NABA BASAR
Islamabad : Located near Mubarak village, Karachi, Churna is a small island in the Arabian Sea. It is approximately 9 km from the Hub River also known as “Manjhar Beach”, which is between the provinces of Balochistan and Sindh. The island itself is around 1.2 km in length and 0.5 km in width. It is 6 km from Mubarak Village which is also the second largest fishermen settlement in Karachi and the boundary between the Balochistan and Sindh.
Churna, locally known as ‘Cheerno’, is famous for its clear water, coral reefs and marine life and for many activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, underwater photography, cliff jumping, jet skiing, hiking, banana tubing, surfing, speed boating etc.
For a seamless experience, we decided to take a local provider that offers experiences at Churna Island.
The chosen meeting point was Boat Basin, Clifton. The drive from Karachi to Mubarak village is about 1.5 hours and takes another 45–50 minutes’ boat ride to the anchor point. The route we took was Gulbai to Mauripur to Mubarak village. People also take a boat ride from Sunehri beach which is a 2-minute drive (800 m) from Manjhar Goth, which is where we embarked. Goth Manjhar is a small fishermen settlement and often used as a firing range by Pakistan Navy.
We each slipped into the life vests (mandatory) provided by the staff and piled into a small wooden boat. It was October and the perfect weather with gorgeous migratory birds in sight – a brilliant place for bird lovers.
Churna is a large, barren, rocky-reef island off the coastline. Once anchored we got a briefing in snorkeling which is good for both swimmers and non-swimmers followed by snorkels and masks and an encouraging cheer to jump off!
You have to follow the guiding ropes installed on the water surface of the snorkeling area, which is a depth of around 10 to 15 ft.
As we had never snorkeled before, my son and I felt an adrenaline rush as we watched hordes of people diving in one by one. If you are a non-swimmer you will have a little trouble getting used to the mask, the snorkel, breathing with your head underwater and the triumphant blue, bitter salty sea that you just cannot avoid gulping.
We stayed in the water for almost 4 hours and as you swim towards the rocks you will spot different sea creatures.
I caught sight of a seahorse, jellyfish, a loose cluster of small fish and many stripped green and yellow fish gleaming under bright sun beams.
It was mid-afternoon and we were called for lunch on the boat. A bit of a chill you feel as you pull yourself up! No point bringing extra clothes since there is no place to change on the boat. It was sunny and the sun warmed us as we ate. It was a joy watching them as we wolfed-down the aromatic savory rice dish.
Time to bid farewell and sail back to the shore before the sun disappears below the horizon.
Few things to keep in mind
Read reviews about the company you use and be on time.
Have a light breakfast before the boat ride to avoid seasickness and nausea.
Best to stop for a bathroom break near Manjhar Village.
Carry your ID.
On a bright sunny day, one must carry water, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Travel light and take only what is necessary on the boat (carry a towel and something warm to wear over later). Don’t leave behind your valuables such as, wallet, cash, cell phone, camera etc.
Footwear that’s water friendly / water safe / water appropriate.
Don’t wear anything that would weigh you down in water (avoid jeans / double layered trousers / thick shirts).
Respect the sea life under water and do not litter.
Buses / public transport to Mubarak Village or Sunehri Beach are not frequent.
Snorkeling kit includes diving mask, snorkel (device tube for breathing in water surface), life jacket, wet suit (optional for cold weather).
Male and female instructors and lifeguards available (double-check before signing up).
Additional Information
Highlights
Large number of men, women and children were swimming in the sea and clicking pictures but no disorderly conduct.
The company we opted for was cooperative, courteous and professional.
Routes
Distance from Mubarak Village to Charna is 6 km
Distance from Manjhar Beach to Charna is 9 km
Distance from the center of the city to Manjhar beach is 50 km
Best time to Visit
Due to the absence of high tides, the sea is calm, therefore the best time to snorkel is from November to April. It is a natural phenomenon that the water feels much warmer during the winters as compared to summers. The average temperature of the water in winter is said to be not more than 25 degrees. Snorkeling is recommended from November to April (all winter months – wetsuits will be provided upon request).
Tour Duration
Early morning to evening
Night stay and camping not possible.
