best places to visit pakistan

Wander-Lush

20 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan – From Mountains to Mosques

It’s hard to imagine a more magnificent landscape than the rugged peaks, hidden villages and wind-swept plains of Pakistan. Here are 20 of the most beautiful places in Pakistan , from wild mountain passes and unreal lakes, to ornate mosques and ancient fortresses.

Thanks to Samantha for sharing her Pakistan tips. Samantha is a self-proclaimed South Asia addict and hippopotamus lover who’s been on the road for seven months so far. She blogs about her indefinite budget-backpacking adventure at Intentional Detours, where she shares guides and stories to help and inspire you to visit offbeat places, too. 

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Western media might try to tell you otherwise, but trust me – Pakistan is an absolutely stunning country. Think famous mountain peaks, emerald-green and turquoise-blue valleys, deserts filled with remnants of ancient civilization… And that’s not even the half of it.

One thing’s for sure: Pakistan sure isn’t lacking in beautiful places to visit!

Also read: 7 best Pakistani cultural experiences for travellers .

During the 4 months I spent in the country, I was constantly blown away by what I was seeing. There’s an endless number of perfect natural (and man-made) sights to see while backpacking Pakistan , so I thought I’d spotlight 20 of the very best for future travellers.

20 most beautiful places in Pakistan

Without further ado, here are the 20 most beautiful places in Pakistan (in no particular order), a country that quickly and fiercely stole my heart.

1. Swat Valley

Though it has had a rough past, the present and future of Swat Valley are shining very bright. This stunning valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan is something straight out of a fairy tale.

Think bright green fields and forests, picturesque villages, and rivers boasting shades of blue so clear and bright you wouldn’t have thought them real!

The true beauty of Swat can be found around the town of Kalam, which serves as a base to the explore the beauty of the valley. Here are 3 places you can’t miss in Swat Valley:

Boyun Village

Boyun, also known as Green Top, is a short drive or manageable up-hill walk from Kalam town. When you finally reached the pinnacle, you’ll be rewarded with a panorama of one of the most vast and beautiful villages I’ve ever seen – along with sweeping views of the valley below. Boyun is an easy day trip from Kalam.

Kandol and Spindhor Lakes

These alpine lakes lie 2 hours away from Kalam. These days, Kandol Lake is accessible via jeep track and is a bit more commercialised, whereas Spindhor can only be reached on a 2-hour trek. Whichever you choose to visit, both are absolutely counted among the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Ushu Forest

This well-preserved forest is full of deodar trees and is a fabulous place to get lost. The road that leads into the forest continues on to several villages set along the Kalam River.

2. Hunza Valley

If you live in Pakistan – or have read anything about the country – it’s almost certain you’ve come across the name Hunza. Don’t let the word ‘valley’ confuse you, though – Hunza is actually a massive district made up of numerous valleys and villages. One part of the ancient Silk Road , here are some of the most beautiful sights in Hunza:

Passu Cones

The Passu Cathedral is a natural work of art and one of the most recognisable scenes in Pakistan. Though staying overnight in Passu village is no longer allowed, the cones are visible from a ways away, starting from the village of Gulmit. The most iconic view of the Cathedral is from the Karakoram Highway, about an hour’s drive from Gilgit City.

Attabad Lake

A lake that doesn’t look real… Even when you’re standing right in front of it. Attabad was born out of tragedy when a massive landslide occurred in 2010. The flow of the Hunza River was blocked, and the now-famous lake was created in its wake. Its bright-blue turquoise waters make the it one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Eagle’s Nest

Want to see one of the most epic sunsets in the Hunza Valley? Head to Eagle’s Nest around golden hour! The name comes from an upscale hotel/restaurant nearby, but you can drive up to the viewpoint without going there.

3. Yarkhun Valley

Though it’s relatively unheard of and forgotten compared to Pakistan’s most famous tourist spots, I think Yarkhun Valley was the most beautiful place I visited in the country. Located in the Upper Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Yarkhun dazzles with its mountain ranges and untouched villages.

Reaching the valley, which stretches for many kilometres past the administrative town of Mastuj, requires a bit of effort if you don’t have your own vehicle. If you do have one though, the ride isn’t too bad – just prepare for mostly dirt roads!

The side valley of Gazin is most definitely worth a detour if you make it all the way to Yarkhun. Here, you can see the mountains of the Thoi Pass, a high-altitude pass that connects Upper Chitral with Yasin Valley in Gilgit Baltistan.

4. Phander Lake

Phander Lake, located in Phander Village, is almost too good to be true. The teal-coloured lake sits silently amongst light-green trees befitting a landscape painting.

Despite being insanely beautiful, Phander Lake doesn’t see anywhere as close to the number of tourists as the more popular Attabad Lake does.

During the 4 days I spent in Phander relaxing lakeside, I didn’t encounter any other tourists. If you do visit, I highly recommend you stay at the Lake Inn, which is a short walk away and charges 1,000 rupees per night.

There is also the expensive (5,000 rupees) PTDC that overlooks the lake, but the hospitality and value at Lake Inn reign superior.

5. Broghil Valley

Located way up north very close to Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, Broghil Valley was formerly only accessible via trek or horseback. These days, the once-hidden locale can be reached by a treacherous jeep track – yet it still only receives a handful of visitors during the few months it’s not frozen under heaps of snow.

Currently, whether or not foreigners are allowed to visit Broghil is iffy. (If you’re insistent, make sure you check with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Chitral before making the trek up there.) But Pakistanis – please go see this beauty! The valley is home to numerous high-altitude lakes, yaks, and sprawling green pastures, all set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop that soars above 13,000 feet.

Moreover, a day’s trek from Lashkargaz, the last village in Broghil, will lead you to Karambar Lake, one of the highest in the world!

A city… Say what? Yes, Lahore may be a metro but its treasure trove of historical places surely makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan. Lahore was the city of Mughals, and so much of their creations still remain.

If you’re wondering what are the best places to visit in Lahore , hold tight because there’s a whole lot of them!

The most famous of the city’s monuments include the Badshahi Mosque, the Wazir Khan Mosque, and of course the Lahore Fort. Add to that dozens upon dozens of beautifully preserved tombs, lively shrines, and havelis upon havelis , and you have yourself the cultural capital of Pakistan.

7. Hingol National Park

Hingol National Park is technically in Pakistan, but it looks more like a Martian planet! The park is over 6,000-square-kilometres and contains incredibly unique rock formations, vast canyons, numerous animal species, and even a mud volcano .

What’s more, part of the National Park hugs the coast, adding the ocean to all its other assets. Though totally out-of-this-world in its looks, Hingol is only 3.5 hours from Karachi, Pakistan’s most populous city.

Pakistanis shouldn’t have any problem entering the park, but foreigners have had mixed experiences. Some who were accompanied by locals have been able to spend a night/ weekend in the park, while others were only given day permission. There is no public transport to the park, so having access to your own transportation is a must.

8. Kalash Valleys

The Kalash Valleys, comprised of Bumboret, Rumbur, and Birir, are home to the Kalash people, a religious and ethnic minority in Pakistan with their own beliefs, culture and language. The valleys they live in are certainly some of the most beautiful places in Pakistan – not just for their natural splendour, but also for the beauty of the Kalash themselves.

The valley of Rumbur is particularly stunning. Here, kilometres of dusty road and mountains rumble alongside the Kalash River. The Kalash people live in wooden homes that cling to the high hills, and the women are particularly famous for their brightly-coloured traditional dress and headwear that differs from anything else one can find in Pakistan.

Being only 2.5 hours from Chitral City, it’s very easy to make it out to one of the valleys these days. If you do decide to head to Rumbur, take a day to trek all the way into the valley. The last settlement of Rumbur, Sheikhandeh, is a former Nuristani village whose inhabitants migrated across the border to Pakistan a few hundred years ago.

9. Deosai Plains National Park

Deosai is often referred to as the roof of the world. And it kinda is. At 4,117 metres (13,497 feet), the massive plateau is the second-highest on the planet, and is only really accessible during summer.

Sprawling emerald-green meadows, snow-capped peaks and glistening blue lakes greet visitors who make the journey to this beautiful spot. The Himalayan Brown Bear calls Deosai its home and has been spotted by many a visitor – watch out for them if you’re camping!

The park charges an entrance fee of 1,000 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for Pakistanis.

10. Gorakh Hills

Hills in the desert… Yup, the Gorakh Hill Station is located in Sindh, but is certainly elevated as a part of the Kirthar Mountains. At 1,734 metres (5,689 feet), the top of the hills provide some of the most beautiful views in Southern Pakistan. This is the perfect spot for a weekend camping trip.

Gorakh Hills are about 8 hours from Karachi, but only 2 to 3 hours from the city of Dadu, making the latter a better place to start your journey. There is no public transport, but there are a few rest houses for anyone who isn’t looking to pitch a tent.

11. Shimshal

Though a bit out of the way compared to some of the other beautiful tourist places in Pakistan featured on this list, Shimshal Valley is well worth the effort required to reach it. The locale is known for being a major adventure destination that’s particularly popular amongst climbers and mountaineers.

But Shimshal isn’t just one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan for adrenaline junkies. The village itself is divine come summer. Incredibly, it almost exclusively relies on solar energy! Easier short treks to nearby yak pastures can also be arranged, as can just simply wandering around and enjoying the epic vistas and fields of mustard-yellow flowers.

12. Shah Jahan Mosque

Thought all the Mughal relics were in Punjab? Think again! The Shah Jahan Mosque – also known as the Jamia Masjid – is located in Thatta, a town in Pakistan’s Sindh province. It’s widely known for having the most elaborate display of tile work in all of South Asia. Blue and sandstone colours adorn the interior of the mosque and are sure to wow all who visit.

The mosque was commissioned by Shah Jahan when he sought refuge in Thatta back in 1647 and somehow remains in amazing shape today. Though Sindh might seem to be a far cry from the mountains, the immaculate artistry present here makes it one of the most beautiful tourist places in Pakistan.

13. Fairy Meadows

Though it has become a bit touristy (and pricey), Fairy Meadows is no doubt a stunner. The meadows offer an incredible view of Nanga Prabat, the world’s 9th highest mountain peak.

Reaching Fairy Meadows is a bit of a challenge. The journey starts with a jeep ride across one of the most dangerous roads in the world and culminates with a 5 kilometre trek. It’s possible to rent a campsite, or you can bring your own equipment to enjoy a night or two basking in one of Pakistan’s most epic views.

Currently, the price for a jeep into the meadows is around 8,000 rupees ($51), and walking the road is prohibited. Lucky it’s possible to split the cost with other travellers.

14. Chapursan Valley

Like Broghil, Chapursan Valley also borders Afghanistan’s Wakhan but is situated more to the east. This stunning collection of villages and vistas sees only a handful of tourists and is one of the most remote places you can visit in Hunza.

Chapursan is home to the Wakhi people, an ethnic group who speak Wakhi and belong to the Ismaili sect of Islam. With royal blue skies, massive mountain peaks, sprawling lakes and virtually no commercialisation, Chapursan Valley is as beautiful a place in Pakistan as they come!

To reach it, you’ll first need to head to the town of Sost that sits near the Pakistan-China Border. If you have your own vehicle, you’re all set to head on up from there. If not, shared jeeps leave from Sost each morning around 6am.

While in the valley, don’t miss the Baba Ghundi Shrine, a mystical Sufi shrine dedicated to a saint who supposedly held magical powers. Also don’t forget to enjoy the company of the yaks!

15. Khunjerab Pass

This high-mountain pass isn’t for the faint of heart. At nearly 4,600 metres (15,397 feet), this popular tourist attraction connects Pakistan with China to form the highest paved border crossing in the world.

Many people venture to the border to take photos at the official gate, which is surrounded by insanely tall peaks and grassy fields. As for transport, it’s best to travel here with your own vehicle as bus tickets can get pricey. For adventurous travellers, hitchhiking is also an option, as it is on much of the Karakoram Highway.

16. Rakaposhi Base Camp

For all those trekking enthusiasts out there – this one’s for you! The Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is doable in one day, even for beginners, and offers some truly insane views of Rakaposhi, a 7,800-metre peak!

There are few ways to get as up close and personal with Pakistan’s giants than this. The trek starts from the village of Minapin, where it should take those with a decent fitness level about 4 to 5 hours to reach the top.

While it is possible to camp, the descent is much quicker, making the entire journey there and back a plausible one-day affair. Due to extreme weather, it’s only possible to do the trek between May and October.

17. Margala Hills

Islamabad might be a glitzy ‘new’ city, but did you know it also has a vast array of hills perfect for climbing? The Margala Hills are spread out over over 12,000 hectares and contain multiple hiking and running trails.

Ascending to the various peaks of the range show off Islamabad in ways you might not have known were possible. There are few places in Pakistan that remain so close to the city yet so deeply connected to nature.

18. Rohtas Fort

Say hello to another of the most beautiful places in Pakistan – this time a 16th-century fortress that’s recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rohtas Fort is located near Jhelum in Punjab, which is about 4 hours from Lahore and 2 hours from Islamabad.

The fortress is one of the largest in the Subcontinent and has remained in remarkable condition despite its age. Hours can be spent roaming around the massive structure, a beautiful relic that almost seems to transport visitors back in time.

It’s easy to get lost amongst the walls and gates for an entire day. Keep in mind that the fort charges an entrance fee of 500 rupees for foreigners and 20 rupees for Pakistanis.

19. Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley is about 54 kilometres (34 miles) from Gilgit City in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region. The popular tourist attraction is known for its dramatic forests, a collection of crystal-clear lakes, and in the winter, skiing facilities.

Though many tourists just come for the slopes, I think the real magic of Naltar can only be witnessed in the summer months when the lakes unfreeze and the forests can be best enjoyed.

This magical valley is only accessible via Jeep, but public transport does exist from Gilgit. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses to accommodate tourists in the valley’s two villages. To avoid peak tourist season, steer clear of visiting during the month of May and try coming in fall instead. You might be lucky enough to catch some epic foliage towards the end of October.

20. Katpana Desert

Beautiful places in Pakistan truly cover every landscape imaginable… Including the Katpana Cold Desert. Though it has all the makings of a ‘warm’ desert, what makes the Katpana stand out is its altitude. It does, in fact, become covered with snow in the winter.

Said to be the highest cold desert in the world, sand dunes at this altitude look truly unique. Very few countries can lay claim to such a rarity. Travellers can reach the Katpana Desert easily from Skardu, as it’s only about 30 minutes away. Don’t count on there being public transport, though.

Most beautiful places in Pakistan: Final thoughts

Listing the 20 most beautiful places in Pakistan isn’t an easy task when almost everywhere you turn, the landscape is mesmerising in one way or another. Though this is only a small sample of what Pakistan has to offer, I strongly recommend trying to visit at least a few of these highlights.

I absolutely loved every minute of the 4 months I spent travelling through Pakistan. But in a country this big and beautiful, I know there’s always more to discover. Happy adventuring! 

Most beautiful places in Pakistan

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81 Comments

Dear Emily, Thanks for the best article about Pakistan’s beautiful tourist attractions. I am wondering to know have you visited to the Ghizer Valley like Yasin, Ishkoman, and Phander Valleys there many best places to visit as well. Above all, this part of Pakistan is less visited by tourists either international or domestic.

Great article! Thank you so much!!

Amazing journey and Finding Pakistan is a beautiful and pleasent country full of colours and Attractive places. It’s natural and there is just a little bit investment needed to be put into the Tourism and Management. We hope you shall visit our other areas of our country. Thanks

Thank you Emily for exploring my region. I am resident of Gilgit Baltistan and I still couldn’t write about the beauty of my region as you did. Thank you for visiting Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan as well. Welcome you again

I noticed most of these are northern areas, really pakistan needs to improve the ways to attract the international tourism providing them super facilities, sure safety and appropriate services..

I suggest you to visit visit Azad kashmir all district (10) of Azad kashmir are beautiful such a wonderful place you can search all district’s photos on Google. Heaven on earth

suggest the most beautiful, quite and relaxing place in Azad Kashmir

Shounter Valley, Baboon Valley Azad Kashmir heaven on earth

Thanks for giving us beautiful insights into our country

Yes Pakistan is the one of the beautiful country Please extend number of places because I ever some most places I think there is 50+ places for visiting

Dear, First of All appreciate your effort to consolidate Pakistan beauty in your article and really Pakistan is most beautiful country in World, if we explore it properly then we will experience this.

You could easily expand this article to 50 places. Pakistan has incredible natural beauty and the people are most hospitable

Being a Pakistani Please have a look at the Skardu (New Zealand of PK) by search on Google you will find such amazing photos. I appreciate your effort, Emily and Samantha!

Wow, absolutely stunning! I hope I can visit some day. Thanks so much for your comment!

Emily u r welcomed, I live here in rawalpindi if u like u will be welcomed with warm heart.

Excellent article…Pakistan is amazing indeed.

Gilgit-Baltistan is famous for its dramatic mountains especially the snow-capped mountains. GB has unlimited scenery views and is known as heaven on earth. It is one of the beautiful places in Pakistan, delighting and pleasing several tourists, travelers, and adventure lovers. Planning to visit Gilgit-Baltistan? Here are the most enchanting places to visit.

I’m surprised to see Rohtas Fort on here. It’s an amazing site for sure. We have family that live in the village inside the Fort, so whenever we’re in Pakistan, we visit quite often. I still think more effort needs to be made in order to maintain it…

All these places are Beautiful. Pakistan is a beautiful country.

Wow Such amazing article . My land my heaven

Thank you for the beautiful insights. Neelum valley in Kashmir is gorgeous, particularly the area around rattigalli and shounter valley. Naran and Sapat valleys as well as haramosh and then the wonderful Concordia and Snow lake treks. Pakistan has Karakorums Himalayas and Hindukush mountain ranges. Beautiful alpine lakes, pristine forests and waterfalls.

Thank you Taimur for the recommendations!

Sad to see that The Beauty Queen of Pakistan (Kumrat Valley) is not included in the list

Thank you Nazim for the recommendation! It looks spectacular!

Not only Kumrat but who North Pakistan is worth seeing. North.pk interested people may work on this portal.

Northern areas of Pakistan are really paradise of Allah on earth. These areas are magically beautiful. Once you reach there, you will never like to come back. I will suggest the tourists to visit l these location to see nature.

Thank you for sharing the amazing article. Pakistan is like heaven on earth. Everyone must visit Neelam valley.

Great Information for us I love Pakistan and i love traveling

Thanks for your great information about beautiful placese

I have been to most of the places .there are more beautiful places in Pakistan just like kumrat valley,jaz banda, madak lasht Chitral, phasti chitral, Rama lake gilgit baltistan and many more

Emily, is this information-you gathered is from internet or you literally visited these areas?

Hi Jamil, thanks for your comment. This is a guest post by Samantha of Intentional Detours. You can find her bio at the top. She has visited these places in Pakistan and many others – you can follow the link to her site for more articles.

From Bangladesh, i want to visit pakistan. But getting visa is a big problem from Bangladesh. Can any one help me? By proper information.

AssalamoAlykum, hope someone in Pakistan should help out, I live far away but have visited some of those Beautiful places, wish you will too someday

Hi thank you very much and i mean it. its lovely great introduction to Pakistan. And you are right Pakistan is a big and really beautiful country its impossible to mention and visit all the great places whether its Mountains, People, Deserts, Rivers, Sandy beaches with blue waters or Green planes. yes we should try to explore more and more. Good effort lady. Love it

Thank you Abdul for your comment!

Wow, Excellent post. Hats off to ur brilliant exploring skills.

Pakistan is one of the top tourist countries in the world. It has so many beautiful places to visit that attracts people from this world especially the northern side.

Lovely Post… Commendable.. though you haven’t listed Pakistan in your “Asia” destination tab 🙂

If u go Lahore u should also go Nankana sahib shrine , situated nearer to Lahore,

Such a beautiful places in pakistan every body most visited all this places I love pakistan

Sooooo beautiful natural places in Pakistan and many places you don’t show. so more places visit in Pakistan & highlights the natural beauty to show the world.. thanks

Unbelievable, I have visited only few of them and missed most of them because I stayed out of the country most of my life. Not only Pakistan but the Pakistani people are also amazing, very friendly, hospitable, helping and very kind people. Pakistani food is delicious, every big city has its own variety.

Thanks for your comment! I hope you get to explore more of Pakistan soon 🙂

This a great list of beautiful places in Pakistan. Pakistan is a wonderful country which has many attractions for every one. Thank you for sharing. The pictures are awesome I must say.

Mashallah, Very nice places. I am going to kund beach in Islamabad

Truly Pakistan is like heaven on earth.

Hello! Indeed Pakistan is really a Heaven on Earth and the Hearts of Pakistanis are more beautiful than these places. I believe that the World must now open its eyes and see the peace and tranquility we Pakistanis have earned through the hardships and struggles. Our Hearts are always open for everyone.

I love nature and of course the beauty of pakistan everyone should visit here and see the beauty of nature

Pakistan is rich in it’s culture, traditions, historical places and natural beauty. You have nicely described most of the beautiful places to visit in Pakistan.

Nice review about Beautiful Places in Pakistan.

♥ 😘 From Pakistan 🇵🇰 ♥ 😘

so many beautiful places in Pakistan…

Valuable information. Let’s promote Pakistan tourism in a positive way.

Nice info and I have visited 7 places from them but I try to visit physically all . Such a great contribution. Like it and appreciate you.

Minar-e-Pakistan is equivalent to nationalism and patriotism in Pakistan. It is the national monument, located at the center of Lahore. The tower was built between 1960 and 1968 on the site where the All-India Muslim League passed the Lahore Resolution on 23 March 1940.

Very interesting article

Great list but you missed many many beautiful places in Pakistan. Our country has a lot of natural beauty.

Hi Emily, Thanks for ur article, it was an excellent effort. Yes there can be hundreds of wonderful sites in Pakistan but u filtered very well. Since I’m an admirer of GB beauty of Pakistan n visits a lot, probably its a typo saying Rakaposhi @ 7800 feet (actually it’s 7800 mtrs) but to me this small error impacts the uniqueness of this Majestic beauty of the world. Rakaposhi is the TALLEST free standing mountain in the world, almost 20000 feet (6000 mtrs) from base to top, few people also misunderstand this record with Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, which is about 16000 feet (4800 mtrs) from base to top. Rakaposhi is not only the tallest but the steepest climb in the world, whee u can see its summit while standing on the road at the bottom.

Shall strongly suggest to keep writing n keep visiting Pakistan.

Thanks n regards,

Thanks Nadeem for all the tips!

HI Emily thanks for your blog it is quite helpful and gives me idea to planned by visit being a pakistani i never visit northern areas of pakistan but i am planning to go on dec 2020 and i feel mountains areas will be fully covered by white sheet (full of snow) i hope my tour will be amazing INSHALLAH.

I’m so glad to hear that! Happy travels!

