Karachi’s Foremost Attractions

Karachi is one of the major cities of Pakistan which is not only a traditional and cultural center but also a business hub. At the same time, it has a number of tourist’s attractions like waterfront, parks, museums, harbors and historical structures as well. For the past few years, tourism industry in Karachi has suffered a lot due to terrorism but still it is capable of attracting a number of people towards its wonderful tourist’s places. Some of its major attractions include:

Mohatta Palace Museum

This building was constructed between 1933 and 1935 and is named after its founder Shivratan, Chandratan, Mohatta. This palace was originally constructed to be used as a residence of Fatima Jinnah who was sister of Founder of Pakistan, Mohammad Ali Jinnah but at present it is being used as a museum which displays relics and things of ceramic art which have been collected over centuries. This museum also houses a number of memorabilia of British reign in Pakistan and is featured with the letters written by famous personalities of pre-partition period along with their pictures. Portraits of some freedom fighters are also displayed here along with the car used by Mr. Jinnah.

Mazar-e-Quaid

Mazar-e-Quaid is another popular and most visited tourists’ attractions of Karachi which is actually tomb of founding father of Pakistan Mohammad Ali Jinnah. It is located in the center of city and attracts tourists due to its wonderful and unique construction. It has been built with pure white marble and is featured with curved arches of Moorish origin. Within the tomb, there is a four-layered chandelier that is made of crystal and was rewarded by Chinese people to give a royal and refined look. A park encircles the tomb building featured with powerful lights which make the structure prominent in night. Mazar-e-Quaid also houses graves of Fatima Jinnah and first prime minister of Pakistan-Liaquat Ali Khan.

National Museum of Pakistan

National Museum of Pakistan was founded on April 17, 1950 and main motto of the museum was to study and preserve art and cultural heritage of this nation. The museum consists of 11 galleries and the most popular among these is Quran Gallery. Museum also possesses more than 300 transcripts of Quran among which 52 are holographs and are displayed in Quran Gallery. Here in this museum, tourists can also see sculptural work related to Gandhara Civilization, Indus Civilization and Islamic art old coins etc. In Ethnological Gallery, there are statues of cultural groups which are absolutely worth-seeing. Moreover, more than 58000 coins and 70000 books have been preserved in this museum.

Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach is a pleasant site to be visited as it features an amusement park, stalls, camel and horse riding facilities and several options for swimming. Small shops at the beach display handicrafts and gifts made of sea shells. Visitors especially come here at night to see the beautiful fountain that has been built on the sea. It has been made very beautifully by using white lights and it is considered to be the tallest fountain jetting out sea water. Amusement park in this area features a bowling alley and an aquarium and Oyster Island can also be viewed from Clifton Beach.

Kemari

Being the main coastal town, Kemari is a small but busy harbor of Karachi that provides opportunity of fishing and sightseeing boats and launches. Some must visit attractions in Kemari include a light house and the fort. While sailing along the sea coast, one can travel towards east to see Mangroves, waterfowl and fishing villages and going till Indus National Delta Park provides a chance to see water flowing in large quantity.

Aladdin Park

It is the largest kids’ theme park in the whole province which includes Play Land Hill Park, Sindbad DHA Park Fun Land, Karachi Zoo Samzu Park and The Great Fiesta Cozy Water Park.  Aladdin Park has a shopping center and a play ground. PIA Airlines has also set up a planetarium in Karachi which provides to see images of whole sky with professional telescopes. The Great Fiesta provides exciting and thrilling water slides for young and adults alike. It also includes an Artificial Beach, Lazy River and Hurricane Wave Pool for enjoyment of people.

These were some of the major tourists’ places of Karachi. Visit them and enjoy your holidays at a wonderful place.

Factors Affecting Tourism Industry of Pakistan

Pakistan is located in that part of sub-continent which has rich culture and traditions. Pakistan is such a country which is gifted with all blessings of God Almighty like high mountains, lakes, rivers, ocean, forests, ancient monuments, valleys and fertile plains. All these things make Pakistan the best place for tourists. But it tourism industry is not as flourished as it is expected. There are several reasons behind this. Some of these are given below.

