Shoe Planet, Servis, Metro, Gap shoes (at Tariq road), Lotus, Step-in (at Hyderi, North Nazimabad), Jaybees (at Zebunissa market, Saddar) for best quality shoes at low prices.
• Buy sports goods like cricket bats, balls, kits, footballs, sports wear and almost anything related to sports you can imagine. You will not find such high quality equipments at such low cost anywhere else. To mention, Pakistan produces ninety percent of the world’s sports goods and is the largest provider of sports equipment to FIFA for the World cup.
• Pakistan produces cheap and high quality musical instruments. You can even get an acoustic guitar for as low as 2000 PKR (34 USD).
• Buy Books from Liberty books located next to Bar BQ tonight restaurant in Clifton.
• Buy computer accessories from Regal center (Preedy Street, Saddar), Rainbow center (near Preedy Street, Saddar for CDs & DVDs), Technocity (II Chundrigar road, Saddar), Unicenter (II Chundrigar road, Saddar).
• Buy cheap Electronics & Cameras from Preedy street.
• Buy Arabian, Afghan, Iranian and Pakistani carpets from Afghan carpets (Marriott hotel), Asian carpet palace (Zebunissa st.), Habib carpets, Wazir Carpets (Hotel Metropole on Club road) or visit stores located at Zamzama Ave.
• Buy gold jewelry from different Gold souks located in Zebunissa market, some estimated suggests Gold in the city is cheaper than in Dubai.
• Buy wood carvings.
• Buy gems , handicrafts, glassware, brassware, marble products, crystal works, carved wood and antiques from Zebunissa Street in Saddar formerly known as Elphinistone street. Also buy pashmina, rugs, wool-shawls or wraps, which can cost anywhere between $15 to as much as $700. Remember to bargain. Ajrak, a shawl is the souvenir of Sind province.
• Buy souvenirs such as decorative items from Sea Shells.
• For food stuffs go to any super store like Dmart, Makro, Naheed; especially buy Swat honey, Biscuits, Mitchells chocolate which are the best in the world.
• For home accessories visit shops located in Dolmen mall at Tariq road
• Buy Kitchen Utensils and Cutlery
• For art lovers, get in touch with a local to take you around. There are so many art galleries that are worth visiting and each will offer a completely different range of artwork, style and pricing. All the facilities should be visited if you are an art lover. Some examples:
  • V. M Art Gallery ,Rangoonwala Community Centre
  • Jahanzeb Art Gallery,Clifton Commercial area
  • Vision Art Gallery ,Kehkashan, Clifton
  • Tariq Jay Gallery,P.E.C.H.S
  • A . R . Fareedi (Permanent Collection), Arts Council building
  • Ahmed Pervaiz Gallery, arts council building
  • Fayzee Rahamin Gallery (French Cultural centre), Alliance Francaise De Karachi Art Gallery
  • Sadequain Galerie, Frere Hall, Bagh-e-Jinnah, Tel: (92-21) 920-4325, Ongoing art exhibition & library plus a peaceful garden.
  • Clifton Art gallery, 11-Al Habib Apartment, Clifton Road
  • Indus Art Gallery,Bath island, Feroznama Road, Karachi
  • Chawkandi Art ,DCI Kehkashan. Clifton, Karachi
  • Funkar Art Gallery, 202,Dean Arcade, Schon Circle, Building No.8, Clifton
  • Studio Art, D-67,Block-9,Clifton
  • Kunj Art Gallery, 147/D KDA Scheme No.1
  • Majmua, The Art Gallery, 239 Staff Lines,Fatima Jinnah Road
  • Momart, The Art Gallery, Anum Classic,Mezzanine,Main Shahrah-e-Faisal
  • Reevaj, The Art Gallery, at [Park towers]http://www.parktowers.com.pk/
  • Louvre Art gallery, 9 Pearl Haven, Block 5, Clifton
  • Canvas Art galleryA-3 Hassan Homes, Block 5, Clifton, Clifton Road
  • Zinaini,Clifton Commercial Area, Karachi

[edit][add listing] Eat

Karachi has several fantastic upscale restaurants, which serve a huge variety of cuisines. Most of the upper-end restaurants are either located within one of the major hotels in the city (the Sheraton, the Pearl Continental and Avari Towers), or in the trendy shopping district of Zamzama in Defence.

One can easily find a franchise of KFC (call: 111-KFC-KFC [111-532-532]), McDonald (call:111-244-622), Subway (call:586-8907), Papa Johns (Clifton) (call:585-3374}, Mr Cod (call:535-0746), Henny's (call:021-5867151, 5864023 9a-11p), Pizza Hut (call: 111-241-241) or Domino's (call: 111-DOMINO [111-366-466]). The beauty of the food in Karachi is that you will probably find cuisine for every taste.

[edit] Food Districts

• Beach Avenue, is famous for its giant food outlets like Floating Ship, McDonalds, KFC, Dip shop, Sweet n Sour, Salt'n'Pepper, Kinara etc.