Dear all, Seeing is believing. But how about visa to travel to Pakistan. I am not sure if visas are issued to Pakistan by Pakistan embassy here in India currently. Please do elaborate. Thanks again…

Pakistan has opened E visa and and on Arrival tourist Visa for majority nationalities around the world. That’s why number of international tourists growing sharply. For india some restrictions however Sikhs getting religious tourist visa and Indians with dual nationality get visa easily on foreign passports.

Excellent information. I would also like to add Ketas in Potwar platue with it amazing hindu temple ruins and beautiful scenery.

Hi Emily, Your article on 20 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan is just an amazing effort. One can understand how challenging it is to select only 20 out of hundreds of attractions stretching across the country. Its diverse landscape, historic monuments, cultural diversity, food, weather patterns presenting seasonal variations in natural colors, and much more…. The more you travel the more you explore. Keep it up!

saif ul malook is also a beautiful lake in pakistan.

Thanks for the tip!

No mahudand lake is best

I don’t know who wrote this but they forgot to mention the most beautiful and picturesque Kaghan valley here. So heartening!

Thanks for the recommendation!

Tirah Tirah is the most beautiful natural and popular aria in Pakistan but unfortunately no one is known to it.i am certainly say .if you come to tirah then you will come again and again. It has all natural no artificial and it has highest mountain with full up natural trees and beautiful waterfalls. Being only 3.5 hours from Peshawar city .it is very easy to go there .no difficulty .it has peaceful way regards niaz muhammad afridi

Pakistan is a really amazing country with lots of places to visit as a Pakistani I didn’t knew about them.Truly Pakistan is like heaven on earth

Can I ask what I should see 2weeks free time near lahore and islamabad I will be in December so north pakistan I cannot go

Hey Mexx, you can still visit Hunza valley in December, alternate routes are open, and you can also take flights from Islamabad to Gilgit and Skardu if you want to avoid long road journeys. Both places are easy to access in winters and breathtaking.

Indeed Pakistan is really a Heaven on Earth and the Hearts of Pakistanis are more beautiful than these places. I believe that the World must now open its eyes and see the peace and tranquility we Pakistanis have earned through the hardships and struggles. Our Hearts are always open for everyone.

Beautiful places. Amazing people. Everyone should visit this piece of heaven on earth

PAKISTAN IS AMAZING THANKS FOR YOUR COMPLIMENT

Very welcoming people, safe country unlike what we usually see in media. Many places are like heaven on earth.

My land my heaven

I have also visited many beautiful places in Pakistan. Hunza Valley is just like heaven.

Amazing article No doubt, Pakistan is full of amazing and beautiful places. All kind of natural beauty is present in many areas of Pakistan including streams, rivers, and mountains, etc.

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• 10 Best And Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Pakistan

Stretching from the large mountains in the north to the vast Indus alluvial delta in the south, Pakistan is full of natural beauty and stunning mountains. In addition to bright deserts and some of the world’s highest peaks, the country offers numerous attractions for sightseeing, hiking, mountain climbing and skiing. Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and ancient monuments continue to enchant visitors from all over the world. There are a lot of places to visit in Pakistan where you can have memorable experiences, have a look at these most beautiful places for your holiday in Pakistan.

10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Pakistan

Pakistan is gifted with a plethora of historical and natural treasures. A land full of breathtaking vistas and extraordinary places is a must-visit once in a lifetime. To guide you on your trip here is a list of the places to visit in Pakistan . Make sure you add some of these to your itinerary before heading to this destination.

1. Hunza Valley 2. Attabad Lake 3. Swat Valley 4. Naran Kaghan 5. Badshahi Mosque 6. Concordia 7. Neelum Valley 8. Deosai National Park 9. Mohenjo-daro 10. Piri Sohawa

1. Hunza Valley

Located in Gilgit Baltistan, the Hunza Valley is one of Pakistan’s hidden gems. This isolated valley is nestled between the Himalayas and the Karakoram mountain peaks. This is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan because of its lush farmlands. Here you can find markhors, ounces, ibexes, and red foxes. In this valley, a glorious view awaits you, and the locals are warm and friendly.

Best time to visit: April to September

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2. Attabad Lake

This beautiful lake which provides tranquil waters was originated as a result of a landslide in January 2010 in Attabad Village. The lake has vivid blue waters that pierce through the hilly land of Hunza Valley The lake is one of the most popular tourist places in Pakistan , offering exciting experiences like skiing, boating, catching fishes and others.

Best time to Visit: March to June

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3. Swat Valley

Despite its tragic history, Swat Valley’s present situation is very promising. There’s something fairytale-like about this spectacular valley in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Being one the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan among all other attractions, this valley has great weather and friendly locals. Visitors can enjoy trekking, hiking, backpacking, or simply enjoy in the natural environment.

Best time to visit: April to May

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4. Naran Kaghan

Naran and Kaghan are two amazing places to visit in Pakistan which are located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They are amazing places to explore for those who love nature. You will find beautiful rivers, stretches of fields, snowcapped peaks, and picturesque lakes in these areas. Each year, thousands of tourists come to this valley from all over the world.

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5. Badshahi Mosque

Originally built during the 1670s, Badshahi Mosque is a monument of the Mughal Empire, which ruled over the Indian subcontinent for nearly three centuries. Located in Lahore, this mosque is a great representation of Mughal architecture, with four minarets and three domes forming the courtyard. The mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monument truly justifies being one of the beautiful tourist places in Pakistan .

Best time to visit: The monument can be visited the whole year round except for the hottest months here, which are June and July.

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6. Concordia

Concordia is one of the paradisiacal Pakistan tourist places for hikers and climbers. It is situated in the north of the country, around the Chinese border. Pakistan is home to five of the fourteen highest mountain peaks in the world. You can get an excellent view of four of these five highest mountains from Concordia. This makes Concordia an unmissable place for sightseeing in Pakistan .

Best time to visit: June to August

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7. Neelum Valley

The Neelum Valley in northern Azad Kashmir is a bow-shaped valley situated between peaks that soar 13,000 feet into the sky, surrounded by verdant forests and flowing streams. Neelum Valley is one of the most beautiful places to see in Pakistan. This valley has pristine rivers, mirror-like lakes, and lush landscapes.

Best time to visit: March to October

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8. Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park, known as the Land of Giants, has a landscape of snow-capped mountains rising from the highland. This area has an astounding amount of biodiversity, including Himalayan wolves, Siberian ibex, red foxes, and yellow-bellied marmots. For someone who loves biodiversity and is seeking the best tourist places in Pakistan , Deosai National Park is an ideal place.

Best time to visit: July to September

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9. Mohenjo-daro

Mohenjo-daro, located in Sindh, a province in southeastern part of the country, that is among the famous places to visit in Pakistan . It is home to the Sindh people and a historical site dating back to 2500 BCE. The ruins and mounds were discovered to be part of an ancient civilization called the Indus Valley civilization. Those who love history will be fascinated by the engineering and urban planning that was far ahead of their time.

Best time to visit: The monument can be visited whole year round.

15 Best Places Of Indian Cultural Heritage You Must-Visit

10. Pir Sohawa

Pir Sohawa is located in the Margalla Hills, near Islamabad. Being among the best tourist places in Pakistan , there is more to admire about this tourist spot than just the breathtaking views. Located approximately 5,000 feet above sea level, this place is famous among tourists and locals for outings in the fresh breezes and admiring the stunning scenery.

Best time to visit: March to December

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Now when you got this list of some of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan , make sure you add these to your bucket list on your trip to this beautiful country. Take a break from the busy pace of life and do unwind by spending some serene time in these beautiful locations. And for when you come back, do not forget to share your beautiful memories with us so that your trip could inspire others to witness the beauty on the other side.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Beautiful Places to visit in Pakistan

Is it safe to visit Pakistan during Covid-19 times?

Make sure you are fully vaccinated before travelling to Pakistan. It is advisable to get your PT-PCR negative test report. We recommend staying updated with the most current information and travel guidelines of the country before travelling.

Which is the most beautiful city to visit in Pakistan?

Islamabad, which is the capital city of Pakistan is also a really beautiful city to visit. It is home to several historical monuments and other tourist attractions.

Which are the most visited places in Pakistan?

Some of the most visited places of Pakistan include Badshahi Mosque, Neelum Valley, Attabd Lake and Khagan Valley.

What is the best time to visit Pakistan?

The best time to visit Pakistan is from May to October. This is the best time to explore the beautiful valleys and magnificent mountain ranges that lie in the northern part of the country.

What are the best things to do in Pakistan?

As a tourist, you can visit the amazing valleys and admire the breathtaking landscapes they offer, experience the rich culture and history by visiting the ancient monuments, try various mouthwatering dishes of Pakistan and go for a trek in the stunning peaks.

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Home » Asia » Pakistan » 17 Beautiful Places in Pakistan • (2024 Edition)

17 Beautiful Places in Pakistan • (2024 Edition)

It’s hard to describe a landscape as diverse as Pakistans, blessed with towering mountains, wind-swept plains, hidden villages, and intricately detailed Mosques. It may not be advertised as much as other South Asian countries, but with all of this and more, you can find some of the world’s most beautiful places in Pakistan.

This large country spans vast valleys, tall mountains, arid deserts, and bustling cities. It’s home to the remnants of some of the world’s most powerful ancient civilizations and boasts some impressive modern accomplishments and monuments, too.

With countless attractions, a friendly local population, and diverse cultures, Pakistan is a country of unspoiled beauty. Join us as we take a look at some of the most exquisite places to visit in this country!

1. Naltar Valley

3. badshahi masjid, 3. chapursan valley, 5. fairy meadows, 6. shah jahan mosque, 7. kalash valleys, 8. passu cathedral peaks, 9. rakaposhi base camp, 10. deosai plains national park, 11. shimshal valley, 12. attabad lake, 13. rohtas fort, 14. neelum valley, 16. mazar-e-quaid, 17. hingol national park, how to see beautiful places in pakistan, faqs about beautiful places in pakistan, final thoughts on beautiful places in pakistan.

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Number one on my list is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Pakistan . Just a short hour’s drive from Gilgit City, Naltar Valley seems worlds away from civilization. With its dense forests and crystal lakes in the summer and snow-capped mountains in the winter, the valley attracts local and foreign tourists year-round. 

The valley really comes alive when temperatures warm up. During summer, the lakes unfreeze, and the valley is covered with a carpet of brightly coloured wildflowers. Summer is also the best time to explore the mystical forests, with winding routes suitable for hikers and mountain bikers.

Although not far from the city, Naltar Valley is not connected by any public transport, so private transport is needed to get here. Or if you’re truly up for an adventure, you can give motorbiking a try , though do be warned this is one of the wildest roads in the country. Once you arrive, there are plenty of hotel rooms to book.

The forested region has been a protected wildlife sanctuary since 1975, home to a range of mammals, including snow leopards, brown bears, grey wolves, red foxes, and a thriving bird population.

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Lahore has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful cities in Pakistan. What was once the city of the Mughals, this metropolitan centre bursts with historical attractions and hidden treasures. 

The city’s origins trace back to between the 1st and 7th centuries when the city was known as the City of Gardens. Lahore has always been a place of education and knowledge.

There are loads of exciting places to visit in this gorgeous city, but some of the most famous (and beautiful) include the Badshahi Mosque mentioned above, the Wazir Khan Mosque, and, of course, the iconic Lahore Fort. On top of that, there are many well-preserved historic tombs, shrines, and havelis.

With all of these incredible historic sites and buildings and the title of the oldest city in the country, it is no wonder Lahore is the Cultural Capital of Pakistan.

Located along the Pakistan-Indian border, one of the best things to see in Lahore is the changing of the guards at the Indian border.

Located in the historic city of Lahore, Badshahi Masjid is arguably the city’s most famous monument. A relic of the great Mughal dynasty, this stunning place of prayer is one of the most well-preserved artefacts from over 300 years ago.

Built from red sandstone and marble, the mosque is massive, with a capacity to host over 100,000 worshippers at one time. It was built by the emperor Aurangzeb between 1672 and 1674. An exquisite representation of Mughal architecture, with four minarets and three bulging domes. 

The exterior and interior are decorated with intricate and elaborate floral designs, motifs, and fine calligraphy. Gazing up at exquisite hand-carved motifs on the ceiling of the prayer halls will make you feel small compared with the sheer magnitude of the building. 

With its incredible history and well-kept structure, it’s no surprise this 17th-century place of worship is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It really is one of the most beautiful manmade structures in the country.

Make sure to dress appropriately and remain respectful of the local culture and religion when entering this active place of prayer. 

Graced with beautiful lakes and towering mountains, Chapursan sits in the majestic Hunza Valley. It offers a spectacular show of colours no matter what time of year you visit. It’s one of the main reasons many people decide to travel to Pakistan .

The valley is a part of the majestic Karakoram Mountain range; bordering Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor as well as China’s Xinjiang Region.

The Chapursan Valley is one of the most remote parts of the Hunza, offering unspoiled vistas of the exquisite surroundings. Home to a local ethnic group called the Wakhi people, this region is unlike almost any other.

With lush poplars and fruit trees that change colour with the seasons, exquisite mountains towering overhead, and turquoise rivers winding through the valleys, this natural haven is easily one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Not yet overrun with tourists, Chapursan is an exceptional example of old-world Pakistan. While you’re in the valley, take the time to visit the Baba Ghundi Shrine. This majestic Sufi shrine is dedicated to a supposedly magical saint with ties to the area. 

Fairy Meadows is one of the most popular and beautiful places in Pakistan , making it one of the more busy and expensive. Price and crowds aside, the valley is an extraordinary place worth visiting, offering views of the world’s ninth-highest mountain peak, known as Nanga Parbat.

The Fairy Meadows is the base campsite for this mountain range, located in the Diamer district of Gilgit Baltistan. The scenery is so picturesque it looks as if it belongs on a screensaver. 

Towering snowy peaks drop down into reflective lakes, which are nestled between lush green trees. Wild horses roam the meadows, and the star-gazing from this remote region is unmatched.

The meadows aren’t easy to get to. You’ll need to drive a 4X4 on a steep road and end your journey with a three-mile trek. Hiking to the Fairy Meadows from here can take three hours on foot.

Once you arrive at the heavenly location, you can rent space in a campsite or a room in a log cabin and enjoy a couple of nights admiring the incredible views, lush meadows, and bright green lakes. 

Looking up at the decorative ceiling of the Shah Jahan Mosque is like staring into a kaleidoscope of perfectly organized shapes and colours. Located in a town called Thatta in the Sindh province, this mosque is also known as the Jamia Masjid. It’s undoubtedly one of the top ten places to visit in Pakistan .

The mosque is most well known for its delicate interior featuring the most beautiful display of tilework and mosaics in the South Asian region. Combining colours like yellow sandstone with blues and turquoise tones creates a mesmerizing optical illusion carefully designed to represent the starry night sky.

The mosque is influenced by Turkic and Persian styles, built using bricks and blue tiles, both of which drew influence from Central Asian styles.

Back in 1647, the mosque was commissioned by Moghul emperor Shah Jahan when he found refuge in Thatta. He then gifted the mosque to the people of Thatta as a symbol of his gratitude for the hospitality of the Sindhi people.

Today, almost four hundred years later, the mosque sits in near-perfect condition, attracting tourists from across the globe to admire its beauty. 

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Three valleys under one name, the Kalash Valleys, include the Bumboret, Rumbur, and Birir valleys. Home to a Pakistani ethnic minority, the Kalash people have their own religious beliefs, language, and cultural norms unique from the traditional Islamic traditions common in the rest of the country. 

Of the three, the Rumbur Valley is undeniably the most beautiful. With a totally remote feel, miles worth of dirt roads follow through a winding mountain range along the rushing Kalash River,

These valleys are just a few hours’ drive from Chitral City and are not too difficult to access. However, I highly advise spending a full day visiting this beautiful place in Pakistan , taking a day trek into the valley, and visiting the last remaining settlement of Rumbur called Sheikhandeh.

In the heart of the mountains, the Kalash people still live in modest wooden buildings that hug the walls of the mountains. Only around five thousand Kalash people remain today, and they live the same simple life they did hundreds of years ago.

Kalash women are known for their brightly coloured and embroidered dresses and headdresses that are not like any other traditional clothing in Pakistan. 

The Passu Cathedral peaks, also known as the Passu Cones, are some of the most recognizable places in the country. While not a cathedral in the traditional sense, this phenomenon is a natural work of art not to be missed when visiting Pakistan.

The Passu Cones are a series of pointed peaks in the Karakoram Mountain Range located in the Passu and Hussaini Villages. These abstract peaks merge to create a single iconic motif visible from miles away.

These mountain peaks reach over 20 thousand feet above sea level and are the most photographed natural scenery in the region. 

The best view of the Cathedral is from the Karakoram Highway. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the world. As you drive along this empty road, you’ll be blessed with uninterrupted views of the peaks surrounding you on both sides.

Like many other remote regions in Pakistan, getting here can be tricky. The best way to reach the cones is to drive and stay in the Naran or Kaghan Valley for a night before continuing the journey along the Karakoram Highway the following day.

Rakaposhi is the world’s only mountain with a peak that drops suddenly and uninterrupted for around six thousand meters from the summit to the base. One of the most unique places to visit in Pakistan , the mountain peaks are a harsh climbing environment only summited by a select few.

Part of the Karakoram Mountain Range, the mountain is the 27th tallest in the world. With relatively easy access from the iconic Karakorum Highway, the Rakaposhi Base Camp rises over the Nagar Valley in Minapin Village.

Only a few professional mountaineers have managed to summit the mountain successfully. However, climbing the entirety of the mountain is not common, and visitors are instead encouraged to trek to the base camp.

Unlike the rest of the mountain, getting to the base camp is an easy to moderate hike that can be accessed even by beginners. Doable in one day, the base camp offers exceptional views of the mountains that rise 7800 meters into the sky above. The hike begins in the village of Minapin and takes between four and six hours in total, depending on your fitness level.

With scenes resembling Jurassic Park, Deosai Plains National Park is known as the ‘roof of the world.’ Why, you ask? Well, this lush park sits 13497 feet above sea level and is the second-highest plateau in the world.

It’s so high that it is only accessible in the summer months. Locals also call the park the Land of the Giants, thanks to its expansive size.

The park is surrounded by the western Himalayan Mountains and the Karakorum Mountain Range. During the warm summer season, the plateau is covered with a carpet of multicoloured wildflowers, attracting tons of birds, bees, and bugs to the area.

If you have the stamina to explore this beautiful place in Pakistan , you’ll be rewarded with views of expansive emerald-coloured meadows, snowy mountain peaks, and shimmering alpine lakes. 

Plenty of large mammals and other wildlife call this park home, including the confident Himalayan Brown Bear, golden marmots, and the elusive snow leopard. One of the best things to do in this park is to spend a night immersed in its natural and remote beauty. While camping, keep an eye out for bears, who are often on the lookout for tasty human food.

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A beautiful valley with a history dating back nearly 600 years, Shimsal Valley is made up of pastoral lands and a small village set over three thousand meters above sea level. It’s one of the highest settlements in the country and is known as the Valley of Mountaineers for its incredible hiking opportunities .

Formed when Attabad Village experienced a catastrophic landslide in 2010, a section of water from the Hunza River was blocked off and created one of Pakistan’s most beautiful lakes. Turquoise blue water surrounded by stark contrasting brown mountains makes this lake a photographer’s dream.

Built in the 16th century at a strategic location, Rohtas Fort is a beautiful example of early Muslim military architecture. The fortified structure survived countless attacks and is made up of massive walls that extend for two miles. With its unique historical value, it’s no surprise this fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Neelum District extends for 125 miles through lush meadows, emerald-green forests, and snow-capped mountains. Its exquisite panoramic views, rushing streams, and clear-water lakes make it one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan , with natural landscapes ideal for hikers.

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A town famous for its combined natural beauty and cultural heritage, Khaplu is an exciting Pakistani location well worth a visit. Until 783 AH, the town was home to a Buddhist population. Today, it houses the beautiful Khaplu Palace, which was built to replace a historic fort. 

Also known as the Jinnah Mausoleum, Mazar-e-Quaid houses the tomb of the late Muhammad Ali Jinnah. It was built in 1971 and is a beautiful example of modernist Islamic architecture. The structure blends traditional archways and local materials with modern aspects, resulting in an impressive mausoleum in the heart of Karachi.

Established as a natural sanctuary, Hingol National Park is home to around 250 plants and 290 animal species and is one of the top ten places to visit in Pakistan. The park encompasses caves, beaches, and a beautiful coastline but is most famous for its mud volcanoes, which bubble with methane and mud.

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Many people doubt if Pakistan is a safe location . While it is essential to research the current political situation before visiting, Pakistan strives to keep the country safe for tourists.

That said, caution is advised when finding the most beautiful places in Pakistan. Trains operate between the major cities and are affordable and relatively safe. A train from Karachi to Lahore costs $10 for economy class or $26 for business class. 

Busses are even more affordable and are an excellent way to move between cities and within cities. Auto-rickshaws are also common means of transport within major cities.

However, renting a car is the most convenient and safe way to get around. Renting a small car costs around $35 to $80 per day.

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Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about beautiful places in Pakistan.

What’s the most beautiful place in Pakistan for a honeymoon?

Hunza Valley! This place is the perfect honeymoon location to just get away from life for a bit and really enjoy some special time with your partner. Lahore is a great option if you want to be in a city, and Fairy Meadows is another popular honeymoon spot.

What’s the most beautiful city in Pakistan?

I think it’s Lahore. Of course, all the locals will insist their city is the most beautiful in the country, but my personal experience says Lahore. To be honest with you though, Pakistan is not about the cities, it’s a popular destination for its nature. The cities are great, but nothing compared to the Valleys.

What’s the most beautiful place in Pakistan’s Northern areas?

Either the Hunza or Naltar Valley for me. Northern Pakistan is a place of beautiful valleys, and each is so unique and beautiful in its own way. I think you can’t go wrong when visiting any of the wonderful valleys up here, but Hunza is my personal favourite.

Pakistan is known for its cricket stars, flavorful cuisine, and fascinating history spanning thousands of years. It’s also famous for its towering mountains and deep valleys, including the iconic K2 mountain, the second-highest peak on the planet. 

With the Shimshal Valley, Chapursan Valley, and Attabad Lake within its borders, Pakistan’s Hunza Valley is easily one of the most exquisite places in the country. The mountainous region is a masterpiece of nature, with incredible scenery and an exciting history to be explored.

Across the country, snowcapped Himalayan peaks, high-altitude lakes, fertile valleys, and otherworldly rock formations make up the incredible natural landscape and beautiful places in Pakistan .

With some of the most exciting and remote landscapes not yet overpopulated with tourists, the country is home to beautiful nature, diverse cultures, and exquisite religious sites.

• Find out how to stay safe in Pakistan using our Pakistan safety guide .
• Keep memories made in Pakistan permanent with a great travel camera .
• Experience Pakistan at it’s very best at a festival in Pakistan .
• Craving a getaway in the great outdoors? Bring a good hiking daypack . You’ll be hiking a lot here…
• Discover true scenic beauty in one of Pakistan’s best national parks.
• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking India guide .

