Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Introduction to Pakistan’s Tourism
Magnificently diverse in terrains, historical sites, and art, Pakistan, which is part of South Asia, is gradually establishing itself as a new candidate for tourism. Pakistan tours can range from experiencing the majestic mountains of the North to the great sandy desert of the south, up to the modernising metropolitan cities of the country. Culture, which in the country has evolved over thousands of years, could be traced by the archeological remains, imposing fortresses, and living traditions.
Presently, Pakistan has become a hub of tourism where people from all over the world visit the country for tours both adventurous and for leisure. This implied that apart from the picnic, travelers can engage in mountain hiking in the northern areas of Gilgit-Baltistan down to the interIOC historical and archeological sites in Sindh and Punjab provinces. Due to its steep tracks and great achievements the Karakoram Highway is often called the Eighth Wonder of the World and, besides, one can observe some of the most beautiful views in the World while travelling on this road.
Furthermore, speaking of strength, cultural diversity is one of Pakistan’s most significant assets. The country has the diversity of ethnic groups, and everybody has a different type of traditions, language, and even food. Many festivities and local occasions may help tourists get acquainted with all these colors of the culture and make each visit to Pakistan unforgettable. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
It will come as a surprise to the enthusiasts of the urban environment where the cities of Pakistan including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad are catching up with the post-modern features and artifacts. These cities allow the traveler various aspects of a newly developed city whilst slowing the remnants of tradition and culture at the same time.
If the mountains are calling, or the rust or the eras of the past or the fast pace of the city life, the Pakistan has something for everyone. The natural geographical layout combined with friendly people make it possible for any visitors to this wonderful country to have an informative and unforgettable experience. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
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Historical Sites
Indeed, Pakistan, the crown jewel of South Asia is also a country blessed with numerous historical places that boost of its colorful past. Among the most significant archaeological landmarks are situated in the Sindh province, namely Mohenjo-Daro, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This architectural delight is believed to be of around 2500 BC and is among the largest urban settlements of the ancient Indus Valley civilization.
One can walk through its well-laid-out street, hydraulic design of sewerage system and mausoleum, the Great Bath also display the fine planning and architecture of that period. Mohenjo-Daro is a World Heritage Site, and seeing it is watching history in the flesh and feel the ingenuity of one of the world’s first civilization.
Another institution of great historical importance is the ruins of Taxila located near Islamabad. Taxila is one of the earliest cities in Gandhara and existed from the 6th century BCE till the 5th century CE. It was one of the most spiritually significant places and centers of education where people of different countries used to come for studies and cultural development; it can be stated that even the famous Greek historian Megatheres use to visit Taxila.
Taxila’s Buddhism is visible in the Dharma Rajika Stupa, Sirkap, and the Jaulian Monastery which are some of the archaeological sites that tourists can visit. Taxila is also a World Heritage Site, and one will find it very informative and interesting to learn about the history and Buddhism. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Another historic monument is the Lahore Fort built in the city of Lahore itself. This is one of the oldest forts in North India belonging to Mughal dynasty and holds historical significance of most ruling dynasties. The fort also has the famous Sheesh Mahal for the intricately designed mirror work, the Naulakha Pavilion and the Alamgiri Gate. The Lahore Fort situated in conjunction with the Shalimar Gardens that are also part of the list of the World Heritage Sites. It presented the idea of enjoying magnificent artistic works while getting acquainted with the history of the described architectural wonder. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
From the historical aspects, these places are also valuable for the lovers of history, but first of all, for the local people as they can show them the main historical and cultural sites of Pakistan. It is therefore recommended to hire a guide on which areas of the historical landmarks to focus on and again it is good to wear comfortable shoes for walking, and also it is advisable to carry water and hats especially when doing the hiking in summer. These small advices may help to optimize the experience of discovering some of the most attractive touristic destinations in Pakistan. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Natural Wonders
Geographically, Pakistan is truly blessed with natural beauty that has variety of colors and styles that is fascinating for the people of Pakistan as well as for the foreigners. Out of all the places that can be visited in Pakistan, Hunza valley leaves one amazed with its simple and majestically beautiful environ. Hunza valley, located mainly in the Gilgit-Baltistan province of Pakistan, is famous for the pictorial village, cultivating fields, and Rakaposhi mountain. Autumn and spring are particularly favorable for the visit because during this period nature paints the valley with flowers and autumn colors attracting many climbers and photographers.
Skardu, another of beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan is commonly dubbed as the gateway to the entire highland mountain. K2: It lies in this nearest region representing the highest peak of the second highest mountain range in the world, the Karakoram Range. Skardu highlights crystal clear water lake Shangrila Lake and Sheosar Lake and the Deosai National Park, known as the ‘Land of Giants. ‘The best season for the visit is from April to October. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Fairy Meadows within the context of the Diamer District have been gradually referred to as a slice of heaven on earth. It is this verdant tableland from whereby we can take perfect view of the ninth highest mountain of the world called the Nanga Parbat. The facilities are hard to reach as there is a fairly steep hiking trail, which obviously is a plus for lovers of hikes. The best time to visit Fairy Meadows is during summer because the climate is fine and the mayor is rich and colorful and they have activities like trekking, camping, watching the starry nights. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
These natural sights of Pakistan not only present the geographical attribute of Pakistan’s terrain but also provide various attractions for people who have interest in nature and adventure. If you are hiking along the valleys of Hunza or climbing the rocks of Skardu, or spending a night in the meadows of Fairy, the beauty of the nature of the Pakistan is undeniably unforgettable.