• Zamzama, is a place where much of Karachi's trendier restaurants, such as Okra, Cafe Aylanto, Gunsmoke, Pompeii, Baan Thai, Chatterbox and Aqua Lounge are located. Aqua Lounge is most popular for sea food and steaks and is highly recommended. More commercial (and less trendy) eateries include the Copper Kettle restaurant. Coffee-shops are all over, with the most trendy being Espresso (it has another/larger branch in Defence), which also serves a good breakfast and tasty desserts. Latitute, Ciao and Costa are also popular for coffee, and new coffee places include The Second Floor (T2F) [79], The Avenue and Cafe Coffee Day.

• Boat Basin, is a neighborhood consisting of a mile-long strip of open-air street food/restaurants. Favorites tend to include Karachi Broast, Mr. Burger, Qasr-Al-Nakheel, Jans, Mughal Darbar, China town and Tandoori Hut. Boat Basin is where almost all of Karachi's late-partying citizens wind up, since food is often available until 5:00 or 6:00AM, and some restaurants are open 24 hours. Many people remain in their cars and are served by waiters there. Local style breakfast (such as halwa puri) is also served at Boat-Basin from 6 or 7AM onwards. Note that restaurants here will frequently only accept cash. It is a good idea to carry enough cash to tide you over (at most of these locations, Rs. 1000-2000 [US$20-35 approx.] per person will be more than sufficient).

• Burns Road is famous locally as the Delhi food district -the variety of Indian & Pakistani cuisine is wonderful. Located in the "old city" region of Karachi, known as Saddar, the area will give you the feeling of being in a crowded part of old Delhi. Restaurants such as Bundoo Khan's, Student's Biryani and Sabri Nihari are very popular. Visitors should also try kulfi ice cream, available in various local ice cream parlors. Be warned however: hygiene tends to be lax here and food here may not be suitable for everyone, and the restaurants here may only accept cash.

• Khadda Market is famous for its delicious rolls (do try Red Apple's Garlic Mayo roll) and other great Pakistani, Indian, Chinese and Fast-food cuisine. The roll is the speciality, names of restaurant include Agha juice, Red Apple, HotnSpicy, One Potato Two Potato, Chathkarey and many more. Khadda is located near the sea-view on main Khayaban Shamsheer. Phase 5 Defence

• The Food Court is located on the third floor of Park towers [80], it houses several multinational and fast food brands. Other food courts are also present inside Dolmen Mall, Millenium mall.

• Hasan Square is famous for Sajji, Barbeque and various other Pakistani dishes. Located on University Road, Gulshan Iqbal

[edit] Top Restaurants

The following Restaurants are very popular and should not be missed:

• BBQ Tonight (Com. 5/1 Boat Basin, Block 5, Clifton) [81], is one of Karachi's most popular restaurants. Spread over four stories of seating, including partly covered rooftop seating, the restaurant is almost always completely packed, but the turnover is high, so reservations aren't required. It now serves lunch also. The rooftop at BBQ Tonight is recommended. UAN: 111-227-111

• Lal Qila Buffet (10/A, Main Shahrah-e-Faisal, M.A.C.H.S., Tel: (92-21) 438-8363-64, 438-8364) [82], Built in the style of a 17th-century Moghul fort, Lal Qila offers barbecue, biryani, and a local beef-based delicacy, haleem, in its open brick courtyard. Beware long lines during the peak evening dining hours.

• Revolving Restaurant Buffet(Caesars Tower 16th Floor, Main Shahrah-e-Faisal, Tel: (92-21) 278-5147, 278-5148) [83], Offers a nice view of Central Karachi.

• Floating Ship Buffet[84] at Sea View is a buffet-themed restaurant with thrilling experiences of Ocean turmoil (Thunderstorm, Lighting, Shark attack) and Kids theater with Fantasy world.

• Rangoli Buffet(on Karsaz road) [85] is located inside Arena gaming arcade.

• The Village located at Sea View.

