Plizio Visual Lab
Makli Necropolis
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
historical-site
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Makli Necropolis near Thatta is one of the largest burial sites in the world, covering an area of approximately 10 square kilometers. Between the 14th and 18th centuries, an estimated one million people were buried here, including kings, queens, saints, and scholars. The architecture of the tombs documents the evolution of various dynasties, from the Samma to the Arghun, Tarkhan, and the Mughal period. Particularly impressive are the intricate stone carvings in yellow sandstone, blending floral and geometric patterns with Islamic calligraphy. The site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1981 and is considered a compendium of the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition in Sindh. The vast site reflects the former religious and political importance of Thatta as a regional center. Visitors can explore various types of graves, from monumental mausoleums to simple tombs, offering a unique panorama of regional history.
- Location: Pakistan
- Top sights: Jamia Masjid Mai Makli · Makli Sindh Pakistan · KMKL02
- Nearby: Keenjhar Lake (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 22 | 27 | 31 | 33 | 33 | 32 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 25 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 7 | 14 | 73 | 83 | 31 | 6 | 2 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Makli Necropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and can be visited for a small entrance fee. The grounds are vast, and visitors can view the tombs and mausoleums from the outside as well as partially from the inside.
Typical hours
The necropolis is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset, with the ticket counter often closing one hour before sunset. Hours may differ on Islamic holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, and the intricately carved tombstones offer excellent subjects. For interior shots inside the mausoleums, flash is usually avoided out of respect.
Time needed
Allow at least one to two hours for a walk through the necropolis. Those who want to delve deeper into history should plan for three hours or more.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby town of Thatta, which features a lovely old town and the Shah Jahan Mosque. The archaeological site of Banbhore is also worth a day trip.
Getting there
The Makli Necropolis is located about 100 kilometers east of Karachi, near the town of Thatta. It is reachable by car via National Highway N5; public buses run regularly from Karachi to Thatta.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water and a hat, as the site provides little shade. Early morning or late afternoon is more comfortable and the light is well-suited for photos.
Geography
Facts
- Makli was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
- The necropolis houses an estimated 500,000 to 1,000,000 graves.
- The tomb of Jam Nizamuddin II is one of the most magnificent structures from the Samma period.
- The site extends across the Makli Hill, a limestone ridge.
- Architecturally, influences from Persia, Central Asia, and Gujarat are evident.
- The necropolis is approximately 10 kilometers long and up to 3 kilometers wide.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Makli Necropolis (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Makli Necropolis?
One of the largest cemeteries in the world, with thousands of historical tombs from various dynasties.
Where is it located?
It is located near the city of Thatta in the Sindh province.
Which is the best season?
Winter months from November to February are most pleasant for exploration.
Is it a protected site?
Yes, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is under strict conservation.
How long does the visit take?
Plan for about 2 hours as the area is quite vast.
Makli Necropolis: where is it located?
Makli Necropolis is located in Pakistan.
Makli Necropolis: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jamia Masjid Mai Makli, Makli Sindh Pakistan, KMKL02.
Makli Necropolis: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Makli Necropolis: why is it worth visiting?
The Makli Necropolis near Thatta is one of the largest burial sites in the world, covering an area of approximately 10 square kilometers.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Pakistan →
Nearby cities
Tando Allahyar
Tando Allahyar is a city in Sindh known for its mango and sugarcane production.
Larkana
Historic city in Sindh, famous as the gateway to the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-daro.
Mirpur Khas
Mirpur Khas is a city in the Sindh province, known as the 'City of Mangoes'.
Jacobabad
Jacobabad is a city in Sindh, known for being one of the hottest places on earth.
Shikarpur
Shikarpur is a historic city in Sindh, once renowned for its trade and finance.
Khairpur
Khairpur was the capital of the former princely state of Khairpur in Sindh, and is famous for its date production.
Tando Adam
Tando Adam is a city in the Sindh province, a major center for textile and sugar industries.
Ziarat
A picturesque hill station in Balochistan, famous for its ancient juniper forests and cool climate.
Keenjhar Lake
One of Pakistan's largest freshwater lakes, a vital ecological refuge and a site steeped in local romantic folklore.
Saddar Town
The historic and commercial heart of Karachi, where colonial architecture meets the Arabian Sea coast.
Arbian
Arbian is a coastal area near Karachi, known for its dramatic cliffs, the clear waters of the Arabian Sea, and exclusive beaches.
Haji Muhammad Goth
A fishing village near Karachi, providing access to some of Pakistan's most pristine beaches.
Mubarak Village
A picturesque fishing village near Karachi, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and proximity to Churna Island.
Hanna Lake
An artificial lake near Quetta, surrounded by rugged, arid mountains, serving as a popular local recreational escape.
History & landmarks
Hyderabad
Hyderabad is a vibrant historical city on the banks of the Indus, known for its forts, shrines, and lively handicrafts.
Sukkur
A historic city on the banks of the Indus, famous for its spectacular colonial-era bridges and sacred island temples.
Shah Jahan's Mosque
A mosque in Thatta, famous for its geometric brickwork and blue tiles.
Frere Hall
A British colonial-era building in Karachi, now serving as an exhibition space and library.
Nature
More places
Shah Jahan Mosque, Thatta
A 17th-century mosque renowned for its elaborate tile work and geometric patterns.
Haleji Lake Bird Sanctuary
An important wetland providing shelter to thousands of migratory birds from Siberia in winter.
Ranikot Fort
A massive historical fort near Sann, also known as the Great Wall of Sindh.
Port Qasim
Pakistan's second-busiest seaport, located near Karachi.
Chaukhandi Tombs
An early Islamic necropolis famous for its elaborately carved sandstone tombs.
Sindh Cotton Fields
Large agricultural areas on the lower reaches of the Indus River that grow high-quality cotton.
Danzoo Karachi
The first day and night zoo in Pakistan, providing families a safe environment for animal observation.
Karachi Expo Centre
A major venue for international trade fairs and exhibitions.