Why Pakistan

Also known as “Land of Pure” and Islamic Republic of Pakistan has got a lot to offer in terms in every dimension. For tourists it has lot of attractions especially its sightseeing places, archaeological sites, world wonders and all seasons for tourism throughout a whole year. 

Based on Islamic values it has a strong history, culture and tradition which has roots from Turkey, Persia, Afghanistan, Arabia, Central Asia and Indian Sub-continent too. It is blessed with Sufism too.  Its cuisines are also blended with tasteful flavors from above mentioned regions. 

Presently Pakistan is an armed nuclear state with a defensive stance and motives only.  It’s Government and nation has a belief in regional peace, stability and harmony. The nation believes in moving towards technological advancement without compromising religious, ethical, cultural and moral values.        

Sightseeing Places

There are many sightseeing places and tourists attractions in Pakistan from every province. Let’s get a glimpse of a few of them.

Pir Sohawa

Pir Sohawa is both a sightseeing place and picnic spot situated near Islamabad at an altitude of 5000 feet in Margalla Hills. The road connecting this place to to Islamabad has a view point and hill top garden known as Daman-e-Koh.  It presents a charming view of Islamabad during day and night with wildlife to experience too. It is also an ideal spot for hiking that goes up to 3000 feet above uphill from the Saidpur Village in Margalla Hills Islamabad.

Phandar Valley

Located in Gilgit-Baltistan and ideal for Photography the spectacular Phandar valley turns into dazzling colors during autumn. It is 163 km away from Gilgit city. They valley inhibits almost all colors of nature, from view of translucent waters to lakes and rivers of deep blue water a good source for serenity.  

Ziarat Valley

Ziarat is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Baluchistan province of Pakistan. It is blended with lush green natural landscapes, peaks of khilafat hills and the famous Quaid-e-Azam (R.A). The district is also famous for having highest human development index.

Malam Jabba

It is one of the hill stations located near Karakorum mountain range, 40 km distant from Saidu harif in Sawat valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. It is a famous Ski Resort with two Buddhist stupas and almost six monasteries denoting to the fact that the area has been populated for over 2000 years. There are couple of hiking paths located near this famous resort. The first track passes the Ghorband valley and Shangla Top within 18 km from the resort while the second one passes by the Sabonev Valley and is 17 km distant.

Fort Balahisar

One of the worth seeing places of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa is the Fort Bala Hisar. It was the winter capital of the Afghan Durrani Empire whose summer capital was in Kabul. The fort stands in the northwestern corner on a high mound and gives a panoramic and vantage point of the entire city with inner wall covering 10 acres of the area and outer wall covering 15 acres by the outer wall.

Other tourist attractions and sightseeing places of Pakistan that are must to watch but not limited to are:

  • Lal Sohnara National Park, Bahawalpur
  • Khunjerab Pass, Gilgit Baltistan
  • Changa Managa Park, Lahore
  • Ayubia National Park, Abbotabad
  • Deosai National Park, Gilgit Baltistan
  • Shalimar Gardens, Lahore
  • Hingol National Park, Baluchistan
  • Mirani Dam, Makran Coast
  • Cholistan Desert, Bahawalpur
  • Muree Hill Station
  • Shakar Parian , Islamabad
  • Kaghan Valley
  • Naran Valley
  • Hunza Vallley, Gilgit Baltistan
  • Saiful Muluk Lake, Kaghan
  • Manchar Lake, Sindh
  • And many more …………………

Archaeological Sites

Apart from tourist attractions and natural beauty Pakistan is also home for top archaeological sites. Some of them are declared as world heritage sites by UNESCO. Due to influence of Indus valley civilization majority of these sites have natural or cultural importance. Let’s brief a few of them.

Mohenjo Daro

One the right bank of Indus River in Larkana District of Sindh are the ruins of Mohenjo Daro. It is considered as 5000 years old city with largest and primitive settlements in South Asia with one third revealed so far and site conservation works have been on-going on.