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Tourism in Pakistan

Discover the Beauty of Pakistan

10 Beautiful places to visit in Pakistan – Complete Guide

Pakistan , a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers an array of stunning destinations for travelers. From the towering peaks of the north to the serene beaches of the south, here are ten must-visit places in Pakistan.

1. Hunza Valley

Nestled in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Hunza Valley is a paradise for nature lovers. Known for its majestic mountains and vibrant culture, it’s a perfect spot for trekking and cultural exploration.

Key Attractions:

• Rakaposhi View Point
• Altit and Baltit Forts
• Attabad Lake

Skardu, in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan , is the gateway to some of the highest peaks of the Karakoram range. Its surreal landscapes and pristine lakes are truly captivating.

• Shangrila Resort
• Deosai National Park
• Sheosar Lake

The cultural heart of Pakistan, Lahore, is known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It is also in one of the beautiful places to visit in pakistan. It’s a city that never sleeps, with endless food, history, and entertainment.

• Badshahi Mosque
• Lahore Fort
• Shalimar Gardens

4. Islamabad

The capital city, Islamabad , is known for its modern architecture, lush greenery, and tranquil environment. It’s a blend of tradition and modernity.

• Faisal Mosque
• Pakistan Monument

Murree, the queen of hills, is a popular hill station near Islamabad. It offers a refreshing retreat with its cool climate and scenic beauty.

• Patriata Chair Lift
• Murree Hills

6. Swat Valley

Often referred to as the Switzerland of the East, Swat Valley is famous for its outstanding natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

• Malam Jabba
• Mahodand Lake
• Buddhist Stupas

Quetta, the fruit garden of Pakistan, offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. Its rugged terrain and traditional bazaars are worth exploring.

• Hazarganji Chiltan National Park

Gwadar, on the southwestern coast of Pakistan, is emerging as a major port city. Its pristine beaches and the stunning Gwadar port offer a unique experience.

• Gwadar Port
• Ormara Beach

Chitral, known for its serene beauty and diverse culture, is home to the Kalash people. It’s a gateway to the stunning valleys of Kalash.

• Kalash Valleys
• Chitral Fort

10. Thar Desert

The Thar Desert offers a different facet of Pakistan’s diverse landscape. Experience the desert culture and stunning sunsets here.

• Thar Desert Safari
• Naukot Fort

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit northern pakistan.

The best time to visit Northern Pakistan, especially areas like Hunza and Skardu, is from April to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty is at its peak.

Are These Places Safe for Tourists?

Most tourist destinations in Pakistan are safe. However, it’s always recommended to check travel advisories and local news before planning your trip.

Do I Need a Guide to Explore These Areas?

While some areas can be explored independently, places like Fairy Meadows and Neelum Valley are best visited with a guide for a richer experience and better navigation.

What Are the Essential Items to Carry While Traveling in Pakistan?

Essentials include comfortable clothing according to the season, a good pair of shoes, a first aid kit, and your identification documents. Always carry cash as not all places accept cards.

Pakistan, a land of astounding diversity, offers something for every kind of traveler. From the historical streets of Lahore to the serene beauty of Swat Valley, each place is a world of its own. Exploring these destinations not only promises a visual treat but also a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s rich culture and heritage. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Pakistan, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Unlock new horizons with every journey: Your gateway to adventure starts with our flyer!

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Pakistan is blessed with abundant natural and historical riches. Incredible mountain landscapes are set against a backdrop of desert forts and stories of sultans and djinns. In its cities, ancient bazaars are home to intricately etched copper kitchenware alongside pungent spice racks and steaming tea stalls.

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30+ Best Places to Visit in Pakistan 2024

Top things to do and attractions in pakistan you must see.

Planning to explore Pakistan , here are 30+ best places to visit in Pakistan where you should go and make your visit to Pakistan memorable.

Pakistan is a country with great potential of tourism. Tourist attractions range from beautiful natural elements in the Northern areas of Pakistan to hundreds of cultural and historical places in cities like Karachi , Lahore , Islamabad , the Nation’s capital, Quetta and so on.

However, for a past few years, Pakistan has not been able to meet its potential tourist numbers due to several unfortunate reasons. Anyway, Pakistan is home to many such things which the tourists would love to see and here, we will be discussing a few of those ” famous places in Pakistan”.

Best Places to Visit in Pakistan

1. badshahi mosque.

Badshahi mosque is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan. It is situated in Lahore, the capital of Punjab province of Pakistan.

The mosque was built in the Mughal era under the rule of Emperor Aurangzeb. It is a huge mosque with a capacity of 56,000 people at a single time.

The architecture, obviously of ancient Mughal era, is of utmost strength and beauty. It attracts tourists from around the world and around the country too.

2. Lahore Fort

Lahore fort, or Shahi Qila , is a citadel in Lahore and one of the top travel destinations in Pakistan. It is a great attraction in Lahore. The construction of Lahore fort dates back to as far as the eleventh century, however, it has been rebuilt multiple times after that.

Emperor Akbar added architectural and artistic motifs on the fort that show both Muslims’ and Hindus’ designs. Then, Emperor Shah Jahan applied luxurious marbles in the fort whereas Emperor Aurangzeb built the famous Alamgiri Gate.

If you are visiting Lahore, this place should be in your list of best places to visit in Pakistan.

3. Minar-e-Pakistan

Very near to Badshahi mosque is the famous minaret named Minar-e-Pakistan. If you are in Lahore, then Minar-e-Pakistan should be in your list of best places to visit in Pakistan.

It has a very important historical background as the tower is built at the exact point where the first ever idea of separate nations for Muslims and Hindus was delivered. The Lahore Resolution was passed at this point by the All India Muslim League in 1940.

4. Mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam

In the list of best places to visit in Pakistan, Mizar e Quaid should be in your list. It is Located in the former capital of Pakistan (Karachi), it is the tomb of the founder of the nation of Pakistan.

The tomb is surrounded by vast area of family park where people come from all over the country as well as from other countries to enjoy their time and pay gratitude to the founder of the nation who rests there.

5. Hunza Valley

Pakistan is bestowed by God with a great number of places with immense natural beauty and Hunza is one of those. The valley is located in the Gilgit district . The snow-covered peaks, sone-covered leaves and lush green grass at certain times of the year give the place a spectacular look .

If you are a planning to come to Pakistan, then Hunza is a must visit place as this is top holiday destinations in Pakistan.

6. Makli Necropolises

Makli Necropolises is one of the largest funerary sites in the world and was a UNESCO World heritage site in 1891. It is an excellent proof of Sindhi civilization of ancient times. It houses around 500,000 to 1 million tombs and includes several tombs of Sufi saints and scholars.

7. Lake Saiful Muluk

This lake is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and also in the world. Even it is one of the best things to do in Pakistan.

The lake is very near to Naran, another beautiful tourist attraction in the northern areas of Pakistan. The lake has clear, blue and cold water and the lake has a beautiful backdrop of snow-covered peaks. It is a perfect picturesque site which can feature your desktop wallpaper.

8. Ansoo Lake

Ansoo means tear, and the lake is literally in the shape of a tear drop or a water drop. It is located in the Kaghan Valley. It is tough to get to the lake which also explains why the lake was undiscovered even by locals before 1993 when it was discovered by Pakistan Air Force pilots who were flying low in the area.

9. Khaplu Fort

Khaplu fort, also known as Yabgo Khar meaning fort on the roof, is an old fort and palace located in Khaplu.

The fort was built in 19 th century and is a tourist attraction for a long time now. The fort is a masterpiece for beautiful architecture and it also was the place of residence for the Raja of Khaplu . This an awesome beauty of Pakistan.

Gwadar has been the limelight of Pakistani news for some time now due its trade importance for Pakistan. However, the city has much more than just a harbor for trading; it has beautiful beaches with mountains covering them. It has been a popular picnic point for Pakistani locals for many years.

11. Gorakh Hill station

In top 30 best places to visit in Paksitan, Gorakh comes at number eleven. Gorakh is located in the Sindh Province 95 kilometers Northwest of Dadu.

The hill station has a very different climate than other areas of Sindh. Most of the Sindh has a warm climate whereas Gorakh has a cold climate and also faces snowfall at certain times. The site is very popular amongst local and international tourists.

12. Ranikot Fort

Ranikot Fort is very near to Jamshoro ( top places to visit in Pakistan ) and is the largest fort in the world with a circumference of around 32 kilometers. For the same reason it is also known as ‘the great wall of Sindh’. Although the real builder of the fort is unknown, some archaeologists believe it to be built by the Arabs or by Persians in the 9 th

13. Sheesh Mahal

Another architectural masterpiece from the Mughal era. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan. The name, sheesh mahal, means ‘palace of mirrors’ and quite literally, it is made up of several mirrors of finest quality and other material including the high-quality marble. A part of the palace was reserved for the use of the royal family back then.

14. Mohenjo-Daro

It might seem as if there is not much to see in this ruined city covered in sand. However, lovers of history consider this place as their heaven.

Mohenjo-Daro was one of the largest settlements of the Indus Valley Civilization. The city was abandoned in the 19 th century and it was only rediscovered in the 1920s .

15. Margalla Hills

It is a hill range in the Himalayas. It is located to the north of Islamabad and also a popular tourist attraction due to its beauty and the bird-watching activity.

Many birds including the Himalayan griffon vulture, paradise flycatchers, kestrel, shrikes, black partridge, Indian sparrow hawk, golden oriole and different types of pheasants can be seen there.

16. Daman-e-Koh

Daman e Koh is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan and great things to do in Islamabad. It is Llocated in the Margalla hills, Daman-e-Koh is a hilltop garden and its name literally translates from Persian to ‘foothills’.

It is a viewing point for tourists for the hills above them. Monkeys are quite common in the area whereas Cheetahs can also be seen sometimes during the snowfall.

17. Faisal Mosque

Is that a Bedouin tent? No, it isn’t, but that’s what it was meant to look like when it was built in 1987 . The mosque is the biggest one in Pakistan and the fourth largest in the world. It was designed by a Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay .

The mosque is named after the Saudi King Faisal who gave a grant of $120 million to Pakistan . If you are in Islamabad, then it is worth visiting place because it one of the top attractions in Pakistan.

18. Pakistan Monument

Another best places to visit in Pakistan and top things to do in Islamabad. It is a national monument and a heritage museum, it was built to show the unity amongst the people of Pakistan.

It has shaped like a blooming flower and is visible from far away due to its elevation. The monument covers several features that describe an idea of Pakistan, for example its four biggest petals represent the four provinces of Pakistan.

19. Masjid-e-Tooba (Gol Masjid)

The mosque is situated in the DHA area of Karachi and has a very interesting history. Its builders, Dr. Babar Hamid and Zaheer Haider were certain that such a large dome can stand without a single pillar, while other people did not approve of this idea. However, they succeeded, and the mosque’s dome stands without a pillar today.

20. Katas Raj Temples

Also known as Qila Katas, it is a complex of several Hindu temples connected to each other by pathways. The temple complex covers a water named Katas which is considered sacred by Hindus.

These temples are also a part of Mahabharata which augments their historical and religious importance. The site is of interest to people fond of history. for Hindus, it is best places to visit in Pakistan.

21. Mohatta Palace Museum

Mohatta Palace is located in Karachi and was built by Shivratan Chandraratan Mohatta, a Hindu Marwari businessman in 1927 as his summer home. The palace is built using pink Jodhpur stone and local Gizri yellow stone. The site shows olden time architecture of the Rajasthani people.

22. Tomb of Jahangir

It is a 17 th century mausoleum for the Mughal emperor Jahangir . It is an architectural masterpiece and its interior and exterior both are worth appreciating.

Its interior features marbles and frescoes while the exterior is covered with the pietra dura. The tomb of Jahangir’s wife Nur Jahan is also located there. The tomb is also famous for its pleasant lush green gardens.

It is a must visiting place as it is one of the most famous places to visit in Punjab Pakistan.

23. Churna Island

Located near Mubarak Goth, it is an uninhabited island in the Arabian sea. The island has gained fame recently in the past few years due to several recreational activities such as snorkeling, cliff diving, scuba diving and underwater photography. The area around the island is famous for scuba diving due to the presence of several different kinds of fishes and corals.

24. Clifton Beach

The beach is located in Karachi and was amongst the most popular and top silver sand beaches. Today, the beach is a famous tourist attraction and a popular picnic point amongst the locals. There are several restaurants and recreational activities at and near the beach such as camel riding, horse riding, buggy cart and so on.

25. Hiran Minar

Hiran Minar is another top attractions and one of the famous places to visit in Punjab Pakistna. Hiran Minar, meaning the deer tower, is a complex in Sheikhupura built in the era of Emperor Jahangir in the memory of his pet antelope.

The complex was used by the royals of that time for hunting, whereas the minaret was built in in 1606 in the honor of Jahangir’s pet antelope who was trained to help the emperor in hunting other animals.

26. Mall Road Lahore

Mall road is a long street in Lahore which is famous for several reasons. First of all, most of the buildings on the street were built during the Mughal era or during the British Raj era.

Moreover, the street also has several shops where tourists can shop at very reasonable prices. Lastly, the street also has the Governor’s house and the Provincial Assembly of Punjab.

27. Hawkes Bay Beach

Hawkes Bay Beach is located near Karachi and is named after Bladen Wilmer Hawke who was the owner of a beach house at the place in the 1930s. the beach is a nesting ground for several kinds of turtles.

Murree is a hill station in the Norther region of Pakistan and is very famous not only amongst the international tourists but also amongst the locals. It has a very cold climate and is extremely beautiful. Chairlift in Murree is a popular activity amongst the visitors there.

29. Nathia Gali

In Galyat, Nathia Gali is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan. Nathia Gali is a hill station in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

It is extremely famous for its scenic beauty and hiking tracks. There are several other hill stations in the region with similar attributes and most of their names end with ‘gali’. The area is forested with pine, oak walnut and maple trees. Adding to this, it is situated very near to Murree.

 30. Bhurban

Located approximately 9 kilometers from Murree , Bhurban is another popular hill station amongst the tourists for its beauty and climate.

The town also has a branch of the famous Pearl Continental hotel which is also very famous amongst the tourists for its splendid service and the augmented natural beauty.

PS: W e will keep adding more attractions, things to do and best places to visit in Pakistan. 

• What is the Capital of Pakistan?
• 10 Best Cities to Visit in Pakistan
• 15 Best Places to Visit in Gilgit Baltistan 2023
• Top Attractions and Things to do in Karachi
• 22 Best Places to Visit in Lahore
• 15 Top Attractions in Islamabad
• 15 Best Places To Visit in Peshawar
• 20+ Best Pakistani Food Dishes You Should Try

We publish well-researched and interesting contents on our blog to help travelers.

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Thank you sir, for giving us full details about the places of Pakistan. I like the way you have explain about the places of Pakistan. Thank you so much.

Really great job … at least people may know the places to visit even in their own cities..

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15 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan You’ll Fall In Love With

Let’s be completely honest, if you heard someone mention that they are going on a vacation to Pakistan you would be really surprised.

After all, the country has unfortunately been associated with terrorism, war, and trouble in general as far as the American popular consciousness goes since its independence from India and founding shortly after the Second World War. Yet the surprising reality for many is that Pakistan is one of the more beautiful countries on earth.

The varied nation offers so many beautiful natural places that it would be hard to find many other countries with so much refreshing scenery to offer to you as a visitor. These range from vibrant green forests to stark and stunning mountain scenery, to cascading waterfalls and hypnotic lakes. We look at 15 compelling reasons to go on a trip to this hidden gem with stunning mountains and valleys called Pakistan in this article on the most beautiful spots in this major neighbor to the northwest of India.

Pakistan is hugely blessed with far more than just some of the top natural vistas to be found anywhere in the world. The country’s long, compelling history dates all the way back to the ancient world. There are many historical, architectural, and cultural wonders to visit here besides the great and overwhelming natural beauty spots.

21 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan

• Kalash Valleys
• Lake Saif-ul-Malook
• Shandur Top
• Neelum Valley
• Guraiz Valley
• Naltar Valley
• The Mosque of Badshahi Masjid
• Fort Rohtas (Qila Rohtas)
• Mohenjo-daro
• Mazar-e-Quaid
• Ranikot Fort
• Hunza Valley
• Naran and Kaghan Valleys

At the moment Pakistan is a safe place to visit! Most of the conflicts from the past were resolved and terrorism is at its lowest but some remote areas might be still dangerous. Do a proper research and beforehand and ask in the local hotel or hostel.

Major areas that should be avoided for traveling in Pakistan are Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, Swat, Tank and Northern, and Southern Waziristan areas. For the full list check here .

Islamabad is considered as the most beautiful city in Pakistan. In 2015, Islamabad was ranked as one of the most beautiful capitals in the world.

21 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan To Visit

1. kalash valleys.

Pakistan’s Kalash Valleys , comprised of Bumburet, Birir, and Rumbur are hidden gems surrounded by the dramatic Hindu Kush mountain range, a part of the Himalayas. The rugged peaks are covered with scrubs of juniper and birch for stunning, natural views.

The valleys are known for the beauty of the people as well as the natural splendor. Thought to be the descendants of Alexander the Great’s armies, the Kalash are animists, an ethnic minority, rather than Muslims, and live in wooden homes that dot the high hills. The women are known for their gayly-colored traditional dresses and headpieces you will only see in this part of Pakistan.

Jeeps and car hires transport visitors easily to the remote Kalash Valleys from Chitral, 2.5 hours away. Bumburet is the most populated valley and popular with Pakistan tourists. Rumbur and Birir are less developed and popular with foreign travelers. Visit the locally-owned Kalasha Dur museum in Bumburet, an attractive cultural museum that gives you all the information needed to tour the stunning valleys.

The best time to visit the Kalash Valleys is during one of their traditional festivals. Chilan Joshi is held in May, Uchau is celebrated in autumn, and Choimus occurs for two weeks around the winter solstice. Tourists are always amazed at the colorful costumes, rituals, drink, and dance.

2. Concordia

Concordia is a paradise for mountain lovers and climbers alike. It lies in the far north of the country on the national border with China.

Most people are not aware of Pakistan’s claim to fame for containing five of the highest 14 peaks on the planet.

From the vantage point provided by this beautiful place Concordia, tourists can take in four of these five highest in the world peaks. This makes it both a stunning view vantage point and incomparable photo opportunity not to be missed while on a trip through Pakistan.

3. Lake Saif-ul-Malook

Lying at the northern extreme of the Kaghan Valley is the stunning natural Lake Saif-ul-Malook. It is found in the Khyber-Paktunkhwa province within the Mansehra District.

This natural lake is beautiful not only for the surrounding mountain scenery but also because of the unique reflection of the mountains on the lake water that is absolutely breathtaking for visitors to behold.

The best and most convenient time to visit this one of a kind wonder of nature is in the summer. During the winter months when snows are often heavy along the roads, it can require many nerve-racking hours to arrive safely. The roads are slippery with ice then, making the all-terrain vehicles an unsure way to come here safely through the high, often narrow, and winding mountain roads in the winter months.

Within the Astore District of Gilgit-Balistan province lies the so-called “land of the giants” better known today as Deosai.

This region is actually a boundary to the western Himalayas Mountains and Karakorum. Here visitors will enjoy magnificent varieties of flowers and many different and often one of a kind animal species such as the snow leopard and the brown bear who call this region home. This plateau turns out to be the highest one on earth, providing more bragging rights in front of friends stuck back home.

This is not to be missed spot to take in the more unique animal life of Pakistan. Nature-lovers should never miss the well worth the time and effort trip if the seasonal weather conditions permit the journey.

5. Shandur Top

Shandur Top is found in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa District in the Chitral area, making it a good trip to potentially combine with that of nearby Deosai. This Shandur Top has been called the highest elevation polo ground anywhere on earth.

During the winter months, the area is blanketed in snow, yet in summer months, Shandur Top becomes a lush and green spot.

During July, the Shandur Polo Festival occurs here each year, bringing in hordes of locals and tourists alike. Coming in the winter months is dangerous due to the slippery roads encumbered from heavy snowfalls and icy conditions. During the summer months, Shandur Top becomes easily accessible via all-terrain vehicles.

6. Neelum Valley

One of the most popular Pakistan beautiful places is Neelum Valley. This densely forested area is found in the Azad Kashmir region. Mughal Emperor Humayin once said about this Kashmir area that “if there is a paradise on earth, then this is it.” Visitors usually agree with his well-spoken assessment of the Kashmir Valley today.

The stunning valley sits at a high elevation of more than 4,850 feet (or 1,650 meters high) above sea level. Incredible milky white-colored waterfalls cascade from the mountains and provide the natural scene with a mesmerizing quality and otherworldly backdrop.

Tourists and locals alike come from all across Pakistan to see this glorious wonder of nature that is impossible to discount as a serious contender for the most beautiful spot on earth.

7. Guraiz Valley

Tourists should not pass up on the chance to visit the lovely Guraiz Valley while in Pakistan. It is glorious in either summer or winter months. The verdant green valley is thickly carpeted by dense forest.

Found high up in the Himalayas Mountains, Guraiz Valley is a veritable oasis among the icy towering white peaks. Visitors will find it on the border between Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir.

Unfortunately, the area is a site of periodic territorial conflict between India and Pakistan, meaning that the Pakistani army controls access to the valley. Fortunately, they allow tourists to visit the stunning valley upon request.

8. Naltar Valley

Graced by charming and beautiful lakes, Naltar Valley has the much-deserved reputation of being a one of a kind gorgeous place that is not to be missed while touring Pakistan.

The valley is dotted by many beautiful pine trees. It is rightly famed for its locally cultivated potatoes, said by many to be the most delicious anywhere on planet earth. Naltar Valley looks like the lost paradise because of its unforgettable stunning views.

9. Siri Paye

A great wonder of nature that unfortunately is often overlooked by foreign tourists, Siri Paye is the most beautiful place to visit lies in the corner of Kaghan province. It is a mere from three to four miles (or six kilometers) away from the Shogran Valley. This green plateau lies atop the Hindu Kash Mountains.

Visitors will be refreshed by the many ponds that dot the landscape and are complimented by stunning fields of bright yellow flowers. This spot is sure to refresh the soul of visitors from whatever place in the world they hail.

10. Kund Malir

Located in Balochistan, Kund Malir is one of about two dozen beaches in Pakistan. The large sandy beach is an arid landscape located in the Hingol National Park.

The Makran Coastal Highway is a scenic highway that leads to the beach and has coastal views on one side and mountains on the other. Pack well for your trip as no emergency supplies are available in the area. Kund Malir is a 175-kilometer drive from Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city.

Kund Malir is a great place to escape the crowds and become immersed in nature. The stunningly beautiful beach has a 20-room resort and dhaba-style restaurant and truck stop. The beach stays pristine since it’s almost never crowded. While here, you can also visit the Princess of Hope statue, a rock statue created by strong winds and rain, and the ancient Hinglaj Temple.