Unfavorable Political Conditions

Pakistan has been one of the favorite places for tourists but now the situation has been completely changed. The reason is its unfavorable political conditions. People think it an unsafe place after the assassination of popular political figures like Benazir Bhutto and Salman Taseer (governor of major province Punjab). Moreover the corrupt leaders don’t pay attention to this major industry which can take its economy to the highest peak.

Lack of Proper Infrastructure

Infrastructure in Pakistan is a great cause of the failure of profitable tourism industry. There are not proper roads, railway tracks and other transportation services. So tourists find it difficult to visit different places in Pakistan. Poor infrastructure is a hindrance in the way of developed and flourished tourism industry.

Inability to Cope with Natural Disasters

Pakistan’s government lacks the ability to cope with the natural calamities. Northern areas of Pakistan have been the tourists’ favorite place but after earthquake of 2005, those areas suffered incomparable loss but nothing had been done for their re-construction and redevelopment. Poor disaster management caused a loss to the tourism industry.

Terrorism

Pakistan has become an unsafe place due to ever-increasing terrorist attacks. That is another major factor that is not only damaging the repute of Pakistan in the world but also causing its tourism industry to a decline.

Changing Weather

Global warming and pollution has caused to change the climate and weather conditions of Pakistan. The northern areas and snowy mountains have started loosing their beauty. So tourists are now attracted towards places having good weather and proper tourism facilities.

Rising Inflation

Inflation is considered another major cause of the failure of tourism industry. The hotel owners have to increase the price of food because of ever increasing prices of goods. High priced food has made Pakistan a place that is beyond the reach and affordability of tourists.

Tourism industry in Pakistan needs special steps to be taken for its betterment because it can serve as a source of developed economy. In spite of the above mentioned problems and factors tourism industry is still surviving as Pakistan has been ranked at 39^th place for ground transport infrastructure. It shows that a little bit of attention can make it one of the largest industries of Pakistan.

Must-See Lakes in Pakistan

Pakistan is among those few countries where tourists can have an opportunity to see nature’s beauty at its best. There are high mountains, valleys, lush green plains, deserts, rivers and ocean. In between some high mountains of Pakistan, there are some spectacular and stunning lakes which add to the beauty of hilly areas. I have made a list of most famous and beautiful lakes in Pakistan and today I will share this list with you.

Saif ul Muluk Lake

You will find this lake in the northern end of Kaghan valley which is located at an altitude of 10578 feet. This fact makes this lake the highest lake in Pakistan. Lake Saif ul Muluk is located under the mighty Malika Parbat. The lake gives one of the best scenes in the world when reflection of mountains shines in its waters. You can reach this lake by a jeep but the best and most interesting way to reach this beautiful lake is through trekking. If you are also planning to reach this lake by training then let me inform you that it takes almost 1-2 hours to reach this lake from Naran. Waters of Saif ul Muluk are clear because water comes from the glaciers located all around this lake. An interesting story is also associated with this lake due to which people believe that fairies come down to the lake in full moon.

Manchar Lake

Manchar Lake is one of the largest lakes of Asia. It is a fresh water lake and is located west of Indus River in Dadu district. It is an important lake in this district because it provides livelihood to a number of fishermen and irrigates the crops as well. This lake is also a home to several aquatic plants like lotus. This lake was created in 1930 as a result of construction of Sukkur Barrage and since then it has been supporting thousands of people who depend on fresh water fish.

Keenjhar Lake

Keenjhar Lake is also known as Kalri Lake. Located in Thatta, this lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes of Pakistan. This lake is known at international level for breeding water birds as it supports about 140000 birds which include Black Coot, Common Pochard etc. Besides providing beautiful scenes of nature, this lake also acts as a source of drinking water.

Shangrila Lake

Being a part of Shangrila resort, this lake is located at a drive of 20 minutes from Skardu. The name of this lake comes from the Chinese word Shangri La which means “Heaven on Earth”. This can truly be called Heaven on Earth because of its spectacular and breathtaking beauty and quiet ambiance.

