Jacobabad, Pakistan
Region: Sindh
Geographic Coordinates: 28.276900, 68.451400
Temperature Range: 40.0°C to 50.0°C (104°F to 122°F)
Climate: Hot and arid climate with temperatures reaching up to 50°C in summer and minimal rainfall throughout the year.
Population: 200815
Language: Sindhi
Jacobabad is a city located in the Sindh province of Pakistan. It has a hot and dry climate and is situated on the banks of the River Indus. The city has a rich history dating back to pre-Partition era when it was part of British India. During World War II, Jacobabad served as an important airbase for Allied forces. Today, Jacobabad has around 200, 000 residents and serves as an important center for agriculture and trade in the region. Cotton production is a major contributor to the city’s economy with many small-scale farmers growing cotton crops throughout the area.
Additionally, Handicrafts such as textiles and pottery are popular products sold in local markets. Despite its economic importance, Jacobabad faces many challenges related to poverty and infrastructure development. Many residents lack access to basic services such as clean water and sanitation facilities while roads in the area are often poorly maintained or non-existent. One of Jacobabad’s most notable landmarks is its historic railway station which was built by British colonial authorities in 1892. This beautiful building features ornate architecture that reflects its status as an important transportation hub during that time period.
Another popular attraction in Jacobabad is its annual Urs festival which celebrates Sufi saint Hazrat Sachal Sarmast. Thousands of people from across Pakistan gather each year to participate in this religious event. Despite these cultural attractions, Many visitors come to Jacobabad simply to experience life in rural Pakistan firsthand. The vibrant markets and friendly locals who are always eager to share their traditions with outsiders offer a unique glimpse into one of South Asia’s most fascinating cultures.
Overall, While it may not be one of Pakistan’s most well-known destinations among tourists or travelers from abroad , There’s no denying that there’s something special about this charming little town nestled along the banks of River Indus . Whether you’re interested in history, Culture or simply experiencing life in rural Pakistan, Jacobabad is definitely worth a visit.
- Shrine of Hazrat Ghous Bakhsh Rind: A popular Sufi shrine that attracts devotees from all over Pakistan.
- Jacobabad Fort: An old fort built during the British Raj that is now used as a military base.
- Tomb of Pir Pathan Baba: Another Sufi shrine located in the city.
- Dargah Shahbaz Qalandar: A famous shrine dedicated to a 13th-century Sufi saint.
- Kandhkot Bridge: A bridge over the Indus River that connects Jacobabad to Kandhkot.
- Sukkur Barrage: A large dam on the Indus River near Jacobabad that provides irrigation water for nearby farmland.
- Manchar Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Pakistan and a popular spot for fishing and boating.
- Khairpur District Museum: A museum showcasing local history and culture, located about an hour’s drive from Jacobabad.
- Mohenjo-daro archaeological site: An ancient city dating back to 2500 BCE, located about two hours’ drive from Jacobabad (in Larkana district).
- Jacobabad is a small city situated in the Sindh province of Pakistan.
- The city has several significant industries and businesses:
- Agriculture
- Livestock
- Textile industry
- Oil and gas industry
- Construction services
- Trading hub for agricultural products and livestock from nearby areas
- Small scale industries
- Agriculture is one of the primary industries in Jacobabad:
- Fertile soil produces various crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton
- Livestock farming is also prevalent in this city:
- Dairy farming is the most prominent
- The textile industry has a significant presence in Jacobabad:
- Several mills produce cotton yarns and fabrics
- The oil refinery owned by Pakistan State Oil (PSO) processes crude oil from different fields of Pakistan.
- With the growing population in Jacobabad comes an increasing demand for construction services:
- This demand provides employment opportunities for locals
- Jacobabad also serves as a trading hub for agricultural products and livestock from nearby areas.
- Several small scale industries such as brick kilns, furniture making shops and metal workshops provide employment opportunities to locals too.
- General John Jacob founded the city in 1847 during British colonial rule.
- During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Jacobabad served as a crucial military base for the British army.
- In 1901, the first railway line was built in Jacobabad, connecting it to other cities in Sindh and Punjab.
- The city played an essential role in World War II as a supply base for Allied forces operating in the Middle East and North Africa.
