From Karakoram to Gawadar: Unveiling the Lavish Painting that is Pakistan
Pakistan is a breathtakingly beautiful and intriguing country oftentimes going completely unnoticed on many tourists’ travel radar. It is a lavishly unique painting come to life that is rich with landscapes and exotic scenery ripped straight from an ancient fairy tale. From the lush valleys of Swat to the mountain peaks of Nanga Parbat, Pakistan is no stranger when it comes to leaving you bewildered at the awestruck beauty of nature in its purest form.
A land built on sacrifice, hard work, and hospitality, Pakistan is an enchanting symphony that will strike at the very fabric of your soul. It is home to a diverse range of cultures and ethnicities stemming from civilizations dating back to a thousand years. If you’re a thrill-seeker looking for your next big adventure then look no further than the land of the pure.
But if you’re still having second thoughts about packing your bags and booking your next plane tickets then let me ease your burdens and help you unwind as I blow your mind with top ten reasons why you should visit Pakistan at least once in your lifetime.
Power of the People
Hospitality is culturally rooted in the hearts and minds of all Pakistanis everywhere. Travelers in Pakistan are treated like guests of the highest honor. Ask anyone who’s ever visited Pakistan and they’ll tell you how the locals are some of the most unbelievably friendly people they’ve ever encountered.
At every turn, you will be greeted by someone with open arms inviting you to a cup of tea.
A shopkeeper going about his day will immediately call out to you and have you peer through his endless collection of intricately made fabrics and clothes.
A food vendor politely asking you to try some of the best biryani you will ever have in your entire life.
A local potter enticing you with his exquisite craftsmanship.
And all of this without charging a single rupee of your money. Because above all else, the people value their beliefs and traditions more than any monetary gain. So rest assured the next time you wish to call it a day and looking for a place to crash, you will always find a warm and welcoming home catering to your every need and treated as an equal member of the family.
A Land of Pure Imagination
Pakistan is an oasis of your wildest imagination. Stretching from the Arabian Sea to the Karakoram mountains, Pakistan offers a small glimpse into heaven as you’re completely lost in its enchanting splendor. Imagine waking up to the majestic wonder of the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges every day. Pulling back the curtains and seeing the sheer incredible scale and grandeur of these snow-capped mountains, home to five of the world’s highest peaks including the glorious K2, will awaken the mountaineer inside you.
And let’s not turn a blind eye to the lakes. If you love swimming, fishing, or boating then Pakistan will quench your aquatic thirst within seconds. The country is graced with some of the most picturesque lakes in the entire world. If you want to be left speechless and weak at the knees then I suggest you visit Lake Saiful Muluk. Nestled in the shadows of Malika Parbat, this mighty lake is a sight to behold with folklore tales keeping you company around a warm campfire.
And it doesn’t stop there.
The nation is a haven for lush valleys, bewitching meadows, and crystal-clear rivers that resemble craftsmanship of profound elegance and delicacy sculpted by nature’s most accomplished crafters. A good example of this would be the bewildering Swat Valley also known as the “Switzerland of Pakistan’’.
A diverse and captivating region, the Swat Valley boasts some of the most spectacular green meadows, forests, plains, and glaciers the human mind has ever witnessed. Perfect for all nature enthusiasts. The verdant landscapes retain their natural raw beauty largely because they remain untouched by the fires of industry.
And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Pakistan’s tranquil wilderness will hook you instantly the second you step foot in this vast expanse of mythic proportions. A visual feast for the eyes, as a traveler you will truly realize what you have been missing out on your entire life.
Melting Pot of Cultures
Pakistan is an exquisite tapestry of cultures and traditions. Each thread represents the deep cultural heritage that has woven the country’s identity over the many years of its existence. Pakistan comprises of four provinces and two administrative territories each nesting its own variety of people and culture.
It is a harmonious blend of various ethnic groups — including Sindhis, Balcohis, Pashtuns, and Punjabis — each with their unique languages, mouth-watering cuisine, imposing architecture dating back to a hundred years, art that reflects their way of life, uplifting folk music and vibrantly enriched clothing that have contributed to the cultural roots of Pakistan. This strong sense of diversity is one of the country’s foundational pillars upon which its core fundamental ideals rest.
