Charna Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the Arabian Sea, about 9 km west of the mouth of the Hub River. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life.
In this blog, Graana.com will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Charna Island, covering everything from its location and accessibility to the various activities and attractions that it offers. You will also find information on the best time to visit, accommodation options, and safety measures to consider while participating in water sports activities.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing day trip or an adventurous weekend getaway, Charna Island has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and prepare to explore this unseen paradise of Karachi.
Location of Charna Island
Charna Island lies to the west of the Hub River, spanning across the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan. Situated merely 6 kilometres from Mubarak Village in Mubarak Goth, Kemari, it serves as a favoured fishing spot for local fishermen. Access to the island is possible via the fishermen’s boats, which, while not luxurious, are maintained to be clean and hygienic.
Activities
Here are some of the fun activities that you can do on Charna Island
- Fishing
- Speed boat ride
- Jet skiing
- Banana boat ride
- Scuba diving
- Snorkelling
- Cliff diving
- Underwater photography
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most popular activities on Charna Island. The waters around the island are home to various fish, including tuna, mackerel, and barracuda. Visitors can hire a boat and fishing gear from local operators or fish from the shore.
Speed Boat Ride
Another exhilarating and visually appealing activity on Karachi Island is speed boating, particularly popular among teenagers. The thrill of speeding across the water and the picturesque tides left in its wake make speed boating an experience to cherish on the island.
Jet Skiing
Jet skiing is another popular activity on Charna Island. Visitors can rent a jet ski, explore the island’s coastline, or take a guided tour of the surrounding area. Jet skiing is a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of the island and its stunning scenery.
Banana Boat Ride
Banana boating appeals to kids and families, with many visitors finding great joy in this activity. Combining sightseeing with a recreational pursuit adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
Scuba Diving
Charna Island has gained popularity primarily for its scuba diving opportunities, drawing the admiration of Karachi’s residents. Diving into the Arabian Sea’s waters presents an excellent chance for Karachi’s locals to witness an array of marine species. Scuba diving is the standout activity on Charna Island.
Those seeking adventure should not overlook this opportunity. The cost of scuba diving at Charna Island starts from 9000, catering to every adult’s desire for an enthralling experience.
Visitors to Charna Island who refrain from engaging in scuba diving might come to regret their decision. Additionally, a compelling reason to partake in scuba diving is the increased presence of jellyfish during October and September.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling stands out as another enjoyable activity on Charna Island, particularly favoured by those who are apprehensive about scuba diving.
Gliding through the water’s surface with the necessary gear offers a delightful experience. Make sure to seize the opportunity to indulge in snorkelling if time permits.
Cliff Diving
Cliff diving is a thrilling activity for adrenaline junkies. Several cliffs on Charna Island are popular for cliff diving. The highest cliff is about 20 meters high and offers stunning views of the island and the sea. Cliff diving is not for the faint of heart but a truly exhilarating experience.
Underwater Photography
The most aesthetically pleasing photos are captured underwater. Tourists, particularly the adventurous ones, are fond of engaging in underwater photography.
Charna Island Packages
Numerous travel groups and agencies offer appealing tour packages to visitors, ensuring a delightful experience through engaging in the island’s finest sports activities.
Among these, the Scuba Club stands as an excellent choice, providing scuba diving services at a rate of 9000 rupees per person. Additionally, the option of snorkelling is available for 4000 rupees.
Furthermore, the Nature Adventure Club facilitates a convenient pick-up and drop service from Karachi to the enchanting Island. Commencing from the prominent McDonald’s Clifton Karachi, their journey to Charna begins at 8 a.m.
Wildlife
On September 14, 2017, a mother blue whale, measuring 17 metres in length, was sighted near the island, accompanied by her calf. This marked the first live blue whale sighting in the Pakistani sea, as prior sightings had only been of beached blue whale skeletons.
The most recent of these skeletons had been observed at Khuddi Creek along the Sindh coast in August 2014. While 47 sightings of baleen whales had occurred in the area, none of them had been blue whales.
On November 22, 2017, a rare sighting of a killer whale was reported near the island despite the typically deep-water habitat of these creatures. The water depth where the whale was spotted was a mere 72 metres. This sighting also represented the first killer whale sighting in the Karachi area since 2003.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Following are some common questions and their answers about Charna Island.
What are the main activities to enjoy on Charna Island?
The main activities on Charna Island include scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, jet skiing, cliff diving, and underwater photography.
How can one reach Charna Island from Karachi?
Charna Island can be reached from Karachi by availing services from various travel groups and agencies providing transportation by boats or ferries.
Are there any accommodation options available on Charna Island?
Charna Island offers limited accommodation options, including basic huts or camping facilities for visitors interested in spending the night on the island.
What is the best time of the year to visit Charna Island?
The best time to visit Charna Island is typically between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for water activities.
What safety measures should be considered while participating in water sports activities on Charna Island?
Visitors engaging in water sports activities on Charna Island should prioritise safety by wearing appropriate gear, following instructions from experienced guides, and being mindful of the water conditions and tides.
To read about different islands of Pakistan, visit Graana Blog.
