ABOUT MOOLA CHOTOK, BALOCHISTAN
Tourism in Balochistan has reached new heights, and explorers are discovering hidden gems that are motivating more and more travelers to add the province to their bucket list. Among these is Moola Chotok, in Khuzdar district of Balochistan. If you’ve seen images of the region peppering your Facebook wall, here’s all you need to know before you decide to embark on a trip to Moola Chotok, Balochistan, yourself.
Firstly, let’s debunk the name of this hidden gem in Balochistan. Moola is the name of the closest village, while Chotok means ‘falling water’ (read: waterfall) in the local Brahui and Balochi languages. The area is famous for the tall cliffs that hide a cascading waterfall in their midst. The region lies at an elevation of around 4,000 feet (1,200 metres) above sea level.
The Moola Valley between the cliffs is home to the Moola River that flows year-round and is the source of the waterfalls. The region also contains salt mines, high mountains, and lakes. However, the area around Moola Chotok is generally isolated and peaceful, with few facilities, if any.
Moola Chotok commonly refers to the largest waterfall in the area, but there is also Chota Chotok (small waterfall) nearby that is known for its beauty. Chota Chotok is actually a collection of smaller falls with a small wading pool and amazingly lush green surroundings.
WHERE IS MOOLA CHOTOK AND HOW DO I GET THERE?
The ravine, with its beautiful waterfalls, is in the middle of the Khuzdar district, around 106 kilometers from the city of Khuzdar to the northeast in the heart of the Kirthar Mountains. It is also about 8 to 10 hours away from Karachi.
You can easily reach Khuzdar from Karachi in about 5 hours, in any vehicle. The route to the waterfalls passes by fields of juicy mangoes, lemons, oranges, as well as olives, adding to the natural beauty of the region. Once you’re there, the rocky off-road track ahead will compel you to hire one of the local 4x4s for the drive ahead.
About 6 hours of off-roading will take you to a barren landscape that hides the oasis in its midst. You’ll be climbing small hills and crossing rivers on your route, sometimes even moving upwards on steep rocky terrain.
Camping
Camp under the stars in the middle of nowhere with a bonfire to keep you warm and cozy.
The journey also allows you to enjoy some amazing sunsets and sunrises.