Pakistan is not the place most people think about when planning for their next vacation. But this land, with its blend of the ancient and modern, can provide for a very beautiful and exotic destination.
The rugged land of Pakistan has mountains, plains, and deserts. If you are the adventurous type, you will find that Pakistan has much to offer you off of the beaten path. The northern part of Pakistan has the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains where you can go on mountain expeditions, rock and ice climbing, biking, and adventure trekking. Other activities include camel, boat and jeep safaris. Some of the creatures you may encounter are dolphins, lions, tigers, and exotic birds. The cities of Pakistan also have much to interest the traveler, with cultural and historic sites abounding.
KARACHI
The largest and most populated city of Pakistan, Karachi was the capital of Pakistan until 1959. It sits by the Arabian Sea, and you can enjoy many of the water activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Later, take a horse or camel ride on Clifton Beach. Around the city, there are such pastimes as golfing and horse racing. You can see exhibits from the country’s past at the National Museum of Pakistan. Go to Park Towers for mall shopping, or to the markets for many handcrafted items such as rugs and carpets. Pakistan is one of the world’s foremost exporter of carpets.
ISLAMABAD
Islamabad and its nearby twin city, Rawalpindi, are located in north-central Pakistan. Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan. Its construction was finished in 1966. Today, there is a population of over 500,000 people in this modern city. An impressive sight is the large Shah Faisal Mosque. It is one of the largest in the world. North of the city are the Margala Hills, which are a great place to take go hiking, have a picnic, and view the city laid out below. The Japanese Children’s Park, a gift from the Japanese, is a fun place for the kids.
LAHORE
This city is approximately 2,000 years old, and it is the second largest city in Pakistan. It is considered to be the cultural and academic center of the country. It has a section of town you’ll want to see, known as the Old City. Be sure to visit the Lahore Museum, which documents the ancient civilizations of the past, and is considered by many to be the best museum in Pakistan. The huge Lahore Fort was built in the 1590’s by the Mughals, and the buildings there can be toured daily. Two nice parks you can enjoy are the Jinnah and the Shalimar. Have a bite to eat on the “Food Street” while winding down from your day in Lahore.
Travelers do need to exercise caution in a land as volatile as Pakistan. Consult travel warnings before you go. You should stay with your group and tour guide, obey all the local laws and customs, and dress modestly. With safety precautions in mind, a trip to Pakistan can provide you with adventure and exhilaration. The warm, friendly people in their beautiful country will make for great photographs and memories for years to come.
