Although Pakistan is one of the most alluring and unique countries you’ll ever see, foreigners often wonder why they should choose Pakistan as their next holiday destination. Sadly, this is because the media always portrays Pakistan as a dangerous country whereas the reality is otherwise. Although Pakistan is rich in tourism attractions, only the brave hearts visit this land of the pure. The past visitors have titled their experiences as ‘surprising’, ‘annoying’, ‘metamorphic’ and ‘educational’. If you’re up for the time of your life, you should certainly keep Pakistan on your travel checklist.
Pakistanis are extremely hospitable hosts. They’ll offer hygienic accommodation, warm and scrumptious meals, they’ll show you around and take care of you if you happen to fall ill, all free of cost mostly. They consider guests to be angels sent from God, so they make sure their visitors stay happy and comfortable. They’ll even shower you with thoughtful gifts to take home, what else can one ask for? You’re bound to make sincere friends for life here.
Pakistan possesses stunning mountains like the K2, beautiful rivers like the Punjkohor, lovely valleys like Kashmir, famous glaciers like the Baltoro Glacier and enchanted forests like the Changa Manga Forest. All the cities, towns and villages will captivate you and keep you coming back for more. From exquisite beaches like the Astola Islands to archaeological sites like Mohenjo Daro to lush gardens like the Shalimar Gardens, Pakistan lacks nothing!
Educated Pakistanis are well versed in global languages like English, French, Arabic and Spanish. Tourist guides are readily available at reasonable rates, so you won’t face any trouble in communicating with the locals. If you happen to speak even a few common words in Urdu, people will be very impressed, and they’ll enjoy your company. Pakistan also boasts of ancient artefacts of over 8,000 years related to Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. Most of them are situated in the provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Foreigners say that travelling in Pakistan is quite cheap, around $100 per week. This includes good food, accommodation, transport, and fun activities. Don’t forget to keep tents and loaded backpacks for camping outdoors like in the Fairy Meadows. Pakistan also hosts some of the best hiking treks on this planet, like the Nanga Parbat Base Camp and the pretty Margalla Hills.
In case you’re a foodie, you’ll be licking your fingers all the time in Pakistan. From spicy Biryanis to sweet Malpuras to rich Lassi to savoury Karahis, you won’t be disappointed ever! Karachi is famous for aromatic BBQ and irresistible curries, Peshawar for Chapli Kebabs, Quetta for Sajji and mutton joints, Lahore for Paye and Kashmir for Rogan Josh. Other Pakistani delectables include Haleem, Nihari, Kashmiri Tea, Rice Pudding, Gajar Ka Halwa, Dum Pukht, Nan Khatai and Halwa Poori.
Since Pakistanis are cheerful at heart, they celebrate several festivals. Pakistan Day (23rd March), Independence Day (14th August), Defence Day (6th September), Quaid-e-Azam Day (25th December), Iqbal Day (9th November), Chand Raat (the night when the moon is sighted), Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha, Basant (festival of colours), Teacher’s Day and Women’s Day, to name a few. Flawless architecture like the Lahore Fort, the Badshahi Mosque, Jahangir’s Tomb, the Rohtas Fort, the Frere Hall, Faisal Mosque, Jinnah’s Tomb and the Mohatta Palace will roam in your minds for years.
To say the least, you’ll never get bored in Pakistan and you’ll surely revisit. All sorts of thrills, extravagant celebrations, vibrant sceneries, yummy food, and welcoming people await your arrival. I guarantee you the most exciting and extraordinary vacation in Pakistan. Bon voyage!
