ASTOLA ISLAND GWADAR

Pakistan has been blessed with countless scenic views and destinations. All beautiful places are widely spread across the country starting from northern hilly areas to widespread coast oceans of the Arabian sea. Each of us is familiar with the scenery of the Northern Areas but rarely has someone traveled to explore the breathtaking sights of Pakistan’s coastline.

Astola Island is one among many hidden and unexplored sites in our country. In 2017, this Island which is situated in Balochistan on the eastern side of Pasni has been declared the first dedicated Marine Protected Area in Pakistan. It is well known as?Jezira Haft Talar?(Island of the Seven Hills) because of the sandy and rocky mountains. One has to travel seven hours from Karachi through a drive to Pasni and then another three hours by boat to Astola.?

This island is still in a maintained state because of its hidden whereabouts. It has sandy beaches which are a natural habitat for birds and green sea turtles. Furthermore, it gives a natural environment to almost 22 species of corals along with it a dolphin, whale, and a few species of fish.

History Of Astola

According to the Greek Historian Herodotus, three islands sank into the sea, and Astola island was the only remnant. A perception exists that probably the name Nousala is denoted to Astola and Greeks have a myth that Aphrodite lived on this island. So whenever a ship used to pass by the island, she would turn the sailor into fish and leave them for sea.

Another interesting story is that when Alexandar’s Macedonian army reached Makran, the head of his navy visited Astola and was of the view rich with stone and minerals. It motivated explorers to voyage from Egypt and Greek for treasure hunting but Alas! Nothing could be discovered.

Weather At Astola Island

One can sight eye-catching and mesmerizing beauty from its hilltops. Crystal clear ocean can be seen spread wide across the miles with awestruck moments of sunrise and sunsets. Such views are a treat to the eyes of travelers who come all way along just to see this. A slight breeze blows throughout the day and the weather on the beach fluctuates depending on the tide. Every aspect of the island calls nature lovers to explore it and enjoy its serenity.

Attractions At Astola Island

What is in Astola Island for a nature lover? Well, hold your horses as we unrevealed the secrets of this island that will take you to a world of ecstasy. There is vast biodiversity present on this particular island and this piece of land is a habitat for various aquatic and non-aquatic species.?

Pakistan's Largest Offshore Island

It is regarded as the largest island along the coastline of Pakistan. It is a strip of the island that is approximately 6.7 km long with a maximum width of 2.3 km and an area of approx 6.7 km2. The highest point is 246 ft (75 m) above sea level. The island is part of the Pasni subdistrict of Gwadar District in Balochistan province.

Deep Turquoise Blue Water

?The water around Astola is a deep turquoise blue that tells the health of its sea life. The seabed is clear up to a depth of 20 feet. Seagulls are always hovering closely near beach water in search of fish.?

?View of Blue Ocean

The bird's eye view of the island gives goosebumps to its viewers. There are various caves and hills present with different and unique shapes. By climbing these cliffs and hills, one can look at the natural beauty of the blue ocean on widespread.

Amazing View of Sunset

The sun rises and sets every single day, no matter where you are but viewing it from an island without any distractions in your way is something extraordinary. As the water of Astola island is remarkably crystal clear. So, One can sight the reflection of the sunset on the water which is simply beautiful.?

Pristine Island

Why visit Maldives and Bali when we have our own explored pristine island?

Yes, you heard me right, Pakistan has its pristine island in the Arabian Sea. So just pack your bags for exploration and get to know marine life closely. Have a sunbath on the serene and pollution-free beach!?

Dolphins and Green Turtles in Ocean

The sandy beaches of Astola island are home to turtles and a nesting ground for the endangered green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate). A variety of coral species are found in the surrounding waters along with the Arabian Sea Humpback Whales and dolphins.

Astola Beach?

There is no doubt it is a natural territory that attracts its natural beauty. This island is a magical place that seems like heaven on earth, where peace reigns in a specific landscape surrounded by pristine waters. Each side of the island is different and more mesmerizing than the other.

Now let’s talk about the diverse ecosystem of this miraculous island.

But firstly, do you want to know which endemic reptiles are found on Astola island?

Well, to kill your curiosity let me tell you that Echis carinatus astolae is a venomous viper subspecies endemic to Astola Island off the coast of Pakistan.

According to a study,41 species of birds, eight species of reptiles, and six dominant and widespread species of plants have been found at the site. 29 species of corals and 75 fin fish species have previously been reported from this island. Hence, the name Pakistan's first marine protected island was given.

Small Mosque

?A mosque is located on the island linked with Khawaja Khiz which is used by mainland fishermen during the fishing season.?

Hindu Temple

?Other than the mosque, there are remnants of an old Hindi temple ‘Kali’. The island is renamed Satadip among Hindus. Furthermore, There is no standing structure on the island except for the ruins of a lighthouse the government had built in 1983.

When Is the Best Time To visit Astola?

The best time to visit Astola Island lies between May and September when the weather is favorable and the light wind blows throughout the day. So, Winter seems the best time to visit the island. Whereas from June to August, the moon soon season starts, making it unfavorable for travelers to visit it as the tidal level rises.

RECOMMENDED MATERIALS TO BE TAKEN ALONG

Astola is a tough yet famous place for tourists. Since it is a remote island so there is no kind of facility available for travelers. They need to bring everything from themselves from camps, clothes, swimming safety kits to edible and supplies. In other words, every necessary and basic thing is to be brought along there.?

The island has no source of fresh water so one should bring enough water supply as well. It is a barren island with little to no vegetation and Kekar is the only tree that can survive rough weather conditions. People visiting it need to know jellyfish seem pretty but can be stung badly so it is better to be cautious.

Things To Do At Astola Island?

There are plenty of activities where one can indulge himself and enjoy the scenic beauty of this particular island. This island can be your vacation part for releasing your stress from work and daily routine life so why not take out some time and money to visit it, if it is worth it, right??

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FISHING

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?Fishing can be a very interesting hobby and is a popular pastime among tourists. It can help with stress release, physical and mental health, and much more. It also offers various opportunities for adventure and relaxation. So one can do fishing on this island and later on cook it to enjoy a feast.

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SWIMMING

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Swimming is another expedition one can experience there along with scuba diving and snorkeling as well. The water of this island is crystal clear so one can see the aquatic life clearly while scuba diving.

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BOATING

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There are plenty of options available for having fun such as Yachting, Pedal boating, Kayaking, and Canoeing. Boats and ferries can be used for traveling from one island to other and otherwise can be fun.

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CAMPING

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There is no proper no infrastructure system present for tourists like hostels or camps so one has to bring his camp and set up there. It gives you the feeling of camping along the beach, seems fun isn’t it??

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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Photography has many benefits and is a part of art that captures memories and life events. It is the only means, apart from stories, where you can document your adventure and later on can cherish those captured moments. Astola island brings you an opportunity to showcase your aesthetic photography skills with its awestruck beauty around every corner.