Ilyasi mosque nawanshehar abbotabad

Top 5 Tourist Sites

1
Taxila
2
Lahore
3
The Karakoram Highway
4
Karimabad
5
Lake Saiful Muluk

Famous Landmarks

• 
  Pakistan National Monument in Islamabad
  Ba'ab-ul-Islam Sindh.
  Faisal Mosque in Islamabad
  Minar-e-Pakistan (Tower of Pakistan), Lahore
  Badshahi Masjid (Emperor's Mosque), Lahore
  Shalimar Gardens, Lahore
  Skardu
  Hiran Minar, sheikhupura
  Takht Bhai a Buddhist Monastic Complex, Mardan
  Ancient city of Taxila
  Ancient city of Harappa
  Ancient city of Moenjodaro
  K2, second tallest mountain in the world, Northern Areas
  Bhong Mosque, Rahim Yar Khan
  Nanga Parbat, one of the tallest and hardest mountain in the world to climb, Northern Areas.
  Wagah Border, Lahore district
  Mausoleum of Quaid, Karachi.

Tourism in Pakistan

While Pakistan has some social and political problems, it has also widely been stated as being the tourism industry's next big thing[1]. Pakistan has diverse cultures, peoples and landscapes [2].
The country's attractions range from the ruins of ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo-daro, Harappa and Taxila, to the Himalayan hill stations, which attract those interested in field and winter sports. Pakistan is home to several mountain peaks over 7000m, which attracts adventurers and mountaineers from around the world, especially K2[3]. The northern parts of Pakistan have many old fortresses, towers and other architecture as well as the Hunza and Chitral valleys, the latter being home to the small pre-Islamic Animist Kalasha community who claim descent from the army of Alexander the Great. The romance of the North West Frontier Province is timeless and legendary. In the Punjab is the site of Alexander's battle on the Jhelum River and the historic city Lahore, Pakistan's cultural capital, with many examples of Mughal architecture such as the Badshahi Masjid, Shalimar Gardens, Tomb of Jahangir and the Lahore Fort.
To promote Pakistan's unique and various cultural heritage, the prime minister launched a "Visit Pakistan" marketing campaign in 2007. [4]
In 2009, The World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report ranked Pakistan as one of the top 25% tourist destinations for its World Heritage sites. Ranging from mangroves in the South, to the 5,000-year-old cities of the Indus Valley Civilization —Mohenjo-daro and Harappa

HIRAN MINAR TRAVEL GUIDE

The area around Hiran Minar, 45 Km outside Lahore, was once a famous hunting resort of Emperor Jehangir. Hiran Minar (literally translated as ‘deer watch tower’) is a 03-storey monument built by the Emperor in the early 17th century and dedicated to the memory of his pet deer Mansraj. It has an artificial pond and four small pavilions, which were added after the minaret. The neighboring village of Sheikhupura is famous for its dancing horses and camels.

LALUSAR LAKE TRAVEL GUIDE

At the extreme northern end of the Kaghan Valley about 50 km from Naran on the Naran-Babusar road is Lalusar Lake, surrounded by clusters of wild flowers in a carpet of blue and gold. This is the source of the Kunhar River, which winds through the length of the valley. Lake Lalusar offers a splendid opportunity for fishing in dark blue waters surrounded by high mountains. The serene beauty and peace, which permeates the Kaghan Valley, makes this an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.

LAKE SAIF-UL-MULUK TRAVEL GUIDE

A short jeep ride from Naran brings us to enchanting Saif-ul-Muluk Lake. This lovely lake lies at a height of over 3,000m above sea level and is guarded by a ring of forbidding peaks. The crystal clear waters of the lake mirror the azure sky, with its complement of fluffy clouds and reflections of Malika Parbat Peak. The melting snows and glaciers of the mountains feed the lake through a myriad of torrents and streams.

TRAVEL GUIDE OF KAGHAN

One of the pleasures of visiting the Kaghan Valley is the picturesque drive from Rawalpindi to Abbottabad and onwards to Balakot, transferring to a four-wheel drive vehicle for the continuation of the journey to Naran, where the rest houses, hotels and motels are located. The Kaghan Valley is 154 Km long, rising to a height of 4,148m at Babusar Pass in the north. This is an ideal area for trekking and trout fishing and is a paradise for the botanist.
Lake Saif-ul-Muluk is one of the most popular scenic spots in the valley. This deep blue lake offers an awe-inspiring view of Mt. Malika Parbat - Queen of Mountains (5,291m). Shogran, Lake Lalusar and Babusar Pass are three places that make this Himalayan hideaway an unforgettable experience. The local people have retained their traditional hospitality and way of life. Time seems to stand still here when compared to the tumultuous roar of the nearby Kunhar River.

