One of the largest necropolises in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site holding an estimated half a million tombs spanning Soomra, Samma, Arghun, Tarkhan and Mughal-era Sindh, with carved sandstone and glazed-tile mausoleums.
Makli Necropolis spreads across a hilltop near Thatta, roughly 98 kilometers east of Karachi, holding an estimated half a million graves and mausoleums built over some six centuries by the Soomra, Samma, Arghun, Tarkhan and Mughal dynasties of Sindh. Visitors wander among densely clustered tombs ranging from simple carved-sandstone graves to elaborate domed mausoleums decorated with glazed blue and turquoise tiles, most notably the tomb of Jam Nizamuddin and the tiled mausoleum of Isa Khan Tarkhan II. The scale of the necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, means visitors can spend anywhere from a quick walk among the main tombs to a longer exploration of the outer, less-visited sections. Stonework details — floral carvings, geometric patterns and calligraphic inscriptions — reward close inspection at several of the larger tombs. The site is entirely exposed hilltop with minimal shade, so early morning or late afternoon visits are markedly more comfortable than midday. A visit covering the principal tombs takes 2-3 hours.
| Admission | Adult PKR 3,000 for foreign nationals (approx $10.79); PKR 50 for Pakistani nationals · Child Reduced rate for Pakistani school-age children |
|---|---|
| Hours | Summer daily 8:00AM-7:00PM; winter daily 9:00AM-6:00PM |
| Typical visit | 2-3 hours |
| Best time | Early morning or late afternoon, avoiding the midday heat across the exposed hilltop necropolis |
| Getting there | On Makli Hill about 98km east of Karachi and a few kilometers from Thatta town; reachable by taxi, coach or private car along the N-5 highway |
| Address | Makli Hill, Thatta, Sindh, Pakistan |
Location
Makli Hill, Thatta, Sindh, Pakistan
24.7469, 67.9214 View on map
Highlights
- Half a million tombs spanning six centuries of Sindhi dynasties
- Glazed blue-tile mausoleum of Isa Khan Tarkhan II
- Carved sandstone tomb of Jam Nizamuddin
- UNESCO World Heritage Site designation
- Panoramic hilltop views over the Indus delta plain
Tips for visiting
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the exposed hilltop's midday heat
- Foreign nationals pay a higher entry fee than Pakistani visitors, so bring identification
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking among uneven tomb clusters
- Hire a local guide near the entrance to help navigate the site's most significant tombs
- Combine with the nearby Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta for a fuller day trip
When to visit
Early morning or late afternoon, avoiding the midday heat across the exposed hilltop necropolis.
Accessibility
The necropolis has uneven, unpaved ground across the hilltop, making it difficult for wheelchair users to explore beyond the main entrance area.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Makli Necropolis take?
Seeing the principal tomb clusters takes about 2-3 hours; a closer exploration of outer sections can take longer.
Is it worth visiting with children?
Older children interested in history tend to appreciate the site more than very young children, given its size and lack of shade.
Is photography allowed at Makli Necropolis?
Photography is generally permitted throughout the necropolis.