Taxila

Just 30 km distant to northwest of Islamabad Taxila is dated back to Gandhara civilization times with ruins both important to Hindus and Buddhists during primitive times. It is of significance for Archaeologists.

Takht-i-Bahi, 

With its meaning as spring throne, Takht-i-Bhai dated back to 1st century BC and is located on top of a 152 meter high hill in Khyber Pakhtunkhawa 16 km distant to Mardan city. There is a Sahr-i-Bahlol, a small fortified city in proximity. Takht-i-Bhai is a sort of historical complex with Buddhist monastery comprising four units. The Court of Stupas, a monastic complex, a temple complex, and a tantric monastic complex.

Shalamar Fort & Gardens

The Shalamar Fort and Gardens traces back to Mughal era at the northwest corner of the Walled City of Lahore. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan is the founder of these historical places symbolizing both Persian and Islamic traditions over 16 hectares of land area.

Makili, Thatta

The necropolis (cemetery) of Makli dates back to 14th century. It is located in thatta Sindh and comprises monuments and mausoleums built from high quality stone, brick, and glazed tiles symbolizes Mughal and Islamic architecture.

Rohtas Fort, Jhelum

One of the garrison fort built by Sher Shah Suri, the fort is located about 16 km from Jhelum in Punjab, Pakistan. It is the best blend of Islamic military architecture. Its name is derived from Rohtasgarh, the place captured by of Sher Shah Suri in 1539 from a Hindu ruler.

History, Culture and Tradition

The history of Pakistan dates back pre-historic times migrations of people of different racial groups and ethnicities, who entered the subcontinent over the past 5000 years ago primarily from central and western Asia from time to time. Pakistan was part of Indo-Pak sub-continent though its areas today consistently remained as a single, compact and a separate geographical and political unit since ages.

The history of Pakistan, as an independent country dates only from August 14th, 1947 though its territories are heir to one of the richest and the oldest civilizations and settlements of the world. The world has always known two different countries and cultures in the sub-continent; one is Indus civilization in the present Pakistan. The other is on the Ganges known as Bharatvarta in today’s India. The cultural, commercial and political connections of Pakistan are with the Sumerian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek and Turks. Pakistan was part of India for a total period of 711 years of which 512 years were ruled by the Muslims and 100 years by the Mauryan (mostly Buddhist) and British during their times. Pakistan had remained either independent or part of rulers from west with its attachment to India only in few cases.

This may be an aspect that there is hardly any Hindu architectural influence in Pakistan and Islam shapes the lives of most Pakistanis. Moreover, Hindus themselves have always regarded inhabitants of Pakistan during historic times as impure and outside the limits of Aryandom. Thus the Two Nation Theory formulated by Iqbal and realized by Jinnah led to the creation of Pakistan in 1947. So the Pakistani historical norms are not identical to those of Indians but are from central and western Asian roots.

Let’s try to get to know about Pakistani culture and traditions too. 

As the history states the diverse influences from both central and western Asia there are over 15 major ethnic groups in Pakistan with varied physical features, historical bloodlines, customs, dress, food and music etc. To name a few comprises Punjabis, Sindhis, Baloch, Pashtuns, Kashmiris, Hazaras, Makranis and Baltis, coming from regions as close to home like the Indus Valley Civilization or as far as Africa or Tibet. Other than ethnicity, the Pakistani culture is totally based on Islamic norms since it first came to the region in 700 AD. In terms of languages actively spoken in Pakistan the official number figures between 73 and 76. Most of the languages in Pakistan belong to the Indo-Iranian language group, comprising Urdu, as the national language.

In Pakistani culture and tradition family values comes first. Pakistani society is not led by individualism, but rather by collectivism, where family and other relationships are expected to stand strongly in each other’s support.

Pakistani culture has scope for craftsmanship. In fact the Pakistani truck art is acknowledged all over the world. Calligraphy in Arabic found in many local buildings and sites and wall hangings, like copper work, paintings and carved wood are also in limelight. Pottery and tradition for Naqashi, e.g. the art-making of camel skin lamps, are also good examples of rich and artistic Pakistani culture.