• Thara CAFE owned and managed by *SYT* SHariq Yousuf Thara

[edit] Pakistani

• Al-Bustan, Sheraton Hotel, Club Road, Live Pakistani traditional band playing nightly from 8pm-12pm, Tel: (92-21) 563-3333
• Al Habib Restaurant, Super Highway Near New Sabzi Mandi / Northern Bypass (On main shahrah-e-Pakistan road in suburb of Karachi. It is roughly 22kms away from city center and on highway going towards interior Sindh province), ☎ (92-21) 687-0702, 687-0703. 24. Al Habib Restaurant is one of the most popular restaurants of the City. It remains open 24 hours and has a huge sitting area and it receives a lot of diners from all over the city specially on weekends. You can try all kind of Pakistani food here for approx. $10/head. It is highly recommended to someone visiting the city after Bar B Q Tonight and Lal Qilla. $10/head approx..
• Agha juice since 1960 main Nazimabad No1, Only 3 branches 1. Opp Amber Auditorium, Bahadurabad. 2. Main Rashid Minhas Rd, Gushan Iqbal. 3. Khadda Market Defence phase 5. The pioneer of juices in Karachi Pakistan, Located and founded in 1960, and open 11:30 am to 3 am. Make sure you go to the branches listed above as there are a lot of places similar to that name.
• Chandni, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road, UAN: 111-505-505
• Chawal Inn, Boat Basin, Clifton
• Foodies Barbeque and Fast Food. Adjacent Bait-ul-Mukkaram Mosque, University Road, Gulshan Iqbal
• Highway Garden Restaurant, Main Super Highway, Near Tool Plaza, Tel: (92-21) 0300-822-0320
• Jans chicken, Boat Basin, Khayaban-e-Roomi, Opposite Clifton Jamat khana.
• Marco Polo, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road, UAN: 111-505-505
• Mela, Main Rashid Minhas Road, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, near Alladin amusement park and also at Saddar near Arts Council is a Buffet and kids theme restaurant
• Mughal Darbar, Opposite Sailing Club, Boat Basin
• Oasis, Hill Park
• Qasr-E-Nakheel, Boat Basin, Clifton
• Sajjad Restaurant, Main Super Highway, Near Caltex Petrol Pump, Tel: (92-21) 826-7330
• The Pakistani, Sheraton Hotel, Club Road, Tel: (92-21) 563-3333
• VILLAGE GARDEN GRILL & bbq, Club Road opposite Avari towers, Great BBQ and restaurant. One of the top ones in Karachi. 92-21-5212880
• If anyone is looking for "chaat" (a local-fare of chickpeas mixed with other things) Chatkharay in Khadda Market (Defence) is good.

[edit] Chinese

• China Town, Com. 7/3, Khayaban-e-Saadi, Kehkashan Block 2, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 586-0528, 537-4423
• Chairman Mao, Phase 6, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 585-3333, 535-0855, Delivery Only
• Dynasty, Avari Towers, Fatima Jinnah Rd., Tel: (92-21) 566-0100 ext. 2080
• Jade Garden, Sea Breeze Heights, Fl-2 Khayaban-e-Saadi, Block 2, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 586-5650, 583-1126
• Suzie Wong, Marriott Hotel, 9 Abdullah Haroon Road, Tel: (92-21) 568-0111
• Sweet and Sour, 55-C, Khayaban-e-Muslim, Muslim Commercial Area, Phase 6, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 584-0996, 584-0997
• Tai Pan, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road, UAN: 111-505-505
• Singapore Sling, Clifton, Near the beach Singapore Sling offers Singaporean, Malaysian and Chinese foods and BBQ - Great food clean and reasonable.
• The Korean in Clifton, Near Schoen Circle,

[edit] Continental

• Asia Live, Avari Towers, Fatima Jinnah Road, UAN: 111-282-747
• Cafe 9, 5-E, 9th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 529-5081, 529-5082
• Cafe Zouk, Plot No. 27/C, Khayaban-e-Shamsheer, Phase 5, D.H.A, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 585-6491, 585-6492
• Cafe Flo in Clifton Near three swords in the Alliance Franchise
• Clifton Grill, Plot No. 2/A, K.D.A., Scheme 5, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 587-9335, 587-9336
• Cafe Grand, Abdullah Haroon Road,Opposite Metropole Hotel
• Cactus Cafe, 71/C, 24 St., Phase-V, D.H.A, Off. Khayaban-e-Tanzeem
• Copper Ketle, Shazz building, Stadium Road, Gulshan Iqbal
• Don Corleone's Cafe & Restaurant, Mall Square, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 583-0615
• Evolution, 66C-68C, 25th Street, Tauheed Commercial Area, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 586-0941, 582-4651
• Excellent, Marine Arcade, Kehkashan,Clifton
• Fusion, Zamzama
• Fuchsia, E-23, 2nd Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 536-3944, 536-3948
• Garnish, 1st Floor, Awami Markaz, Shahra-e- Faisal
• Hang Out!, Plot #23-C, Mezzanine Floor, DS123, Badar Commercial Area, 26th Street, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 824-9060, 534-5072
• Henny Penny, # 99, 9th Commercial, Phase-IV, D.H.A
• Kabana Restaurant, Clifton Food Centre, Opp.Bilawal House
• Kay Bees Mohd Ali society, near Karsaz, Lal Qila restaurant lane
• Le Grand, 9-E, 7th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 582-0186, 582-0187
• Lotus Court, Sheraton hotel, Club road
• Maxim's, UBL Building, Main Clifton Road
• New York Cafe, 10-C, 6th Zamzama Lane, Phase-V, Main Zamzama Blvd., D.H.A
• Patio, F-50/1, Block- 4 , Clifton
• Saint's, 12-C, 26th Street,Tauhid Commercial Area, Phase-V, D.H.A
• Secret Recipe, Khayaban-e-Shahbaz, Phase 6 DHA.
• Shangrila International Restaurant, Avari towers
• The Elbow Room, Mumtaz Hussain Street, I.I. Chundrigar Road, Tel: (92-21) 241-2241, 241-2242
• Topkani Restaurant, Arts Council Building, M.R. Kayani Road
• Village, Opposite Avari towers, Club road, Also offers Sheesha.
• Zen, 49-C, Khayaban-e-Sehar, Phase-VI, DHA