Haleji Lake

Haleji Lake is located in Thatta district of Pakistan where thousands of migratory birds come from different parts of world. These birds include European Wigeon, Black Coot and Dalmatian Pelican. The presence of these birds makes it a bird watcher’s paradise as you can see more than 223 species of birds here. Haleji is a saltwater lake which was formed by seasonal water and today this lake has become a major source of water supply to Karachi.

Lulusar Lake

Lulusar Lake is located near Naran Valley. The “sar” from the name of lake comes from the Pushto language which means “top” or “peak”. Actually Lulusar is the name of the mountains which are located around this lake that’s why it is the lake of Lulusar. This lake is bigger as compared to all other lakes in the valley. A thousand of visitors, both local and international come here especially in summer to see the reflection of mountains in sparkling water of lake. To reach this beautiful lake, you can hire a jeep from Naran to reach this beautiful lake in five hours. I will suggest you to leave Naran in morning so that you can come back before sunset.

Mohodand Lake

Mohodand Lake boasts of being the most beautiful lake around Swat and Kalam. Located close to Lake Saifullah and Naseerullah, this lake is accessible through a jeep. This is also a good place for fishing and watching beautiful scenes.

These were some of the most popular lakes of Pakistan. Some other lakes are:

• Payee Lake (Kaghan Valley)
• Dudipatsar Lake (Kaghan Valley)
• Satpara Lake (Skardu Valley)
• Hanna Lake (Quetta City)
• Shonter Lake (Neelum Valley)
• Rawal Lake (Islamabad)
• Rama Lake (Gilgit)

Most Popular Historical Attractions in Lahore

Yes!!!! Today we will explore attractions of Lahore; the cultural center and heart of Pakistan. Lahore is among one of those cities which are blessed with both historical and modern attractions but Lahore is more famous for its historical landmarks as compared to modern travel destinations so today, we will also explore historical attractions and landmarks which are located in this city.

Shahi Qila (Royal Fort)

Royal Fort or Shahi Qila is one of the magnificent buildings and landmarks Mughal emperors ever made. Covering an area of 20 hectares, Shahi Qila is located in north western corner of this city. This fort is a masterpiece of architecture and Mughal grandeur. This fort is divided into two main sections named administrative section and private section. Former is well-connected to main entrance and is decorated with large and beautiful gardens. Here in this part, you will also see Diwan-e-Aam which was made for royal audiences. The private residential section of fort is further divided into courts. The attractions that you will find in this section of fort include Shish Mahal and spacious rooms and gardens. Shish Mahal is the most liked attraction of this fort and is capable of making a person thrilled with its beautiful mirror work. Other attractions of this fort are Alamgiri gate and Moti Masjid.

Minar-e-Pakistan

The most famous and monumental attraction of Lahore is the great Minar-e-Pakistan. It is a must visit place for all the tourists who visit Pakistan. Minar-e-Pakistan is 60 meter high concrete minaret that is located in the famous Iqbal Garden. Actually this minaret was made in commemoration of Pakistan Resolution that was passed in the same park on March 23, 1940. The structure of this minaret reflects a mixture of both Mughal and modern architecture attracting visitors from all over Pakistan. There is a large area around this minaret that is commonly used for political and public meetings as well as the park itself provides sufficient place to kite flyers.

Shalimar Garden

Another famous historical attraction of Lahore is Shalimar Garden that was built in 16^th century. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and was used as a royal pleasure garden. Shalimar Garden is an astonishing and amazing example of Mughal Garden consisting of three terraces named:

• Farah Baksh
• Faiz Baksh
• Hayat Baksh

The upper terrace is just splendid as it has 105 fountains while middle and lower terraces have 152 and 153 fountains respectively.

Jahangir’s Mausoleum

It is another tourist’s attraction in Lahore covering an area of 55 acres. This tomb was built by son of Jahangir named Shah Jahan ten years after his father’s death. It has been laid-out in pattern of classical Charbagh that consists of bisecting perpendicular paths. This mausoleum is made of red sandstone with floral marble. This building has 30 meters high four minarets which add to its grandeur and magnificence.

Badshahi Masjid

Built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, this mosque is the second largest mosque in Pakistan. It is a favorite attraction among tourists because of its worth-seeing architecture and design. Its designs are inspired by Persian, Islamic and Indian influences. Interior of the mosque is decorated with white marble floor while exterior is decorated with stone carvings.