Visiting each region will feel as though you are crossing into a whole new country, giving you more reason to explore and experience something brand new every day. You will have plenty of opportunities to partake in joyful festivities and colorful celebrations that will breathe new life into you as you begin to appreciate the boundless beauty of keeping traditions.
Culinary Delight
Food lovers, you have come to the right place. Pakistan is famed for its bold usage of aromatic spices in a multitude of culinary ways that nourish the heart and excite the mind. Every dish is a vibrant concoction of explosive flavors that tantalize taste buds and dance on your palate.
If you’re a meat lover then Pakistani kebabs are the way to go. Tender chunks of meat marinated in a melange of herbs and spices skewered and grilled till the juices start dripping will create a black hole in your pit from the viewing experience alone. One single savory bite and your entire world will be set on fire.
And let’s not forget, desi food wouldn’t be complete without a torrent of curries. Pakistani curries will have you dreaming about them even while you’re asleep. Each curry is a simmering fusion of flavorful sauces and exotic spices that submerge the meat and vegetables to the point where it just melts in your mouth like butter. Topped with a piping-hot naan dipped into the succulent juices and you’ll finally know what real food tastes like.
And let’s not forget about mithai. Pakistan’s traditional sweets will give you a sweet tooth for the ages. Whether it’s biting down on the crunchy syrupy goodness of a jalebi, the extravagant softness of a tender gulab jamun, or the creamy deliciousness of kheer, the deserts of Pakistan put Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory to shame.
Perfect for Trekking
Trekking connoisseurs be warned, you may know trekking but you don’t know about trekking in Pakistan. The rugged terrains and towering peaks of Pakistan offer thriller-seekers challenging opportunities to break past their boundaries and delve into a whole new world of trekking. Pakistan offers a plethora of accessible hiking trails suitable for both experienced and inexperienced trekkers.
Starting off with something simple, even if you’re a level one trekker, would be the alluring Miranjani Trek. It is the highest peak in the Galyat region situated in the Abbottabad district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The trek starts near Nathia Gali hill station and cuts through the majestic mountainous region of Dagri Naka where you will further explore and be greeted by lush green subtropical forests and the charming villages of Namli Maira. The entire trek lasts for about 4 hours even for the most inexperienced hikers.
Jumping to something a little more challenging would be the Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp trekking trail located in Gilgit-Baltistan. If you’re searching for popular tourist attractions in Pakistan, chances are you’ve come across Fairy Meadows about a dozen times. And with good reason. It is a breathtakingly magnificent oasis that ensnares the mind upon first viewing. The trail to Fairy Meadows is fairly (see what I did there) easy to tread and shouldn’t be much of a hassle. But the true challenge lies in traversing the hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp. But the reward at the end is truly worth every step as you get to see the majestic mighty mountain that is Nanga Parbat towering high in the clouds. It is a sight to behold and will be forever ingrained in your memory long after you have left Pakistan.
Jump Back in Time
Pakistan is a time capsule of intricate and complex history that stretches back to a thousand years. Its stories and ancient tales are forever embedded in stone and mortar erected in the form of architectural marvels dotted throughout the country. If you’re an admirer of the arts and history then Pakistan is going to serve you on a silver platter.
Let’s jump back in time to a little over 350 years when almost all of the subcontinent was ruled by the Mughals. At the time, the sixth Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb ordered the construction of one of the largest and most iconic mosques in the entire world; the Badshahi Mosque currently located in Lahore. The mosque embodies the architectural grandeur of the Mughal era. The main exterior of the mosque is built of elaborately carved red sandstone embellished with intricately framed panels on its white marbled façades. The main courtyard spans over 270,000 square feet accommodating over 100,000 worshippers. Even if you’re not a Muslim, you can’t help but be taken aback by the sheer magnificence and beauty of the structure, exuding elegance and royalty of a bygone era whose memories will echo in your ears each time you walk under its mighty shadow.
Now let’s jump back even further, a lot further, during a time when sticks and stones were humanity’s greatest tools of construction. The Indus Valley Civilization was one of the earliest civilizations of the known world. Traces of its former glory can still be found in the ancient ruined city of Mohenjo-Daro situated in the province of Sindh. It is a remarkable urban city showcasing sophisticated architectural ingenuity far beyond its time with advanced drainage systems and a communal pool called the Great Bath. Mohenjo-Daro serves as a touching reminder of how civilizations rise and fall, like a fascinating mystery waiting to be unraveled through archaeology. It makes you wonder about the people who once lived there, what their lives were like within those ancient walls, and what we can learn from their experiences for the societies that came after them.