[edit] Indian

• Cafe Coffee Day, First Stadium Lane, Khayaban-e-Shamsheer, Phase 5, D.H.A. Tel: (92-213) 546-3814, Live rock bands, usually on random Saturday nights. Call for schedule.
• Chatkharay, 27-C, Stadium Lane No. 2, Phase 5, D.H.A. , UAN: 111-242-854
• Dumpukht, Marriott Hotel, 9 Abdullah Haroon Road, Tel: (92-21) 568-0111 Ext. 2201, SHOW: Indian traditional dancer every night except Monday from 8-11:30.
• Gazebo, Saba Commercial, 2-C Saba Commercial Area, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 842-1167, 585-2406 and at 3-C Gul Arcade, Commercial Lane 1, Khaada Market, Phase 5, D.H.A. Tel: (92-21) 842-1169
• Ponderosa South Indian, C-11, Alfalah Building, Mohammad Ali Society
• Delhi Muslim Kali, Plot #23-C, Zamzama Boulevard, Land-2, D.H.A
• Bombay Bakery & Nimco, at Millenium Mall, Rashid Minhas road

[edit] Thai

• Baan Thai, 23-C, 2nd, Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 586-9084, 586-9085
• FUCHSIA, E-23, 2nd Commercial Lane, Zamzama Phase 5, D.H.A.
• Royal Blue Elephant, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road, UAN: 111-505-505
• Sawasdee, 29-C, Khayaban-e-Shahbaz, Phase 6, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 535-0771, 535-0772
• Thai Seafood, Old Sunset boulevard
• Thai Express, Marine Arcade No. 5, Block 3, Clifton

[edit] French

• Cafe Flo, D-82/1, Block 4, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 587-7499, 583-0018
• Cafe Rendezvous, Alliance Française de Karachi, Plot ST-1, Block 8, Kehkashan, Clifton.
• Le Terrasse, Grand Mercure, Karachi Airport Hotel, Star Avenue Terminal 1, Tel: (92-21) 924-2600
• La Cucina, 16-C, Lane 6, Zamzama Boulevard, DHA
• Frango's Portuguese Grilled Cuisine at Zamzama in Clifton
• Original Crepe Factory, Shop #1, Khaada Market, Main Khayaban-e-Mujahid, Phase 5, D.H.A.

[edit] Italian

• Cafe Aylanto, 2-C, 9th Commercial Lane, Zamzama , Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 587-5724
• Limoncello, 14-C, 7h Zamzama Commercial Lane, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 530-1973, 530-1974
• Pompeii, Shapes Health Club Compound, Old Railway Club, 139 Mc Niel Road, Cantt, Tel: (92-21) 521-4684, 521-9657
• Thyme, 11-C, 1st Commercial Lane, Zamzama , Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 0321-921-1901
• Quattro, 147-C, Khayaban-e-Seher , Phase 6, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 524-3257, 524-3258

[edit] Japanese

• Cozmo, Sheraton Hotel, Club Road, Tel: (92-21) 563-3333
• Fujiyama, Avari Towers, Fatima Jinnah Rd., Tel: (92-21) 566-0100 ext. 2076
• Kamameshi, C-22, Suite No. 2, 26th Street, Tauheed Commercial Area, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 530-4257, 530-4258
• Sakura, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road

[edit] Lebanese

• Beirut, 7th Commercial Lane, Zamzama Phase tel : +9221 530 1973 +9221 530 174
• Kabab-Ji, Sheraton Hotel, Club Road, Tel: (92-21) 563-3333
• Meezaj Restaurant (Arabian food center), Chapal ocean center, Sea View, Near Bilawal house, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 537-3077 is in the lane next to shabestan (Iranian restaraunt) and Live Rostrum.

[edit] Mediterranean

• Cafe Aylanto, 2-C, 9th Commercial Lane, Zamzama Phase 5, D.H.A.
• Nadia Cafe, Marriott Hotel, 9 Abdullah Haroon Road, Tel: (92-21) 568-0111, (Theme Nights/Call For Cuisine Schedule)
• Okra , 12-C, 10th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 583-1350, 586-6616
• Olive Bistro & Grill, Shop #2, Plot 27/C, Stadium Lane 2, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 534-5270
• The Deli, 5-C, 1st Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 583-8954, 854-5790

