Kotri, Pakistan
Region: Sindh
Geographic Coordinates: 25.366000, 68.312200
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 40.0°C (68°F to 104°F)
Climate: Hot and dry summers, mild winters with occasional rainfall.
Population: 259358
Language: Sindhi
Kotri is a small city located in the Jamshoro district of the Sindh province in Pakistan. It is situated on the banks of the Indus River and is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The city has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times, With many historic sites and landmarks scattered throughout. One of Kotri’s most famous landmarks is its railway station, Which was built during British colonial rule in 1890. The station has been preserved over time and still serves as an important transportation hub for people traveling to various parts of Pakistan.
Another notable attraction in Kotri is the Keenjhar Lake, Which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Pakistan. The lake attracts tourists from all over due to its serene surroundings and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy boating, Fishing or simply relax by taking a walk along its shores. Kotri also has several historic sites that are worth visiting, Including the Kot Diji Fort which dates back to 1785 AD. This fort was built by Mir Sohrab Khan Talpur as part of his defense strategy against invading forces from Afghanistan.
Today it stands as a testament to Sindh’s rich history and culture. Another prominent site in Kotri is Haji Khan Mosque, Which was constructed during Mughal rule around 1647 AD. The mosque features intricate carvings and designs that reflect traditional Islamic architecture. For those interested in learning more about local culture, There are several museums located within Kotri such as Sirajuddin Aziz Museum that houses artifacts related to history & culture of Sindhi people . Additionally , There are many handicraft shops where visitors can purchase traditional Sindhi crafts such as Ajrak (a type of dyed cloth), Pottery items etc..
Overall, Kotri offers a unique blend of natural beauty combined with rich cultural heritage making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking an authentic Pakistani experience.
- Kotri, located in Pakistan, is primarily an industrial city with a focus on manufacturing and production.
- The major industries and businesses in Kotri include:
- Textile manufacturing
- Cotton yarns
- Fabrics
- Garments
- Chemical industry
- Caustic soda
- Chlorine
- Sulfuric acid
- Pharmaceuticals
- Medicines for both domestic and international markets
- Food processing
- Snacks
- Biscuits
- Confectionery items
- Construction materials production
- Bricks
- Tiles
- Cement blocks
- Automobile parts manufacturing
- Small to medium scale industries
- Leather goods production
- Raw material provided by leather tanneries
- Packaging industry
- Packing material provided by packaging companies
- Kotri Barrage: The construction of Kotri Barrage began in 1929 and was completed in 1955. It is one of the largest barrages in Pakistan and provides irrigation water to millions of acres of land.
- Sir Ghulam Hussain Hidayatullah: He was a prominent politician who served as the Prime Minister of Sindh from 1937 to 1942. He played a key role in the construction of Kotri Barrage.
- Allama Iqbal: The famous poet and philosopher visited Kotri during his tour to Sindh in 1922.
- Sir Adamjee Haji Dawood: He was a prominent businessman who established several industries in Karachi, including textile mills, cement factories, and sugar mills.
- Mirza Kalich Beg: He was a renowned writer and journalist who wrote extensively about the culture, traditions, and history of Sindh.
- Sindhu Desh Liberation Army (SDLA): This separatist group operated from Kotri during the early 1980s with an aim to create an independent state for Sindhi people.
- Indus Valley Civilization (IVC): The ruins of IVC have been discovered near Kotri that date back over 5000 years ago.
- British Raj: During British rule, Kotri served as an important railway junction connecting Karachi with northern parts of India.
- Floods: In recent times, floods have devastated many areas around Kotri causing loss to life and property.
- Mangla Dam Project: Mangla Dam project which started its construction work on November 1961 also has its significance for providing electricity supply to different areas including kotli district which is situated near Kotri.
- Kotri Barrage
- Faiz Mahal
- Kot Diji Fort
- Khuda Ki Basti Park
- Sindh Museum Kotri
- Shah Jahan Mosque
- Jamia Masjid
- Haji Khan Mari Shrine
- Tando Allahyar Dam
- Kirthar National Park
- Urs Mubarak Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai: This is an annual Sufi festival celebrated to honor the great Sufi saint Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: This is one of the most important Islamic festivals celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by Muslims all over Kotri.
- Basant Festival: This is a colorful kite-flying festival that marks the arrival of spring season.
- Urs Mubarak Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar: This is another popular Sufi festival celebrated annually at Sehwan Sharif near Kotri.
- Independence Day Celebrations: August 14th is marked as Independence Day in Pakistan, and it is celebrated with patriotic fervor across all cities including Kotri.
Please note that this information may not be up-to-date or accurate as cultural events and festivals may change from year to year depending on various factors such as local customs, traditions, and religious beliefs.
- Biryani: A renowned dish made with rice and meat that is cooked with spices.
- Karahi: A spicy Pakistani curry made with chicken or mutton.
- Haleem: A thick soup-like dish made with wheat grains and meat.
- Kebabs: Grilled meat skewers that come in different varieties such as beef, chicken or lamb.
- Nihari: A slow-cooked stew made of beef shanks and bone marrow.
Some popular dining establishments in Kotri include:
- Al-Sheikh Restaurant
- Al-Khair Hotel & Restaurant
- Mehran Cafe & Barbecue
- Shaheen Tikka Shop
- Sindh Dhaba
- Kotri Barrage Park is a picturesque park situated close to the Kotri Barrage that provides visitors with stunning views of the Indus River. The park has a range of facilities including walking trails, picnic areas, and a children’s playground.
- Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park is located in the heart of Kotri city and is named after Pakistan’s late Prime Minister. It features a jogging track, cricket ground, and an impressive fountain.
- Kirthar National Park is approximately 60 km from Kotri city and is renowned for its hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities to observe wildlife.
- Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy catching catfish, carp, and other species in the Indus River that flows through Kotri city.
- Keenjhar Lake is one of Pakistan’s largest freshwater lakes located about 30 km from Kotri city where visitors can rent boats for fishing or exploring the lake.
- Gorakh Hill Station offers trekking opportunities with breathtaking views of surrounding mountains located around 100 km from Kotri City
- Sehwan Sharif town which lies around 50 km away from Kotri City features several shrines including Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s shrine where visitors can enjoy picnics amidst beautiful surroundings with their families or friends