- Notable people from Jacobabad include Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, known as the father of Pakistan’s nuclear program; politician Syed Fazal Agha; and cricketer Mohammad Sami.
- In recent years, severe flooding has affected Jacobabad due to climate change and poor infrastructure development.
- The city is also renowned for its cultural heritage, including traditional Sindhi music and dance forms like Jhoomar and Dhamal.
- Shrine of Hazrat Sachal Sarmast: This famous Sufi shrine is dedicated to the 18th-century Sindhi poet and saint Sachal Sarmast.
- Tomb of Mir Bahadur Khan Talpur: This historical monument dates back to the 18th century and was built by the Talpur dynasty.
- Jacobabad Museum: This small museum showcases the history and culture of Jacobabad and its surrounding areas.
- Shahi Bagh Park: A public park located in the heart of Jacobabad city, it has lush green lawns, walking tracks, fountains, and playgrounds for children.
- Shikarpur Fort: Located about 50 km from Jacobabad city, this fort was built during the British colonial era and now serves as a police training center.
- Khansar Park: Another public park with beautiful gardens located on Shahi Road in Jacobabad city.
- Mohenjo Daro Archaeological Site: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located about 200 km from Jacobabad city but worth visiting if you’re interested in ancient history as it dates back to Indus Valley Civilization era (2600-1900 BCE).
- Urs of Hazrat Sachal Sarmast: This is a three-day annual festival that occurs during the month of Ramadan to honor the famous Sindhi poet and saint Hazrat Sachal Sarmast.
- Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid: Another yearly festival celebrated in Jacobabad is the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid, a renowned Punjabi Sufi poet.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: This significant Islamic festival is celebrated by Muslims all over Pakistan, including Jacobabad, to mark the end of Ramadan.
- Basant Festival: The Basant (kite-flying) Festival is also celebrated with great enthusiasm in Jacobabad during spring season.
- National Independence Day: August 14th marks Pakistan’s independence day and it’s celebrated throughout the country including Jacobabad with flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, and fireworks displays.
- Muharram-ul-Haram: This religious event has great significance for Shia Muslims as it commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA). It’s observed through mourning processions and majlis-e-aza (religious gatherings) held throughout Muharram month including Ashura Day which falls on 10th Muharram every year.
- Sindhi Cultural Day: Sindhi Cultural Day takes place on December 6th every year to celebrate Sindhi culture through music performances, traditional dances, food festivals etc., across different cities in Sindh province including Jacobabad as well.
- Biryani: This dish is made with rice, meat (usually chicken or beef), and a blend of spices.
- Sajji: A famous dish in Jacobabad that consists of whole roasted lamb or chicken.
- Kebabs: Popular in Jacobabad, especially beef kebabs.
- Chappal Kabab: A unique type of kebab made from minced meat that is flattened into the shape of a shoe sole (chappal) and cooked on a griddle.
- Mehboob Restaurant: This restaurant serves traditional Pakistani dishes such as biryani, karahi, and kebabs.
- Al-Aziz Fast Food & Restaurant: Offers fast food items such as burgers and sandwiches along with Pakistani dishes like biryani and karahi.
- Karachi Haleem Centre: Specializes in haleem (a thick stew made from lentils, wheat grains, meat) which is considered to be one of the best in town.
- Javed Nihari House: Offers traditional breakfast items such as nihari (slow-cooked beef curry), paya (trotters soup), halwa puri (sweet semolina pudding served with fried bread).
- Ravi Hotel & Restaurant: Known for its fresh naans baked on-site along with other Pakistani dishes like biryani and karahi.
- Mirwah Gorchany Restaurant – A must-visit for those who want to try authentic Sindhi cuisine including sajji lamb or chicken roasted over firewood and served with rice or naan.
Parks in Jacobabad:
- Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park
- Quaid-e-Azam Stadium
- Fatima Jinnah Park
- Children’s Park
- Jacobabad Gymkhana Club
Recreational activities in Jacobabad:
- Cricket matches at the Quaid-e-Azam Stadium.
- Picnicking at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park or Fatima Jinnah Park.
- Visiting the historical landmarks such as Sufi shrines and ancient mosques.
- Shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs at local markets.
- Attending cultural festivals and events held throughout the year.