TRAVEL GUIDE OF GILGIT

The breath taking 60-minute flight from Islamabad to Gilgit through the majestic snowcapped Himalayas and mighty Karakorams is an exciting experience. The Himalayan & Karakoram region consists of several hundred peaks, sixty of which rise higher than 6,700m. Among these giants are the famous Nanga Parbat (8,125m), the ninth highest in the world, and K-2 Peak (8,611m), the second highest.
This is the land where lofty peaks tower above rich valleys and lakes of great scenic beauty; a paradise for the hikers, trekkers, anglers, mountaineers, adventurers, polo enthusiasts, nature lovers and those interested in observing exotic areas and life styles. The trip from Islamabad to Gilgit can also be done by road along the Karakorum Highway, which follows the route of the Indus River. This journey takes 14 hours and can be conveniently broken either at Besham and Chilas, where there is plenty of accommodation available.

INDEPENDENCE DAY 14 AUGUST

Eagle Nest Hotel in Duikar Hunza Pakistan Travel Guide

I am a tourist who has visited many times to Hunza Valley in my life. I have never seen such a peaceful and scenic point. Eagle’s Nest Hotel is situated in the village of Duikar, which is perched on a 2850 meter high ridge above Altit village in Hunza valley. Eagle’s Nest Hotel is one of the best and most easily accessible viewpoints in the whole of Hunza valley. Even if you don’t have time to stay long it is a must to come up to see the sunrise or sunset views on Hunza valley and Rakaposhi and the other peaks surrounding Eagle’s Nest Hotel. Guests that stay at Eagle’s Nest Hotel can even enjoy the sunrise from their room.Starting as a small camping site in 1994, Eagle’s Nest has grown into a full service hotel. The friendly family-run hotel offers accommodation to suit every budget. The personal hospitality and personal touch which you find every room service, food and garden is unique, and has made many guests wanting to prolong their stay.
I hope you will visit and enjoy the journey. For more information you can also visit
www.eaglesnesthotel.com
www.eaglenest.com.pk

Dera Ismail Khan Travel Guide

Dera Ismail Khan is a city in N.W.F.P , Pakistan .It is situated on the west bank of the Indus River and lies 200 miles west of Lahore and 120 miles north-west of Multan. . Dera Ismail Khan was founded towards the end of the fifteen century by Ismail Khan, a son of the Baloch adventurer Malik Sohrab, who named the town after. It is often abbreviated to D.I.Khan.The bazars of the city all converge in one area, called Chowaglla (literally "intersection") Major bazars include Topanwala bazar, Bhatiya bazar, Muslim bazar, Kalan bazar and Bakhiri bazar. Natives of Dera Ismail Khan are known as Derawals. The Airport is situated 10 KM away from city centre. The district has an area of 7,326 km².
Tourist Areas:
A popular tourist destination is called Handeray Near About 45Km from the Dera Ismail Khan -Indus Highway. These ruins are situated near a place Mahra on indus Highway.
Another popular tourist destination is a pre-Islamic fort called Bilot, 500m from the Dera Ismail Khan-Chashma highway. These ruins are situated on a hill.

Dera Ghazi Khan Travel Guide

Dera Ghazi Khan the Royal City of Balochistan until anglo time of 1857. But later British Empire separated it from Balochistan and it formed as the Division of Punjab Province in recent Pakistan. D.G. Khan was founded by Ghazi Khan in 1494 A.D. Dera Ghazi Khan always remained the center of Balochi Culture and civilization. It forms three major areas in its depth and they are Tribal Areas, semi Tribal Areas, and Nun Tribal Areas.
D.G. Khan contains one of Pakistan's main Textile Industries. All five rivers of Punjab including the Indus River flow through out this region. And combine them into one near Kot Mithan. Main Tribes of Dera Ghazi Khan includes Lighari,Mazari,Khosa, Rind, Qaisrani, Lakani and Umrani and Buzdar.
INFORMATION ABOUT BUZDAR TRIBAL
There are many tribes in D.G.Khan. Buzdar is one of them. It has many sub-tribes such as Rustomani Bahdurani Jalalani , Dostalani, Bajrani Baliani, Ladwani,Merrkhani Lashari, and Bohur.
Information About Rind Baloch.
Basti Rind is away from Dera Ghazi Khan at 50KM.which is involved in Shadan Lond union Council.