Sufism is also part of Pakistani culture and tradition. Mainstream Islam and Islamic mysticism are both dominant in Pakistan. Pakistani tradition is based on hospitality, love for food and sports too. Cricket is followed as a major sport in Pakistan.

Traditional dresses are followed with spirit in Pakistan based on proper body coverings for both male and female. Celebrating Islamic obligations and festivities with zeal are part of Pakistani traditions too.

Food/Cuisines

TASTE is the first word that comes to mind of a foodie while thinking about Pakistani food. Pakistani cuisines are blend of various regional cooking of the Indian subcontinent comprising Afghani, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors. The most prominent among Pakistani foods are Qourma and Haleem.

All of the Pakistani Cuisines reflects nations ethnic and cultural diversity, for example Punjabi and Sindhi food can be very spicy. There are also preferences for international cuisines as both fast foods and Chinese are popular in urban cities of Pakistan. There are so many delicious dishes. Let’s walkthrough some of them mentioned below.

Halwa Poori 

Perhaps one of the most beloved and traditional Pakistani breakfast is the fried poori (an oily and crispy bread) with chana masala (seasoned chickpeas) and halwa. Even it is served at celebrations, events and winter weddings. 

Makai ki Roti with Sarsoon ka Saag

It is a famous Punjabi cuisine of the winter comprising cooked mustard leaves, makai (corn) flour with spinach. It is also served during marriage events.

Qaurma 

Qaurma has Central Asian roots. It comprises gravy dish which consists of meat made in spicy sauce with yogurt, cream, nut or seed paste. It is complimented with Naan.

Biryani 

Biryani is also a famous and popular rice made South Asian dish. It comprises rice and meat served with salad or yogurt. It is also served in weddings and events. Biryani is one of the favorite food item expected to be eaten on weekly basis at least.

Kheer

So far we have discussed savory Pakistani cuisines. This time let’s talk about Kheer which is a sweet dish also served in occasions. It is a rice pudding made up with boiled rice, broken wheat, milk and sugar. It can be then blended with cardamom, raisins, saffron, cashew nuts, pistachios or almonds. It is one of most favorite among deserts in Pakistan. 

World Wonders

There are seven majestic wonders of the world located in the Pakistan which are acknowledged by tourists their inception. These heavenly wonders have their own distinction. People from different parts of the globe flock towards these places which are mentioned below. Let’s have a glimpse of some of that. 

Princess of Hope

This world wonder is a tall statue located in the Hingol National Park, near Baluchistan’s Makran Coast since a long time. The Hollywood Actress Angelina Jolie is a key admirer of this who visited this place during 2002 and named it ‘Princess of Hope’. The statue depicts view of a lady standing with a precious robe. The view gives a glimpse as if she wants her getting noticed of her natural beauty. Many of the Pakistani nationals are unaware of this world wonder.

The Paleolithic Aror

This is an amazing rock formation at the limestone plateau of Rohri hills, located near the village of Chancha Baloch, Sindh. It is dated back to the Stone Age. The formation of this Aror resembles a rock in France which has been formulated by the gigantic movements of ocean waves too. There is a shrine at the top of this breathtaking hill. 

The Kathas Raj Temple

It is located in a village in Chakwal, Punjab and one of the most ravishing wonders that grabs the attention of the tourists who value sightseeing places. Dated back to 615-950 CE it is one of the most significant hindu sites in Pakistan. Though it is believed to encompass a Buddhist stupa that towered 61 meters in height encircled with ten streams around. This world wonder has dozens of folk lore to share.

Trango Towers

Another landmark Pakistan has to offer is located at the roof top of the world Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan. Trango Towers are one of the tallest mountains with largest cliffs and challenging rock climbing. It is ideal for base jumping with highest point at 6,286 meters. The famous K2, the Gasherbrums, and Broad Peak encircles Trango Towers acclaimed by thousands of passionate travel adventurers from the entire globe.

