The Karoonjhar Mountain range is situated in Nagarparkar, at the southeastern edge of Tharparkar, Sindh.
- Karoonjhar holds cultural value for the people of Sindh. It is not just a physical landmark, but a symbol of heritage and identity
Ali Nawaz Rahimoo
Pakistan is a land of remarkable diversity, woven together by its rich cultural heritage, vast natural resources, and breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic peaks that soar in the northern regions to the peaceful, sprawling deserts in the south, the country offers a unique blend of nature’s finest elements. Each province contributes its own special character and traditions, creating a mosaic of beauty and promise that defines Pakistan’s identity and potential. This diversity not only enriches the nation’s cultural fabric but also presents countless opportunities for growth and exploration.
The Karoonjhar Mountain range, counted among the lowest in the country at a height of 305 meters above sea level, is situated in Nagarparkar, at the southeastern edge of Tharparkar, Sindh.
Sindh, often celebrated for its historical sites and vibrant festivals, is home to a hidden gem rarely discovered, Karoonjhar. The mountain range is renowned for its unique geological formations and ecological diversity, influencing local climate and supporting a variety of plant and animal species. Its varied habitats provide refuge for numerous wildlife species, some of which are endemic and threatened. Beyond its environmental significance, Karoonjhar holds cultural value for the people of Nagarparkar. It is not just a physical landmark, but a symbol of heritage and identity for the locals. Located in the Nagarparkar area of Tharparkar, Sindh, the Karoonjhar Mountains are a remarkable, but underappreciated, natural treasure. This area, which borders the Rann of Kutch, is a stark contrast to the more renowned mountain ranges such as the Khirthar, Hindu Kush, Karakoram, Himalayas, Salt Range, and Suleiman mountains. Though not as noteworthy in terms of size as the more famous mountain ranges in our region, the Karoonjhar range stretches approximately 19 kilometers in length and rises to about 305 meters in height. It is primarily composed of granite, likely an extension of India’s ancient Aravalli range, which dates back to the Archean period, making it one of the oldest rock systems in the world.
Rich in resources and serenity. Deforestation and hunting have been harming the ecology of the area and ruining the natural beauty of the Thar Desert. The people of Thar are also under threat, for they depend on its natural resources for survival.
The rate of environmental degradation can be ascertained from figures provided by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the ministry of environment. In 1996, the IUCN declared 25 wildlife species on the ‘red list’ of threatened animals. The number has now increased drastically. Similarly, in 2010, the ministry of environment and UNDP declared seven arid zone plants as ‘rare species of which five are native to Tharparkar. There are 154 rare species of plants, 26 species of rare mammals and 400 various types of flowers found in Karoonjhar. A large number of people visit the area, especially during the monsoon season.
The Karoonjhar Mountains are not only geologically significant, but also economically valuable. They are rich in minerals such as marble, limestone, chromite, gypsum, salt and kaolin. Kaolin, used in porcelain tableware and various industries, including paper, paints and cosmetics, highlights the economic importance of these mountains.
The untouched beauty and serene environment of Karoonjhar set it apart. The sloping terrain and natural features, complemented by the area’s rich flora and fauna, make it a sanctuary of peace. The mountains are home to diverse wildlife, including peacocks, which add vibrant color to the landscape. Road to the majestic Karoonjhar hills, standing tall in the distance
Moreover, Karoonjhar is of great economic importance to the people in the surrounding area, thanks to its rich deposits and the abundance of plants with therapeutic properties. The natives utilize various medicinal plants found in the region to treat a wide range of illnesses. Among these are khokhro, gun wel, satawari, jhangli basar (wild onion), shiv jati, uth kanthi, gogaroo and many others.
Cultural and historical significance Karoonjhar is not just a geographical feature, but a cultural landmark. The area is steeped in history, with numerous religious and cultural sites. This area was very prosperous in the past, when the river Hakaro flowed through Saraswati Yamuna and Sutlej and ended in the Thar Desert. It still contains ancient Jain temples, albeit in a dilapidated state. Karoonjhar’s highest peak is called Trott Peak (Tarvat Jo Thalho). It is said that the British soldier Colonel Trott used to sit here and hold court, and so the peak was named Trott’s Peak.
Environmental and economic challenges threaten the beauty and significance of Karoonjhar is threatened by past mining activities. In 1988, a mining company began extracting granite from the mountains, leading to significant environmental damage and waste. The use of dynamite during extraction caused habitat destruction, soil degradation, and pollution, disrupting local ecosystems and traditional ways of life. The local community’s resistance has helped preserve the mountains, but the future remains uncertain. The Karoonjhar Mountains embody thousands of years of civilization, culture and natural beauty. They are home to a diverse array of animals, birds and rare species, including peacocks and deer. The mountains stand as a testament to the rich heritage and potential of Sindh, symbolizing the civilization of local communities and their rituals, culture, customs, traditions, folklore, songs, stories and centuries of religious harmony. Efforts must be made to protect this treasure from further environmental degradation and to recognize its significance in Pakistan’s cultural and natural landscape.
Geographically, the Karoonjhar area stands out from the surrounding desert and is relatively small in extent. These hills are the source of two perennial springs, Anchleshwar and Sardharo, as well as temporary streams like Bhatiani and Gordhro, which flow during the monsoon season. Karoonjhar is not just a mountain range but a whole history embedded in itself. It has thousands of years of civilization, history and culture.
According to estimates by the Geological Survey of Pakistan, conducted between 1977 and 1978, the Karoonjhar Hills hold an astonishing reserve of granite a resource both economically significant and ecologically rare. The survey revealed that the hills contain approximately 15.86 billion tons of granite in total. This includes an estimated 11.81 billion tons of grey granite, 3.81 billion tons of pink granite, and around 240 million tons of adamellite, a fine-grained variety of granite.
These figures highlight not only the immense mineral wealth embedded in Karoonjhar, but also the pressing need for sustainable policies to balance economic potential with environmental and cultural preservation.
Read: The Mighty Moringa: Life-Giving Tree
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Ali Nawaz Rahimoo, based in Umerkot, Sindh is a social development professional. He can be contacted on anrahimoo@gmail.com
Karoojhar hills is beautiful place of tourist. I visited every year after rain. Very peaceful environment peacock are dancing. A blind singer Muhammad singing songs… What a great place.
Karoojhar hills is beautiful place of tourist. I visited every year after rain. Very peaceful environment peacock are dancing. A blind singer Muhammad Yousif faqeer singing songs… What a great place.