Darra adam khel Travel Guide

One of the more unusual attractions of Pakistan, Darra is on of the beautiful place from all the tribal areas, located 35 kilometres south of Peshawar on the road to Kohat, a drive of about 40 minutes.Darra Adam Khel is a very papular place for the visitors. There are a lots of places around here to attract the foreigners. To visit the Darra adam Khel , foreigners need a permit from the Home Secretary of NWFP whose office is in the civil Secretariat on Police Road. Apparently the effective control of the government is somewhat limited and it seems to be possible to just go and pay the gun-people some money.
The Darra people are loving people. The take pride in reciving foreign tourists.Take a minibus from Kohat Adda in Peshawar to Darra (20 Rs, half hour). At Darra you have to leave the bus at the gunman's checkpoint. The gunmen will escort you through the city. They will show you the factories where guns and bullets are produced. You can shoot a round with an AK47 for free or anything else for more.
The people of that area are highly strong physically as well as mentaly because they made a weapons from a ordinaroy materials.
Now in darra each and every sort of a guns and pestol are mades like Ak47 local name kalashankof, kalakop, repeater, danger, 30 bore pestol, 32 bore pestol, breeta pestol, lancher etc etc

Cholistan Travel Guide

The Cholistan, or Rohi, Desert in Punjab is the largest desert on the Indian continent. The desert is over 10,000 square miles. Located 20 miles from Bahawalpur, The Hakra River dried up here, and with it most life. The 2.5 million people who live here are nomads who lead a simple life herding and trading in camels. Their culture is strong with many romantic legends dating back to ancient times and they place great value in the power of song. The desert festivals are simply out of this world, you may see camels dancing (except those with two left humps) who are even better dressed in dazzling costumes than their owners. The people of Cholistan wear embroidered and print coloured shirts, skirts and robe coats. During the wet season, the nomads built shallow reservoirs to catch rainwater to survive long spells away from their villages.

Cholistan is changing amazingly. The desert was under perennial regular irrigated cultivation till 1200 B C and under seasonal regular irrigated cultivation till about 600 B C. The area turned into arid and desolate desert with drying up of River Hakra.

source:www.world66.com

Bhalwal Travel Guide

Bhalwal City is located at the heart of Motorway the Pride of Pakistan ,roughly at mid-point of Pakistan capital Islamabad and provioncial Punjab capital Lahore. Formed by the British with the arrival of the railway link from Lala-Musa to Sargodha, in the 1920s, it is essentially an agricultural city. The city is served by the loere-Jhelum Canal and is a major producer of Sugar Cane, Oranges, Cotton and Basmati Rice crops.
Bhalwal is a city that is mostly farmland citrus, rice, and weat re the major products. Because of best quality citrus, Bhalwal is also Known as California of Pakistan.BHalwal City is divided in two mian parts .Main Bhalwal including 8 chak N.B and Purana Bhalwal,which is the actual city of ancient days.HAZRAT SAKHI SHAH SULEMAN NORI HAZOOR SARKAR'S Darbar Shareef is also located in Purana Bhalwal.Hazrat Sahib are a great Sufi of Qadri Order.Hazrat Sahib are Murshid of HAZRAT NOSH GANG SARKAR OF GUJRAT.HAZRAT SAHIB ,SAKHI SARKAR are the DATTA OF Bhalwal.Anybody who visit the Bhalwal must visit the Darbar Shareef for pray and Salaam.
Chkook of Bhalwal are famous for their cultivated lands.Kinon is the famous product of bhalwl.Winter season specially the January to March is the best season for visiting Bhalwal.Because in summer the weather is much hot

Benazirabad Travel Guide

"Benazirabad" is new name of "Nawab Shah" an old city of central Sindh, southern province of Pakistan.

Bannu Travel Guide

Bannu is an important town (1981 pop. 35,170) in Northen Pakistan. It is a divisional administrative center and an important road junction and market town. The major industries are cloth weaving and the manufacture of cotton fabrics, machinery, and equipment. Bannu is famous for its weekly Jumma fair.
It has one Engineering & Technology University, two post graduate colleges, an engineering college affiliated with peshawar university, two degree colleges for girls, and more then 300 primary, middle, high and higher secondary schools for girls and boys.