Some of the most popular historical attractions in Lahore have been described in this post but this list is almost unlimited. So if you ever have a chance to visit Pakistan, come to Lahore and see theses attractions.

Some Landmarks of Pakistan

Pakistan is one of the countries in Sub-continent having rich culture and traditions. It has some of most magnificent historical buildings representing the grandeur of Muslim rulers and kings. People from all over the world visit Pakistan to see these beautiful buildings that are a cultural asset of Pakistan. Some of its historical places are described below which serve as a landmark of this country.

Badshahi Mosque

This mosque is situated in Lahore; the cultural and traditional hub of Pakistan. It was built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is one of the major tourists’ attractions and is truly featured with the splendor of Mughal era. It is a master piece of architectural design having gigantic and spacious prayer hall. The floor of the hall is adorned with Sang-e-Alvi. The inner side of this hall is worth-watching that is decorated with mural work and fine marble. Other architectural features include spacious courtyard, four high minars, majestic entrance gate and dalans.

Faisal Mosque

It is the largest mosque in Pakistan which has become a landmark due to its size and unique architectural design. It is so vast that 300000 worshippers can pray there. Its construction was funded by Saudi Arabian government and it is named after the late king Shah Faisal. It has a large triangular prayer hall and four minars. These minars are very slim and look like a pencil. The most attractive thing in Faisal Mosque is a large and splendid chandelier in the prayer hall. The walls of the hall are adorned with calligraphic art and mosaics which add to its beauty and making it a well-known icon of Islamabad; the capital city of Pakistan. In my opinion, this mosque should be visited as many times as possible because every time you will feel a great pleasure watching it.

Khyber Pass

The Khyber Pass is located in Peshawar, Pakistan. It is a mountain pass linking Pakistan and Afghanistan. It has been serving as a trade way between south and north Asia for centuries. It has been an important part of Silk Road. If you want to visit it then you will have to get full information about it because the road that leads to it is rough and barren. But it is a very good monument to see.

Pakistan Monument

This monument is also located in Islamabad. It has been designed in a way that represents four provinces and three territories of Pakistan. It is in a shape of blooming flower representing growth and development of the country. Murals (wall paintings) are used in the inner side of the petal for enhancing their beauty and decoration. In the center there is a platform that has been made in the shape of a star having five corners. The star is surrounded by a crescent on which sayings of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal have been engraved.

These were some of the historical monuments of Pakistan and thousands of people come here to see their glory and radiance.

Must See Hill Stations of Pakistan

People from all over the world come to Pakistan to visit its most popular and stunning hill stations that truly may be called heavens on earth. The reasons behind their popularity are that they mesmerize you with natural beauty, striking landscapes and hospitable and courteous people who always welcome the tourists from all over the world. Tourists in Pakistan come here for its many other attractions but hill stations in the northern areas are most popular among tourists. Here I am giving brief description of these most spectacular hill stations.

Murree

Muree is undoubtedly called the Malka-e-Kohsar (Queen of Hills) as it has beautiful scenes and outstanding places to visit. It is a popular tourist’s attraction in Pakistan as it has all the facilities for local as well as foreign visitors. People in Pakistan go and stay there in warm months of summer while the foreigners come here for other attractions including:

Mall Road: It is the most famous market in Murree having a large number of shops providing different things associated with the culture of these areas. There are shops of ancient jewelry, traditional clothes and wooden carvings. Doing shopping from Mall Road will always remind you of this beautiful place.

Patriata: It is a well developed place having high trees and attractive sceneries. Tourists are attracted towards it for the chair lift and cable car system that take you from New Murree to Patriata. This journey on either chair lift or cable car makes the tourists’ visit memorable. Especially in winter, this ride gives you an immense pleasure of watching the hills and mountains covered with snow.

Kashmir Point: It is on Mall Road providing gorgeous scenery of the nearby mountains.

Pindi Point: Pindi Point is one of the favorite places in Murree. This place also provides you the facility to enjoy a ride on chair lift.

