Discover the Rich Heritage of Pakistan: A Journey Through Time
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Travel Notes: Asia - Pakistan Travel Notes.
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Pakistan Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes
Immerse yourself in Pakistan's rich heritage. Discover ancient landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and captivating history of centuries-old traditions.
About Pakistan
Although security issues can hamper travel and tourism in Pakistan, the country has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and a beautiful natural landscape.
Popular tourist destinations in Pakistan include the Neelum Valley, Skardu, Shogran Valley, Hunza Valley, and Fairy Meadows.
Countries neighbouring Pakistan: Iran, Afghanistan, China and India.
Mapping The Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Map of Pakistan
The Islamic Republic of Pakistan became an independent state in 1947 and, until December 1971, included the province of East Pakistan; now Bangladesh.
The capital of Pakistan is Islamabad.
Pakistan Overview
Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan and Iran to the west, and China to the north.
Pakistan is home to a significant portion of the Karakoram Range. It also has a coastline along the Arabian Sea, to the south.
Challenges
Pakistan faces various challenges, including economic issues, political instability, terrorism, and issues related to water scarcity and environmental degradation.
It is important to note that the situation in any country can change quite rapidly, especially in places like Pakistan.
Cuisine
Pakistani cuisine is diverse and rich, with influences from South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cuisines.
Some popular dishes include biryani, kebabs, and various types of curries.
Culture
Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by various civilisations, including the Indus Valley Civilisation, Persian, Central Asian, and Islamic cultures.
It has a diverse range of traditional music, dance, and art.
Economy
Pakistan's economy is a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
Money sent home from overseas Pakistanis also play a significant role in the country's economy.
Government
Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic.
The President is the ceremonial head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
History
Pakistan gained independence from British rule on 14th August, 1947, following the partition of British India.
The creation of Pakistan was based on the Two-Nation Theory, which asserted that Hindus and Muslims were distinct nations.
Major Cities
Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Multan.
Official Language
Urdu is the official language of Pakistan, while English is also widely used in official and business circles.
Population
With a population of over 220 million people, Pakistan is the fifth-most populous country in the world.
Religion
Much of the population in Pakistan practices Islam, with the majority being Sunni Muslims.
Tourist Attractions
Pakistan has several tourist attractions, including historical sites like Mohenjo-daro, Taxila, and Lahore Fort.
The northern areas, including the Hunza Valley and Swat Valley, are known for their stunning landscapes.
Visiting Pakistan
Visiting Pakistan can offer a diverse range of experiences for travellers, from exploring historical sites to enjoying the natural beauty of its landscapes.
Before planning your trip to Pakistan, it's wise to check travel advisories, obtain the necessary visas, and be aware of the local customs and regulations.
Additionally, keep in mind that situations can change, so it's essential to stay informed about the current state of affairs in the region you plan to visit.
Pakistan Highlights
Cultural Festivals
Experience the vibrant culture of Pakistan by participating in local festivals.
The Basant festival in Lahore, with its colourful kites, is a unique and lively celebration.
Food Exploration
Indulge in the diverse and flavourful Pakistani cuisine.
Try local specialties such as biryani, kebabs, nihari, and various types of Pakistani sweets.
Hiking and Trekking
If you enjoy outdoor activities, consider trekking in the Karakoram Range or hiking in the Himalayan foothills.
The Fairy Meadows, near Nanga Parbat, is a popular starting point for treks.
Historical Sites
Visit the ancient archaeological sites of Mohenjo-daro and Taxila; remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Islamabad
The capital city offers a more modern and planned urban experience.
Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, and Pakistan Monument are key attractions.
The nearby Rawal Lake provides a scenic escape.
Karachi
Explore the vibrant city of Karachi, Pakistan's largest city and economic hub.
Visit Clifton Beach, the National Museum of Pakistan, and the historic Mohatta Palace.
Karakoram Highway
The Karakoram Highway, one of the highest paved international roads in the world, connects Pakistan with China.
The highway offers stunning views of the Karakoram Range and passes through picturesque valleys.
Lahore
Lahore is known for its rich cultural heritage.
Visit the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, and the Shalimar Gardens.
The walled city of Lahore is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Northern Areas
The northern regions of Pakistan are famous for their breathtaking landscapes.
Explore the Hunza Valley, Swat Valley, Naran, and Kaghan; but check the security situation before you do.
These areas are surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and pristine lakes.
Shopping
Explore local markets and bazaars for traditional Pakistani handicrafts, textiles, and spices.
Anarkali Bazaar, in Lahore, and Karachi's Saddar Market are popular shopping destinations.
Sufi Shrines
Pakistan has numerous Sufi shrines, and attending the qawwali performances at these shrines can provide a deep cultural and spiritual experience.
About Pakistan
Although freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution, the amended constitution defines Pakistan as an Islamic nation; with Islamic Shana law the supreme law of Pakistan.
Hindi, Urdu & Bengali
Phrasebook:
Filled to the brim with Hindi, Urdu and Bengali phrases on everything from hiking to
shopping and eating out, this essential phrasebook will make your trip to India and
Pakistan much more enjoyable.
The official language of Pakistan is English. While the national language of Pakistan is Urdu, Punjabi is probably the most widely spoken.
Hindu Kush Mountains
The Hindu Kush mountains extend through parts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan.
Over twenty peaks exceed 7,000 m. The highest point, Tirich Mir (7,690 m), is in Pakistan.
Peshawar
You're entering another world when you come to the North-West Frontier Province of Pakistan; it's almost Afghanistan.
The religion of Islam is so strong here, that even the three-wheeler motorbike taxis have covers on the passenger sections to hide the women from view.
Near the entrance to the Khyber Pass, this ancient trading settlement was known as Purushapure. Today there are many gun shops in Peshawar, and they do a roaring trade with their neighbours.
The Peshawar Museum houses an important collection of sculpture from the ancient Gandhara civilisation.
Khyber Pass
This is the most important pass connecting Afghanistan and Pakistan; Peshawar to Kabul.
For centuries the Khyber Pass was used by aggressors heading to India.
During the Afghan Wars, in the 19th century, there were many skirmishes here between the armies of the British Raj and native Afghans.
In January 1842, about 16,000 British and Indian troops were killed.
In the 1980s, when Afghanistan was occupied by the Soviets, the Khyber Pass was a major supply route to the Afghan guerrillas.
Islamabad
The capital of Pakistan, is in the north of the country; on the Potwar Plateau, near Rawalpindi.
Map of Islamabad
The site of Islamabad was chosen to replace Karachi as the capital of Pakistan in 1959. Urban planners set to work, and the new city became the official capital in 1967.
A lot of the construction work wasn't completed until the mid-1970s though.
Of the modern buildings in Islamabad, the most notable are the National Assembly Building, and the home of the President; known as Pakistan House.
The Faisal Mosque, built in 1985, was designed to look like a desert tent. Its four surrounding minarets are all about 90 m high.
Where to Stay in Islamabad
Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi was used as the provisional capital of Pakistan from 1959 to 1967, while construction was being completed in Islamabad.
The distinct culture that flourished on the Rawal Plateau some 3,000 years ago attracts the curious tourists today.
Where to Stay in Rawalpindi
Lahore
Lahore is the cultural capital of Pakistan; offering a wide range of cultural activities.
Lahore was probably at its greatest during the time of the Mughal Empire (1526- 1707) and there are many architecturally significant buildings and monuments from this time.
Getting to Lahore
Mini-coaches run to Lahore from Karachi.
Where to Stay in Lahore
Karakoram
The Karakorum mountain range is in the Himalayas, between the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, and north-western Pakistan.
The range includes K2 (8,611 m), the second highest peak in the world.
The Kahmir border area between Pakistan and India has also been the scene of snowy gun- battles between the two disputing cousins.
Karachi
Karachi is Pakistan's largest city, located on the Arabian Sea.
The port, centred on the island of Kiamari, also serves as an outlet for landlocked Afghanistan.
Karachi was a small fishing and trading centre when the British captured it in 1839. Karachi grew in importance under the British; for the export of cotton and grain from the Indus Valley.
There is a long beach in Karachi, but it is rather dirty and better suited to camels. It can get busy on a Sunday.
After independence many Muslim refugees from India settled in Karachi, and in recent years the former capital has seen bombings and riots between rival political, religious, and ethnic groups.
Karachi Attractions
The tomb of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan, is in Karachi.
Indus Valley Civilisations
The National Museum of Pakistan displays important materials from the Indus Valley civilisations; one of the world's first great civilisations, similar to the Bronze Age cultures of ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Crete.
Mohenjo-daro Ruins
The Indus Valley ruins of the ancient city, Mohenjo-daro (in the southern province of Sind, south of Sukkur), date back to 2500 BC.
Where to Stay in Karachi
Pakistan Maps and Travel Guides
Pakistan Travel Guides - Pakistan Maps.
Weather in Asia:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around Asia.
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