Gwadar: The Picturesque Hidden Treasure
Situated on the coast of Arabian Sea, Gwadar is your ultimate getaway destination. The breathtaking views and pristine crystal clear serene beaches transport you to a world of relaxation and tranquillity.
How to get there
You can either take a flight from Karachi or take a scenic drive down the Makran Coastal Highway with its eye- catching views and blue water beaches on one side and the grandeur of majestic mountains on the other. Cruising along the highway, you pass through the Hingol National Park, the largest of its kind in the country, the world famous Mud Volcanoes, the breathtakingly beautiful Kund Malir Beach, Princess of Hope, Natural Sphinx and Temples of Hinglaj Mata. Going further west, the road starts to descend towards Rudeni Band, through Ormara and finally Gwadar.
Where to stay
The 5-Star Zaver Pearl Continental Hotel offers panoramic views of the city and scenic coastline. The serenity of Gwadar coupled with the comforts of a 5 star hotel ensure a perfect escape. Zaver offers an array of both traditional and international restaurants, spacious and luxurious rooms, fully equipped conference halls as well as an outdoor pool, pampering spa treatments and a fitness centre to cater to all of one’s needs.
The well-decorated rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, personal safe and a well-stocked minibar. Suites include a private balcony opening on to the Gwadar port and the Arabian Sea. The cuisine options vary from Chinese at Tai Pan Restaurant to Western fine dining at Jason’s Steak House. The Nadia Coffee Shop is renowned for its delicious Continental and Pakistani dishes.
Car rentals and day trips can be arranged at the tour desk. The hotel also provides a beauty salon, business centre and meeting rooms. Zaver Pearl Continental, Gwadar is 2 km from deep water sea sports activities. It is 10 km from Virgin Beach, 14 km from Gwadar International Airport and 30 km from the Water Sports Park. Akra Dam is 35 km away.
What to do
Gwadar is perfect for all the adventurous souls out there. With activities ranging from jet skiing and speed boating to scuba diving and desert safaris you are sure to never be bored. The major attractions include:
• Hingol National park: It is the largest park of its kind in Pakistan and allows one to observe wildlife in all its glory or go swimming in the underground Hingol river
• Gwadar port
• Princess of Hope: It is named after Angelina Jolie to commemorate her visit to the area as the UN Goodwill Ambassador in 2002, the Princess of Hope is a naturally occurring mud carved statue bearing resemblance to a standing woman. • Natural Sphinx • Zalzala Koh or Zalzala Jazeera: The island appeared overnight after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake
• Gorab beach
• Kund Malir beach
• Local boat making yards, which depict the ancient craft of Gwadar’s locals
• Mud volcano: It is also known as Baba Chander Kup amd is believed to be one of the largest mud volcanoes in the world. Every year thousands of Hindus gather to attend a four-day ritual starting with Baba Chander Kup, a live volcano spitting out Mud from thousands of years, before moving on to Hinglaj Mata Mandir in Hingol Park.
Is Gwadar on your list of places to visit?