Cultural Experiences
Pakistan has a diverse culture hence many interesting and exciting experiences to offer when visiting the country. Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi, are the leading cities where the culture of the country is cherished with equal and respect to tradition and modernity. Centrally located Lahore is well-known as the cultural capital of Pakistan every enthusiast would love to visit because this city offers art, history, and cuisine.
Lahore’s Walled City is a medieval city with ghettos and swirling lanes which are lined by monumental buildings of Mughal architecture to give tourists a taste of the past. Festivals such as the Lahore Literary Festival and Basant Kite Festival are among those ones should not miss. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
The Islamabad city along the northern part of Punjab, is famous for its attractive and cool beauty and good planning. It also contains several museums like Lok Virsa Museum that presents culture of Pakistan through live music, dancing, and talented artist’s work. Annual Lok Mela festival about folk culture is also celebrated here where the craftsmen coming from all parts of the country demonstrate their work in crafts and organize folk dance & music show.
Karachi the largest city of Pakistan can be described as a city of mixed cultures or for that matter, a city of different race of people. It is famous with the tourist for the quality bazaars, modern art centers and fascinating night life. Cultural troupes that perform Sufi and folk songs and dances are often seen during the cultural festivals like Sindh Festival and Karachi Literature Festival because of the large turnout of people indicating the rich cultural life of the city. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Handmade fabrics, pottery and ornaments, in fact; most of the handmade crafts like hand-woven fabrics, local pottery and beautiful jewelry accessories, are proverbial in the province and across Pakistan. It is recommended to visitors to try and make it a point to visit some of these bazaars such as the Anarkali Bazaar in Lahore and Saddar Market in Karachi to actually appreciate and buy them. Likewise, awareness and appreciation of culture and etiquette for instance the way the people of the country host their guests and the role of tea in certain occasions will go a long way in enriching the trip. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Pakistan truly has something for everybody; from the archeological sites to the latest degrees of culture, Pakistan has got it all!
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
There are numerous sights to visit and activities to indulge in, and that is irrespective of the fact that Pakistan boasts of a greatly varying terrain. When it comes to the places of tourist interest in Pakistan, two ranges are considered to be the most popular, the Karakoram and the Himalayas inhabiting mountains for those interested in mountaineering, trekking and Rock climbing. Some of these ranges include K2 and Nanga Parbat and though climbing these dangerous and testing mountains is a nightmare for most climbers, it is among the most fascinating experiences for the internationally renowned climbers. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Foremost of these trips is the K2 base camp trek. This is an arduous yet very thrilling trek and during the trek trekkers get to witness some of the most magnificent views like the Baltoro Glacier and Concordia. It is survival and exploration of the un-spoilt environment of the Karakoram range within the shortest possible time. In the same way, the hike up to Fairy Meadows provides stunning vistas of Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world though this is relatively easy to do.
There are many other attractions that can be added on this front and one of them is the Deosai National Park also recognized popularly as the “Land of the Giants”. It is a district in the Gilgit–Baltistan region of Pakistan and serves as home to this great high-altitude desert known for the great picturesque scenery, wildlife and many trekking routes to explore. Thus, the seemingly untouched and calm structure of Deosai perfectly fits those who are in search of loneliness accompanied by the harmony with nature. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
If one wants to go for the hilly tracts and azure watered lakes, then Ratti Gali Lake in Azad Kashmir is an ideal destination. Sitting at this lakeside is being surrounded by snow covered mountains and greenery all around and is a fascinating trek to Ratti Gali Lake. The water of the lake is greenish turquoises, which with the beautiful surrounding view, makes it a perfect most for photographers and lovers of nature.
Due to the geographical features, adventure tourism has developed tremendously in Pakistan, and professionals provide accommodation, meals, porters, guides, and other necessary amenities for mountaineering, hiking, and other adventurous activities for the foreigners. This is because extreme sports lovers can only go out for the experience only when they meet some vital requirements that range from acclimatization to carrying the right equipment and checking on the weather. Thus, by following these preventive measures, would-be-adventurers can get most of the thrilling potential of the country. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Cuisine and Local Delicacies
The Pakistani cuisine is as diverse and colorful as the country’s history and ethnic structure of the population. Thus, it is implicit that the taste of Pakistani cuisines is flavored by various region and their respective flavor and cooking methods. The food of Pakistan Biryani Specifically for food lovers, the most appealing province of Pakistan is Sindh, more specifically its capital – Karachi. This rice and tender meat aromatic dish where spices are applied in between is a delicacy that any visitor to the area should not miss.