[edit] Pizza

• Domino's Pizza, Clifton, Defence, Phase 5 also at Nursery, Sharah-e-Faisal and Stadium Road, Gulshan Iqbal. UAN: 111-366-466, 111-DOMINO
• La Pizza Pie, 1/A, Marine Arcade, Block 3, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 529-2301
• Papa John's Pizza, Main Clifton road also at D.A. Degree College Ground
• Pizza One, Arsal House, Main Shaheed-e-Millat Road, Block 3, P.E.C.H.S.
• Shakey's Pizza, BC-7, Block-5, Crystal Court, KDA Scheme-5, Kehkashan, Clifton
• Pizza Hut could be easily found on most of the areas in the city

[edit] Juice, Milkshakes and Ice cream

• Agha juice since 1960 main Nazimabad No1, branches 1. Opp Amber Auditorium, Bahadurabad. 2. Main Rashid Minhas Rd, Gushan Iqbal. 3. Khadda Market Defence phase 5.
• The Dip Shop, near Sea View Mc Donalds and Gulshan Iqbal 13
• Brown, Rahat Commercial, DHA Phase 6
• MOVE N PICK, Clifton
• GELATO AFFAIR,haidery,karsaz,clifton
• HotSpot, 33st, Towheed, DHA Phase 5

[edit] Sea Food

• Aqua Lounge, 18-C, 1st Floor, 5th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 537-6700, 537-6701
• 'Nadia Cafe, Marriott Hotel, 9 Abdullah Haroon Road, Tel: (92-21) 568-0111, (Theme Nights/Call For Cuisine Schedule)
• Thai Seafood, Old Sunset Boulevard, DHA

[edit] Steak houses

• Arizona Grill , 20-C, 2nd Commercial Lane, Main Zamzama Boulevard, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 583-4974 and at Bahadurabad, #5, Ground Floor, Iqbal Arcade, Main Shaheed-e-Millat Road, Tel: (92-21) 438-2055, 438-2056
• Copper Kettle, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 583-8659 and at CK2, Plot # P.P.14, Sir Shah Soleman Road, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Tel: (92-21) 482-7571
• Gun Smoke, 10th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 536-2283
• Jason's Steakhouse, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road, UAN: 111-505-505

[edit] Others

• Arizona Express, Marine Pride, Block 7, Clifton
• Build Your Own Burger (BYOB) , Main Khayaban-e-Bader at 26th Street, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 534-8099
• Crab Attack, Tel: (92) 0321-201-9687, Boating excursion & seafood buffet. Private bookings.
• Cafe Mist, Inside Arena games arcade, Karsaz road, From sandwiches to burgers to a specially designed children’s menu, Café Mist is the perfect place to replenish yourself after a day of fun and games

[edit][add listing] Drink

Drinking alcohol in public areas is nominally banned, and most of the top end hotels have their own bars. Try local brands like Murree Brewery, in addition to that there are other brands such as Budwieser and Barveria with non-alchoholic beer.

In soft drinks, try local limca cola which makes "pop" sound when opened. you can also try Pakola; Pakistan’s premier soft drink brand which is available in different flavors like Ice cream soda, Lychee, Orange, Raspberry, Apple sidra, Vino, Double cola, Bubble up etc.

Also try, Lassi which is a classic yogurt drink that is served either plain or sweet, and is sometimes flavored or even fused with fresh fruit. Rooh-Afza, a red-color-sweet-herbal drink. Sugar Cane Juice which is extracted by mechanical force, it is best when fresh. You would also love the Falouda and Gola Ganda which include various kinds of syrups in crushed ice.

If you want to drink plain water, always prefer bottled water of a good brand, it just costs Rs. 25 for a 1.5 liter bottle of Nestle water.