11. The Mosque of Badshahi Masjid

12. Fort Rohtas (Qila Rohtas)

13. Mohenjo-daro

15. Mazar-e-Quaid

Few more places to consider visiting in Pakistan

Pakistan is a beautiful country, having many historical places. Everyone should visit here.

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Best Places to Visit in Pakistan: The Complete Bucket List

Pakistan is one of the most diverse countries on earth when it comes to landscapes, people, language, food, and just about everything else. The cities are crazy, the mountains are some of the highest in the world, and there are at least 74 languages spoken across a population of more than 200 million people.

Endless glaciers, world-class mountains, sweltering deserts, huge cities, bustling bazaar towns, small rural villages, pine forests, pleasant beaches, endless coastline, alpine lakes; it’s all here in Pakistan.

So where does one even start when planning a trip here? I’ll tell you right now; you can’t see it all in one go (or 10 trips). Depending on what you like to do and what you’d like to see, you can get a well-rounded experience of what makes Pakistan such an incredible country to visit in a relatively short amount of time if you know where to look… and there is plenty to look at, be sure.

Let’s take a closer look at the best places to visit in Pakistan, shall we?

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Best places to visit in pakistan at a glance.

Pakistan has 5 provinces: Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Azad Kashmir, Balochistan, and Gilgit Baltistan (GB).

To make it simple, I break down each section below by province.

Now, this could be a 20,000-word article if I wanted it to be since there really are a ton of incredible places – but I have hand-selected my absolute favorite spots in each province.

I tend to head for the mountains as much as possible (as you might also be inclined towards), but keep in mind that the other regions of Pakistan have a lot to offer as well.

Best Places to Visit in Punjab

Punjab is the most populous province of Pakistan, holding more than half (!) the country’s total population as well as several of its major cities: Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Mulan, Islamabad, and Gujranwala.

All of the Pakistani Punjab territory borders India’s Punjab territory and many cultural links exist between the two Punjab regions of both countries. Punjab is largely a hot, flat (with some hills) plain with a good highway system linking major cities. It is also home to the capital city Islamabad and the main seat of the central government.

The food is spicy (and tasty) as hell, the historical and cultural treasures plentiful, and the summers are hot enough to wish you lived in a freezer. Did I miss anything?

Lahore is hands down my favorite city in Pakistan. It has all of the sights, smells, and sounds of a crazy South Asian City – which I love. It also has all the traffic, heat, rubbish, and hecticness as well.

The city has changed hands many times throughout the centuries and offers a unique blend of Mughal, Sikh, Islamic, and Colonial historical heritage that other Pakistani cities don’t have in the same density.

There is an endless number of things to do in Lahore – the largest city in Punjab – but the main activities include eating (Lahore is famous for its food culture), visiting historical and cultural sites (not museums so much), and sitting down to chai with new locals friends.

One quick search online will reveal most blogs suggest the “classic” things to do in Lahore like the Badsahai Mosque, Wagah Border, and such… but there is a LOT more to Lahore than the main touristy sites – which is what makes it such a dynamic city.

Things to do in Lahore:

• Visit Old Lahore on Foot – You can walk from Anarkali Bazar to the foody street/night market called Shahi Bazaar just behind the new food street; a fantastic way to see an interesting part of the city. Try the chicken bbq at Arif Chatkhara.
• Check out the Wazir Khan Mosque – A beautiful old mosque in the heart of the Old City. If you visit one mosque, visit this one. Pay the guy at the front gate 800 rs and he will let you go to the top of the minaret for an awesome view.
• Eat your heart out: Make a local friend and have them show you around their favorite spots to try local food. Be warned: it’s spicy here!

Although right next door to Islamabad – Pindi has a polar opposite vibe. If you have just spent time in Islamabad , then a trip to Pindi feels like you are now entering the “real” Pakistan.

The famous Raja Bazaar market is one of the biggest in the country. Here you can wander around for hours and most likely you will become lost – it is that big. If you have a keen eye, you will also notice plenty of old Havelis , old mosques, and old pretty much everything. Staying in Rawalpindi is also a solid budget alternative to Islamabad as everything tends to be cheaper here – accommodation and restaurants included.

Things to do in Rawalpindi :

• Roam around the Raja bazaar. Great place for street food, photography, and being overwhelmed.
• Visit the Masjid Gulshan Dadan Khan.
• Connect with a local who can show you some of the beautiful hidden Haveli’s tucked away throughout the city center.

Rhotas Fort

If you dig history and want to take it one of the most badass forts in Punjab, Rhotas should be on your list. This 16th-century fortress is found near the city of Jhelum. It is located off of a small road a few hours from Islamabad and requires some effort to get here if you don’t have a car.

I visited Rhotas Fort the first time I came to Pakistan and despite the blistering heat of that day, I thought the journey was well worth the effort.

To be honest though, despite its UNESCO status, I was extremely disappointed by the level of rubbish piled around the entire site. There are a dozen staff and security guards working there collecting entry payments and doing literally no work other than taking the money of visitors. I saw most of them just sitting around drinking tea while countless plastic bags, empty chip wrappers, and discarded water bottles rolled in the breeze.

All of that said though if you can black out the piles of trash and just enjoy the magnifiscent fortress, then it should be a good time.

• Epic 16th century fortress
• Walk around the grounds and take in the well-preserved buildings
• Try not to die of heat stroke

Pakistan’s capital city was only finished in 1966, replacing Karachi – the former capital of newly independent Pakistan. And it has the vibe of a planned city.

Though I seem to spend most of my “city” time in Pakistan in Islamabad – I do not really find it that interesting. Sure you can find comfy accommodation, great food, and even some decent hiking in the Margalla hills – but Islamabad is mostly a place where I come to recharge, eat stuff that is not daal and chicken curry, do laundry, and take advantage of good Wifi after being in the mountains for months. I also have many Pakistani friends based in Islamabad so I usually have a fair bit of socializing lined up as well.

In terms of history and cultural stuff to see, there is not a whole lot. It is one of the few capitals in the world that I have been to where boredom sets in pretty quickly if you don’t have a load of computer work to do. Islamabad does provide access to the best airport in the country and where one can take flights to the mountain cities of Skardu and Gilgit.

Things to do in Islamabad:

• Check out the Faisal Mosque once and then move on with your life.
• If you happen to be there when the heat is not overly oppressive, go for a hike in the Margalla Hills.
• Check out Saeed Book Bank (F7) – the best English-language book store in all of Pakistan.

Only a few hours drive from Islamabad, Peshawar is an ancient city and has been a crossroad of many different cultures for centuries. After 9/11, Peshawar became well-known as a city with a heavy Taliban presence, even if it was underground. These days, it remains a conservative area but is considered safe for foreigners to visit.

Peshawar is famous for its tasty kebabs, tea-pot culture, and some truly stunning mosques. There are other hidden treasures to discover here as well if you take the time to look. 2-3 days is probably enough time to spend here if you are on a shorter trip.

Things to do in Peshawar:

• Like Rawalpindi, Pesh has a plethora of old Havelis to discover by just walking around the old city, try Sethi House.
• Smugglers Bazaar ((Karkhanai Bazaar) – Just what it sounds like. Here you will find a plethora of goods smuggled in from Afghanistan. Supposedly at the far end of the market, guns and drugs are openly on sale – which might be a place you want to avoid as I did.
• Mahabat Khan Mosque – Beautiful mosque built in 1630.

Multan is a fascinating city in Southern Punjab famous for its religious architecture. As a foreigner though, it can be tricky to visit. The police don’t always allow foreigners to visit here independently.

It’s a four-hour drive to Multan from Lahore and worth the visit if you can get into the city!

I don’t recommend visiting here from May – October though as it gets HOT.

Things to do in Multan:

• Visit the ancient tombs and mosques like Shah Rukn-e-Alam and Shah Ali Akbar.
• Explore the bazaar in the Old City.
• Check out Qasim Lake and Fort Kohna.

Best Places to Visit in Gilgit Baltistan

The rugged river valleys, towering mountains, and various ethnic groups that make up Gilgit Baltistan make it so that GB may as well be a different country than Punjab; it’s that different.

If you want to come check out the mountainous areas of Pakistan – the ones you have seen in photos – then GB is an absolute must.

Spread out over a vast area which includes two main parts: Gilgit and Baltistan. Gilgit is where you will find Hunza, Shimshal, and the Karakoram Highway leading to the China Border. Baltistan is the gateway to some of the major trekking and mountaineering routes like K2 Base Camp , Snow Lake, Deosai, etc.

The largest city on the Gilgit side of GB, Gilgit City is not so much a destination itself as it is a gateway to various other points of interest in the region. It is also home to one of the two major airports in GB. If you come north, you will pass through Gilgit at some point.

There is not a ton of stuff to do in the city itself and most likely if you are coming overland it will be a place where you rest before continuing further afield.

Things to do in Gilgit:

• Stock up on last-minute snacks, cigarettes, etc before heading north – it will be cheaper here. This is probably your last chance to take out cash if you can find a working ATM.
• Take a walk by the Gilgit River.
• If you are truly bored, you can pay a visit to the well-kept British Cemetary. In recent years, trekkers and mountaineers who have perished on expeditions are buried here.

Hunza Valley

This valley is where have spent the most time during my travels in Pakistan and there is a TON of stuff to do. It’s also a great place to just relax, eat apricots (in season), and get a feeling for the slower pace of life in Pakistani mountain communities.

Hunza is also one of the most popular destinations for local Pakistani tourists and the peak season – the roads and famous sites are overrun with mini-buses and hordes of people doing snap-and-go selfie sessions. Like most popular places in Pakistan, there is lots more going on beyond just the top 3 famous sites IE Eagles Nest, Attabad Lake, Husseini Bridge, etc.

Geographically there are two parts of Hunza: Lower Hunza and Upper Hunza. Lower Hunza contains Aliabad, Karimabad, Altit, and Nagar/Hopper Valley. Upper Hunza is where you’ll find Gulmit Village, Attabad Lake, Ghulkin Village, Passu Cones, Sost (not really Hunza, but I will include it here for good measure), and the most beautiful stretch of the Karakoram Highway.

Things to do in Hunza:

• Rent a motorbike and drive the Karakoram Highway.
• Have a homestay experience with a local family
• Go on the most beautiful 3-day hike in Pakistan: Passu Glacier and Patundas Top.

Ghulkin Village

If I had to say one village in Pakistan has my heart, it would be Ghulkin. Set amongst an epic backdrop of fruit trees, jagged mountains, and traditional earthen houses, Ghulkin is one of my favorite places on earth to just be. Ghulkin is a whole vibe.

The main draw to come here I’d say is to stay with a local family and to plan a big trek in the area in which you will need a local guide, porters, a cook, etc.

There are a few walks one can do to cool viewpoints along with daily games of cricket or volleyball to watch that the endless number of village teenagers seem to always be engaged in. The hospitality in the village is second to none.

For a homestay experience, contact Sitara Ali Khan at +92 355 5328697 (Whatsapp).

Things to do in Ghulkin:

• Stay with a local family
• Trek across the Ghulkin Glacier and sleep in a shepherds hut (guide recommended)
• Hike “the gar” which is the large rock mountain that dominates the village. Locals will know what this is if you ask around.

Naltar Valley

Before you arrive to Karimabad and beyond, there is a curious road and sign leading to the left (west) of the Karakoram Highway with a sign pointing towards Naltar Valley. The road to get there requires either taking a jeep or having a 4×4 vehicle (or motorbike) – which usually means something interesting is waiting up there.

Naltar is known for its stunning lakes and hiking opportunities. The hard-to-reach nature of Naltar means that the valley is often overlooked by tourists. If you have the time and motivation to swing up to Naltar for three or four days, you will be rewarded with fine scenery, decent hiking, and plenty of off-the-beaten-path opportunities.

Things to Do in Naltar Valley:

• Lake Satrangi and Blue Lake – beautiful alpine lakes.
• Read a book under a cherry tree – enjoy the simple life.
• Blossom photography without the crowds of upper Hunza.

Shimshal Valley

One of two valleys in the upper regions of GB that I consider “end of the world” towns. Shimshal valley is remote, rugged, and has been cut off from the outside world for most of history. Even now it takes 3 hours on a crazy road to reach the village. There is no internet access here, people mostly farm and keep animals, and the feeling one gets is that of stepping back in time.

For non-trekkers/climbers, the main draw to come here is 1. the road by motorbike is very interesting and 2. to experience the unique village life of the Wahki people living here. Some of the best Pakistani climbers and guides come from Shimshal – and it is no coincidence that Shimshal is the highest village on the Gilgit side of GB at 3100 meters.

Things to do in Shimshal:

• Some major treks in the region either start or finish here, organize in advance.
• Buy gemstones at wholesale prices.
• The Shimshal road is a world-class motorcycle route – so getting here is an activity all its own.

Passu is not necessarily a place where you need to spend the night, but it is worth a stop and there are a few cool hikes to do in the area like the Passu Bridge to Husseini Bridge hike (3-4 hours) and various other viewpoints. There are also epic views of the Passu Cones from the Karakoram highway at points before and in Passu.

If you plan on going up to Borith Lake for the day, Passu is just another 10 minutes down the Karakoram Highway from the turnoff to Borith.

There is also a restaurant called the “Yak Grill” which serves up some of the best burgers (from yak meat)and fries you will ever try.

• Traversethe Passu Glacier / Passu Glacier viewpoints.
• Eat yak burgers everyday from Yak Grill.
• Motorcyle ride down the Krakoram Highway – to Sost and back is one hell of a ride.

Chapurson Valley

After Shimshal, Chapurson is the 2nd valley north of Hunza that feels like you are stepping back in time. It is also another damn fine road to do on a motorcycle!

Unlike Shimshal though, Chapurson is not one main village, but rather a series of villages ending at the edge of the Little Pamir mountain range and the Afghan/Wahkan corridor border. There is an army check post at the far end of the valley which marks the end of where foreigners can proceed without having further permits.

Beyond the village of Zood Khun (and the army check post) is  Baba Ghundi  Ziarat, a  shrine  to a Sufi saint said to have incredible healing powers, and a popular pilgrimage site. It seems to depend on the mood of the army guys there whether or not they will allow you to proceed.

In the summer months, nomadic Kyrgyz traders come over the mountains to swap goods and animals with locals – an event I am yet to see.

Things to Do in Charpursan:

• Catch a game of polo or buzkashi (a way more bizarre form of polo involving a decapitated goat).
• If you get permits in advance, you should plan a horse trek beyond the shrine at the end of the valley – if possible into the Wahkan Corridor though you should check the current safety situation before embarking.
• Trekking with Shepherds – same deal though, you will need a permit in advance to move beyond the Zood Khun village.

Khunjerab Pass and the China Border

The most interesting thing about visit this high-altitude Pak-China border is the drive to get there. The views are absolutely stunning as you enter Khunjerab National Park and it is not uncommon to see herds of ibex and Himalayan yak grazing on the roadside.

In recent years, traveling to Khunjerab Pass and the border has become a big tourist attraction and sometimes it can be rammed with visitors from Punjab and Karachi. For many of them, it is the first time they have seen lots of snow!

The border itself is kind of anti-climatic. A very communist-looking structure on the frontier marks the Chinese side. A big sign advertises the “world’s highest ATM” – which is also the “world’s highest ATM that never works”.

• Get a cup of chai from the “chai truck” that sometimes parks up there in season.
• Snap a quick selfie at the border and then walk away in shame for coming to a place for the sole purpose of taking a selfie.
• Enjoy the feeling of being at the world’s highest border crossing via an international highway.

Phander and Yasin Valleys

On the way to Shandur pass and into the Chitral region you will find the post-card perfect villages of Phander and Yasin (about 2.5 hours apart by car). Most people head the other way from Gilgit towards Hunza – but going this direction is seriously underrated.

These sort of mountain villages won’t rock your world with non-stop activities, but they will give your soul a healthy dose of vitamin chill and some solid time to contemplate life in the mountains. Unlike Hunza, these valleys are relatively untouched by mass tourism. There are even a few interesting short and long-distance hikes to get down on if you’re into that.

• Connect with locals and learn about their unique culture.
• Drink 15 cups of chai a day.
• Hike to some unique shepherd huts or for a trek in the high mountains. Ask around for suggestions and a guide, especially in Yasin.

Moving on now to the Balti side of Baltistan, Skardu is the largest city in this region. I prefer being in Skardu vs Gilgit as there is more to do and the vibe feels better to me. Skardu is the gateway to all of the major treks and climbs in the region and is the starting point for every major expedition heading to Central Karakoram National Park (where you have K2, Broad Peak, etc).

The central part of Skardu is basically one long bazaar street with hotels, places to eat, and even a few trekking equipment shops. On either side of the city, there are two deserts: the Safaranga and Katapana – both of which are cool to visit for photography or a little 4×4 dirt biking. In the winter, the desert landscape is covered in snow… which is even more interesting for photographers.

You don’t really need to spend many days here to get the most out of it. Three days is probably enough if you are doing day trips to the surrounding areas.

Things to Do in Skardu:

• Visit the Kharpocho Fort for sunset
• Do a day trip to Deosai National Park (do more than a day trip if you have more time)
• Trek to Masur Rock (the Trolltunga Rock of Pakistan)

Deosai National Park

After the Tibetan Plateau, Deosai is the 2nd highest plateau in the world, with a majority of the park lying above 4000 meters.

Deosai is a stunningly gorgeous place with opportunities for camping, trekking, and horse rides. Most people just roll through in a 4×4 jeep, though there is much more to discover here than what you can see from the road. There are also a number of alpine lakes that make for fine camping spots if you bring the right gear.

Starting in July, the green meadows of Deosai are transformed with color as pink, yellow, and purple wildflowers bloom across the entire plain. There is even a small, protected population of Himalayan bears that live here!

Things to Do in Deosai National Park :

• Visit in July-August for maximum wildflower “wow”.
• Camp at Sheosar Lake for the night (bring warm stuff!).
• Trout fishing and hiking are also available in abundance. The trout are small though so don’t count on feeding an army (or yourself) with what you catch.

Astore Valley

In stark contrast to the drier, rockier side of GB – the Astore valley feels like a breath of fresh green air. Astore is often called the “Switzerland of Pakistan” (as is a few other places ha!) and is adored for its pastoral, languid beauty.

Astore makes for a logical stopover if you are heading to Deosai via this route (instead of via the Skardu road). Here you will find plenty of guesthouse options, nice alpine lakes, and some seriously green scenery.

Once in Astore, it is hard to believe that it is only a few hours away from the dust and rocks of the Karakoram Highway.

The Astore side is also where to access the side of Nanga Parbat (2nd highest mountain in Pakistan) most expeditions climb from. On the other side of Nanga Parbat is Fairy Meadows.

Things to Do in Astore Valley:

• Trek to Nanga Parbat Base Camp via Tarshing to see the Rupal face of “Killer Mountain”.
• Check out the turquoise waters of Rama Lake
• Sort your onward travels to Deosai if you have not already.

Central Karakoram National Park

CKNP is the crown in the jewel of Pakistani mountain landscapes. Nowhere else on earth can you find such a close density of 7000 and 8000-meter peaks. If you are into trekking or mountaineering, then it is sure that visiting this national park should be at the top of your list.

There are an endless number of adventure options to be found here if you have the time and money to spend on expeditions. The season for exploring this area is quite limited, however. From June to early September you should be able to do most of the treks below 5500 meters (September is a bit late for high passes).

For mountaineering, the weather window is pretty much only July and August (for non-extreme winter accents). Without a doubt, CNKP is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan.

Note:  If you are a foreigner planning on doing any trekking or mountaineering in restricted areas like Central Karakoram National Park, then you will need to apply for a  Trekking and Mountaineering Visa  – which takes a minimum of 4 weeks to get. It is not something I suggest you do in-country, but rather before coming to Pakistan. Pakistani hikers can get permits faster, but still need to apply in advance.

Things to Do in Central Karakoram National Park:

• K2 Base Camp Trek + Gondogoro La Pass
• Snow Lake Trek
• High altitude mountaineering

Hushe Village

If you end up crossing Gondogoro La after completing the trip to K2 Base Camp, then you will eventually end up in Hushe, a lush village on the outskirts of CKNP. It is also the hometown of legendary high altitude porter “Little Karim” .

Permits are required (NOC) to proceed beyond the village and into the national park. For those who don’t have time to do a multi-week trek like K2 Base Camp, Hushe is the launch point for numerous other shorter treks including Masherbrum Base Camp and Charakusa Valley (made famous by photographer Jimmy Chin after his first rock-climbing trip to Pakistan in 1999).

Getting to Hushe requires taking a 5-6 hour jeep from Skardu.

Things to Do in Hushe:

• Access to Mashabrum Base Camp
• Access to Charakusa Valley (K6 and K7)
• Visit Little Karim “Museum” – more like a room with some photographs

Best Places to Visit in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, often abbreviated as KP or KPK and formerly known as the North-West Frontier Province is the other main “mountain province” adjacent to Gilgit Baltistan.

The Hindu Kush mountain range dominates much of the high altitude landscape and the natural border forms the frontier with Afghanistan in many places. 10 years ago, most of KPK was kind of a no-go zone for foreigners. Numerous terrorist cells including the Taliban were either based here or actively controlling parts of the region.

In May 2009 the Pakistani Army went into Swat Valley and ended the reign of the Taliban after several months of intense fighting and bloodshed. These days, KPK is mostly safe for foreign and domestic tourists – including the Swat Valley.

Swat Valley

As mentioned above, tourism in Swat Valley is a relatively new thing in Pakistan.

From the remanents of Buddhist culture to many legit trekking possibilities, Swat is probably the most interesting mountain area within 5-6 hours of Islamabad. Once you get a few hours past Mingora, the landscapes turn into picturesque river valleys with pine forests and crystal clear rivers running in every direction.

At the far end of the greater Swat region is Kalam Valley – the real draw for trekkers and people wanting to experience the best landscapes of Swat. Access to Swat has been greatly improved by a sealed road a few years ago. And yes, the Taliban are no longer in power here so go and enjoy Swat without worrying your mother.

Things to Do in Swat Valley :

• Visit Buddhist monuments (many are in bad shape, but still worth it) and monastery ruins
• Trekking in Kalam Valley
• Kandol Lake Hike

Kalash Valley

A popular myth surrounding Kalash Valley residents is that they are descendants of Alexander the Great, from when his army rolled through way back when. I have also heard that this has since been disproven by DNA testing. In any case, the Kalash Valley (or more like the 3 valleys that make it up) is probably one of the most unique areas of Pakistan from a cultural perspective.

For one, Kalashi people are not Muslims; they practice a polytheist faith similar to ancient forms of Hinduism, they drink wine sometimes and offer animal sacrifices during religious festivals (Muslims do this too actually).

The Kalash Valley is an entire vibe unto itself. Time seems to stop here (and as of the time of writing there is no internet). There are even a few hikes to do in the area if you want to explore beyond the villages.

The real draw though is if you are able to time your visit during either the spring (Chilam Joshi Festival) or winter (Festival of Choimus) festivals.

