Astola Island (Jezira Haft Talar) Pakistan
Astola Island, also known as Jezira Haft Talar or ‘Island of the Seven Hills’, is a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Balochistan, Pakistan. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers southeast of the town of Pasni and is the largest island in Pakistan’s territorial waters.
Size of Astola Island
Astola Island has a length of approximately 6.7 kilometers (4.2 miles) and a maximum width of around 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles). The island covers an area of approximately 6.7 square kilometers (2.6 square miles).
The highest point on the Island is around 246 feet (75 meters) above sea level. This point is located on the western side of the island and offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and the island’s unique rock formations.
Astola Island for Tourists
Astola Island is a popular tourist destination due to its unique rock formations, diverse marine life, and pristine beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the clear waters surrounding the island.
To reach the Island, visitors can take a motor boats from Pasni or other nearby ports. It is important to note that there are no facilities on the island, so visitors must bring their own supplies, including food, water, and camping equipment.
The time it takes to reach Astola Island from Pasni can vary depending on the type of boat and weather conditions. On average, it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Astola Island by motorboat from Pasni. However, during rough seas or bad weather, the journey can take longer. It is recommended to check weather conditions and sea conditions before making the journey to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
Fishing is a popular activity on the Island, and visitors can enjoy catching a variety of fish in the clear waters surrounding the island. Local fishermen often visit the island to fish for various species, including barracuda, tuna, and snapper.
Astola Marine Protected Area (MPA)
Astola Island has been declared the first designated marine protected area (MPA) in Pakistan. The island is part of the Astola Island Marine Protected Area, which covers an area of approximately 12,000 hectares and includes the island and its surrounding waters.
The Island MPA was established in 2017 to protect the island’s unique ecosystem, which includes diverse marine life, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. The MPA also helps to regulate fishing in the area, promote sustainable tourism, and support scientific research on the marine environment.
Visitors to the Island are encouraged to follow guidelines for responsible tourism and fishing practices to help protect the island’s fragile ecosystem and ensure that it remains a beautiful and unique destination for future generations to enjoy.