[edit] Cafes

• Aroma, Regent Plaza Hotel, Main Shahrah-e-Faisal, UAN: 111-111-774
• Bread people bakery & Cafe, 10-C, Khayaban-e-Shahbaz, 26th Street, Shahbaz Commercial Area, Phase 6, D.H.A, Tel: (92-21) 524-3256. Live music bands, usually on random Saturday nights. Call for schedule
• Basement off Zamzama Avenue
• Bowling Cafe, Royal Rodale, TC-V, 34th Street, Khayaban-e-Sehar, Phase-V, Ext.,DHA, UAN: 111-000-168
• Cinnamon, Avari Towers, Fatima Jinnah Road, UAN: 111-282-747
• CAFE 9, 5-E, 9th Commercial Lane, Zamzama , Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 529-5081, 529-5082
• Cafe Chatterbox, 3-C, 3rd Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A.., Tel: (92-21) 583-0337, 586-9548
• Cafe Fresh (Juice Zone), Shop No. 1 Main Zamzama Blvd. Phase 5, D.H.A.
• Cafe Lamore, 4,I-C, 3rd Commercial Lane, Zamzama , Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 581-0061
• Cafe Sheesha Clifton
• Casbah & 007 Club, Beach Luxury hotel, MT Khan road, Tel: (92-21) 561-1031, Saturday night dance party. Couples only. Call to confirm
• Creek inn, DHA 8
• Don Coreleons Cafe & Restaurant, Mall Square, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 583-0615
• Damascus Cafe , Near KPT Underpass, Block-9, Clifton, (92) 301-824-9444, (92) 300 824-9444
• DÉJÀ VU , Clifton
• Indulge, For Sheesha, Park Towers http://www.parktowers.com.pk/, Tel: (92-21) 587-7953, Millennium Mall, Rashid Minhas Road, Gulshan-e-Iqbal., Tel: (92-21) 460-0995, 460-0996 +
• KOEL CAFE F-42/2, Block 4 Scheme 5, Clifton Karachi, Pakistan. Tel: (92-21) 530-9745
• Kahva, 6-C, Mustafa Arcade, Block A, S.M.C.H.S., Tel: (92-21) 455-3395, 455-3582
• Latte Lounge, C3C, Nishat Commercial Area, Phase 6, D.H.A.., Tel: (92-21) 534-8631
• OLÉ, Plot #22, C-1, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 529-5144, 529-5145
• Opera Cafe, Grand Mercure Hotel, Karachi Airport, Star Avenue Terminal 1
• Original Crepe Factory, Shop #1, Khaada Market, Main Khayaban-e-Mujahid, Phase 5, D.H.A.., Tel: (92-21) 0300-987-8778, 0322-206-8783
• Purple Haze, 66C-68C, 25th Street, Tauheed Commercial Area, Phase 5, D.H.A. , in the Basement of 'Evolution' restaurant. Tel: (92-21) 586-0941, 582-4651. It serves some of the best desserts in Karachi and also 'Shisha' (Arabic Tobacco). Plus, Karaoke nights are usually fun too.
• Roadside Cafe, F-10, FL 19, Block 5, Kehkashan, Clifton, Tel: (92-21) 586-9777, 586-9778
• Roasters, 10-C, 2nd Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 530-2204, 530-2205
• The Sports Bar C-22, Suite No. 2, 26th Street, Tauheed Commercial Area Phase 5, D.H.A. Karachi, Pakistan. Tel: (92-21) 530-4257, 530-4258
• The Elbow room, Mumtaz Hussain Street, I.I. Chundrigar Road, Tel: (92-21) 241-2241, 241-2242
• The Grapewine, Pearl Continental Hotel, Club Road, UAN: 111-505-505
• Venus Cafe Carlton Resort Hotel & Club DC-5, Opp. Zulfiqar Street Phase 8, D.H.A. Karachi, Pakistan. Tel: (92-21) 584-9172 UAN: 111-72-72-72

[edit] Coffee houses

• Avenue Art Cafe, 33-C, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama , Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 582-3972, 583-0983
• Alao Coffee House Shop #37, SB 3 K.D.A., Scheme 1 Tel: (92-21) 200-5129
• Coffee Day, First Stadium Lane, Khayaban-e-Shamsheer, Phase 5, D.H.A. Tel: (92-21) 546-3814, Live rock bands, usually on random Saturday nights. Call for schedule
• Ciao, 3/1-C, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A.., Tel: (92-21) 587-7974
• Espresso , 10th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A.., Tel: (92-21) 582-4007 , Espresso they also serve a good breakfast and yummy desserts
• Fanoos Coffee Shop Sheraton Hotel Club Road. Tel: (92-21) 563-3333
• Lattetude, Clifton
• Le Grand 9-E, 7th Commercial Lane, Zamzama Phase 5, D.H.A. Tel: (92-21) 582-0186, 582-0187
• The Second Floor (T2F) [http"//www.t2f.com], 6-C, Prime Point Building, Khayaban-e-Ittehad, Phase 7, DHA, Karachi -75500, ☎ (92-21) 538-9273, [6]. Noon - Midnight (Closed on Mondays). The Second Floor is a wireless coffeehouse, featuring a bookshop and a space for creative expression and intelligent discourse. Apart from excellent coffee, T2F also has a range of excellent sandwiches, snacks and dessert. There are regular events such as poetry readings, book signings, workshops, talks, debates, film screenings, unplugged music sessions, gallery openings, exhibitions and stand-up comedy. Numerous well-known politicians, artists, writers, musicians, dancers, filmmakers and thinkers of all ages frequent the place to speak, work or simply hang out.
• U & Me Coffee, 10-C 8th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A.., Tel: (92-21) 587-8913, 857-8931

[edit] Cigar Lounges

• Castro's Cigar lounge, Carlton Hotel, DC-5, Opp. Zulfiqar Street, Phase 8, D.H.A., UAN: 111-72-72-72
• Cigar Bar, 6th Commercial Lane, Zamzama, Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: (92-21) 530-2006
• Club Havana, 2, Vawda House, 10C, 10th Commercial Lane, Zamzama , Phase 5, D.H.A., Tel: 537-4463, 582-1696
• Mizaaj an Egyptian theme restaurant, is also famous for cigars, located in Clifton

[edit] Night life

Excelsior, Toby's bar, Purple haze, Basement, the Casbah... Karachi's night life has become the envy of the region. Bars, nightclubs and dance halls have sprouted across the city and people have also made some places like that in their homes.In the seaview and defence area there are Sports car and bike races too.

