Pakistan was one of the most difficult countries for me to describe because different parts of the country can feel completely different from one another. Huge modern cities, ancient forts and mosques, desert landscapes, fertile plains, and some of the highest mountains on earth can all be found within the same country. Before my trip, even some Pakistanis I knew in the United States tried to persuade me not to go, but my own experience was successful and I was able to explore a wide range of places without any major problems. Between the history, culture, food, cities, and spectacular mountain scenery, Pakistan has an enormous amount to offer adventurous travelers.
Explore Karachi
Karachi is Pakistan’s largest city and one of the biggest metropolitan areas in the world. The city is crowded, energetic, and spread across a huge area along the Arabian Sea. Downtown contains a mixture of modern development and architecture dating from the British colonial period, while farther out you’ll find beaches, markets, religious sites, restaurants, and busy commercial districts. The beaches were especially lively during my visit, with large crowds, camel rides, food vendors, and plenty of activity along the waterfront.
Explore Lahore
Lahore is Pakistan’s second-largest city and one of the country’s great cultural and historic centers. The city is packed with architecture from different periods, including the enormous Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, Mughal tombs, historic gates, markets, and religious sites. Lahore is also close to the Wagah border crossing with India, making it an important stop for travelers moving between the two countries. Between its history, food, crowded streets, and old city, Lahore was one of the most interesting places I visited in Pakistan.
Explore Islamabad
Islamabad feels completely different from Pakistan’s older and more crowded cities. Built as a planned capital during the 20th century, it has broad roads, large green spaces, modern neighborhoods, museums, monuments, and a much more open layout. The Margalla Hills rise immediately beside the city and provide hiking trails and viewpoints overlooking the capital. Despite being the political center of Pakistan, Islamabad often felt more like a quiet and spacious suburb compared with the intensity of Karachi and Lahore.
Explore Northern Pakistan
Northern Pakistan is home to some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on earth. The Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges meet in this region, creating enormous peaks, glaciers, deep valleys, and some of the world’s greatest mountaineering objectives. Mountains such as K2 and Nanga Parbat attract serious climbers from around the world, but you don’t need to be an expedition mountaineer to appreciate the region. There are also countless opportunities for hiking, camping, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and simply experiencing the scale of Pakistan’s high mountains.