The present location of the town was founded by Sir Herbert Edwardes in 1848, and was formerly called Edwardesabad. It was a leading British military base, especially in actions against Afghan border tribes. Bani Zai tribe of Afghans lives here. Bannu is very green amidst rugged & dry mountains and has very fertile land. Early English visitors called it as "paradise".
Bannu is called "Bana" and "Bani Gul" in the local pashte language. It is a place of very happy people. In the afternoon one can see groups of young men wearing garlands of flowers and dancing in the roads and parks.

source:www.world66.com

Bahawalpur Travel Guide

Bahawalpur (also Bhawalpur, Bhawulpore) ( Urdu: بہاولپور ) is a city of ( 1998 pop. 403,408) located in Bahawalpur District, Punjab Pakistan. Bahawalpur is located south of the Sutlej River and it lies in the Cholistan region. It is situated 90 km from Multan, 420 km from Lahore and about 700 km from the national capital Islamabad. It was the capital of the former princely state of Bahawalpur. The city of Bahawalpur is famous for its kind-hearted people known as the Saraikis.

History
The city was founded in 1748 by Nawab Muhammad Bahawal Khan Abbasi I, whose descendants ruled the area until it joined Pakistan in 1947. The State of Bahawalpur was one of the largest states of British India, more than 450 kilometres long, and was ruled by General H.H. Jalalat ul-Mulk, Rukn ud-Daula, Saif ud-Daula, Hafiz ul-Mulk, Mukhlis ud-Daula wa Muin ud-Daula, Al-Haj Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V Bahadur, Nusrat Jung, Amir of the God gifted kingdom of Bahawalpur, GCSI (1.1.1941, KCSI 1.3.1929), GCIE (3.6.1931), KCVO who decided to join Pakistan at the time of independence in 1947. The state maintained its sovereignty until1955.

source:www.world66.com

BHHAKAR Travel Guide

BHHAKAR IS THE DISTT OF SARGODHA DIVISION.TEHSILS ARE MANKERA KALORKOT,DARIAKHAN,AND BHAKAR,FAMOUS PERSONALITY ABUBAKAR QURESHI FROM MANKERA AND ZAHEER KHAN FROM HYDERABAD FOR MOR DETAIL JUST LOG ON www.alturka.com
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source:world66.com

Azad Kashmir Travel Guide

The State of Azad Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir ( Urdu : اسلامی جمھوریۃ آزاد کشمیر ), usually shortened to Azad Kashmir (literally 'free Kashmir'), is part of the Pakistani -administered section of the Kashmir region , along with the Northern Areas ; its official name is Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It covers an area of 13,297 km² (5,134 mi² ), with its capital at Muzaffarabad , and has an estimated population of almost 4 million.

Azad Kashmir has been considered politically, constitutionally and geographically as part of a separate state, i.e. Jammu & Kashmir. This state is disputed territory, and has been controlled by both Pakistan and India since their independence, 14 / 15 August 1947 respectively. Azad Kashmir is under the indirect control of Pakistan. Its defence, foreign policy and currency are under the direct control of Pakistan.

Consequently, financial matters, i.e. budget and tax affairs, have been dealt with by the Azad Jammu & Kashmir Council, instead of the Central Board of Revenue. Azad Jammu & Kashmir Council is a supreme body consisting of 11 members, 6 from the Government of Azad Jummu & Kashmir, and 5 from the Government of Pakistan

Attock Travel Guide

Attock District (Urdu: اٹک) is a district in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. The district was created in 1904 by the merger of Talagang Tehsil in the Jhelum District with the Pindigheb, Fatehjang and Attock tehsils from Rawalpindi District of the Punjab province of British India. Attock District is bordered by the Haripur and Swabi districts of North-West Frontier Province to the north, the district of Rawalpindi to the east, the district of Chakwal to the southeast, the district of Mianwali to the southwest, and North-West Frontier Province districts of Kohat and Nowshera to the west and northwest. The river Indus forms the western boundary of the district. Attock District was originally named Campbellpur after the Briton Sir Campbell who founded the city of Campbellpore. The name of the district was changed to Attock as of 1978.[1] Attock city is the district headquarters.