• Enjoy Live Theatre at the Arts Council [86]
• Enjoy Karaoke nights & Live Bands at Purple haze, at Base Rock cafe (6th lane, Ittehad, DHA phase 6), at The Sports Bar (26th Street, Towheed, DHA Phase 5), and at Thespianz Theater
• Enjoy Live music bands, usually on random Saturday nights at Bread people bakery & cafe, Coffee day
• Enjoy Concerts, movie nights, masquerade balls at The Elbow room off II Chundrigar road.
• Enjoy Theme Nights at Nadia Cafe (Marriott hotel)
• Enjoy Theatre at at the Spianz theater.
• Enjoy Cinema at Universe Cineplex.
• Live band playing all types of music from 8:30pm-11pm. Live Ghazal band from 11pm-2am at PC hotel and at Karachi Club.
• Live Pakistani traditional band playing nightly from 8pm-12pm at AL-BUSTAN (Sheraton Hotel)
• Live Indian traditional dancer every night except Monday from 8-11:30 at DUMPUKHT (Marriott Hotel)
• Saturday night dance party for couples at Beach Luxury hotel.
• Restaurants at Boat Basin are open till 6am.
• Carlton hotel offers luxury cruise buffet dinner for 35 persons, that takes you to deep sea water.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

There are thousands of less expensive hotels and dorms to sleep in. For $30 USD/night you can get a very decent room, with private bathroom, cable TV and air conditioning. As in any place, you get what you pay for.

[edit] Budget

• Hotel Ambassador, Saddar
• Hotel Al-mustafa, Saddar
• Hotel Al-Harmain tower, Saddar
• Hotel Al-Faisal
• Hotel Abaseen
• Best Western Plaza, Near Railway st.
• Hotel Bloom luxury, Civil lines
• Hotel Bolan
• Hotel Country inn, 19-1-B, Block 6, P.E.C.H.S, Off Shahra e Faisal
• Hotel Crown Inn Sadder, ph: +92 21 5622001-6 [87]
• Hotel De Paris, Saddar
• Downtown Lodge (Corporate Guest House)
• Excelsior hotel, Inverarity road
• Falcon Hotel, Saddar
• Family Guest House, Phase vi DHA
• Gulf Hotel, Saddar
• Gillani Hotel, Fatima Jinnah road, Near Railway St.
• Hotel Jabees, Saddar
• Hotel Mona lisa, Near Railway St.
• Merry Lodge Guest House, 27-A,Nizamuddin Road
• Paradise Hotel, Saddar
• Regency Hotel
• Reliance hotel, Saddar
• Royal Inn, 245-2-H BLOCK-6, P.E.C.H.S.
• Royal city, Sarmad road
• Sarah hotel, Saddar
• Style inn
• Serena Inn Guest House, House Number E167 , Block B ,Gulshan -E -Jamal Main Rashid Minhas Road Karachi
• Hotel Sarawan, Saddar
• Hotel Shalimar
• Hotel Shams, Saddar
• Hotel Shaheen, Fatima Jinnah road, Near Railway St.
• Umpire Hotel, Lilly road, Near Railway St.

[edit] Mid Range

• Beach Luxury Hotel, MT Khan road [88] offers view of China creek.
• Creek Inn, DHA Phase-8
• Carlton Hotel, DHA Phase-8 [89] is beach resort away from the city center, located next to Area 51 bowling alley, DHA Golf club and Creek club.
• Countryside Chalets - Club E Resort [90], Super Highway
• Days Inn, Shahrah-e-Faisal [91]
• Embassy Hotel, Shahrah-e-Faisal [92]
• Faran Hotel, Shahrah-e-Faisal
• Hotel Hilltop, Near Jheel park
• Hotel Metropole, Club road
• Mehran Hotel, Shahrah-e-Faisal [93]
• Midway house, Karachi Airport
• Regent Plaza, Shahrah-e-Faisal [94]

[edit] Splurge

• Karachi Sheraton Hotel And Towers, Club Road [95]
• Pearl Continental hotel, Club Road [96]
• Avari Towers, Club Road [97]
• Marriott Hotel , Abdullah Haroon Road [98]
• Ramada Plaza Hotel , Karachi Airport [99]
• DA Golf club Chalets, DHA [100]
• Dream World Hotel & Resort, Off Super Highway [101] [102] For Booking Call 111-RESORT, They have their own Golf course, Water park, Artificial sea etc

[edit] Contact

The area code for Karachi is 21. Prefix +92 If you are calling from outside Pakistan. Phone numbers are seven digits long. All mobile numbers, however are 11 digits long and begin with "03", and should not be dialled with the city prefix. Omit the '0' when dialing a cell phone from outside Pakistan and prefix the '92' code.