Contact Luke Rehmat if you’d like to plan some activities in the area. His Whatsapp: +92 344 5912024.

Things to Do in Kalash Valley

• Cultural Festivals (mentioned above)
• Drink local wine
• Learn about the unique culture and history of the Kalashi people (my friend Luke Rehmat is an invaluable resource for that)

Naran and Kaghan Valley

Naran is a mountain bazaar town located way up the Kaghan Valley. To be honest, Naran has turned into kind of a shi*hole since mass tourism came here (mostly local tourism – sorry guys but its true). There are a few interesting hikes in the area, but mostly Naran offers packed, expensive hotels , a ton of traffic, and polluted forests and rivers.

Naran does make for a convenient stopover if you are heading north to Babasar Top.

The lower Kaghan area on the other hand is a stunning green river valley with small stone villages as well as semi-nomadic herders tending to their animals. I have not personally explored the Kagan much to be honest. I’ve just driven through five times it on my way up north or on my way back south. Every time I think to myself: “Man, I need to come back and explore this place properly”.

Things to Do in Naran and Kaghan Valley:

• Trek to Ansoo Lake (guide recommended)
• Visit Saif-ul-Mulook National Park
• Wild camping along the Kaghan River

Getting to Kalash Valley is not really possible without a stopover in Chitral. Chitral is a central hub in Northern KPK that makes for a good place to resupply, rest, or use Wifi if you have just come from the mountains. The start of Kalash Valley is about 1.5-2 hours from Chitral.

Like many Pakistani mountain towns, the city is situated along a large river of the same name, has a central bazaar, and cheap accommodation.

It’s a long drive from Islamabad so if you want to save some time, Chitral also has an airport.

Things to do in Chitral:

• Visit the Chitral Fort
• Go for a soak in Garam Chashma though it is a bit touristy (hot spring resort)
• Check out the Shahi Masjid, an attractive 100-year-old mosque built by the former ruler of Chitral (pre-partition)

Broghil Valley and Karomber Lake

Making it to the Broghil Valley is an achievement all unto itself. This ultra off-the-beaten-path valley is located in the upper reaches of KPK (past Booni and Mastuj) right next to the “border” with Afghanistan in the Hindu Kush range.

I was able to go here a few years ago with a group of Pakistani friends – although I was told I was only one of two foreigners to be allowed to go in recent years. I think some bribes were involved but my mates handled that :). If you decide you want to go to Broghil and Karakomber Lake yourself, then going with a local (Pakistani) person is a must as you will encounter both police and army checkpoints along the way.

It is not impossible to go here… it just takes some determination and a bit of wheel greasing with local authorities. At this stage, solo foreign travelers don’t have a chance of being allowed in – that’s my opinion.

Broghil Valley offers some spectacular trekking options, including the trek to the iconic Karakomber Lake (3-4 days); one of the highest alpine lakes in Pakistan. This region is on my list of the top 5 best places to visit in Pakistan and is well worth the effort it takes to come here.

• Soak in Hindu Kush landscapes
• Trek to Karomber Lake at 4,272 meters
• Experience local Wahki culture – these folks are true off-grid mountain people and are amazing to spend time with.

Best Places to Visit in Sindh

Follow your finger along with the map south and we arrive at Sindh in the southeastern corner of the country. Sindh is the third-largest province of Pakistan by total area and the second-largest province by population after Punjab. It is home to Karachi, the Arabian Gulf Coast, and plenty of rarely visited by foreigners cultural/historical stuff.

As is the pattern with most of Pakistan, there are many different ethnic groups and languages spoken here, with the most common being Sindhi.

With the exception of Balochistan, Sindh is the least visited province when it comes to tourism. This fact means that outside of Karachi, it is NOT EASY to travel here on your own. The brave and bold will be rewarded. People who want to stick to the beaten path and far more comforts should opt to stay in the north.

The massive port city of Karachi is hard to describe in one sentence. It is the largest city in Pakistan by population and is so sprawling and busy that it boggles the mind.

You will probably get strong India city vibes if you visit Karachi as there is a similar overwhelming feeling that dominates all the senses.

Along with all the craziness, there are some fun things to do and see in the city as well. Some of the most liberal-minded Pakistani friends I have are from Karachi and if you know where to look, you will find a bustling culture of young people with progressive ideas, forward-thinking, and little to no interest in conservative Islam. There are also some awesome places to pick up some books if you’re into book markets – among them Pakistan Chowk, Urdu Bazaar.

One thing to note: Karachi gets crazy hot. I’m talking in the 50 degrees C range. Plan your trip in the winter if possible (October – February). You’ve been warned.

Top Things to Do in Karachi:

• Check out Karachi’s best-known food street around Saddar/Burns Road.
• If you like to scuba dive, head a few hours out of the city to Churna Island (a great activity when it is hot out)
• Visit the Chaukhandi Tomb and Abdullah Shah Ghazi Tombs – go on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Thar Desert

Southern Pakistan holds a lot of mystery for me – mostly because I have spent 95% of my time in Pakistan in the north. And perhaps no place holds more intrigue in Sindh than does the Thar Desert.

I am fascinated by the unique landscapes here, the mysterious people who inhabit these stark and arid lands and experiencing the all-around vibe that goes with all of that. That said, I am yet to visit the Thar.

Numerous people have told me that the Thar Desert is not an easy place to visit as a solo foreign traveler – as in it might not be possible right now due to its proximity to India. Like many fascinating areas in Pakistan, you’ll need an NOC permit to enter, or perhaps like my Broghil experience, a good friend who is able to bribe local authorities enough to let you in.

Top Things to Do in Thar Desert:

• See the desert “bloom” during the monsoon season
• Visit a Jain temple in the middle of the desert
• Take in the sobering realities of climate change as parts of the Thar are in severe drought.

Ranikot Fort

The world’s biggest fort is in Sindh?! Yeah, buddy. The massive Rainkoit Fort wall has been compared to the Great Wall of China – except that this place is in theory on massive fortification.

Nowadays the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Due to its isolated location though, the fort sees a fraction of the visitors a fort of this importance should normally see.

Some university groups even host things like camping and movie nights here – which sounds awesome.

Ranikot Fort is a 4-hour drive from Karachi.

Things to Do at Rani Fort:

• Kind of self-explanatory: check out the fort!
• Ask around in Karachi Facebook groups for travelers if any movie/camping nights are planned.
• Avoid the blistering heat of the day by going at sunrise.

Makli Necropolis

Love things that celebrate the dead? Makli Necropolis should be on your shortlist if you are traveling in Sindh.

Because we are on the subject of “the biggest stuff in the world” – the Makli Necropolis is just that – one of the largest funerary sites in the world. The site is “home” to approximately 500,000 to 1 million tombs constructed over the course of a 400 year period. That’s a hell of a lot of tombs.

The closest city to Makli is Thatta where you can find a variety of places to sleep and eat.

• Roaming around the grounds can take up a full day, but due to the heat, I’d say a few hours will suffice.
• Visit the Shah Jahan Masjid Thatta (mosque)
• Some tombs are more impressive than others; don’t miss the Nizam al-Din Tomb!

Best Places to Visit Jammu-Azad-Kashmir

Long the source of a major conflict with neighboring India – most Pakistani’s feel that Jammu-Kashmir is in fact only half the landmass that makes up the province – with the other half being occupied by India for decades.

Geopolitics aside, Kashmir is one of those places that makes even me think: “Is this really in Pakistan?!”.

Incredible alpine lakes, quaint villages that look like they belong in the Swiss Alps (minus the wine and European architecture), and stunning river valleys… this is what makes Kashmir of so much interest to travelers.

Want to know something that has frustrated the hell out of me for years? Most if not all of Kashmir is totally off-limits to foreigners, despite there being a ruling a few years ago abolishing NOC requirements. The local police and army are not having it. Due to increased tensions with India over Kashmir – the local authorities are more paranoid than usual of something bad happening to a foreigner here.

In Pakistan – connections make the world go round so if you have any that might be able to get you access, Kashmir provides the opportunity to play that card.

I will also note that I have heard of foreign backpackers as recently as May 2021 gain entry into Kashmir without issue. Very confusing, I know. I will fill in this section in greater deteail once I have been there myself!

Best Places to Visit in Kashmir:

• Neelum Valley – A stunning river valley with unique Kashmiri architecture.
• Chitta Kattha Lake – The high alpine lake that looks like it belongs in the Italian Dolomites
• Ratti Gali Lake – Just as impressive as the lake mentioned above, but perhaps even more epic with wildflowers in the summer.

Best Places to Visit in Balochistan

Balochistan, Baluchistan, and Baluchestan… of the many ways to write it here is one thing we can agree on when it comes to Pakistan’s largest by-land-mass province: it is mysterious AF.

Like Kashmir, large swaths of Balochistan have been off-limits to foreigners for years. Unlike Kashmir though, it is still possible to travel here in some places though movement is monitored and restricted… be prepared for many headaches and hoops to jump through from local security forces.

This wide-open landscape kind of has it all: vast arid deserts, mountains, and roughly 770 kilometers of coastline! The adventure potential in Balochistan is massive, to say the least. Pakistan is pretty slow to open any area up to tourism, but when it does more in Balochistan to ease restrictions and improve access for foreign (and domestic) travelers, the sky is the limit for what there will be to see and do down here.

Best Things to Do in Balochistan:

• Hingol National Park: A very unique mix of rock gorges, cliffs, and the Arabian sea all in one area.
• Moola Chotok: A hidden ravine/river with brilliant turquoise water.
• Pir Ghaib: Waterfalls located in the Bolan Valley, 70 kilometers from Quetta.

Thanks for reading this ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Pakistan! Drop your favorite Pakistani destinations in the comments below! Happy travels.

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The best places to visit in pakistan for every type of traveler.

D espite being blessed with jaw-dropping scenery and well-preserved historical sites, Pakistan has long been written off as a travel destination by all but the most hard-core adventurers. But as the country’s security situation has stabilized in recent years, its domestic tourism industry has come back stronger than ever, and statistics show that foreign tourism is following suit.

Here, snow-capped peaks tower above remnants of some of the world’s first civilizations. Pakistan is home to a unique brand of hospitality that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And unlike its highly-trafficked neighbors to the east and north, you can spend weeks in the country without encountering another traveler. Combine this with locals who are genuinely happy to see and welcome travelers, and you’ll come to understand why this South Asian nation is truly one of the final frontiers of immersive adventure travel.

In a few months, you can definitely see a very good chunk of Pakistan, and experience a whole lot, too. But for those limited on time, or who really want to come across a specific aspect of Pakistani culture, you’re going to want to make sure your itinerary is focused on just the right spots. These are the best places to visit in Pakistan for every type of traveler, along with a bit of Pakistan travel advice to take with you.

How to get a visa to visit Pakistan

Photo: Punnawit Suwattananun /Shutterstock

Pakistan’s e-Visa system , which was introduced in 2019, makes getting a visa to Pakistan a quick and relatively easy process. Americans and many other nationalities have the option of either getting a traditional tourist visa, or what’s called a “Visa in your inbox.”

The latter requires you to submit a request for travel 24 to 72 hours before your flight, where you’ll also need to include your hotel booking or a Letter of Invitation from a tour company or a personal friend. Approval can take anywhere from moments to a full day, but once it does you’re free to head out, and you’ll be granted a 30-day stay once you arrive in Pakistan.

For longer trips, it’s best to apply for a regular tourist visa. Currently, the best visa one can obtain is a one-year, multiple-entry visa good for 90-day maximum stays, for $90. This visa allows you to leave and enter Pakistan an unlimited amount of times within a one-year period. The duration means that you can stay in the country for 90 days each time before needing to either apply for an extension or leave.

Though it is said to be officially substituted by a confirmed hotel booking, most travelers to Pakistan report the best visa results using a Letter of Invitation written by a registered tour company. This is especially true if you’re requesting a multi-entry visa. Keep in mind that you do not need to actually be on a tour to receive a letter.

Pakistan visa extensions

Unbeknownst to most, Pakistan is an underrated long-term travel/digital nomad destination, as it allows travelers to extend their visas many times. Like your initial visa, extensions are also done online and cost $20 regardless of your nationality or desired duration. This allows you to request a specific duration of extension of up to six months or, in some cases, longer.

While you might be able to get away without including one, it’s best to attach an Extension-specific letter, which can be acquired from a registered tour operator . Keep in mind that the online visa system is not without its difficulties. Travelers often report not getting the duration they asked for, even with all supporting documents. This is frustrating, but on the bright side, extensions are quite cheap.

I recommend Adventure Planners Pakistan . I have used them numerous times for Extension-specific letters. They’re established, and provide client-specific LOIs in less than 24 hours of payment.

Travel to Pakistan from the USA

Photo: Ahminem /Shutterstock

If you’re wondering whether or not Americans can travel to Pakistan, the answer is an emphatic “yes.” Unlike Iran, which requires US citizens to be on a fully-guided tour, American travelers can freely and independently enjoy all that Pakistan has to offer.

Despite what you may have heard from the media, Pakistanis DO NOT hate Americans. Certain people may dislike the American government, but that’s not directed at citizens, and it’s highly unlikely you’ll encounter any animosity at all. I have lived in Pakistan for several years now and have witnessed American travelers of all ages experience the same hospitality and kindness that nationals of any other country receive.

Moreover, it’s important to note that hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis and people of Pakistani descent live in America, and the two countries are official allies, thus making it very easy to travel to Pakistan from the US. The best airlines to fly from the US to Pakistan include Emirates , Etihad Airways , and Turkish Airlines .

American citizens who possess a valid Indian or Chinese visa can also – in non-Covid times – enter Pakistan by land via the Wagah and Khunjerab borders, respectively. Whether you choose to enter Pakistan on foot or by air, the entry process is extremely easy and no different than entering any other country.

The best place in Pakistan for families: Islamabad

Photo: Umer Arif /Shutterstock

As Pakistan’s capital and cleanest city, Islamabad is the perfect place to visit in Pakistan for families. The green capital, which was established in 1967, is the most modern city in Pakistan and makes for an easy start to any trip.

While typically considered sterile by adventure travelers, for families (especially those with kids) Islamabad is ideal. It’s surrounded by the towering Margalla Hills and sits in the moorland of the famous Himalayas. Margalla has numerous hiking trails for all ability levels, and the city itself is graced with numerous parks perfect for play or relaxation. Uber and the local transport apps, such as Careem and InDriver, are also available on-demand, making getting around the city hassle-free.

Islamabad is home to its fair share of must-visit sites, including the Faisal Mosque, which is famous for its unique design and impressive size. Families can also enjoy the Daman e Koh viewpoint which offers sweeping views of the capital as well as entertainment and food.

For families with older kids looking to delve a bit deeper into Pakistan’s culture and history, a day trip to “sister city” Rawalpindi, which is only a 40-minute drive, will surely satisfy those cravings.

We hope you love the Pakistan accommodations we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Recommended accommodations in Islamabad

Budget option: Jasmine Inn (from $34 per night) Mid-range option: Serai Boutique Hotel (from $71 per night) Luxury option: Islamabad Serena Hotel (from $235 per night)

The best place in Pakistan for solo female travelers: Phander Valley

Photo: Jrs Jahangeer /Shutterstock

Solo female travel in Pakistan might sound daunting at first, but a stay in the dreamscape that is Phander Valley will make it seem easy. The peaceful village in the north of the country is one of the safest places in Pakistan, and the locals are just as fantastic as the views.

Unlike other regions of Gilgit Baltistan, Phander has yet to fall prey to mass tourism, which means you’ll likely have turquoise-blue lakes, fields of fluffy cows, and many a viewpoint practically all to yourself.

Locals in Phander are both welcoming and extremely tolerant. While you should still employ typical solo-female-safety tips , it’s a place in Pakistan where people return wallets filled with cash and go well out of their way to help travelers.

You can either camp at the stunning lake of the same name, or opt for one of the many budget-friendly guesthouses along the road. The slow pace of Phander is what makes it so appealing, and while the place remains largely unheard of in western circles, it’s not uncommon to meet other adventurous travelers who are also looking to see what the “Land of Lakes” – a common term for the region that encapsulates Phander – is all about.

Phander is remote and simple and does not yet have a presence on any booking sites, but I highly recommend travelers stay at Lake Inn , which costs about $12 per night and is clean, comfortable, and has a helpful owner.

For information on how to move about Pakistan and reach villages and destinations beyond the major cities, see Matador’s guide on what to know before visiting Pakistan .

The best place in Pakistan for foodies and history buffs: Lahore

Photo: Homo Cosmicos /Shutterstock

“Lahore Lahore Hai” translates to “Lahore is Lahore” in Urdu, and essentially means that there is no place quite like the bonafide cultural capital of Pakistan. In regards to this South Asian country, truer words have never been spoken from a foodie or history perspective. You can’t quite find a gastronomic culture quite as vibrant, cheap, and accessible as Lahore’s. And encountering historical sites as well preserved as Lahore’s might prove even more of a challenge.

The artsy city was a stronghold of the Mughal Empire from 1524 to 1752, and what remains is in exceptional condition. Lahore’s Wazir Khan Mosque, Jahangir’s Tomb, and the Sheesh Mahal inside of the Lahore Fort all stand out as top historical places not just in Lahore, but in the entire country. The Wazir Khan mosque, in particular, features exquisite frescoes originally painted in the 1600s.

From shrines to forts, Lahore has all you can want from a historical perspective. But its food scene isn’t far behind. From adventurous eats like paya (hoof stew – trust that it tastes a whole lot better than it sounds) to Pakistani favorites like chicken karahi and halwa puri, you can find anything in Lahore at virtually any time. The best places to try these dishes are at street corner stalls – keep an eye out for busy stalls that are bustling with locals.

The city is also one for variety and cheap prices. It’s a place where you’ll discover street food haunts that have been out and about since the 60s interwoven with upscale Western-style restaurants. While other cities can certainly hold their own in regards to Pakistani cuisine and history – looking at you here Karachi and Peshawar – what can be found in Lahore is a combination that is unique to the city’s history of multiple conquests and liberations.

Recommended accommodations in Lahore

Budget option: Rose Palace Hotel , Gulberg (from $28 per night) Mid Range: Luxus Grand (from $56 per night) Luxury: Pearl Continental (from $120 per night)

The best place in Pakistan for hikers: Skardu

Photo: Daniela Collins /Shutterstock

Pakistan’s innumerable peaks and glaciers are the best-kept secrets of the alpine world, and they comprise enough trails and summits to keep even the most diehard trekkers busy for years. The country is home to not one but three of the world’s greatest mountain ranges: the Karakorams, Himalayas, and the lesser-known Hindu Kush.

While there are intensely beautiful and nearly empty trails to be found all over regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, for the absolute best hikes in Pakistan, head to Skardu. The mountain city is the perfect place to arrange and embark on a wide variety of seriously epic adventures.

For a tough but worthwhile day hike, aim for Masur Rock, a viewpoint that gives exceptional views of Skardu City and beyond. For mid-level hikers, a two-to-three-day expedition to the flawless Laila Peak Basecamp should be at the top of your list. Companies including Chogori Adventure offer guided treks that start at $1,100 per person. This includes lodging before and after the trek, airport transfer, and most meals.

These two can easily be arranged on your own, but the real heavy-hitters are the treks that lie in the awe-inspiring Central Karakoram National Park, a restricted area for foreigners. To visit, you’re going to need some permits, and most likely a registered guide, too. Fees include a “peak fee,” which varies depending on the trek, a trekking permit that costs $50 per person, and an expedition permit that costs $200 per expedition. These fees do not include any charges set forth by the guide. Apply for the permits, identify and research guides, and pay fees via the park’s website .

Famous treks that require such pre-planning include K2 Basecamp, which allows you to get up close and personal with the world’s second tallest mountain, and Snow Lake, a trek that will give you the opportunity to cross the massive Biafo Glacier and camp atop a glacial basin underneath millions of stars. You’ll also want to hit Trango Towers, a collection of giant rock monoliths in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Recommended accommodations in Skardu

Budget: Hotel Dewanekhas (from $21 per night Mid-range: Mountain Lodge Skardu (from $49 per night) Luxury: Serena Shigar Fort (from $150 per night)

The best place in Pakistan for beach lovers: Karachi

You might have heard that Pakistan has some pretty cool mountains, but what about beaches? The country also has hundreds of miles of coastline, which is best enjoyed in and around Karachi.

As Pakistan’s largest city and financial capital, Karachi is lively, to say the least. But what makes it the perfect place in Pakistan for a day in the sand is the fact that it’s teeming with stunning swaths of coastline. Most well-known is Clifton Beach, which most closely resembles a carnival scene complete with scores of camels, go-karts, and shiny horses, all available for riding.

While Clifton isn’t the cleanest place in the world to swim, fear not, as lots of swimming-friendly seashores exist within two hours of the city center. French Beach is a particularly posh locale filled with trendy huts to relax in and “be seen,” and some of the cleanest seawater in Karachi. This beach is particularly progressive, and even bikinis are acceptable – a rarity in the country.

A few minutes from French Beach, you can catch some other clean and swimmable beaches like Hawkesbay, Turtle, and Sandspit beaches.

The real highlight of Karachi’s beach scene takes a bit more effort to reach, but comes with a huge reward. Deep in the dry, rural countryside two hours from the city is a completely uncommercialized fishing village, and the acclaimed Mubarek. Here, soft golden sand and bright blue water are sandwiched in between arid hills that will make you feel like you’re across the Arabian Sea in Oman.

Unfortunately, public transit doesn’t exist here, which though frustrating, also protects the area from over-tourism. Recently, apps like EzHire have joined the market for moderate daily rates, meaning that you can enjoy this must-see Karachi beach at your own convenience. If you make it there, be sure you hike up to the viewpoint all the way on the left, where you can also visit a local mazar (shrine.)

Recommended accommodations in Karachi

Budget: KTown Rooms (from $20 per night) Mid-range: Hotel Cozy Beach Vista (from $36 per night) Luxury: Pearl Continental (from $110 per night)

The best place in Pakistan for general travel: Hunza Valley

Photo: naihei /Shutterstock

Hunza Valley is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and also one of the easiest places to travel in, too. Whether you’re a young family, a retiree, or a mountaineer looking to bag a peak, Hunza Valley in northern Pakistan absolutely has something for you.

The culture of the valley is unlike anywhere else in Pakistan, and the people of the central part of the valley even speak a language so isolated that’s been unable to be tied to any others. Situated along the wondrous Karakoram Highway , a visit to Hunza means getting to know a unique culture, savoring organic fruits, getting up close with jaw-dropping scenery, and so much more depending upon your interests.

Aside from its natural beauty, the region also has the highest literacy rate in the entire country and is known for its welcoming and tolerant local people. Even alcohol is widely brewed and consumed by locals. And while you’ll still want to avoid shorts, the general dress code is much more relaxed in Hunza.

