WHERE IS THE SHRINE OF SHAH ABDUL LATIF BHITTAI LOCATED? COMPLETE GUIDE

The Shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai is one of the most important Sufi shrines in Sindh, Pakistan. This guide provides comprehensive information about its location, history, and how to visit.

EXACT LOCATION

The shrine is located in the small town of Bhit Shah (also called Bhit), in Matiari District, Sindh, Pakistan. The town is approximately 34.7 miles (56 km) away from Hyderabad.

Geographic Coordinates: 25°48′22″N 68°29′29″E

The shrine stands on a sandy mound, which is why the saint came to be called Bhittai, meaning "of Bhit."

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The shrine was built in 1772 CE by Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, the ruler of the Kalhoro dynasty. Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (1689–1752 CE) is widely considered to be the greatest poet of the Sindhi language. His collected poems were compiled in the famous work "Shah Jo Risalo."

THE SHRINE COMPLEX

The shrine is a magnificent structure covered with traditional Sindhi Kashi tiles in blue and turquoise colors.

The complex includes:

• The main mausoleum with a prominent dome, where the saint's tomb is located under the central dome

• A mosque adjacent to the tomb

• A large courtyard encircled by domed arcades

• Tombs of the saint's father, female relatives, and successors

• A graveyard where the saint's family and followers are buried

• A langar (communal kitchen)

The grave is enclosed by a carved wooden screen and lies under a beautifully painted fresco.

SIGNIFICANCE

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai is revered as the greatest poet of the Sindhi language. His poetry is known for themes of love, spirituality, peace, and human dignity. The shrine is considered one of the most important in Sindh.

The shrine serves as a living heritage site where traditional Sufi practices continue daily. Musicians perform the saint's poetry (Surs) nightly after evening prayers.

Visitors include not only Muslims but also Hindu communities like the Bhil and Kolhi, who revere the shrine because of the saint's tolerant message.

ANNUAL URS FESTIVAL

The annual Urs (death anniversary) is held for three days beginning on the 14th of Safar in the Islamic calendar. The festival attracts up to 500,000 visitors and features qawwali, poetry recitals, and literary gatherings.

HOW TO REACH

By Road from Karachi

The shrine is located approximately a 3-hour drive from Karachi along the National Highway. A branch road about 30 minutes beyond Hyderabad takes you to Bhit Shah.

By Road from Hyderabad

The shrine is approximately 56 km (34.7 miles) from Hyderabad.

By Air

The nearest major airport is Jinnah International Airport in Karachi (approx. 202 km away) or Sukkur Airport (approx. 250 km away).

ADMINISTRATION

The shrine is managed by the Auqaf Department.

Guide Information

Step-by-Step Process

1. STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO VISITING THE SHRINE OF SHAH ABDUL LATIF BHITTAI

2. Plan Your Travel to Bhit Shah

3. The shrine is located in Bhit Shah, Matiari District, Sindh, Pakistan. If you are traveling from Karachi, take the National Highway (approximately 3 hours drive). From Hyderabad, it is approximately 56 km away. If flying, Jinnah International Airport Karachi (202 km away) or Sukkur Airport (250 km away) are the nearest options. Address: Bhit Shah, Matiari District, Sindh, Pakistan.

4. Arrive at the Shrine Complex

5. Once in Bhit Shah, the shrine is in the centre of town on a sandy mound. You will notice the distinctive blue, turquoise, green, and yellow Kashi tiles of the mausoleum. The shrine complex is easily visible as it stands on a mound (called a bhit).

6. Follow Shrine Etiquette

7. Remove your shoes before entering the shrine complex. Cover your head as a sign of respect. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. The shrine is open to people of all religions, including Hindu communities like the Bhil and Kolhi who also revere the shrine.

8. Proceed to the Mausoleum

9. Inside the complex, find the main mausoleum. The tomb of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai is located under the central dome and is enclosed by a carved wooden screen. Take a moment to offer prayers, make a dua, or simply reflect in the peaceful atmosphere. Look up to admire the beautifully painted fresco on the ceiling.

10. Listen to the Surs (Optional)

11. Musicians perform Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai's poetry (known as Surs) nightly after evening prayers. If you visit in the evening, you can experience this beautiful tradition where the saint's poetry is sung in traditional Sindhi style.

12. Visit the Mosque

13. The shrine complex includes a mosque adjacent to the tomb. You can offer your prayers here if you wish.

14. Explore the Complex

15. Walk around the courtyard, which is encircled by domed arcades. Visit the graveyard where the saint's family, female relatives, and successors are buried. Admire the beautiful traditional Sindhi Kashi tile work in blue and turquoise colors that covers the entire structure.

16. Plan Your Departure

17. After completing your visit, you can return to Hyderabad or Karachi by road. If you are visiting during the annual Urs (held on 14th Safar), note that up to 500,000 people attend, so book accommodation well in advance and be prepared for massive crowds.