The Kirthar Range stretches along the Sindh-Balochistan border like a spine interconnecting the two provinces. The Kirthars are a dry and arid expanse devoid of trees and natural greenery of which most of Pakistan is famous for. In the summer temperatures in this relatively bleak place can reach 50 degrees C (12 degrees F) and winter frost can plummet down to minus figures, freezing shallow ponds.
The Kirthar Range is inhabited by a number of tribes; most notable of these are the Brahais, who inhabit both sides of the Sindh-Balochistan divide, as well as the Chuttas of Balochistan, the Chandius and Guinchus of Sindh, respectively. Life for them is a constant struggle of migration between the pastures of the highlands in the summer and the lowlands in the winter.
These tribes have a rich oral history along with a culture that is formed on the basis of storytelling. Most of the stories describe a number of varied supernatural creatures said to inhabit the region in dark caves and crevices. One such species are the cave demons of the Kirthar Range.
Stretching all the way up to 5,000 ft (1,500 metres), the high peak of Machal is virtually unexplored. It is through this deep and narrow cleft that the Khenji a slopped incline branches into the Toshangi cave system with its submerged springs. On either side limestone walls rise almost 700 ft (200 metres) above the calm and supposedly bottomless lake.
Legend has it that the main cleft hides a dark secret: a large cauldron brimming with gold and jewels hangs at the head of the Khenji. This is said to be inaccessible from all sides and visible only from the water; it has always been a major obstacle for men, for not only is the cauldron difficult to get hold of but it is guarded by hideous, giant, bat-like demons with a taste for human blood.
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