Unless you travel by plane, reaching this Pakistani paradise does take a bit of dedication. But for as little as $12 and about 24 hours, you’ll leave the chaos of the cities behind and find yourself in a stadium of the country’s most beautiful mountains. From Skardu or Gilgit, you can take a taxi (see Rome2Rio ). If coming from one of the major cities in Pakistan, you will likely need to fly into either Skardu or Gilgit.

Recommended accommodations in Hunza Valley

Budget: Old Hunza Inn (from $25 per night) Mid Range: Mountain Story (from $68 per night) Luxury: Luxus Hunza (from $206 per night)

What to do in Pakistan

Photo: thsulemani /Shutterstock

For the typical traveler who wants to experience the very best of the country on the quick, here are some of the coolest things to do in Pakistan:

• Spend time in a local home: Pakistanis are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever encounter, and it won’t be long before you’re receiving invitations for chai, accommodation, and more. While it might seem strange to hang out with a random stranger, know that these are the experiences that make Pakistan so much more than just a place with epic mountains. Welcoming guests is deeply ingrained in local culture, so know these invitations are genuine and the best way to get to know real Pakistanis.
• Hike to Fairy Meadows in Gilgit-Baltistan: The most popular hike in the country has truly earned its top spot. The lush meadow, which can only be reached by a combination of a perilous jeep ride followed by a two-to-three-hour trek, gives unparalleled views of Nanga Parbat, which is the world’s ninth highest peak, and dubbed the “Killer Mountain.” If you’re into trekking, you can even keep going to the mountain’s basecamp with a tour operator such as Apricot Tours .
• Try dumba karahi: If you’re looking for a culinary experience that you’ll remember forever, look no further than what just might be Pakistan’s most delicious dish, dumba karahi. Dumba is a specialty of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and consists of the extremely tender – and very delicious – tail meat of a dumba sheep, a species known for their large behinds. Unlike many dishes in Pakistan, which tend to be too spicy for foreign tastebuds, dumba is traditionally made in a style of cooking that forgoes chilies. The most authentic dumba karahi can be found in and around Peshawar, though all major cities have restaurants that serve it.

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The Best Places to Visit in Pakistan

Home to a multitude of landscapes and terrains, Pakistan offers mountains and rivers for the adventurous, archaeological sites for the curious and untouched beaches for those looking to escape the crowds. In a country with so many options to choose from, here are some of the best places to visit.

Gilgit-baltistan.

Natural Feature

Travel to the north for some of the best scenic views and adventure activities the country has to offer. Start your trip in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), a popular choice for those seeking diverse experiences while sticking to just one region. GB, the northernmost administrative territory of Pakistan , is home to a number of mountain peaks over 6000m (20,000ft), including the renowned K-2 and Nanga Parbat. Shandur, the world’s highest polo ground, is also located here, as is the turquoise-hued Attabad Lake in Hunza Valley that was created after a landslide in 2010. The treeless Deosai National Park, located largely in the Skardu District, is a 4,114m-high (13,497ft) wonderland rich in flora and fauna that can only be accessed in the summer. Skiing enthusiasts can visit the Naltar Ski Resort and eager campers can trek up to the picturesque Fairy Meadows.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

The city of Multan presents a historic mix of ancient warfare, trade, dynastic rule and Sufism. The seventh most populous city of Pakistan has changed numerous hands since 3300 BCE, reportedly starting with Hindu occupation, then witnessing Greek invasion and finally hosting a long era of Muslim rule heavily influenced by Sufism in the 11th and 12th centuries. Multan is now an important part of south Punjab and devotees from all over the country and abroad visit the innumerable shrines, tombs and mosques all year round. Such is the reverence for the deceased Sufi mystics remembered or buried here that it is known as the ‘City of Saints’.

Interest in the Tharparkar District in Sindh as a tourist spot is a relatively recent development. The gradual increase in the number of tourists each year is an encouraging sign for the region which consists of a jumble of towns and villages ranging from slightly developed to completely rural settlements. Most visitors flock to the district during or after the monsoon rains to experience the short period in which the desert is transformed into an oasis. This brief season is also a source of joy for the residents because the soil of this particular desert is extremely fertile and supports rainfall agriculture.

Kalash Valleys

Pakistan is an ethnically diverse country and the Kalasha form what is perhaps its most distinct indigenous group of all. The Kalash Valleys – Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir – are a part of Chitral, the largest district in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Ringed by the famed Hindu Kush mountain range, the remoteness of the valleys has helped them preserve their uniqueness over the centuries. The predominantly light-skinned, blue-eyed Kalasha people are known for their colourful garb and polytheistic religion. Known for their love of dancing, brewing their own wine and playing traditional musical instruments, the best time to visit the people of the Kalash valleys is during any of their three annual festivals – Chilam Joshi in May, Uchau in September and Chawmos around the time of the winter solstice.

Mohenjo-daro

Historical Landmark

History buffs will have a hard time passing up a chance to visit Mohenjo-daro in Sindh, an archaeological site dating back to 2500 BCE. An extensive study and excavation of the area found that the mounds and ruins were once a part of the Indus Valley Civilisation, a contemporary of Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Among other things, Mohenjo-daro was built according to a grid plan, boasted an efficient water management system and featured public baths – all of which demonstrates urban planning and civil engineering well ahead of its time. The city was eventually abandoned around 1900 BCE for obscure reasons and was not rediscovered until the 1920s. Detailed excavation continued until 1966, after which all in-depth archaeological work was halted due to damage inflicted by the weather. Mohenjo-daro was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1980 and can be visited via private transport, public bus or weekly flights from Karachi.

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Khewra Salt Mine

A trip to the world’s second-largest salt mine may not be a regular bucket list feature, but it is certainly a great educational experience. The Khewra Salt Mine is situated in the foothills of the Salt Range – in the province of Punjab – and is almost 184km (114mi) away from Islamabad, the capital city. Not only is it the country’s most vital source of salt, but the site is also a major tourist attraction, with up to 250,000 visitors driving up to the mine each year. Once transported inside via carts, tourists can witness caves made entirely of salt, a number of saltwater pools and some miniature salt structures of important landmarks of the country. The salt reserves are said to have been discovered by the troops of Alexander the Great in 326 BCE.

Makran Coast

Pakistan has yet to turn its beaches into dream holiday resorts, but if exploring an unspoiled coastline with natural beaches is your thing, then the Makran Coast is definitely worth visiting. The breathtaking landscape in the province of Balochistan is a pleasant surprise in what is otherwise rugged terrain consisting mostly of barren mountains. The coast itself is a 1,000km (621mi) stretch along the Gulf of Oman and is interspersed with pristine beaches that are accessible via the sprawling Makran Coastal Highway, which starts from Karachi in Sindh, passes the towns of Ormara and Pasni and ends in Gwadar. It is advisable to begin your journey from Karachi at the crack of dawn so you can make the most of the long drive. Notable beaches on the coastal strip include Kund Malir Beach, Astola Island, Ormara Beach, Sonmiani Beach, Gwadar Beach and Pasni Beach.

Travelling more of Pakistan? Read our guide to the best hotels in Islamabad and the most beautiful landmarks to see in Pakistan . If you’re visiting Lahore, check out our guide on the top things to do in the city.

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60 Beautiful places to visit in Pakistan that will change your perception about the country

Unlike what most Western media tries to tell you, Pakistan is actually a beautiful country filled with welcoming people. However, the perception most people have about Pakistan involves Taliban insurgents, military regime, dusty roads, and crowded unsafe cities but if you ever visit Pakistan, you’ll see that this can’t be further away from the truth. Sure, the country is experiencing a dose of unrest in some parts of its territory but most of Pakistan is covered in divine mountains, rugged peaks, charming villages, emerald-green lakes, picturesque desserts, and majestic meadows but that’s not even the half of it! That’s why we wrote this article; to show you that Pakistan is a beautiful country with a lot of amazing places to visit.

Before we start, you should know that Pakistan is formally divided into four provinces; Balochistan, Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. There are two autonomous regions- Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The capital of Islamabad is a separate federal territory. With that being said, now we’ll proceed to cover the 60 most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan by province. We start with the southernmost province.

Balochistan Province

Balochistan is the biggest, least frequented, and poorest province of Pakistan despite the fact that this province covers most of Pakistan’s Arabic Sea coast and is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. The main reason for this is that there’s ongoing civil unrest in this part of the country; the majority of the people who stay here are Baloch, an ethnic group with different culture and traditions that similarly like the Kurds doesn’t have its own country despite controlling a large territory in both, Pakistan and Iran.

Because of this, most governments advise their residents not to visit this region of Pakistan. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any beautiful places to visit in Balochistan. On the contrary…

Gwadar is a picturesque port town that overlooks the coast of Oman. The city went from a small fishing village to the third-largest port in Pakistan. For years, Gwadar’s potential as a port town was untapped, mainly because of security concerns. Today, things finally seem to be changing for the better. After, China’s recent investment in the region, it seems like Gwadar will finally start utilizing its potential not only as a port town but also as a tourist destination with a lot of beautiful beaches surrounded by picturesque mountains.

Makran Coast

Because of the situation in Balochistan, Pakistan never tapped into the potential of some of the most beautiful beaches on the Makran Coast. The coast stretches across 1,000 kilometers along the Gulf of Oman and is home to hundreds of divine beaches. Most of them are accessible by the 650-kilometers-long Makran Coastal Highway. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the region are Kund Malir, Onmana, Sonmiani, Pasni, and of course, Astola Island; the largest one in Pakistan and an epitome of Balochistan’s untouched natural beauty.

Pir Ghayb Waterfalls

Pir Ghayb is one of the most Instagrammable waterfalls in Pakistan. In addition to natural beauty, the falls also hold a special place among religious locals. According to local beliefs, the invisible saint (Pir Ghaib) was saved by the Almighty after being attacked by the Wicked King’s army. The local legend says that he threw his stick in the mountain, causing the water to pour out, drowning all of his enemies.

Whether this is true or not, there’s no denying that this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan even though getting there isn’t easy and requires passing through a territory that most governments classify as ‘unsafe to travel’.

Moola Chotok

Moola Chotok is another wonder of nature in the largest province of Pakistan. This hidden ravine surrounded by tall cliffs creates the Chotok Waterfalls; one of the largest and most beautiful falls on the Indian subcontinent. Unlike some other places on this list, visiting Moola Chotok is completely safe after the Government’s military intervention in the Khuzdar District. However, if you want to get there, it’s probably best to rent a car. You can compare prices from most rental companies in Pakistan here and make sure you’re always getting the best deal!

Hanna Jheel

Completely surrounded by mountains, close to where the Urak Valley begins, this beautiful reservoir is one of the most frequented places in Balochistan. The reservoir was built by the British in 1894 but even though man-made, no one can deny the lake’s beauty, especially during the snowy winters. Hanna Jheel is another place in Balochistan that’s completely safe to visit for both, locals and foreigners.

Waadi-e-Bolan (Bolan Pass)

Waadi-e-Bolan is a mountain pass in Western Pakistan that consists of a long stretch of gorges and numerous azure-blue lakes in between. The narrow gorges and stretches of this pass can make you dizzy but the nature surrounding the pass is absolutely breath-taking. The pass is also a part of one of the most strategic roads in Pakistan because it’s a gateway to and from South Asia, and hence, is relatively heavily guarded and safe to visit.

Hingol National Park 

Hingol National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Pakistan. The park is covered in lush forests and completely surrounded by towering mountains. Still relatively unfrequented, the tourist facilities in the park are improving in recent years. Furthermore, in 2004, the park was connected to Karachi via a new highway. Both measures are expected to boost tourism in the park that’s home to countless subtropical forests and arid montanes, more than 250 plant species, 180 different species of birds, 65 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 35 species of mammals.

Sindh Province

The Sindh Province covers the South-eastern part of Pakistan and is a historical home of the Sindhi people. Sindh is a lot safer than Balochistan and can be accessed by travelers without any issues. The province borders Balochistan (West), Punjab (North), the Arabian Sea (South), and the Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan (East). Sindh is also home to the former capital, Karachi.

Karachi is the country’s largest city, a former capital, and the seventh-largest city in the world with 15 million residents. It’s Pakistan’s financial and industrial center and the most diverse and cosmopolitan city in the country. There are a lot of interesting things to do in Karachi and here, we’ll cover some of the city’s highlights.

Masjid-e-Tooba, Karachi

We just can’t compile a list of the best places to visit in Pakistan without mentioning the Tooba Mosque. The mosque’s dome is arguably the largest in the world that stands without a single pillar supporting it. This alone is a reason enough to visit this architectural masterpiece.

Mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam, Karachi

Because Karachi was at the time the capital of Pakistan, it was deemed appropriate to build the mausoleum of the nation’s founder in Karachi. Today, the beautifully designed mausoleum is one of the most iconic symbols of Karachi and one of the most popular places to visit in the former capital of Pakistan.

Mohatta Palace, Karachi

You probably didn’t expect to find any Rajasthan-style palaces in Pakistan but you’d be wrong. The Mohatta Palace was built in 1927 with original stones from Jodhpur. The palace was home of Indian businessman Shivratan Chandraratan Mohatta and today is one of Karachi’s most beautiful architectural landmarks. This palace has all characteristics of Rajasthan architecture and is one of the most beautiful places in Karachi.

Clifton Beach, Karachi

Clifton Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Karachi and a popular tourist attraction. It’s one of the best picnic spots in Karachi with several restaurants and a lot of recreational activities in near proximity to the beach (horse riding, camel riding, buggy carts, etc.).

Churna Island, Karachi

This uninhabited island in the Arabian Sea is one of Pakistan’s best-kept secrets. In addition to Churna Island’s natural beauty, this is also a severely underrated diving spot with rich marine life. Yes, Pakistan has that too!

Thatta was the medieval capital of Sindh during three consecutive dynasties and as such, is one of the most important historical places in Pakistan and one you should definitely visit if you like history. The two most popular tourist attractions in Thatta are the Shah Jahan Mosque and the Makli Necropolises.

Shah Jahan Mosque, Thatta

Thatta’s central mosque has arguably the most elaborate display of tile work in South Asia. The mosque is also famous for its geometric brickwork; a decorative element that’s quite uncommon for mosques built during the Mughal era. 

Makli Necropolises, Thatta

This necropolis is one of the world’s largest funerary sites and is deservingly on UNESCO’s World Heritage list since 1891. The site covers an area of 10 square kilometers and is home to between 500,000 and 1 million tombs, including the tombs of royalties, several Sufi saints, and numerous renowned scholars.

Even though not as famous as the Hyderabad in India , this city is Sindh’s second-largest and the eight-biggest city in Pakistan. Hyderabad was the capital of Sindh before the British moved it to Karachi in 1843 and the city has a lot of important historical sites, including the Mausoleum of Mian Ghulam Kalhoro, the tombs of numerous Talpur rulers, the beautiful Rani Bagh Garden, and the iconic Navalrai Market Clocktower, just to name a few.

Gorakh Hill

Located around 95 kilometers Northwest of the city of Dadu, Gorakh Hill is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan. This hill station is one of the most popular winter destinations in Pakistan and one of only a few places in Sindh where you can see snow.

Ranikot Fort

Did you know that the world’s largest fort is located in Pakistan? With a circumference of 32 kilometers, the so-called ‘Great wall of Sindh’ was built in the 9th century (but it’s not known exactly who built it and why) and today, it’s one of the most important historical places in Pakistan and one you have to visit if you’re into history.

Mohenjo-Daro

The 4,500-years-old archaeological site of Mohenjo-Daro is one of the most important ones in Pakistan. It’s widely accepted that this was one of the world’s earliest major cities and one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation contemporaneous with the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. The city was abandoned between the 18th and 19th centuries, rediscovered in the 1920s, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

There aren’t too many things in Pakistan that are older than Mohenjo-Daro but Kot Diji is one of them. This archaeological site dates back to 3,300 B.C. and was once the forerunner of the Indus Civilization.

Islamabad Capital Territory

Islamabad was built as a planned city that’s supposed to become the capital of the country in the 1960s. The main reason for this was the city’s geographical location in the heart of Pakistan, surrounded by mountains from three sides. Obviously, this city isn’t as historically important as Karachi, Hyderabad, Multan, or Lahore, but it’s still an interesting city with a few important monuments.

Faisal Mosque

Faisal Mosque is the biggest mosque in Pakistan and the fourth-largest mosque in the world . The mosque was designed by Vedat Dalokay (famous Turkish architect) and funded by the Saudi King Faisal (whom the mosque is named after). The mosque was inspired by a Bedouin tent and is one of the most exciting pieces of contemporary Islamic architecture.

Pakistan Monument

Can we complete this list of the best places to visit in Pakistan without mentioning perhaps one of the most important modern landmarks in Pakistan? This monument was constructed to symbolize the unity of the people of Pakistan and the heritage museum onsite will tell you more about the people who gave their lives for the country. The monument’s unique elevation makes it visible from almost everywhere in Islamabad’s Metropolitan Area.

Margalla Hills and Daman-e-Koh

This picturesque Himalayan hill range is one of the best ideas for a day trip from Islamabad. The hill is located north of the capital and it’s a popular tourist activity because of the beautiful surrounding nature and bird-watching opportunities. The hill is also home to Damman-e-Koh; a spectacular hilltop garden with a lovely view. If you visit during the winter, you might even get the chance to experience a cheetah encounter.

Punjab Province

The province of Punjab covers the bulk of the transnational Punjab region and is the second-richest and second-largest province of Pakistan. Punjab has been inhabited since ancient times, it’s home to several UNESCO Heritage Sites , including Taxila (unofficially the world’s first university), and is probably Pakistan’s most important historical region.

Lahore is the capital of the Punjab Province and the second-largest city in Pakistan. If Karachi is the financial/industrial hub of Pakistan, then Lahore is the cultural, educational, and political hub of the country. The city was under the control of numerous different empires throughout the years, and as such have accumulated an impressive number of important historical sites.

Lahore Fort, Lahore

This 16th-century fort has been protecting the city for over 600 years and is perhaps Lahore’s best-known landmark and the city’s only UNESCO Heritage site. On the fort, you’ll find engraved designs that showcase elements of both, Muslim and Hindu influences, beautifully-carved marbles, and 21 notable monuments.

Badashahi Mosque, Lahore

Badashahi Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lahore and Pakistan. It was built during the rule of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and is an important piece of Mughal architecture and heritage. The mosque was built five centuries ago but it’s still the second-largest in Pakistan with a capacity of 56,000. How’s that for impressive?

And speaking of impressive places to visit in Pakistan?

Minar-e-Pakistan, Lahore

Near Badashahi Mosque, you’ll find the famous Minar-e Pakistan. Built in the 1960s, this national monument symbolizes the strive for an independent homeland for the Muslims of British India. It might not be one of the oldest buildings in Lahore but its unique blend of Mughal/Islamic and modern architecture makes it one of Lahore’s most beautiful architectural sites.

And speaking of beautiful architectural sites…

Sheesh Mahal, Lahore

Sheesh Mahal translates to ‘palace of mirrors’ and this name is rather descriptive. The palace is decorated by intricating mirror-work of finest quality inlaid into the white marble walls and ceilings, creating a gleaming effect that will take your breath away.

Tomb of Jahangir, Lahore

This tomb is one of the most grandiose eternal resting places I’ve ever seen but you can’t expect less from the tomb of a Mughal Emperor. This architectural masterpiece is dotted with pietra dura on the outside while the inside is decorated with delicately-carved marbles and fascinating frescoes. And if that’s not enough, the lush, green gardens that surround the mausoleum make this place even more beautiful

Anarkali Bazaar, Lahore

This bazaar doesn’t require a special introduction. It’s one of Pakistan’s oldest markets famous for jewelry, textiles, antique shops, and the country’s best street food .

Bahawalpur & Lal Suhanra National Park

Lying amidst the spectacular arid landscapes of the Cholistan Desert, Bahawalpur is the heart of what was once a princely state that was a part of the Rajputana states stretching across the region of Rajasthan. The Nawabs ruled Bahawalpur until 1955 and fortunately, most of the things that were built during their rule are in great condition. Some of them are the most important landmarks of Bahawalpur even today. Perhaps the most famous monument is the Noor Mahal (an Italian-style chateau), but also Farid Gate, Derawar Fort, and the royal tombs.  

The city also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Lal Suhanra National Park; a UNESCO declared Biosphere Reserve and one of only a few places on Earth where you can find desert, forest, and wetland ecosystems at such a small territory.

Katas Raj Temples

The Katas Raj is a complex of Hindu Temples that surround a sacred pond named Katas. According to Hindu mythology, the pond was created by Lord Shiva’s tears after the death of his wife Sati.

Hiran Minar

Hiran Minar translates to ‘deer temple’ and this is an accurate description of this 17th-century complex. Emperor Jahangir built this temple for his pet antelope who was the emperor’s loyal hunting companion. The emperor was known for his fondness of nature and this complex embodies his relationship with nature and animals.

Muree is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Punjab. This town was created in the 1850s as a sanatorium for British troops but today is one of the most beautiful mountain resort towns in the region and one of the places you have to visit when traveling to Pakistan. The winters are very cold but the landscapes are breath-taking while the summer temperatures are pleasant, making Murree a great getaway destination throughout the year.

Qila Rohtas

Located near Jhelum, this massive fort was built during the reign of Sher Shah Suri. Rohtas Fort is arguably the largest fort on the Indian subcontinent and a marvelous sample of the Muslim military architecture in South Asia. Hence, it’s no surprise that Rohtas Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The fort has 12 gates, a royal mosque on site, and a traditional haveli mansion (among other things).

The city of Multan is an eclectic mix of ancient historical sites, medieval Islamic architecture, and Sufism. It’s the seventh most populous city and one of the best places to visit in Pakistan when it comes to religious sites. Multan attracts thousands of Sufi pilgrims from all around Pakistan with its innumerable mosques, shrines, and tombs that earned the city the nickname ‘City of Saints’.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

Formerly known as the North-West-Frontier Province, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is Pakistan’s smallest province and home to the ancient kingdom of Gandhara. Today, the province is home to several different ethnic groups that’s been politically combined into one province. Hence, turmoil isn’t uncommon. After the 2001 attacks, the Pakistan Army’s search for al-Qaeda fighters in the area resulted in armed resistance and several terrorist groups emerged.

Today, things are getting better, but there are still certain areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that travelers are advised to avoid.

Peshawar is the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the largest Pashtun -majority city in Pakistan. It was the former capital of the Kushan Empire until the White Huns conquered it. Today, the city is famous mostly for its historical sites, such as Bala Hisar Fort, Jamrud Fort, the ancient Buddhist Stupas, the Peshawar Museum, Sunehri Mosque, and many others.

Lulusar Lake

Sitting at 3,410 meters, Lulusar Lake is one of the highest mountain lakes in Pakistan. With its beautiful backdrop and turquoise-blue color, Lulusar Lake is one of those places that leave even the biggest wordsmiths speechless.

The word ‘ansoo’ translates to ‘tear’ and that’s an appropriate description for this teardrop-shaped lake. Getting there isn’t a breeze because the lake sits at 4,245 meters (13,927 ft) but once you get there you’ll forget all about the hell you experienced climbing to the lake. Interestingly, because of its remote location, the lake was undiscovered until 1993.

