Gorakh Hill Station, often dubbed the "Murree of Sindh", experienced a rare weather phenomenon as a hailstorm coupled with heavy rainfall swept across the region.
The unusual weather, brought in by western winds, blanketed the highest point in Sindh with hail, adding to its scenic charm and captivating nature lovers and tourists alike.
Located in the Kirthar Mountain Range, Gorakh Hill stands at an elevation of 5,688 feet (1,734 metres) above sea level. It lies approximately 94 kilometres from Dadu city, 74 kilometres from Juhi, and about 50 kilometres from Wahi Pandehi. The hill station is one of the few places in Sindh that offers a cool climate and panoramic views, drawing comparisons with popular northern destinations like Murree.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the hailstorm was accompanied by significant rainfall, though the exact measurements remain uncertain due to the lack of a regular rain gauge at the site.
A Glimpse into History
Historically, Gorakh Hill has served as a natural retreat, offering respite from the harsh heat of Sindh's plains.
The name “Gorakh” is believed to be derived from the historical figure Gorakhnath, and the area holds spiritual significance for some communities. Over the years, Gorakh Hill has evolved into a popular tourist destination, known for its cool weather, breathtaking sunsets, and starry night skies — a rarity in the southern region of Pakistan.
Lack of facilities hampers tourism potential
Despite its growing popularity, Gorakh Hill Station suffers from a lack of basic infrastructure and facilities. The road leading to the hill station is rough and underdeveloped, making the journey challenging, especially during adverse weather. There are limited accommodation options, scarce medical services, and inadequate communication signals. Tourists often have to make special arrangements for food, water, and transport, which hampers its potential as a premier tourist destination.
While nature continues to gift Gorakh Hill with rare moments of beauty like Thursday’s hailstorm, there is an urgent need for government and private sector investment to transform it into a fully accessible and sustainable hill resort for all.
