10 Reasons Why You Are Missing Out On Pakistan!

Pakistan is a country that not many think of when they think of traveling overseas. Pakistan has a lot to offer beyond terrorism, Taliban and annual floods. It is the sixth most populous country in the world and has a vibrant mix of people coming from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The chances are that you will never visit Pakistan, and here is what you are missing out on!

10. The Friendly Crocs!

Manghopir is the rural area of the greater region of Karachi. It has a Sufi shrine mostly attended by Pakistanis of African origin (surprised?). The shrine has hundreds of friendly crocodiles who are fed by humans without ever being bitten. The yearly festival of the shrine celebrates the birth of the saint with a traditional dance and Sufi songs!

9. Fairy Meadows!

No it is not Switzerland or Austria! Fairy Meadows is grassland in the Northern Region of Pakistan also declared as a National Park.

8. Makran-Missing out on the beaches?

The coastal Makran area is a stretch of semi-dessert coastline. It is a sparsely-populated land where mountains meet the sea, and the dessert. With little rainfall, you will be missing out on the all year round sun!

7. Sukkur Bridge- An architectural masterpiece!

Sukkur Bridge was designed in the 19th century by a British architect. It was the “longest rigid girder” bridge of the time. Weighing a massive 3,300 tonnes, Sukkur Bridge is a chef-d'oeuvre to the aesthetic eye!

6. Missing Out On Being Born Yet?

Lahore, the second largest city in Pakistan is the cultural capital of Pakistan. It is said that “you are not born (yet) if you have not been to Lahore”. The city has a vibrant mix of Mughal Era architecture, to a bustling café scene. Lahore is for the ones who live it up!

5. The Ancient Ruins- An educating experience?

The ancient cities of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa were built in 2600 BC. These ancient cities are considered some of the World’s earliest urban settlements. Taxila also, is an ancient Buddhist city credited to having one of the earliest universities in the world. Pakistan is home to some of the best UNESCO World heritage sites!

4. The Largest Man-Made Forest!

Changa Manga, is named after two bandits of the 19th century. It has the largest planted forest in the world.It has a unique wildlife that you can enjoy on a steamer train while sipping on your cup of chai!

3. The Highest Paved Road In The World!

Karakorum Highway is the highest (altitude) paved road in the world. The twisty and nerve-racking drive along the highway will give you a gratifying adrenaline. Not to mention, the joy of watching the beautifully decorated Pakistani trucks in action!

2. World’s Second Highest Peak!

K2 is World’s second highest peak (after Mount Everest) and sometimes known as the most difficult one to climb. Already a star among mountaineers, not many outside-the-scene are aware of its splendour!

1. World's Newest Island!

A massive earth-quake on September 24th 2013, created World’s Newest Island off the coast of Pakistan. It was a wondrous site for many local villagers as they were the first to notice it. The mud island offers a great opportunity of exploration for tourists and scientists alike!