Lake Saiful Muluk

Speaking of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan, we just have to mention Lake Saiful Muluk. This beautiful, blue lake is located in the northern part of the Kaghan Valley and is surrounded by snow-capped mountaintops throughout the year which makes this one of the most Instagrammable places in the whole country.

Nathia Gali

Nathia Gali is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This mountain resort town is located at the center of the Galyat range and it’s famous for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and pleasant weather.

Kalam Valley

This picturesque valley in the northern part of the province is covered in lush green forests, speeding mountain streams, beautiful lakes, and hidden waterfalls that will blow you away. It’s one of the best places to visit in Pakistan if you’re a nature lover who likes getting off-the-beaten-track.

Shogran and Payee Lake

Shogran is another popular hill station in this part of Pakistan. It’s one of the safest and most frequented places in the region. However, if that’s not your cup of tea, you can get off the beaten track and visit the beautiful and lonely Payee Lake atop of the green plateau near the Hindu Kush.

Boyun Village

Boyun or ‘the Green Top Village’ is a charming village comfortably sitting at a level plateau, 1,000 feet above Kalam. The only way to reach the village is by driving on a dirt road or on foot from Kalam. With sweeping panoramic views of the valleys below, the village is home to one of the best viewpoints in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa

Kalash Valley

The three Kalash valleys are home to the Kalash people ; said to be descendants of the armies of Alexander the Great, and one of the most beautiful parts of Pakistan. This region is cut off from the rest of the country. Hence, the people have very different characteristics, speak a different language, and even practice a different religion. The three valleys are ringed by the famed Hindu Kush mountain range and if you want to experience the remoteness that allowed the Kailash community to thrive isolated from the rest of the world throughout the years, you should seriously consider visiting.

Gilgit-Baltistan Autonomous Region

Until recently, there was a separatist movement that strived to separate the region to seek independence of Gilgit-Baltistan from Pakistan. However, in 2019, the military managed to defeat the rebels and bring security back into the autonomous region of Gilgit-Baltistan. Today, Gilgit-Baltistan is the northernmost administrative territory of Pakistan and home to numerous mountain peaks higher than 20,000 feet, ski centers, the world’s highest polo ground, and several fascinating national parks.

Babusar Pass & Karakoram Highway

I have to start with Babusar Pass. If there’s a heaven, I’m sure it would something like this with green valleys on the horizons and mountaintops so high that they go through the clouds. The pass is a part of Karakoram Highway; one of the most scenic drives not only in Pakistan but in the whole world. The road passes through some of Pakistan’s highest mountains and connects Gilgit-Baltistan to the province of Xinjiang in western China. Karakoram Highway is famous for being one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century.

Hunza Valley

If you’re looking for dramatic landscapes dotted with snow-capped mountains, visit Hunza Valley in the northernmost part of Pakistan. The region borders the Wakhan Corridor of Afghanistan and due to its remoteness, it’s one of the least-visited parts of the Indian Subcontinent. There are several notable attractions in Hunza Valley, such as Attabad Lake, Eagle’s Nest, and the Passu Cones.

Attabad Lake

This divine lake is one of the most recent additions of Pakistan’s tourism scene. The lake was created when a large landslide blocked the flow of the Hunza River, creating a bright-blue turquoise lake.

Eagle’s Nest

Words can do little justice to one of the most beautiful sunset spots in Pakistan. If you fall in love with the surroundings and the amazing sunsets, you can even stay in the upscale hotel conveniently named after the viewpoint.

Passu Cones

Tupopdan (6,106 meters) is a cone-shaped mountaintop near the village of Passu. It’s one of the most interesting masterpieces of nature I’ve ever seen. Hence, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most photographed places in Gilgit Baltistan.

Gilgit & Naltar valley

Gilgit is the regional capital, but honestly, it fades in comparison to cities like Peshawar, Lahore, and Karachi. However, the beautiful surroundings and mountainesque landscapes, including the picturesque Naltar Valley surrounding the city are a reason enough to visit.

Khaplu Palace

Khaplu Palace is probably the oldest palace in this part of Pakistan. It was built in the 19th century but restored recently. Since 2011, the palace is home to one of the finest museums dedicated to Baltistan’s culture and heritage.

Concordia (Karakoram)

Sitting at the confluence of the mighty Baltoro Glacier and the Godwin-Austen Glacier, Concordia is one of the most majestic places to visit in Pakistan. I’ve done a  lot of camping throughout the years , but Concordia is arguably the best camping spot I’ve seen. The views are amazing and will make you feel like you’re camping at the edge of the world. On top of that, it’s also a great starting point for reaching several of the neighboring mountaintops, including…

Everyone knows that Mt. Everest is the highest mountaintop in the world. However, the number of people who know which top is number 2 is significantly lower. Subsequently, the number of people who know this mountaintop is actually in Pakistan is even lower. Sitting at 8,611 meters, K2 is the highest point of the Karakoram that’s often referred to as the ‘Savage Mountain’. George Bell, one of the first who tried to climb it, described K2 as ‘a savage mountain that tries to kill you’. Personally, I know this is one of the places I have to visit in Pakistan before I die, but if you’re looking for something less extreme , you should at least try trekking to…

Rakaposhi Base Camp

Pakistan has a lot of mountains, probably too many for all of them to be mentioned on this list. However, if you’re looking for a relatively easy trek that showcases the best of Pakistan’s mountains, you should definitely attempt trekking to Rakaposhi Base Camp. From here, you can get some insane views of the third-highest mountaintop in Pakistan (7,800 meters). We chose to put this place on this list only because it’s a lot easier than K2 and Broad Peak (the two highest mountaintops in Pakistan). Also, it can be achieved in a day, making it a lot more practical for visitors.

Deosai National Park

The Deosai Plateau is the world’s second-highest plateau, falling only behind Chang Tang. The plateau is also home to Deosai National Park, famous for its rich flora and fauna. The plateau is sitting between the Karakoram and the Western Himalayas and is covered in snow for 3 quarters of the year. The park is home to numerous different species including red fox, Himalayan ibex, gray wolf, snow leopard, golden marmot, the Ladakh urial, and more than 120 species of migratory birds.

Fairy Meadows

Fairy Meadows has recently become one of the most popular places in Pakistan and there’s a good reason for that. The meadows are reachable by jeep and offers amazing views of the rolling meadows and Nanga Prabat (the world’s 9th highest mountaintop) in the background.

Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir translates to ‘Free Kashmir’ and is an autonomous region in Pakistan. The entire region of Kashmir  is divided between India, China, and Pakistan. According to India, the entire region belongs to India. According to Pakistan, the part of Kashmir they control is ‘free’ while the rest is ‘occupied’. As you’re probably figuring it out, things in Kashmir are quite complicated  but that doesn’t change the fact that Kashmir, whether in India or Pakistan is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.

Muzaffarabad

Situated in a valley formed by the confluence of the Neelam and Jhelum rivers, Muzaffarabad is the provincial capital. Needless to say, this isn’t a typical regional capital with important landmarks and monuments. But the nature surrounding the city is absolutely mesmerizing.

Neelum Valley

Named after the Neelum River which passes through it, this 150 kilometers-long valley known as the Blue Gem of Pakistan (because of the crystal-blue river) is dotted with mountain streams, lush forests, towering mountains, and charming archaic houses. If you like getting off the beaten track, Neelum Valley is a perfect choice.

Kel is one of the most picturesque mountain villages I’ve ever seen. Located 155 kilometers away from Muzaffarabad, the village is famous for the gemstones found at the Nangi Mali Mine and the surroundings. Hence, the nickname ‘the gem of Azad Kashmir’.

Is Pakistan safe to visit?

This is the main concern for most people who plan to visit Pakistan. I have to admit, during my first visit, I felt uneasy too. However, all of my concerns went out of the window as soon as I reached. Unlike what the media is trying to tell you, Pakistan is not a country full of terrorists. It’s actually a country of warm and welcoming people who go out of their way to accommodate and help tourists.

Sure, there are areas that aren’t safe but in some parts where traveling is possible, tourists are escorted by the military. But except for parts of Balochistan or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan is relatively safe. However, that doesn’t mean you should travel without travel insurance. Personally, I recommend choosing  SafetyWing . They are more expensive than most travel insurance companies but they have you covered no matter what happens. Unlike some other providers that have cheaper packages but don’t provide any coverage for a lot of emergencies.

What’s the best time to visit Pakistan?

The short answer is ‘it depends on what you want to do’. If you want to go skiing or indulge in other winter activities, the obvious choice is during the winter. However, I don’t recommend this because most of the mountain roads are not open due to heavy snow. This also means you won’t see some of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan.

The peak season for visiting Pakistan is between May and October but if you want to catch the shoulder season, you can still have a great time visiting in April or early November too.

How much time to spend in Pakistan?

Pakistan is a big country and if you want to explore it in great detail, you would need at least a couple of months. The distances between places are long and the roads aren’t the best and some of them are not for the faint-hearted . I spent one month in Pakistan and it felt like too little and I knew I have to visit again.

Furthermore, if you want to do some trekking, you have to be strategic; allow enough time for your body to adjust to the high elevation and new environment. If you like trekking like me, you could probably spend a month just exploring the mountains of Northern Pakistan!

Helpful resources for visiting Pakistan

Looking for a cheap flight to Pakistan? Check out Qatar Airways’s Discover the World at a low price program . Not because I’m their affiliate but because this special offer always gets me the cheapest flights.

If you want to take a tour in Pakistan, I recommend  GetYourGuide’s tours  for the main tourist attractions.

To get some great accommodation deals in Pakistan, use  this link and save 15% on all accommodation bookings in Pakistan.

For the best travel insurance deals for traveling to Pakistan, check out  SafetyWing .

Last but certainly not least, get a Pakistan visa. I visited Pakistan five times and the best visa intermediary I came across is definitely  IVisa . Their price is almost the same as getting a visa on your own, except their team will do all of their work for you.

Did you like this list of the best places to visit in Pakistan? Would you ever consider visiting this country someday? Did this post inspire you to visit Pakistan? Let us know in the comments!

 Like it? Pin it.

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

Wow, this blog is a visual treat, showcasing the incredible beauty of Pakistan's tourist places. 😍 If you're as fascinated as I am, don't miss out on exploring more of Pakistan's hidden gems.

Passport Symphony

Saturday 30th of September 2023

Thank you, Farhan, I appreciate it.

Wednesday 7th of June 2023

hill stations in Pakistan are nature's tranquil retreats, where lush greenery and cool mountain air embrace weary souls, offering solace and rejuvenation amidst breathtaking vistas. These enchanting hill stations in Pakistan provide a blissful escape from the heat of the plains, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in serene surroundings and embrace the serenity of the mountains

Tuesday 27th of June 2023

Absolutely agree, Neha :)

Tuesday 24th of November 2020

Takht-i-Bahi, also known as the throne of water spring is an Indo-Parthian archaeological site located in Mardan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. There are many things to do in the city but you should visit this place as it is one of the most imposing relics of Buddhism in all of Gandhara.

Sunday 13th of December 2020

That's an interesting suggestion too. Thank you for sharing it.

Wednesday 5th of August 2020

So many great places across the entire country! I'm in Lahore right now but my dream is to visit Balochistan.

passport symphony

Sunday 9th of August 2020

Indeed, Arabela! Balochistan is amazing too, hope you make it there someday.

Elita Goldin

Saturday 6th of June 2020

I'm already in love with this amazing country, your photos made me feel fly there right now.

Tuesday 16th of June 2020

Thank you, I'm glad you liked it.

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50 Places to Visit in Pakistan | Travel Pakistan Before You Die

Are you planning to explore Pakistan ? Here are 50 best places to visit in Pakistan and make your visit memorable. Pakistan has four provinces Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh. Punjab is the largest province in terms of population and physically the second largest province in Pakistan. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, in 2017, 1.75 million tourists visited Pakistan’s famous places . It has mountains and rivers for adventurous, archeological sites for curious people. There are untouched beaches for those looking to be. Pakistan is the best country to visit with great potential for tourism.

50 Places To Visit In Pakistan

This post will give you information about the best locations to visit in Pakistan in terms of the province, as well as travel around, safety, and planning your trip. In a country where you have so many options to choose from, here are 50 best locations to visit in Pakistan.

1. Lahore Fort (شاہی قلعہ):

Another beautiful piece of Mughal architecture built in the 1580s. The Fort is located in the northwest corner of the city of Lahore and covers an area of ​​more than 20 hectares. It has been destroyed but rebuilt with the passage of times throughout history.

2. Minar-e-Pakistan:

Minar-e-Pakistan was also demanded Yadgar-e-Pakistan (Pakistan Resolution Memorial). The tower was built between 1960 and 1968 on the site where the All India Muslim League passed the Lahore Resolution on March 23, 1940. The design of Minar-e-Pakistan is very interesting with a Mughal, Islamic, and contemporary architecture. Minar e Pakistan height is 203 feet.

3. Badshahi Mosque:

The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb built the Badshahi Mosque, or ‘Emperor’s Mosque’, in 1673 in Lahore. The mosque is located on the outskirts of Walled City Lahore, west of Lahore Fort, and is considered one of the best places to visit.

4. Derawar Fort:

About 130 km south of Bahawalpur city, forty forts of Derawar are visible several miles away in the Cholistan desert. The tension of the walls is 1500 meters and stands up to a height of 30 meters. Rai Jaja Bhati of Jaisalmer, a Hindu Rajput, was the one who initially built a fort on this sight. Historically, this important fort offers a huge and impressive structure in the middle of the Cholistan Desert.

5. Katas Raj Temples:

Katas Raj Temples grounds are located around a pond called Katas, which is considered sacred by Hindus. Pakistan has to offer the most attractive and tourist places in Pakistan, it is located 16 km from Kalar Kahar area of ​​Chakwal district. These temples are located near the town of Choa Saidanshah and near the M2 motorway.

6. Khewra Salt Mine:

If you are going towards the northern region of Pakistan, then the best locations to visit in Pakistan are the second-largest salt mine in the world, Khewra Salt Mine located in Jhelum. Khewra mines are also major tourist places in Pakistan. It is located 288 meters above sea level. The total length of the Salt Range is 300 km (186 miles), extending from Beganwala near the Jhelum River to Kalabagh near the Indus River. The mine is famous for its pink salt, and is a major tourist attraction, attracting 250,000 visitors each year.

7. Harappa:

Harappa is located on the banks of the Ravi River in central Punjab near Sahiwal district, the capital city of Sindh civilization. It is one of the best places amongst the best places to visit in Punjab. Harappan Architecture and civilization were the most advanced in the ancient Bronze Age. The ancient city of Harappa was badly damaged during the British rule when bricks from the ruins were used as track ballast in the construction of the Lahore-Multan railway. It reflects knowledge of life about 2500 BC ago.

Taxila, also known as ‘City of Cut Stone’ The subcontinent is an important archaeological site in the Indian subcontinent, located in the modern city of Punjab, Pakistan. It is located about 32 km (20 miles) northwest of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It is a site museum with collections of Gandhara art, ranging from about 600 BB to 700 BB. There are many sites of Gandhara and other ancient civilizations that have been opened to the public and is one of the amongst beautiful places to visit in Punjab.

9. Tomb of Jahangir:

Lahore has a special place for its famous places and historical buildings where Jahangir’s tomb is one of them the best places to visit in Lahore. The tomb belongs to the famous Mughal emperor Jahangir who was buried here after his death in 1627. The tomb is located at a place called Shahdara on the outskirts of Lahore. This place was chosen for his tomb because Jahangir loved this place with his wife Noor Jahan when he was living in the city.

10. Noor Mahal:

Another one of the beautiful places to visit in Bahawalpur is Noor Mahal or Noor Palace. It is a palace owned by the Pakistan Army in Bahawalpur, Punjab. It is about 150 years old. Famous legend Nawab Sabah Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV laid the foundation stone of this palace in honor of his wife. Construction work began in 1872. The palace was completed in 1875 at a cost of 1.2 million pkr.

11. Shalimar Gardens:

Shalimar Gardens in the subcontinent are also a part of the Mughal era. The park was built where Emperor Shah Jahan was associated with nature and its beauty. If you are coming to visit Punjab then these tourist places to visit in Punjab of Punjab are definitely worth visiting.

12. Hiran Minar:

Hiran Minar is located in Sheikhupura Punjab province of Pakistan is a complex of the early 17th-century Mughal period. The complex was built on the site of a game reserve in honor of the Mughal emperor Jahangir’s beloved deer named Manserj. The emperor is remembered for his love of nature, and his complex depicts the Mughal relationship between humans, pets and hunting.

13. Swaik Lake:

Swaik Lake is a magnificent natural waterfall located in Kalar Kahar Tehsil, Chakwal District, Punjab. This can be achieved through the M2 Motorway connecting Lahore and Islamabad. It is one of them the special tourist places to visit in Chakwal and offers swimming and diving opportunities.

14. Uchhali Lake:

Uchhali Lake is one of the most popular places to visit in Salt Range. Uchhali is a brackish water lake in the valley of Soan Sakaser, southern Salt Range region of Pakistan. It is formed due to the absence of drainage in the lake range. Sakasar, a 1,522-meter-high mountain in the salt range, stands above the lake.

15. Wazir Khan Mosque:

Since Islam is the state religion of the country, and the former ruler was a Muslim Mughal emperor, there are many mosques in the subcontinent that are of historical places to visit in Lahore. Wazir Khan Masjid is an amazing piece of artwork that has been praised for its amazing work of finance tiles. It is located in Lahore city. The mosque was built in 1634 and was completed in 7 years in 1641 during the reign of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.

16. Rohtas Fort:

Rohtas Fort, or Qila Rohtas as the locals call it, is a garrison fort of great historical value, located near the Grand Trunk Road, Jhelum. Rohtas Fort is of great historical places to visit in Jhelum. The fort was built in the 16th century by Afghan King Sher Shah Suri. It was completed in 8 years and its circumambulation is 4 km.

17. Fort Munro:

Fort Munro is a hill station located at 6,470 feet above sea level in Dera Ghazi Khan. It is also known as Taman Leghari. During the summer it attracts a lot of people for short stays. This is a paradise of South Punjab. Fort Munro connects the two borders of Balochistan and Punjab.

18. Uch Sharif:

In Uch Sharif, there is the tomb of Bibi Jawindi and it is one of the 5 famous monuments. Therefore, these are the best tourist destinations of Punjab city. The foundation of good was laid by Alexander the Great in 325 BC on the Indus River as the city of Alexandria.

19. Faisal Mosque:

The Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Asia and reflects an ideological blend of ultramodern and traditional architectural design style. It is located at the foot of the Margalla Hills. The mosque is dedicated to the memory of the late King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, who bestowed the cost of the project as a gift to the people of Pakistan.

20. Changa Manga:

Changa Manga is about 70 km from Lahore where the attractions include an artificial lake and a small railway that runs through its jungle. It is located about 80 km southwest of Lahore. Spread over 50 acres, it is a popular picnic spot with plenty of opportunities for TDCP resorts, motorboats, children’s parks and outdoor sports.

21. Lahore Zoo:

Lahore Zoo is the largest zoo in Pakistan. It is currently managed by the Department of Forests, Wildlife and Fisheries, Government of Pakistan. Today the zoo has a collection of 1378 animals of 135 species. The Lahore Zoo is really a place to see if you visit Lahore.

22. Soan Sakaser Valley:

Soan Sakaser is a valley in the northern Punjab of Pakistan. Soon Sakaser is located at the confluence of Mianwali and Chakwal districts. The valley starts at Padharar village and ends at Sakaser, the highest peak of the salt range. Lakes, springs, and waterfalls, including Chashma Sultan Mehdi, Deep Sharif, Jahlar Lake, Kanhati Garden, and Neela Vahn, abound the tourist’s places to visit in Punjab.

23. Wagah Border:

The town of Wagah is famous for the Wagah Border Ceremony and also serves as a transit terminal and railway station for Pakistan. A unique event of the world is celebrated every afternoon before sunset at Wagah on the Pak-India border near Lahore. A march, called the “Sily Walk Ceremony,” is held every evening with a flag ceremony. The ceremony began in 1986 as a peace treaty.

24. Kund Malir:

Kund Malir Beach is a very exotic beach and definitely one of the special tourist places to visit in Makran. It is considered the most beautiful beach in the world. Many tour services companies now offer their services to explore this beautiful region. It is located about 150 km from Zero Point on the Makran National Highway.

25. Astola Island:

The Island of Astola, also known as Jazira Haft Talar, is an uninhabited island in the Arabian Sea. The island is a part of Pasni in Gwadar District and the largest island of Pakistan. Really a huge tourist attraction places to visit in Balochistan. Astola is a popular but difficult destination for tourism due to the unavailability of accommodation. Tourists wishing to stay overnight must camp on the island with their luggage.

26. Kaghan Valley

Kaghan is a valley where your dreams come true because of its nature and mind-blowing scenery. Kaghan valley located in Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Kaghan valley has a huge amount of mountains and waterfalls. People are visiting the Kaghan valley because of its attractive views.

27. Saif-ul-Maluk Lake

Saif-ul-Maluk is a beautiful mountain and this lake is located in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa near Naran. The biggest thing about this lake is, the lake is 3,224 m above from sea level and this is one of the top highest lakes around this world and in Pakistan. Kunhar River is created from lake saif-ul-maluk. Saif-ul-Maluk is also famous because of its National Park created in 2003 with full of beauty and nature.

28. Shandur Pass

Shandur pass called Roof of the world because of its hight. Shandur passes also famous because of its big Polo Festivals and these are the highest height polo festivals around the world. On July 7th to 9th polo, festivals are held on Shandur Pass. Shandur pass is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and it connects two major area’s Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

29. Lulusar

Lulusar also called Lalusar. Lulusar famous because its a group of mountain peaks. Its located in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and connect Kaghan valley and Manshera. Lulusar distance from Naran is 287km and any vehicle can go to Lulusar without any special guide.

29. Malam Jabba

Malam Jabba’s other name is Maalam Jabba and famous by its hill station and ski resorts. Malam Jabba have two biggest ski resorts . The ski resort has all the latest equipment like skiing platforms, chair lifts, and ice clearing machines.

30. Mahodand Lake

Mahodand lake is located in Swat, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Mahodand lake is famous because of its clear water, fishing, and boating. Only 4 wheel drive vehicles can go to Mahodand lake because of its roads. Lake looks more beautiful with snow. Mahodand Lake is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan.

31. Mukeshpuri

Mukeshpuri located in Nathiagali, Abbottabad, and its height is 2,800km. Mountain covers with conifer forest and it’s full of nature. Mukeshpuri mountain attached to Hindus Legends. Snowy mountains make more beautiful Mukeshpuri.

32. Ansoo Lake

Ansoo Lake’s other name is ansu lake because of its shape to the human eye. Word ansu is called human tears. Water is coming down like tears and gathering into a whole like an eye, when you see the lake from a height it looked like eye tear. Ansu lake located in Kaghan. Lake is 4,245m above from sea level.