Ayubia

This place can surely fill your heart with great pleasure when you will see rising pine trees grown there excessively. Here you will find wild life also including monkeys and tigers. As there are a large number of trees so you will find different kinds of beautiful birds there. Other attractions include:

Monkey Point: Also called “Bander Point” is just near the Ayubia chair lifts. It is that part of forest where you can find a large number of monkeys amusing the children and adults alike. Here you will see the tourists feeding the monkeys with their hands as they are not harmful at all.

Ayubia National Park: The basic attraction of this place is the chairlifts that take you to the peaks of attractive and forested hills. The chairlift provided here was the first entertainment of its kind provided in Pakistan so it attracts the locals as well.

Bhurban

This hill station is at a distance of 13 KMs from Murree. This hill station is famous for its greenery and colorful flowers. It provides a breath-taking view of surrounding hills and landscapes.  Here in Bhurban, there is a four star hotel so mostly the showbiz and political personalities prefer to stay in Bhurban. Most of the common visitors and tourists come here for trekking and hiking as it is suitable for both of these activities. If you are fond of golf then Bhurban would proved to be the top choice for golf lovers. There is a nine-hole golf course in Bhurban which provides a unique experience of playing golf in this beautiful and startling town.

These were some must see hill stations of Pakistan which you should visit to have a memorable holidays with your friends and family.

 

Beautiful Valleys in Northern Areas of Pakistan

Pakistan is well-known for its beautiful Northern areas. These areas are truly called a visitor’s paradise. Pakistan has some of the world’s most beautiful valleys in its Northern areas having alpine flowers, fairy meadows, turbulent rivers and snow-covered mountains. Here brief description of some beautiful valleys is given with a view that it would definitely stimulate you to visit them.

Hunza Valley

Hunza Valley is among one of the most popular valleys among tourists. Its major town Karimabad has some of the beautiful and elegant peaks in world including Rakaposhi, Passu Peak, Hunza Peak. Especially the view of Rakaposhi is worth-seeing in moon-light. Another attraction of Hunza is the Baltit Fort that gives an awesome ancient touch. Most of the tourists come here to see these two big attractions. Moreover Hunza provides the tourists a pleasure of trekking and hiking.

Gilgit Valley

Gilgit Valley is also considered as one of the finest valley of Pakistan. It is located at an elevation of 1454 meters. Gilgit is not only known for its beauty but also for a number of historic places that are worth-visiting. Some of the attractions in Gilgit Valley include:

• Budha Sculpture engraved out of stone
• Taj Mughal (30 KMs from Gilgit town)
• Sher Qilla
• Naltar Valley( at a three hours drive from Giligit link road where you enjoy services of rest-house and various private hotels, alpine forest and a Ski slope)
• For those tourists who like to play and watch Polo, Giligit is the best place to visit. A Polo tournament is held in Gilgit valley every year in the month of November.

Like other Northern valleys of Pakistan, Giligit valley is also perfect of trout fishing, trekking, hiking and mountaineering.

Kaghan Valley

Visiting Kaghan valley proves to be a wonderful and memorable experience. It is located in the province of Khyber PakhtoonKhwa. It is popular for its lakes, streams and gorgeous water-falls but is mostly known for its one lake named Saif-ul-Maluk.  It is among one of the most stunning lakes of Pakistan.

Here in the waters of this valley, world’s renowned fishes are found named Trout and Mahasheer. Especially the trout of River Kunhar is very popular among tourists and locals as well.

Skardu Valley

Skardu is the main town and capital of Baltistan which is situated in the background of Karakoram Mountains range. The journey from Islamabad to Skardu by air is full of enthusiasm as it provides a breath-taking view of the high mountains. Its attractions include Buddhist Rock, Sadpara Lake, Kachura Lake, Shigar Valley and Khaplu Valley.

Swat Valley

Swat valley is considered perfect for spending holidays. It is full of beautiful views of cold lakes, slopes covered with beautiful flowers and gardens full of fruits-laden branches. It is located at an elevation of 975 meters. It is the only valley where the tourists can go at any time of year as its weather is not as extreme as compared to other valleys.

This was some information and description about some of the valleys located in Northern areas of Pakistan providing a clear picture of their beauty.