Khuzdar, Pakistan
Region: Balochistan
Geographic Coordinates: 27.800000, 66.616700
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 40.0°C (50°F to 104°F)
Climate: Dry and hot climate with low precipitation throughout the year in Khuzdar, Pakistan.
Population: 141395
Language: Balochi
Khuzdar is a district located in the southwestern province of Balochistan, Pakistan. It is situated 270 km away from Quetta, The provincial capital. The district has mountains and hills surrounding it, Making it an ideal place for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Khuzdar experiences hot and dry summers while winters are mild with occasional snowfall. The history of Khuzdar dates back to the prehistoric era with archaeological sites such as Khojak Pass, Mehrgarh, And Naal providing evidence of human settlements that date back over 7000 years ago.
These sites have been excavated by archaeologists from all over the world who have discovered artifacts such as pottery, Tools made from stone and metal, Jewelry made from bones and shells. Khuzdar has many places worth visiting for tourists interested in exploring its culture and heritage. One popular attraction is the Shrine of Baba Wali which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year who come to pay their respects to this Sufi saint buried there.
Another notable attraction in Khuzdar is Ziarat-e-Shaheed Baba Kot which honors those who fought for Pakistan’s independence while reminding visitors about how much sacrifice was needed for this country’s freedom. For outdoor enthusiasts like hikers or rock climbers, Several mountain ranges surround Khuzdar that offer breathtaking views along with challenging terrain. Some notable peaks include Koh-e-Murad (3, 550 meters) and Koh-e-Chiltan (3, 800 meters). Local cuisine includes traditional Balochi dishes like Sajji (roasted lamb) served with naan bread or rice pilaf cooked with meat broth called Pulao.
Other popular dishes include Karahi Gosht (spicy meat curry), Dampukht (slow-cooked meat stew), And Balochi Tikka (grilled meat skewers). Khuzdar offers something for everyone with its rich history and culture. From ancient archaeological sites to towering mountain ranges, There is no shortage of places to explore in this beautiful district. Its warm hospitality, Delicious food, And scenic beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Pakistan.
- 1. Agriculture
- 2. Livestock farming
- 3. Mining (especially coal)
- 4. Small-scale industries such as textiles, leather goods, and handicrafts
- 5. Government offices
- 6. Educational institutions
- Khuzdar played a significant role in the Balochistan Liberation Movement during the 1970s and 1980s.
- Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti, a prominent Baloch leader, was born in Barkhan district near Khuzdar.
- The town has connections to the historic Kalat State, which was governed by the Khan of Kalat until it became part of Pakistan in 1948.
- In recent years, Khuzdar has been impacted by sectarian violence and militant group attacks.
- Notable figures from Khuzdar include Mir Gul Khan Nasir, a celebrated poet and politician who contributed to Pakistan’s establishment; Sardar Ataullah Mengal, a former chief minister of Balochistan; and Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch, a former governor and chief minister of Balochistan.
- The town boasts numerous archaeological sites dating back to ancient times such as the Mehrgarh civilization that thrived around 7000 BCE.
- Khuzdar Fort: A historical fort located in the center of the city.
- Shrine of Baba Wali Dad: A famous Sufi shrine located near Khuzdar.
- Bolan Pass: A scenic mountain pass that connects Balochistan with Punjab and Sindh provinces.
- Hingol National Park: A wildlife sanctuary located about 190 km from Khuzdar.
- Karez System: An ancient underground water supply system used for irrigation and drinking purposes.
- Jamia Masjid-e-Aqsa: One of the oldest mosques in Khuzdar built during the Mughal era.
- Hazrat Shah Noorani Shrine: Another popular Sufi shrine located about 100 km from Khuzdar.
- Kharan Desert: A vast desert landscape with sand dunes and rocky terrain located near the Iranian border.
- Naag Temple: An ancient Hindu temple believed to be over a thousand years old, situated on a hilltop near Wadh town outside of Khuzdar city limits.
- Ziarat Juniper Forests: The largest juniper forest in Asia is situated about 200 km from Khuzdar city limits and offers scenic views and hiking opportunities for nature lovers to explore its natural beauty and biodiversity.
- There is limited information available on sports teams and their histories in Khuzdar, Pakistan.
- However, it is known that Khuzdar has a cricket stadium where local and regional cricket matches are held.
- The city also has a football club named Khuzdar United Football Club which participates in local tournaments.
- Additionally, there are various traditional sports played in the area such as:
- Wrestling (Pehlwani)
- Kabaddi
- Volleyball
- Sibi Mela: This is a four-day festival that takes place every February to celebrate the cultural heritage of Balochistan. It features traditional dances, music performances, and handicraft exhibitions.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: This is a religious festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan (the month of fasting). People dress up in new clothes and visit their friends and family to exchange gifts.
- Jashn-e-Baharan: This is a spring festival that celebrates the arrival of spring season in Khuzdar. The festival features flower shows, musical performances, food stalls, and other cultural activities.
- Basant Festival: Every February marks this kite flying festival which welcomes the spring season.
- Independence Day: Pakistan’s Independence Day is celebrated on August 14th every year with parades, flag hoisting ceremonies, fireworks displays, and other patriotic events.
- Urs Sharif Khuzdar: An annual religious event held at Hazrat Baba Wali Muhammad Shah Bukhari (RA) shrine for three days where people from different parts of Balochistan come together to pay homage through prayers and rituals.
- National Horse & Cattle Show Lahore (Khuzdar): Organized annually by Pakistan Army where people showcase their livestock including horses for competitions along with folk dance performances etc…
- Sajji: This dish features a whole lamb or chicken roasted over coals and served with rice. It’s a must-try for meat lovers!
- Kebabs: Grilled meat skewers seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric are another favorite among locals.
- Dampukht: A slow-cooked meat stew made with tomatoes, onions, and spices is perfect for those looking for something hearty.
- Pulao: This fragrant rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables and flavored with saffron is a staple in many households.
- Chapli Kebab: These spicy flat patties made from ground beef or lamb mixed with onions and spices are sure to please your taste buds.
- Al-Madina Restaurant
- Naseer Hotel & Restaurant
- Al-Sheikh Restaurant
- Khan Baba Hotel & Restaurant
- Shamim Biryani House
- Khuzdar National Park: This park is located in the outskirts of the city and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
- Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) Park: This park is located on the campus of BUET and offers a peaceful environment for walking, jogging or just relaxing.
- Quaid-e-Azam Stadium: This stadium hosts various sports events such as cricket matches and football games.
- Shahbaz Khan Mosque Park: This park is located near Shahbaz Khan Mosque and offers a playground for children along with benches for adults to relax.
- Hazara Waterfall: This waterfall is located about 30 km from Khuzdar city center and offers a beautiful natural setting for hiking or picnicking.
- Kund Malir Beach: Although it’s about 200 km away from Khuzdar city center, this beach is worth visiting if you’re looking for some fun in the sun.
- Karez System: The ancient Karez system provides an opportunity to explore underground tunnels that have been used to irrigate crops for centuries in Balochistan province.
- Hiking Trails: There are several hiking trails around Khuzdar that offer breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, waterfalls such as Tandarri Mountain Trail or Buleda Valley Trail
If you’re looking to try these dishes out yourself, here are some of the top restaurants in Khuzdar where you can find them:
