From the Indus Valley Civilization to embracing various cultures thereafter, Pakistan’s land, architecture, cuisine and traditions are diverse and rich. Pakistan is an inviting tourist destination year-round, catering to travelers from across the globe. Now let’s explore the destinations of Tourism in Pakistan.
Types of Tourism in Pakistan
Spiritual Tourism
Remarkable religious harmony and Islamic sites like Faisal Mosque, Data Darbar, Shrines of Sufi Saints; Buddhist landmarks like Takht-i-Bahi; Sikh pilgrimage sites like Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Corridor are among the top tourist destinations of religious tourism.
Eco Tourism
Hingol, Khunjerab and Deosai National Parks, and wildlife in Lal Suhanra and Chitral Gol attract several environmental and nature enthusiasts. Stunning landscapes in Fairy Meadows, Hunza Valley and Swat Valley are also among the top selfie destinations.
Adventure Tourism
Pakistan an ideal country for mountain climbing enthusiasts as it has five highest peaks of the world, including second highest – K2. The Karakoram Highway and Baltoro Glacier trekking, and rafting and kayaking the Indus River and Kunhar River, attract a great number of visitors every year.
Beach Tourism
Having a direct connection with Indian Ocean, Gwadar, Clifton Beach and Kund Malir, offer great spots for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and beach camping.
Heritage Tourism
From old archeological sites of Harappa to historical cities like Lahore, Hyderabad, Multan and Peshawar to Mughal era sites like Rohtas Fort and Derawar Fort, Pakistan is never short of amazing tourists from its architecture. Ancient cities of Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Taxila and landmarks of Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque and Shalimar Gardens are amongst the top cultural attractions of the country.
Cultural Tourism
Chilam Joshi- Kalash Valley and Shandur Polo- Chitral Valley are among the famous cultural festivals for foreigners and locals alike.
Health and Wellness Tourism
Hot springs in Tattapani and Garam Chashma, northern resorts and spas and the therapeutic Khewra Salt Mine are very frequently visited by tourists to rejuvenate and relax.
Food Tourism
Tantalizing taste buds of tourists is not at all a problem in the country as traditional delicacies like Haleem, Nihari, and Sajji and a large variety of street food in Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar offer the country’s vibrant culinary traditions.
Rural and Agricultural Tourism
Agri-tourism Development Corporation also promotes traditional farming, village life and agricultural tours in Punjab KPK and Sindh and educates tourists about organic food and healthy lifestyles, and provides awareness about food from farm to dining table.
Top Tourism Destination of Pakistan
Pakistan is located at the crossroads of different civilizations and as a result, it has the
visible imprints of various civilizations dating back to the first Indus Valley Civilisation. In
the last millennia it has seen Turkic, Persian, Sikh, Buddhist to Hindu and Mughal
civilization.
1- Tourist Points: Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Blessed with stunning natural beauty and deep-rooted culture. Nestled in the Himalayan ranges, AJK captivates visitors with its majestic mountain vistas, serene lakes, lush green plains and picturesque meadows. The region’s vibrant landscapes, including verdant fields, shimmering waterfalls, ancient temples, and grand Mughal gardens, have long inspired poets and musicians.
Muzaffarabad the capital, serves as a cultural and geographical hub. Nestled between the Neelum and Jhelum rivers, it provides easy access to attractions like the lofty Pir Chinasi, the historic Red Fort and the lively Shaheed Gali and Chandni Gali. Lohar View Point is a highlight, offering a stunning view of the rivers merging.
Neelum Valley is enchanted with its scenic beauty, featuring the charming village of Keran and the ancient ruins of Sharda. Adventure enthusiasts can explore Ratti Gali Lake, Shounter Lake, and Chita Khata Lake. Upper Neelum and Machal View Point offer panoramic vistas, while Taobat mesmerizes with its untouched beauty.
Leepa Valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, is a peaceful retreat. Its crystal-clear River Leepa, fruit trees, and cozy cottages create a picturesque setting. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland.
Rawalakot, the ‘Pearl Valley,’ boasts scenic landscapes and attractions. Banjosa Lake, bordered by dense pine forests, is perfect for boating and picnicking. Toli Pir offers excellent hiking, while the Poonch River adds to the charm. Historical sites like Kochi House and Poonch Fort, along with views from Sudhan Gali and Ganga Choti
Bagh offers lush green landscapes and historical significance, ideal for trekkers and bird watchers. Dhirkot provides tranquility, Neela Butt stunning valley views and Lasdana boasts a pleasant climate and scenic vistas.
Mangla, renowned for its historical and natural sites, features the Mangla Dam and nearby Mangla Fort with panoramic views. Ramkot Fort across the lake stands as a historical sentinel overseeing the tranquil landscape.
2- Tourist Points: Baluchistan
Baluchistan has several stunning landscapes and captivating sites including the Makran Coastal Highway pristine beaches, Hingol National Park, the Martian Mountains, Hanna Lake, and the iconic Bolan Pass. It’s a welcoming land of deserts, hills, salt lakes, and lush valleys, that offers diverse experiences for adventurers and tranquility seekers alike.
Quetta, offers Hanna Lake’s crystal-clear waters boating entertainment, while Quetta Bazaar offers local handicrafts and delicacies. Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park is home to the rare Chiltan ibex and ancient juniper forests. Central to Baluchistan’s tourism.
Gwadar, is an emerging port city. Tourists can enjoy views along the Makran Coastal Highway, Hammerhead rock formation, and Astola Island for water activities. Moreover, the Princess of Hope rock formation and Gwadar beach is not to be missed as well.
Ziarat is known for its healing beauty and historical significance. Prospect Point offers world’s oldest and largest juniper forests, stunning vistas, while the Quaid-e-Azam Residency adds historical value. The scenic trails of Khilafat Hills make Ziarat a must-visit.
Lasbela combines breathtaking scenery with cultural significance. Located by the Arabian Sea, it boasts beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, and the shrine of Sassi Punnuh. Vibrant banana trees and local craftsmanship enhance its appeal.
Khuzdar offers natural beauty and cultural richness. Moola Chotok and Chotok Waterfalls, as well as Charo Machi Waterfalls, provide tranquil retreats. Ancient archaeological sites add historical depth, and Khuzdar’s warm hospitality makes it a welcoming destination.
Pasni ‘Coastal Gem’, features beautiful beaches and fishing spots. The British-era Pasni Fort and local markets filled with crafts, spices, and textiles highlight the area’s cultural richness. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, water activities, and local fishing traditions.
3- Tourist Points: Gilgit-Baltistan
Famous for its spectacular beauty, featuring natural forests, cold deserts, mountain ranges, lush meadows, and cultural history. Its location along the Karakoram Highway makes it a hub for trade and tourism.
Gilgit surrounded by majestic peaks like Rakaposhi and Nanga Parbat, Gilgit is a gateway for adventurers and nature lovers. The River Indus enhances its scenic charm, while ancient Buddhist rock carvings and vibrant markets offer cultural insights.
Hunza Valley, nestled among high mountains, is a heavenly destination with historical and geographical significance. Attractions include Eagle’s Nest, Baltit Fort, and Altit Fort. Attabad Lake and Rakaposhi View Point offer stunning views, making Hunza a perfect holiday spot.
Ghizer boasts fascinating geography and cultural heritage. Highlights include Gakuch town, Gupis Fort, Phander Valley, Phander Lake, Khalti Lake, and Shandur, known for its annual Polo Festival.
Skardu offers breathtaking sights like Shangrila Resort, Kharpocho Fort, Satpara Lake, Shigar Fort, Khaplu’s palaces, Sarfarnga desert, and Upper Kachura Lake, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Astore is a natural wonderland with Rupal Base Camp, Minimarg, Kamari, Deosai Plains, Domel Lake, and Rama Lake. Its wild scenery and serene setting provide a perfect resort.
Khunjerab Pass well-established on the Karakoram Highway, the area links China and Pakistan at 4,693 meters. It offers a unique experience with towering peaks and wildlife species like snow leopards. Iconic spots include Passu Cones, Gulmit and Gulkin villages, symbolizing serene beauty and cultural harmony.
4- Tourist Points: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the heart of the ancient Gandhara dynasty, boasts a rich history and culture, integrating Afghan influences into its language, clothing, cuisine, and festivals.
Peshawar, is one of South Asia’s oldest cities, offering a blend of ancient heritage and modern culture. Visitors can explore historical landmarks like Bala Hisar Fort and Mahabat Khan Mosque, while vibrant markets and bazaars provide a lively atmosphere.
Swat Valley, is a picturesque gem offering diverse experiences. Historical ruins like Butkara Stupa and the Malam Jabba ski resort highlight its appeal. Mingora city provides access to Mahodand Lake and Kalam Valley. With snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls, Swat Valley is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
Chitral, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by the Hindu Kush mountains, it offers trekking, mountaineering, and wildlife spotting opportunities. The Kalash Valleys, inhabited by the indigenous Kalash people, offer a unique cultural experience with vibrant festivals and distinctive traditions. Visitors can explore Chitral Fort, enjoy Shandur Pass, and relax in Garam Chashma’s hot springs.
Nathia Gali, a charming hill station in Abbottabad District, is renowned for its cool climate and scenic beauty. Towering pine trees, lush meadows, and colonial-era architecture create a picturesque setting. Mukshpuri and Miranjani trekking trails offer breathtaking views, making Nathia Gali a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Ayubia National Park near Nathia Gali, is a haven for wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. Home to leopards, black bears, and numerous bird species, the park offers diverse flora and fauna. The Ayubia Chairlift provides a thrilling ride over dense forests with panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills.
Dunga Gali, another charming hill station in the Galyat range, offers a serene escape from city life. The Dunga Gali Pipeline Track, a popular trekking route, winds through lush forests and offers stunning views. This tranquil destination is perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Abbottabad, known for its pleasant weather and lush greenery, serves as a gateway to the Galyat region. Historical landmarks like St. Luke’s Church and Ilyasi Mosque reflect its rich history. Abbottabad’s welcoming atmosphere, scenic beauty, and proximity to popular hill stations make it a favored tourist destination.
5- Tourist Points: Punjab
Punjab is rich in history, colorful culture and splendid scenery. Lahore is the heart of Punjab, the provincial capital, which was formed by the Mughal Empire.
Lahore, also known as the ‘city of gardens’, is a historical city that has grand structures belonging to the Mughal Empire, including the Badshahi Mosque, Shalimar Garden, Entrance Gates of the Walled City, and several other monuments. The Lahore Fort, is a large historical fortress declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, that comprises the royal palace, halls, and gardens where once Mughal royalty thrived. Right next to the fort is Lahore’s famous Food Street, in the old walled city, and it serves as a live example where the fragrance of spices and colors of delicious food are sure to mesmerize the visitors.
Murree is a very active tourist destination containing shops, restaurants and British colonial architecture, which gives it a very classic yet contemporary look. Patriata, is a beautiful picnic point, a hill station that gives a taste of the natural beauty as it has greenery all around. Pindi Point offers a view of the high mountains and forests of Murree and tourists can easily see the cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad from this place. Kashmir Point is the highest point from this point, one can have the most amazing view of the Kashmir Mountains.
Multan, also known as city of saints, is a major city of religious tourism. Multan Fort is a great attraction representing the historical and arched structures of this city with its beautiful walls and gates. The tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam and the tomb of Saint Bahauddin Zakariya are religious monuments with state-of-the-art architecture and having huge spiritual significance.
Kallar Kahar, known for its beautiful saltwater lake and magnificent peacock sanctuary. Situated in Chakwal district, its serene weather, natural gardens, spiritual sites and dancing peacocks are the unique attractions for tourists.
Bahawalpur, one of the ten largest cities of Pakistan and 6th most populous. It has a rich historical heritage, grand palaces like Noor Mahal, architectural wonders like Derawar Fort and is famous for its carpets, embroidery and pottery. The handicrafts are mostly made in the Cholistan area and can be purchased from Crafts Development Centre.
Khushab, is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and agricultural abundance. The town is rich with mineral wealth and diverse wildlife including urial, chinkara, partridges, ducks and hawks.
Soon Sakeser Valley, captivates visitors with its aroma of different herbs, crystal-clear lakes and ancient temples. It has the only mountain in this part of the Punjab that receives snowfall in winter. Known for its natural beauty, it has Khabeki Lake is great for fishing.
6- Tourist Points: Sindh
Sindh is a land of amusing history and lively culture. Amidst the diverse landscapes of the bustling metropolitan city of Karachi to calm deserts and fertile lands like Sukkur lies deep historical heritage, including ancient sites such as Mohenjo-Daro, a key destination in the Indus Valley civilization. Folk music, local dance and intricate handicrafts are knitted into the cultural fabric of Sindh, reflecting the colorful rituals and traditions of its inhabitants.
Karachi, the bustling metropolis city has historical, cultural and natural attractions. Its beaches, especially Clifton Beach with its charming coastline and soothing surroundings, are a popular spot for picnics and unwinding. The city also cradles the tomb of the founding father of the nation, Mohammad Ali Jinnah ‘Quaid-e-Azam’. The Pakistan Maritime Museum exhibits inspiring artifacts, Mohatta Palace, an architectural structure of the Mughal era.
Hyderabad, city also has a lot to offer for the tourists. Rani Bagh, to relax and breathe the fresh air within the natural beauty, the Sindh Museum, showcases numerous collections connected with Sindh heritage, the fascinating Pakka Qila documenting the rise and fall of different rulers Mughal and British colonial era ‘Badshahi Bungalow’ and Koti Residency, also known as ‘British Residency’ gives a royal and nostalgic look to Hyderabad. Kotri Barrage, one of the big barrages in this province is also built in Hyderabad.
Thatta, famous for its history and splendid architecture has many interesting sights. Shah Jahan Masjid, with its delicate tile work and intricate design, stands as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. History of the centuries is captured at Makli with many tombs and monuments, making it one of the largest graveyards in the world.
Another elegant graveyard is ‘Sonda Graveyard’ which has historical tombs and old graves. The large man-made Keenjhar Lake is beautiful and calm; tourists can relax and bird watchers can find it a perfect haven. Just beside it, is the fresh-water Haleji Lake, a wintering haven for native and migratory waterfowl, including different types of birds like the cotton teal and pheasant-tailed jacana, making it a beautiful sight for bird lovers.
Larkana, brimming with traditional and cultural treasures, is home to numerous remarkable landmarks. Bhutto family mausoleum honours the legacy of one of Pakistan’s prominent political families. Mohenjo-Daro an archaeological site, offers a fascinating glimpse into the Indus Valley Civilization with its well-preserved ruins. Botanical garden of Jinnah Bagh, a peaceful lush green garden with small lawns spreading all around it. Shahnawaz Bhutto Library is enriched in literary resources, and fosters a spirit of learning and community.
Conclusion
Tourism in Pakistan is a mixture of experiences, which caters to every type of tourist, traveler or visitor. Providing an amusing balance of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventurous sites.