33. Bolan Pass

Bolan Pass is a mountain road 120 km (75 miles) from the Toba Kakar Range in Balochistan Province, West Pakistan, 120 km (75 miles). It is made up of numerous narrow ravines and stretches. It connects Sibi with Quetta by road and rail.

34. Hanna Lake

Hanna Lake is one of the largest tourist places to visit in Quetta that showcases the natural beauty of Balochistan. This is the place where people from all over Pakistan go first when they go to Quetta. This historic lake was formed as a result of the construction of a reservoir during the British colonial period.

35. Hingol National Park

Hingol National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Balochistan, especially in Balochistan, which showcases incredible natural beauty. Hangol National Park covers thousands of acres, including coastal land and the famous Kund Malir beach. Balochistan is known for its biodiversity. An amazing number of more than 200 species of birds and animals live here.

36. Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park

Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park is one of the most amazing places to visit in Quetta, which offers beautiful natural beauty with the view of dry mountains. It is located in the Mastung district. It was established in 1980 and covers an area of ​​325,000 acres on the outskirts of Quetta, near Mount Chiltan. The park was set up to house the rare Chiltan ibexes in this area. One of the places to visit in quetta is Hazarganji Chiltan.

37. Moola Chotok

This sight deprived of tourism is known as Maula Chotok in Khuzdar, Balochistan. Surrounded by long cliffs, the waterfall, called Chotok, is one of the largest waterfalls in all of Moola Tehsil. Since the military operations in Khuzdar Division, Chhotok has been cleared of all dangers and can now go for locals and tourists and see the unparalleled beauty.

38. Urak Valley

Urak Valley is another mind-blowing tourist places to visit in Balochistan Province. It is found near the city of Quetta. Fresh spring water is flowing from both sides of the road. At the end of it is a small waterfall at the entrance of the adjacent Wali Tangi Dam. The total population of Urok Valley is 10,000 and almost all Kakars are a sub-tribe of Pashtuns.

Ziarat, is also the capital of Ziarat District, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Balochistan. The Ziarat Valley is also known as the Quaid-e-Azam Residency, which is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan. Surrounding Ziarat is a lush green juniper forest, locally called Sanobar, the largest area of ​​juniper forest in Pakistan, covering an area of ​​about 110,000 hectares. The forest is believed to be the second-largest of its kind in the world.

40. Hinglaj Mata Temples

Hinglaj Mata Temples is a Hindu temple in Hanglaj, a town on the Makran coast in Lasbela District, Balochistan. It is a form of a dargah or goddess in a mountain cave on the banks of the Hangul River. Hanglaj Yatra is the largest Hindu Yatra in Pakistan. More than 250,000 people take part in the Hanglaj Yatra during the spring.

41. Kalasha Valleys

Kalasha Valleys are located in Chitral, KPK. Kalash Valley’s famous thing is the valley has a unique culture of Kalash peoples. Kalash Valley is an attraction for national or international tourists. Kalash has three main valleys.

42. Tirich Mir

Tirich Mir is the world’s second-highest mountain after the Himalayas-Karakoram range and it is located in Chitral, KPK. Tirich Mir also called snow-capped the highest mountain. Tirich Mir mountain mostly covered with clouds. People come around the world to go to the mountain peak. One of the places to visit in KPK is Tirich mir.

43. Miranjani

Miranjani is 2,992 meters high mountain in Abbottabad, KPK. This place is ideal for hiking. You can feel clouds near you at the miranjani peak. Miranjani hiking is very long brought some water with you if you are going to Miranjani hiking.

44. Kumrat Valley

Located in Upper Dir in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Kumrat called scenic valleys of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa because of its beautiful scenes and nature. Kumrat Valley is the picture spot for tourists and travelers. Millions of peoples are visiting Kumrat valley in summer. Kumrat specialties are nature, snow, and mountains. Kumrat valley also has pure crystal water from the mountains. One of the places to visit in Kumrat Valley.

45. Mall Road

Located in Murree and mall road is a very busy road and market in Murree. In winter you can enjoy snowfalls in mall roads streets. Mall road has traditional items, foods, and dry fruits. The special thing about mall road is the hospitality of their peoples are very great. Any vehicle can go to the mall road and there is a lot of parking spaces so no need to worry about parking. You can go to Kashmir point its near to mall road and look at the Kashmir valleys from there. Mall road is one of the best places to visit in Murree.

46. Takht-i-Bahi

Takht-i-Bahi is an ancient place located in Mardan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Takht-i-Bahi related to Buddhism. It was founded in the first century and used by many kings till the 7th century. You can go with any vehicle for this site and the tickets are very cheap. Keep your food and water with you because there are no restaurants. Takht-i-Bahi is one of the best historical places to visit in KPK

47. Lalazar

Lalazar is a natural tourist place and has above 3,123m from sea level. Lalazar located in Upper Kaghan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Lalazar is one of the best places to visit in KPK. Lalazar is a peaceful place you can camp here. Mountain has a great view and peoples also you can check the views of the Agricultural at the top of the mountains. You can enjoy horse ridings. Many types of flowers out there, in short words Lalazar have pure nature.

48. Bumburet

Bumburet is located in Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and has amazing views of nature that will full of water and 1100 m above from sea level. Bumburet has colorful natural trees. Bumburet is a hidden place in Pakistan. Go to the museum and views the graveyards of Bumburet.

49. Khanpur Dam

The dam is located in Khanpur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The dam is built on the Haro river and made a top tourist attraction in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. You can do many things at khanpur dam lake like powerboats riding, Paragliding and Parasailing. Lake also has a water scooter riding. You can do hight jumps boating and swim in the lake. All safety and security are available if any bad thing happens at the lake.

50. Bala Hisar Fort

The historical fort located in the old Peshawar city, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Durrani Empire used this fort for living. Pakistan government declared fort as a Tourism point. You can check the Pakistani army museum at the fort. Its an army place now and when you are going to visit you should take your national id card or passport with you.

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The Best Cities in Pakistan to Visit (Or Even Move To)

I know, Pakistan doesn’t attract that many international tourists, especially when compared to its neighbor India . But, Pakistan is beautiful, has some very unique places to visit, and can definitely be a great travel destination.

In this article I want to share with you the best cities in Pakistan to visit.

And if you are worried about safety in Pakistan, I add some information about that at the end of this article.

From stunning mountains to incredible history and delicious food. Pakistan has a lot to offer.

Pakistani tourism is increasing, and many tourism companies are focused on quality as well as sustainability . From staying in boutique hotels overlooking small peaks in the Hunza Valley to soaking up culture at fantastic museums in cities like Lahore, there is something for everyone.

Now let’s take a look at some of Pakistan’s best cities to visit, so we can help you make a decision on where to go next.

The Best Cities in Pakistan

1. islamabad.

Islamabad is the modern capital of Pakistan, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.

For most people Islamabad is the best city in Pakistan to start exploring the country .

The city is located between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab Province.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (often abbreviated to KPK) is known as a tourist hotspot for adventurers and explorers. The province has a varied landscape ranging from rugged mountains to valleys, hills and dense agricultural farms.

Punjab is known for its ancient cultural heritage as well as its religious diversity.

Islamabad has attracted people from all over the country, giving it a mix of cultures. Most people living in Islamabad are well educated, giving the city a more Western feel when it comes to tolerance, secularism, liberalism, etc.

 Just like the culture, the food in Islamabad is also a mix of cuisines, mainly coming from KPK and Punjab. You should try the delicious Pulao rice and Karahi from Punjab, as well as Sajji and Lamb from KPK.

Islamabad has some beautiful modern pieces of architecture such as the Faisal Mosque, the Pakistan Monument, the Islamabad Museum, and Lake View Park.

Then there are places worth visiting that represent the culture of different parts of Pakistan. Saidpur Village and the Lok Virsa Museum for example.

Go to Daman-e-Koh and Margalla Hills for some incredible views of the city.

Islamabad is also very important for mountain lovers, as it is where all trips to the north start. Whether you want to go on a short trip to Murree, Swat, or Chitral Valley, or a longer trip to Naran, Hunza, and Skardu, it all starts from Islamabad.

Islamabad is often ranked as the safest city in Pakistan and, according to Numbeo , is a lot safer than many other capital cities around the world.

If one of the things you love about traveling is trying new food , then Karachi is the place to go.

Karachi is Pakistan’s most populous city and main economic center. It controls Pakistan’s main stock market and hosts the head offices of the country’s leading corporations.

Large investments in the IT sector are driving Karachi’s growth and have turned the city into a hub for information and communication.

Karachi is also known as Pakistan’s transportation hub, as it has the two biggest seaports and the busiest airport in the country.

Karachi is the most diverse and cosmopolitan city in Pakistan and may offer a hint of the future direction of modern life in Pakistan.

Larger numbers of non-Muslim religious communities are settled in Karachi than in other cities in Pakistan: Hindus, Christians, Parsis, Sikhs, Bahai, Jews, Buddhists as well as Zoroastrians.

Karachi’s inhabitants are a cosmopolitan population composed of many groups from all parts of Pakistan, as well as migrants from nearby countries and Western countries. This makes the city’s population a diverse melting pot.

And this means that when you are visiting different parts of the city you will experience different cultures, different norms, languages as well as lifestyles.

Everyday life in Karachi feels different from that in other cities in Pakistan. Karachi’s culture is a unique blend of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, South Asian, and Western influences.

Karachi is known as the city of lights, for all the right reasons. If you go out at 3 am, you’ll still find all the restaurants serving delicious local food as well as the famous chai.

Karachi’s food has its own taste, packed full of spices. Biryani, Nihari, BBQ, and Haleem are popular things to try in Karachi. And you’ll find a lot of seafood here as it is a coastal city.

If you love shopping Karachi might also be the best city in Pakistan for you. Because it’s the economic hub of the country, you can find things like fabrics, handicrafts, machinery, etc. from all around Pakistan here, as well as from many other parts of the world.

Places to visit in Karachi include the Quaid’s Tomb, Port Grand, PAF Museum, Mohatta Palace, Quaid e Azam House, and the Zainab Market.

From Karachi, you can plan short trips to historical places such as Makli and Thatta. Go to a nearby beach, or to Gorakh Hills, which is the highest point of the Sindh province.

Unfortunately Karachi’s dense population comes with some downsides as well. Traffic is intense and it can get difficult and slow to move around the city.

If you ever take a bus in Karachi, which is the main form of public transport here, you’ll probably find a good number of people sitting on the roof because the bus is so crowded. It’s a sight to see, but also something to get used to.

On top of that Karachi’s air pollution is bad and exceeds WHO’s guidelines .

Because Karachi is located on the coast, it has a relatively mild climate with low levels of rainfall. Most rain occurs during the July-August monsoon season.

Winters are mild, and summers are hot. Therefore the winter months (November to February) are generally the best time to visit Karachi.

If you love history and culture then Lahore is one of the best cities to visit in Pakistan.

Lahore, the capital city of the north-eastern Punjab Province is the second-largest city in Pakistan. It is known as the cultural capital of Pakistan.

Lahore has a long and illustrious history, having served as the capital of several empires including the Shahi, Mughal, and Sikh.

Lahore is full of history, culture, and tradition, but has a large modern side to it as well.

The architectural style of Lahore is a mix of modern and old . The heart of Lahore is the Walled or Inner City, but then as a contrast you have the newly developed areas such as DHA and Bahria Town.

Lahore is also famous for its food. Chicken Karahi, Pulaao, BBQ, Nihari, Paaye, and Tawa Piece are some of the famous dishes worth trying here. Another famous thing to try is Nankhatai, a type of cookie, from Khalifa Bakers.

There are four different food streets around the city center that have dozens of famous restaurants serving all the different flavors of Punjab, and other provinces.

When you are in Lahore, you have to visit the Walled City, which is famous for its streets and buildings from the Mughal Empire as well as from the British Rule.

Other places worth visiting include the Lahore Museum, Shahi Hammam (a Persian-style bath), the Wazir Khan Mosque, the Badshahi Mosque, the Lahore Fort, the Tomb of Jahangir, Shalamar Gardens, and the Jallo Gardens.

And you can’t miss the unique Flag Hoisting Parade at the Pakistan-India Border, which is very unique for all its aggression and the synchronization between the Pakistani and Indian soldiers; people call it ‘a war without weapons’.

You can buy a lot of different types of cultural attire in Lahore at markets such as Liberty or Anarkali.

Lahore is a friendly and socially liberal city. But, as with Karachi, it’s a sprawling city, so do plan ahead and try to book your hotel in the area where you think you’ll spend most of your time.

In the old town walking or a tuk-tuk (rickshaw) are your only ways to get around. In general in Lahore rickshaws are your best (and a very cheap) way to get around.

Outside of winter, it will be too hot to walk long distances during the day.

From Lahore, you can easily visit several cities such as Kasur which has a border with India where you can experience the parade again, and is famous for its fish and Falooda (a kind of dessert). Or visit Sheikhupura which boasts historical buildings from the Mughal Era.

About a three hours drive from Lahore you can find Harappa, which was part of the 5000 years old Indus Civilization.

4. Peshawar

Peshawar is the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province (KPK) and one of the Oldest Living Cities in South Asia . The city’s recorded history goes back as far as at least 539 BC!

Peshawar is famous for its food and tourism.

Some famous food you should try in Peshawar is Chapli Kebab, Namak Mandi Karahi, Dum Pukht, Kabuli Pulao, Mantu, and Aushak. The cuisine here is pretty similar to Afghan cuisine, as Peshawar is located close to the border with Afghanistan and has a lot of cultural similarities.

Places to visit in Peshawar include the Bala Hissar Fort, the Gorkhatri Park, the Mahabat Khan Mosque, the Peshawar Gandhara Museum, the Victoria Memorial Hall and the Bab-e-Khyber (Khyber Gate).

You can visit Taxila on a day trip from Peshawar which boasts Buddhist history and remains. Or go to Takht-i-Bahi, which are the ruins of a famous historical Buddhist monastery.

In the summertime hiking tours to the mountains are offered from Peshawar.

Multan is known as the City of Saints because it has a lot of mausoleums of Sufi Saints.

It is famous for its unique architecture, sufi music, parks and historic buildings.

Multan is an interesting mix of Sufi reminiscences, historical battles, dynasty control, and commerce.

It is one of the oldest cities in the Indian subcontinent. Since 3300 BCE, Multan has passed through numerous hands, allegedly beginning with Hindu rule, then encountering Greek infiltration, and then facilitating a lengthy era of Muslim standards strongly influenced by Sufism in the eleventh and twelfth centuries.

Multan is now a prominent part of south Punjab, and visitors from all over the country and outside go to the city’s numerous sacred sites, tombs, and mosques.

Multan is located almost in the center of Southern Punjab but also not far from Sindh, making it rich in culture and tradition influenced by both sides.

The area around the city is flat and ideal for agriculture, with many citrus and mango farms.

The most popular food to try in Multan is Sohan Halwa, a traditional dessert that is world-famous.

There are many places to visit in Multan. Some of the highlights include the Multan Fort ruins, the Shahi Eid Gah Mosque, the Clock Tower, Pak Gate (and several other gates), and many famous shrines such as that of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, Bahauddin Zakaria, Bibi Pak Daman, and the tomb of Shah Yusuf Gardezi. 

From Multan, you can visit Bahawalpur, a city famous for its carpets, embroidery and pottery. In this city you can check out the Noor Mahal Palace, the Sadiq Garh Palace, and the Bahawalpur Library.

If you travel a little further you’ll end up in the Cholistan desert where you can find the impressive Derawar Fort and the Abbasi Mosque.

The best time to visit Multan and the surrounding area is in winter because summer is very hot. The highest recorded temperature is approximately 54 °C (129 °F)!

The people in Multan are very welcoming, but the security personnel and policemen you’ll come across might feel a bit annoying. They will track your movements around the city and might want to talk to you several times a day. It is for the security of the visitors, but it can get frustrating.

Hotels are very cheap in Multan as it is a smaller city, and has fewer tourists visiting.

Final Thoughts About The Best Cities in Pakistan

If this is your first time visiting Pakistan, the five cities listed above are the best cities in Pakistan to visit.

But, Pakistan is a large and diverse country . It has many more cities to visit and some incredible nature you shouldn’t miss.

Assuming your time in Pakistan is limited, I would recommend choosing two or three of the cities listed above and combining that with going into nature , exploring some of Pakistan’s valleys, mountains, and small towns.

The word ‘surprise’ always comes up when people talk about their trip to Pakistan. Everyone is usually amazed by how welcoming, pleasant, and warm Pakistanis are. They seem truly grateful that you are visiting their country.

To make the most of your time in Pakistan, make sure to plan your activities in advance. There are lots of places to visit and things to do, so do your research and go there prepared.

Note: I want to give special thanks to my friend Usman from @positivepakistantours . He’s been a great help getting a lot of local information about these cities in Pakistan. Without him, and several other helpful Pakistanis, I wouldn’t have known half of what I know about Pakistan now!

Safety in Pakistan

Pakistan has received a lot of bad press over the years when it comes to safety.

And it is true that certain areas should still be avoided and political unrest could change what these areas are.

But, Pakistan has changed a lot and promoting tourism is high on the country’s agenda these days, which includes making sure it’s safe for tourists to visit Pakistan.

Before you plan your trip to Pakistan I highly recommend reading some up-to-date reviews about safety in Pakistan . Your country’s government probably has a website with travel information for each country.

The USA has a detailed travel advisory for Pakistan here and the British government gives useful travel advice here .

That being said, governments often give a whole country a negative recommendation even when only a (small) part of it is unsafe.

Even my country, the Netherlands , received a negative recommendation from the USA once just because there was a lot of pickpocketing reported on one train route from the airport into Amsterdam! So, read all the advice you can find, and then make your own decisions.

And although I am a very independent traveler and love to find my own way around a country, in Pakistan I would highly recommend booking tours .

The tourism infrastructure and information available are just a lot more limited in Pakistan than in a well-traveled country such as Thailand . So not only is booking tours the safest way to explore Pakistan, it also makes your travels easier and you get to see and experience more.

Your local guide can tell you so much about the country. You’ll leave with great memories and a much better understanding of what Pakistan has to offer.

Also Read: How to Stay Safe While Traveling

Living in the Best Cities in Pakistan

Are you looking for the best city in Pakistan to live in?

Then this list is also useful, as these five cities are also some of the best cities to live in Pakistan as an expat.

For more information about cost of living, safety and quality of life in Pakistan as a whole or in specific cities I recommend using Numbeo , which gives good statistics.

And, having moved abroad many times, I always find Facebook groups very useful. Join groups about Pakistan or the specific city you are thinking of moving to and then ask any questions you may have about living there.

Enjoy visiting some of the best cities in Pakistan and exploring this beautiful country!

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5 thoughts on “The Best Cities in Pakistan to Visit (Or Even Move To)”

As a traveler, I completely agree that Lahore should be on every traveler’s bucket list! The food, culture, and history of the city are truly unique and unforgettable. I had the chance to visit last year and fell in love with its vibrant markets and beautiful architecture. Definitely recommend it to anyone looking to experience the real Pakistan!

Great blog post! I completely agree with your top 3 choices – Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Each of these cities has a unique charm and cultural identity that makes them worth visiting. I’ve been to all three cities and have fallen in love with the food, architecture, and history of each one. It’s great to see someone highlighting the beauty of these cities and encouraging people to explore them. Thank you for sharing!

Pakistan is packed with everything for tourists. No doubt peoples are very welcome and friendly.

Good article and very truthful, I really like the safety part of the article as often govts hype it a bit. Thanks

Thank you! 🙂

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Exciting Things to Do in Islamabad: An Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan! Known for its lush greenery, modern architecture, and tranquil ambiance, Islamabad offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, the city has something exciting in store for you. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Islamabad!

Visit Faisal Mosque

One of the most iconic landmarks in Islamabad, Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Pakistan and South Asia. Designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, its unique design resembles a Bedouin tent. With pristine white marble and a capacity to hold around 100,000 worshippers, it’s a must-visit for both architectural marvels and spiritual serenity.

Hike the Margalla Hills

For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the Margalla Hills are a paradise. With several well-marked trails ranging from easy to challenging, the hills offer a chance to connect with nature. Trail 3 and Trail 5 are particularly popular among hikers. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as birds, monkeys, and sometimes even leopards.

Explore Daman-e-Koh

Located in the Margalla Hills, Daman-e-Koh is a popular viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Islamabad. The area is a great spot for hiking, photography, and picnicking. On clear days, you can even see the majestic Faisal Mosque and the city’s sprawling landscape from here.

Dine at Monal Restaurant

Perched in the Margalla Hills, Monal Restaurant offers delicious Pakistani cuisine with stunning views of Islamabad. It’s a popular dining spot for both locals and tourists, especially for dinner when the city lights create a mesmerizing backdrop. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a variety of dishes to choose from.

Shop at Centaurus Mall

For a modern shopping experience, head to Centaurus Mall. This upscale shopping center offers a wide range of international and local brands, a food court, and a cinema. Whether you’re looking to shop for souvenirs or enjoy a meal, Centaurus Mall has plenty to offer.

Visit Pakistan Monument and Museum

The Pakistan Monument is a national symbol that represents the four provinces and three territories of the country. Its petal-like structure is beautiful both day and night, especially when it’s lit up. Don’t miss the Pakistan Monument Museum nearby, which offers insightful exhibits on the country’s history and struggle for independence.

Stroll Through Shakarparian

Shakarparian is one of the oldest tourist spots in Islamabad. It offers lush green gardens and stunning viewpoints overlooking the city. The area also includes the Parade Ground, which hosts national parades and ceremonies. It’s a fantastic spot for a peaceful stroll, especially during spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

Discover Lok Virsa Museum

Dive into Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage at Lok Virsa Museum. The museum showcases an extensive collection of handicrafts, artwork, and historical artifacts. You’ll get to explore various cultural exhibits representing different provinces and regions of Pakistan, from traditional clothes to musical instruments.

Discover Saidpur Village

Nestled in the Margalla Hills, Saidpur Village is a charming blend of history and culture. The village has been transformed into a tourist spot, retaining its historical essence with Hindu temples, an old Sikh gurdwara, and traditional mud houses. It’s a great place to enjoy local cuisine and learn about the region’s history.

Relax at Rawal Lake

Rawal Lake is a picturesque artificial reservoir that provides water to the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The lake is surrounded by lush gardens and recreational areas, making it an ideal spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Sunset views here are simply magical!

Enjoy Lake View Park

Lake View Park offers something for everyone – from bird watching to boating, and even rock climbing. This family-friendly park has an aviary, boating club, horse riding, and plenty of food stalls. It’s a perfect place for a fun day out with friends and family.

Islamabad truly has something for everyone. From serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage to modern shopping and dining experiences, this city is sure to leave a lasting impression on its visitors. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Islamabad!

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Last Updated: September 11, 2024

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