Pakistan is a country located in South Asia with a population of over 230 million people. It is known for its diverse landscape, rich history, and vibrant culture. Pakistan has something to offer everyone, from adventure seekers to those interested in exploring ancient civilizations. One of the best things to do in Pakistan is to visit some of its historical sites such as the ruins of Mohenjo-Daro and Taxila. These archaeological sites date back thousands of years and provide an insight into the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.
Pakistan also has some breathtaking natural beauty which can be seen in places like Hunza Valley, Fairy Meadows, and Neelum Valley. Visitors can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, or simply enjoying the scenic views. The food scene in Pakistan is also worth trying out with dishes like biryani, kebabs, and naan being popular options. Overall, Pakistan offers a unique travel experience that should be on any traveler’s bucket list.
Heritage Sites
Pakistan is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and it boasts many historic sites that are worth visiting. One of the most famous heritage sites in Pakistan is the Lahore Fort, which was built during the Mughal period. The fort has many palaces and pavilions within its walls, like the Sheesh Mahal, Naulakha Pavilion, and Diwan-e-Aam. These structures showcase the intricate architecture of Mughal times.
Another significant heritage site in Pakistan is Mohenjo-Daro. It dates back to 2600 BCE and was one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Mohenjo-Daro’s ruins give us an idea of how advanced that civilization was in terms of town planning and architecture. Besides these two attractions, there are several other places to explore in Pakistan that have remarkable historical significance such as Taxila Museum, Rohtas Fort, and Shalimar Gardens extra. Visiting these Heritage Sites can be both educational and entertaining for tourists who want to immerse themselves in Pakistan’s history while enjoying their vacation at the same time. 
Landscapes & Wildlife
Pakistan is a land of diverse landscapes and wildlife, offering breathtaking views of natural beauty. Exploring the country’s outdoor wonders is one of the best things to do in Pakistan. From high mountains to deserts, from lush green valleys to coastal areas, Pakistan has it all. The northern areas of Pakistan offer some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. The towering peaks of the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain ranges dominate the region’s skyline, while deep blue lakes and lush green valley’s add to its natural charm. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot various species here such as snow leopards, brown bears, deer, and various bird species.
In addition to that, visiting Pakistan’s coastal regions provides a unique opportunity to observe marine life in their natural habitats. The turquoise waters are home to dolphins, whales, turtles, and many other aquatic creatures. One can also witness flocks of seabirds flying over these waters making for a surreal experience. Overall experiencing nature at its rawest form through exploring landscapes & wildlife should be on everyone’s itinerary when planning a trip to Pakistan.
Adventure & Sports
Pakistan is a country that boasts some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes. Among these, the Northern Areas are undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Pakistan for adventure lovers. Hiking in this region is an experience like no other, with trails that wind through mountains and valleys, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes. The region is blessed with some of the world’s highest and most beautiful mountain ranges such as Karakoram, Himalayas, Hindukush, and Pamir. Some of the well-known treks include K2 Base Camp Trek, Fairy Meadow Trek, Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek, and Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek.
One of the main draws of hiking in Pakistan’s Northern Areas is the opportunity to tackle some of the world’s highest peaks. The region is home to K2, which at 8,611 meters, is the second-highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest. Other notable peaks include Nanga Parbat (8,126 meters) and Tirich Mir (7,708 meters). For experienced hikers looking for a challenge or those seeking to push themselves beyond their limits, conquering these mountains can be an unforgettable achievement.
Another adventurous activity that visitors can enjoy in Pakistan is white-water rafting. The country has many rivers that provide thrilling rafting experiences for both beginners and experts. The Indus River near Skardu is a popular spot for rafting, especially during summer when water levels are high. Other places that offer great rafting experiences include the Kunhar River in Kaghan Valley and the Swat River. For those who prefer something more extreme, Pakistan also offers paragliding opportunities at various locations including Islamabad’s Margalla Hills, Hunza Valley’s Eagle’s Nest Point, and Mardan’s Takht Bhai to name a few. With its stunning landscapes and hospitable locals, it may surprise people how much this country has to offer to thrill-seekers and adventurers alike.
Spas & Resorts
Pakistan is a country that offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. For those looking to unwind and relax, there are several amazing spas and resorts scattered throughout the country that offer some of the best services in the region. One such place is The Pearl Continental Hotel in Lahore, which boasts a state-of-the-art spa offering massages, facials, and other treatments to help guests rejuvenate their bodies and mind. Another popular resort is Ziarat Serena Hotel located amidst the picturesque mountains of Balochistan. This hotel has an on-site spa that provides traditional Balochi therapies using natural ingredients such as honey, yogurt, and herbs. With its serene surroundings and luxurious accommodations, it’s no surprise that this resort has become one of Pakistan’s top destinations for relaxation.
Lastly, Shangrila Resort Skardu offers a unique experience with its location amidst the breathtaking Karakoram mountain range. Known as ‘Heaven on Earth’, this resort has various wellness facilities including a sauna and steam room along with an outdoor pool overlooking the serene Lake Kachura. Guests can also indulge in traditional Tibetan massage techniques at their on-site spa to further enhance their experience at this tranquil escape from city life.
Bazaars & Markets
Bazaars and markets in Pakistan are a reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. The vibrant colors and traditional architecture make these places worth visiting for tourists as well as locals. With people from different regions coming together to sell their wares, these bazaars offer a unique shopping experience that cannot be found elsewhere. One such market is the Anarkali Bazaar located in Lahore, which is one of the oldest bazaars in South Asia. It offers a wide range of products including clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. Similarly, the Peshawar Bazaar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been around since ancient times and is known for its traditional Afghan rugs and carpets.
Bazaars are not just about shopping; they are also great places to sample local food delicacies. From spicy street food like gol gappay and samosas to traditional sweets like jalebis and gulab jamuns, there’s something for everyone here. Overall, visiting these bazaars can give you an authentic taste of Pakistani culture and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Traditional Cuisine
Traditional cuisine is an essential part of Pakistani culture, and it reflects a blend of various regional influences. The traditional dishes are rich in flavor, spices, and aromas that tantalize the taste buds. Some popular dishes include biryani, kebabs, nihari, haleem, and karahi. These dishes are usually accompanied by bread such as naan or roti.
One of the best things to do in Pakistan is to explore the food scene and indulge in traditional cuisine. There are numerous street vendors and local restaurants that offer a wide variety of dishes at reasonable prices. One can also visit food streets such as Gawalmandi in Lahore or Burns Road in Karachi to experience the true essence of traditional cuisine.
In addition to savoring delicious food, visitors can also learn about the history and cultural significance behind each dish. For instance, haleem was originally made for poor people during Ramadan as it is a nutrient-dense meal that keeps one full throughout the day while nihari was a favorite among Mughal emperors due to its rich taste and nutritional value. Overall, exploring traditional cuisine is an excellent way to immerse oneself in Pakistani culture while enjoying some mouth-watering delicacies.
