An unforgettable adventure to one of Pakistan’s most pristine natural wonders.
Location: Charo Machhi, near Khuzdar, Balochistan, Pakistan
Best time to visit: November to March
Access: Off-road via 4x4 from Khuzdar
Pro tip: Use Google Maps to scout and pre-plan your route
Like many of you, I love discovering hidden gems, and this time, I set my eyes on Charo Machhi - a place I’d only heard about from friends but none had visited. With a spirit of adventure, we decided to be the first among us to explore it.
We researched using Google Maps and realized the area was deep in the heart of Balochistan, far from modern infrastructure and barely any population around. The nearest city was Khuzdar, so our plan was to reach there first and then switch to off-road vehicles.
The Journey Begins
We left Karachi around midnight and reached Khuzdar by 6 AM. After a quick breakfast, we rented a 4x4 vehicle along with a driver who was familiar with the terrain. The distance from Khuzdar to Charo Machhi is around 35–40 km, but don’t be fooled by that number - it took over three hours to get there due to the rough, unpaved tracks.
What to Pack
Given how remote the location is, we went fully prepared. We packed:
- Light clothing for daytime and warm layers for the cold night
- Food and water for two days
- Tents, torches, and a cooking setup
- Life jackets (a must for deep pools)
First Look at Charo Machhi
We reached the campsite around noon and were greeted with breathtaking mountain views and the sound of water flowing nearby. We left our gear at the site and hiked up toward the source of the streams.
Waterfalls, Pools, and Serenity
The hike led us through hundreds of small natural ponds and streams—some cold, some warm, and all crystal clear. Every few minutes, we’d stop to swim or just marvel at the silence and beauty around us. There were no tourists, no noise—just us, the mountains, and the water.
We eventually reached a large cave-like rock formation at the top, where a deep blue pool of warm water awaited. The water here was so deep, we couldn’t touch the bottom. Swimming with life jackets in that surreal setting was something we’ll never forget.
It was hard to stop myself from jumping in the water.
The Way Down
As the sun began to set, we made our way back. The descent was more difficult - some sections required swimming to cross pools and come down from steep rocks, and we had to rely on torches once daylight faded.
Campfire Night
Back at the campsite, we lit a bonfire, cooked dinner with the help of our driver, and spent the night under the stars. There was no phone signal, no distractions—just a peaceful connection with nature.
One Last Swim
Before heading back to Khuzdar the next day, we took one last swim in the warm pools. It was a refreshing way to say goodbye to Charo Machhi.
Final Thoughts
Charo Machhi is more than a destination—it’s an experience. While the journey is tiring and the terrain challenging, the reward is unmatched serenity, raw natural beauty, and a deep sense of peace.
Google Maps played a key role in making this adventure possible. Even in areas without marked roads, it helped us navigate and plan smartly. Plus the pictures posted by other travelers fueled the fire to visit this place.
This journey reminded me how rich and unexplored Pakistan truly is. If you’re someone who enjoys raw landscapes and the thrill of adventure, Charo Machhi should be on your list.