Heading northwest the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is pretty hilly and is the place of origin of Chapli Kebab. This prepared from chopped meat with the addition of different spices and herbs is normally grilled on a hot sliver of iron and taken with naan or paratha. The food of the region is Afghan & central Asian type, which is rather different from the other areas of Indonesia. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
The existence of Punjab that is renowned for its farming culture gave rise to delicious and especially rich viands such as Nihari and Butter Chicken. Multan: Famous for dried fruits, peanuts and special products Punjab: Widely known for Biryani, Kachnar fry, Taoke ka gatta, Nabat, Kulfi and Chat among other street foods Lahore owns the best foods street in Pakistan serves spicy chaat, Jalebi, and many other traditional foods. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
A reflection of Pakistan’s diverse culture, the food can be easily recognized as such and has fusion elements from Persian, Indian and even Central Asian. For those interested in knowing about the tourist attractions in Pakistan the edible voyage to discover the best eats is not complete. Some of Karachi most famous street food joints that I would recommend are the Burns Road, Namak Mandi food streets in Peshawar, Gawalmandi, and many more in Lahore. Be it a rich meal accompanied with some delicious paratha or a tasty savory admiring the streetlights, the hygienic foods of Pakistan provide a gospel of diverse and succulent taste. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Preparation increases the chances of having a good holiday when planning to visit Pakistan. The initial process is to guarantee that you the right visa before you employ a private health care staffing services or join a healthcare staffing company. Visitors from majority of the countries of the world require a visa which one can apply for online through the Pakistan e-Visa portal. Therefore, it is recommended to verify the respective requirements concerning your nationality far in advance of the trip.
When to go to Pakistan mostly relies on the areas of the country that interest the traveler. Therefore, for the northern areas inclusive of Gilgit-Baltistan and particularly the mountainous regions of the country, this plan should be implemented during the months of May to October, when the weather is favorable, and roads are K.M. For southern regions the preferable time is from November to February because the climate is better and less subtropical than in winter and summer times, Karachi and the desert areas. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Security is always a concern of most people who are touring. In general, Pakistan is not very hazardous for the tourists but one should check out the current situations in the country and does not visit those areas that prohibited to go as per the government advisories. It would also be wise to register with your embassy and keep them posted with your travelling plan. Also, it is recommended to get travel insurance which will cover medical and other emergencies, and cancellation of the trip.
Regarding travel gears, one should pack depending on season and the areas of destinations to be visited. The multilayered clothing is useful when the climate changes frequently, and the most suitable shoes are the ones that have strong heels if you intend to hike. Preventive measures include Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and routine shots. Ask your doctor for advice regarding your unique case.
Some tips, which are worth of having in mind concerning local manners, will contribute to the leisured spending time in Pakistan. Avoid dressing provocatively and it is advisable to cover the body especially in the villages and in sacred places. When greeting the people, a handshake can be observed; however, while dealing with them, try to avoid coming to a close contact particularly when you are dealing with the opposite gender. Thus, knowing several small phrases in Urdu can be very helpful when dealing with the locals. It is always recommended to seek permission of the people or property owners before taking the shots. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Using the following advice and all the important information, anyone who plans to travel to Pakistan to see some of the most beautiful attractions, will be ready to have the time of their lives.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
In this blog post, you have been informed on some of the top destinations to when in Pakistan exploring on what makes the country such a special tourist destination. The world-famous mountain of the Karakoram, lush green gardens of Swat, the Kaghan valley or the beautiful valleys of Hunza, all make Pakistan a paradise for tourists. Lahore and Karachi are among the most populated cities which give the best tourist experience about the ancient and the contemporary culture of the country. On the other hand, places which depict the ancient monument of the region like Mohenjo-Daro and Badshahi Mosque etc give a glimpse of the ancient world and architectures. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Like culture, the geography of Pakistan also has much variance. Whether you are a mountain adventurer in search of external activities or you are a cultural or festival freak looking forward to exploring and discover some cultural festivals of Pakistan, then Pakistan is the place for you. Daily meals also enhance the experience by serving spicy local treaty that gives the clients a royal taste of the countries’ dishes. Additionally, the notorious generosity of Pakistani people makes the visitors feel comfortable and tend to be treated like a local. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Any individual who intends to make a trip is encouraged to make relevant research and indeed plan on what they intend to do to maximize their trip. Several samples can be found on the Web to help you with creating a great journey. Self-sufficing Internet sources like Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) offer important information and advice on travelling. Also, the major contacts include the local tour operators which can provide extra information and make the trip go easily. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays
Overall, one can state that Pakistan is a country that offers the tourist endless beauty of the nature, diverse history and an interesting culture. We truly recommend you go and visit Pakistan and see the beauty and worth of this country with your own eyes. If you visit this country to see beautiful sceneries, architectural structures or cities, you will definitely go home with unforgettable experience and might as well appreciate the country that much more. Best Places to Visit in Pakistan during Holidays