Public Call Offices can be found all over the city. You will find a PCO in nearly 50% of the general stores , there is usually someone who operates the phone and fax. Fees will be charged according to the time spent, and you will pay when you have finished your call.

Cybercafes can be found on virtually every street corner and the rates are as low as Rs.15-20 per hour. They usually don't have a very fast operating system so don't be too impatient. They usually use 14" monitors, Windows 2000, Windows 98, Windows XP are usually installed on these operating systems. Most of the cafes have a decent speed internet connection.

Internet Access can be obtained easily on notebook computers with the help of GRPS enabled mobile connections, supported by almost all of the 5 mobile operators. Mobilink provides EDGE based connection in very limited areas of Karachi, however Telenor's coverage of EDGE is wider. The standard cost of GPRS/EDGE usage is Rs.15 - Rs18/MB data transfer but Zong offers Rs.15/hour, however if you wish to download much more you may want to use unlimited packages, provided only by Mobilink and Telenor at this time. World Call offers USB internet.

Wi-Fi There are several WiFi Hotspots in Karachi in Hotels, Malls,and Cafes/Resturants. If you are in a business district like Shahra-e-Faisal or I.I.Chundrigar Road, then most of the area will have free WiFi.

Cell phone coverage in the city is pretty good. Cell phones were considered as a symbol of status a few years ago, but since 2002 the telecommunications industry has experienced a bit of a boom. These days you can hardly find a single person in the city without a personal cell phone. There are various service providers offering a huge variety of plans. Among them are Mobilink, Warid Telecom, Telenor, Ufone & Zong (China Mobile). Its not a bad idea to buy a cell phone and use a prepaid plan to get yourself connected while you are in the city. The mobile phones and the prepaid plans are very cheap; you can usually get a new cheap cell phone just for Rs. 2000 ($34) and a prepaid connection for Rs. 150 to 400 ($2.5-$7)

[edit] Stay safe

Street crime in Karachi is about what you'd expect from a big city. Use common sense and avoid dangerous areas. Avoid going out alone, or walking by yourself on dark, empty streets. Never flash electronics or valuables in public; keep your cell phones, watches, and purses in a safe place. These things easily attract attention. There are also con men looking out for foreigners, so if someone you don't trust approaches you, just keep on walking. Beware of pickpockets when you are in any crowded areas.

If you are planning to see colonial public buildings, especially those that are located on MA Jinnah road or Preedy street, try to see them at late evening, after 10pm or at early morning, before 7am because traffic in those streets are a nightmare during the day time.

The people of Karachi are very hospitable. They tend to welcome any foreigner very warmly, but regardless of how nice someone seems you should remain aware and alert at all times.

You should always keep the emergency telephone contact numbers of your country's foreign embassy in Karachi.

There should be no serious danger in the affluent parts of the city. Defence, Clifton, and Bahadurabad are regarded as safe at all times, as they are populated by the city's business and cultural elite. These districts offer the most "tourist-friendly" experience of Karachi, given that there will be no language barrier (most Pakistanis can speak some English, and many people in these districts will be completely fluent), and one will find a large degree of cultural understanding and compatibility between the residents and western tourists.

Aga Khan Hospital is by far the best private hospital in the city, with world class medical care at an affordable cost. The free-government hospitals, however, aren't up to par with what Westerners may be used to.

Traffic jams are a major hassle in Karachi. Although the city government has recently built dozens of underpasses and flyovers to get rid of the overflow of the traffic, it is a good idea to keep a look for any rallies/protests and check out alternate routes while traveling in the city.

[edit] Get out

• Moenjodaro- An ancient civilization, not to be missed by history buffs

• Thatta - Once a famous center of learning, arts, and commerce, as well as a provisional capital for about four centuries. Visit Makli a UN World heritage site, Debal The first Mosque of South Asia was built in 8th Century A.D. by Muhammad Bin Qasim, Jamia Masjid - built by Mughal emperor Shah Jehan -who also built Taj Mahal, Haleji Lake - Famous Birds sanctuary and Sunway Lagoon Waterpark. 55KM away from Karachi.

• Keenjhar Lake Resort- 16 miles from Thatta on left side is the famous Keenjhar Lake with cottages for overnight stay. Here, travelers can take a break, go boating, bird-watching and fishing. At night you can light beachcombers' torches to extend your enjoyment of the day, before turning in at your cottage. The cottages are booked through Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) offices located in Karachi on Stratchen Road, opposite Hotel Metropole.

• Kirthar National park

• Hungol National Park- The biggest park in Pakistan, with sites including volcanoes and remnants of the country's ancient civilizations.

• Makran Coastal Highway - (Over 770Kms From Karachi to Gwadar) provides a unique destination for tourists. The highway, which follows the route that Alexander took through the coastal belt of Balochistan in 325 BC, takes you by some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

• Somiani Caves

• Beaches of Gwadar

• It is apparently possible to take cargo ships from Karachi to a few ports around the Middle East like Dubai, Oman

This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!