Ansoo Lake

It is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world situated in snowy mountains in Kaghan Valley of the Mansehra District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of Pakistan. With immense effort required to reach it has a tear-like shape and was not known till Pakistani Air Force found this pearl during a flight.  

Sharda University Ruins, Neelum Valley

Just 136 km away from Sharda Peeth temple, located at a distance of 136 km from Muzaffarabad, Neelam Valley, Azad Kashmir of Pakistan, the ruins were center for educational excellence during primitive times followed by scholars and students. 

Tooba Mosque

The magnificent Tooba Mosque was build in 1969 worth seeing for both locals and foreigners. It is located in Defence (DHA) Karachi, Phase II. It is also known “Gol Masjid” and acknowledged for being the largest single dome mosque in the world. The interiors of the mosque depicts a creative simplicity. 

Sufism

In terms of Sufism Pakistan has its roots for Sufi mystic traditions since 10th and 11th centuries. There is a Turkish, Afghani and Persian influence in the Sufi thought inherited in this region with an enduring impact of Islam. Today, there are thousands of Sufi shrines and mausoleums in Pakistan.

Some of the notable Sufis, aulias etc. who have contributed to both Islam and society are mentioned below.

Hazart Sachal Sarmast R.A.

One of the well know and Sufi poet who hailed from Ranipur, Sindh. He was born in 1739 and his real name is Abdul Wahab Farouqi. In Sindhi Sachal means means truthful where as Sarmast means mystic and collectively interpreted as Ecstatic Saint of Truth. 

Hazart Sachal Sarmast R.A was a very noble person with modest and austere life. He prefers eating simple food like daal (pulse) and yogurt in his meal. He never left his native village Daraza though he had command on seven languages. His followers are Arabic, Persian, Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi and Urdu speaking. He spread the message of love for humanity via his poetry.  His shrine is also located in his home village and was died in 1829. He was a follower of “Wahdat-ul-Wujood” Islamic doctrine. 

Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai R.A.

Hazart Shah Absul Latif Bhitai was born in 1689 in Hala Haveli’s village called Sui Qandar in Hyderabad, Sindh.  He was also a renowned mystic saint, scholar poets also considered to be one of the greatest literary figures of Sindhi language. He was well-versed in Arabic and Persian language with a vast knowledge of Quran and Hadiths. He was also famous for owing calligraphic skills. He traveled to far off places even came while preaching religious teachings and obligations to the people along the way. His shrine is located in the town of Bhit Shah in Matiari, Sindh. 

Hazrat Mian Meer R.A.

Also known as Mian Meer, Baba Saen Meer Mohammad Sahib R.A this Sufi saint has spent his in Lahore. He was also prominent for being the divine instructor of Dara Shikoh who was the first-born son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. He always acquainted himself with God fearing people and he kept himself away from all the worldly desires. He died on 11 August 1635 at the age of eighty-eight. His pupil Dara Shikoh read his eulogy at the funeral. 

Hazarat Baba Bulley Shah  R.A

Hazarat Baba Bulley Shah R.A. (real name was Abdullah Shah) was born in the historical city of Kasoor in 1680. He was a great lover and follower of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H). He gave message of humanity among all human beings. His poetry style is of “Kafi”. He based his teachings on Shariat, Tariqat, Haqiqat and Marfat which are the four basic stages of “Sufism”.

Hazarat Daata Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri R.A. 

He was born in Ghazni (Afghanistan) and was not only a great Sufi saint but also an ideal figure for other Sufi saints of later period. Some renowned saints like Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Ajmeri (RA) first arrived in Lahore to pay homage to Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) before going to Ajmer (India). Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Ajmeri (RA) also paid tribute to Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) through his famous words which are

Ganj Bakhsh-e Faiz-e Aalam, Mazhar-e Noor-i-Khuda, Naqisaan ra Pir-e Kamil, Kamilaan ra Rahnuma

It means Hazart Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) is a revelation of the Light of ALMIGHTY for people who lay among both imperfect and perfect ones.