Banbhore, a prehistoric port city and archaeological site located approximately 65 kilometers east of Karachi along the north bank of Gharo Creek, offers a historical timeline extending from the 1st century BCE to the 13th century CE. Initially inhabited by the Scytho-Parthians from the 1st century BCE to the 2nd century CE, the city later transitioned into the Hindu-Buddhist era, which spanned from the 2nd to the 8th century CE. During the Muslim period, from the 8th to the 13th century, Banbhore was eventually abandoned due to shifts in the course of the River Indus.

Today, Banbhore exists as a historical mound containing remnants of the ancient city, including significant structures such as the earliest known mosque, dating back to 727 CE, and a deep well, among others. The site is traditionally associated with the legendary city of Debal, where historical records indicate that in 712 CE, the young Umayyad general Muhammad bin Qasim entered the Indian subcontinent through Banbhore, marking a pivotal moment in the spread of Islam in the region. Artifacts unearthed at the site, some of which are now displayed at the Banbhore Museum, further illustrate its historical importance.

The ruins of Banbhore continue to draw both domestic and international visitors, offering a compelling exploration of Pakistan’s ancient past. This site not only connects the ancient civilizations of Sindh with the Islamic period but also remains a vital point of interest for archaeologists, historians, and tourists fascinated by the region’s rich cultural heritage.