Delving into Pakistan’s historical marvels offers a unique chance to connect with and admire the nearly-forgotten artistic brilliance that molded the subcontinent into a new era of architectural wonders. These creations continue to captivate the hearts and minds of many, leaving an enduring impression to this very day.
Doesn’t Get Any Cheaper
What’s better than money? Not spending a lot of it. Pakistan is among the top 3 cheapest countries in the entire world. It’s effortless to visit where your expenses and accommodations will barely cost you anything. Plus with all the hospitality and generosity running among the locals, you’ll hardly be paying for anything during your entire trip.
However, that’s not to say that everything will cost you pennies. Some high-end major cities will put a lot of pressure on your wallet. Even then, you’ll find it relatively budget-friendly compared to other countries. Plus with all the sightseeing you’ll be doing, you won’t be anchoring down for too long in one place. Always plan and make sure you’re equipped with the right gear.
Beaches as Far as the Eye Can See
If you’re visiting during the summer then boy do I have some good news for you. When it comes to beaches, Pakistan isn’t far behind on the list. The country houses some of the best beaches with serene sights and blissfully pristine waters that’ll leave you speechless.
If you’re looking for a beach to start with then you can’t go wrong with Omara Beach located in Balochistan. A peaceful and refreshing sanctuary where you can lie down on the silky-smooth sand and enjoy the comforts of nature in all its splendid glory.
As you step onto the beach, you begin to feel the warm grainy sun-kissed sand beneath your feet as if though nature itself rolled out its welcoming mat for you. Your eyes are hooked by the graceful elegance of the ocean as you witness its undulating beauty. The rolling surge of the waves glinting in delight under the sun creates a soothing lullaby that relaxes the weary soul and transports you to a realm of tranquility. Seagulls as far as the eye could see sing their joyous calls as if though exchanging their oceanic tales of adventure.
All of that and more await you on the beaches of Pakistan. But always be careful. It is the ocean we’re dealing with.
Endless Adventure
Pakistan is a feel-good movie come to life. It’s one of those stories where the protagonist, frustrated by their mundane mediocre existence, sets off on a life-changing journey where they begin to see the world for what it truly is for the first time. It’s a journey of self-discovery, and inner change, confronting your weaknesses and overcoming them, exploring the endless depths of the unknown, and coming out stronger than ever on the other side. It is a chance to experience freedom. It is a chance to experience something new. It is a chance to experience life itself.
And Pakistan will help you obtain all of that. With its cultural attractions, exotic cuisine, breathtaking views, challenging rock climbing, hospitable locals, and incredible mountain ranges, Pakistan is a gateway to a land of unyielding adventure. You will always have something to reflect upon once you board the plane back to your home country.
The Music is Closed to Being Unparalleled
Pakistan’s musical realm is an enthralling blend of traditional, modern, and folk influences that boldly capture the rich cultural legacy of the country. It’s a place where the venerable sounds of instruments like the sitar, sarangi, and tabla effortlessly meld together with contemporary beats to create a blissful musical experience that resonates with the everyday man, even if you aren’t a local.
The musical gallery of Pakistan offers a wide variety of collections to pick from. You’ve got the soul-stirring Sufi melodies played at revered shrines that ignite a spiritual connection. Or if you like something traditional then you’ve got the vivacious folk music that captures the essence of their culture as they celebrate regional customs. As a traveler, you will be fully immersed in the vast musical diversity of the region you’re visiting and develop a deep sense of cultural appreciation.
Partake in live performances, enjoy the bustling music festivals, and listen to the captivating stories they weave into their songs as your worldview on music gets a hard overhaul for the better.
Need I Go On?
Pakistan is a treasure trove of untapped potential just waiting to be opened. Sadly due to the many years of disingenuous publicity it has received from the media, travelers are hesitant to book their next flights to the land of the pure.
However, Pakistan is as safe as it can get. With the consistent surge in tourism over the recent years and relaxing certain travel advisories, the country is steadily rising in rank as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire world. From mesmerizing mountain peaks to enticing forests and ancient wonders of the past, Pakistan is a surefire way to help you achieve your next physical and spiritual awakening. Get those tickets rolling and enjoy the never-ending thrill ride that is Pakistan.