The district has a population of 1,274,935 of which 20.45% were urban in 1998.[2] The Awans, Milars and Khattars are the main tribes of Attock District.

in Tehsil Pindigheb, small town by Name Khaur, there you see the oldest Oil wells of the subcontinants, these oil wells starts in 1894, & the 1st oil well of the subcontinant is also here. a P.O.L oil company's musem is also here for travelers.

Ahmad pur travel guide

The Nawab Mohed Sadiq City: This is a historical city, 250 years old. It is a very beautiful location with historical buildings.

source:http://www.world66.com

Abbottabad Travel Guide

Abbottabad is the most exquisite major city of Pakistan not far from Islamabad. It is north-west of Islamabad just 65 miles away on a beautful road that leads to Muzaffarabad, capital of the Pakistani controlled Kashmir (Azad Kashmir), the Kaghan Valley, Gilgit, Skardu and China. This city is at the begining of the world famous "slik route", that is now considerd as a living wonder of the world. This road ultimately leads to mountains like the K2, Nanga Parbat and many other world's highest mountains that are more than 8,000 metres above the sea level.
Abbottabad is also home to the Pakistan Miltary Academy (PMA), Kakool. So be aware that there is a large military presence in the town.
Evergreen Abbotabad has a cooler weather in the summer and snowfall in the winter. A lot of fresh water springs and surrounding snow top mountains.
Abbottabad is also known as city of schools and colleges there are 33 medical colleges in pakistan while 5 of them are in abbottabad it is a beautifull city.
Its lovely to go up to the top of Shimla Pahari and look down upon Abbottabad and hear the sounds of the town wafting upwards.

SOURCE:http://world66.com

IT'S BEUTIFUL IT'S MURREE

Murree is known as the Queen of Hills. Murree is only an hour's drive northeast of Islamabad and an ideal getaway if you are tired of the heat of the capital. Murree is one of the most popular summer resorts in Pakistan.
At the northeast end is Kashmir Point, with views across the valley of the Jhelum River into Azad Kashmir. At the southwest end is Pindi Point, looking back towards Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Between the two runs The Mall, at the center of, which is the main shopping area, where most people congregate. Chair Lifts in Murree give a ride from Bansara Gali (below Murree) to Pindi Point, the other to the top of Patriata hill (on the road to Karor).

On the way to Murree you can also visit 'Chatter Park' a small theme park. There are also many other parks on the way into Murree. For Murree Hotel Booking please visit http://www.paktraveler.com/

SOURCE:http://www.world66.com/

CHITRAL VALLEY

The Chitral Valley at an elevation of 1128 meters (3,700 ft) is popular with mountaineers, anglers, hunters, hikers, naturalists and anthropologists. The 7,788 meters (25,550 ft) Trichmir, the highest peak of the Hindukush mountain, dominates this 322km long exotic valley.
Chitral district has Afghanistan on its North, South and West. A narrow strip of Afghan territory, Wakhan, separates it from Tajikistan. The tourist season in Chitral is from June to September.
One of the major attractions of Chitral are the Kalash valleys-the home of the Kafir-Kalash or "Wearers of the Black Robe", a primitive pagan tribe. Their ancestry is enveloped in mystery and is the subject of controversy. A legend says that five soldiers of the legions of Alexander of Macedon settled in Chitral and are the progenitors of the Kafir-Kalash.
The 3,000 strong Kafir-Kalash live in the valley of Birir, Bumburet and Rambur in the South. Bamburet, the largest and the most picturesque valley of the Kafir-Kalash, is 40km from Chitral and is connected by a jeepable road. Birir, 34km away is accessible by a jeepable road. Rambur is 32km from Chitral, the road is jeepable. The Kalash women wear black gowns of coarse cloth in summer and hand-spun wool dyed in black in winter. Their pictureque headgear is made of woollen black material decked out with cowrie shells, buttons and crowned with a large coloured feather. In parts of Greece even today some women sport a similar headcovering. The Kalash people love music and dancing particularly on occasions of their religious festivals like Joshi Chilimjusht (14th & 15th May - spring), Phool (20th - 25th September) and Chowas (18th to 21st December)

source:http://www.world66.com/

Malam Jabba Ski Resort

Malam Jabba is perhaps the finest skiing resort in Pakistan. Malam Jabba is located about 300 kilometres from Islamabad near Afghanistan border in the Swat Valley. It takes about six hours to reach Malam Jabba by road. Malam Jabba is also well connected by air with Islamabad and Peshawar. You can take flight from Islamabad to reach Saidu Sharif, which is the nearest airport to Malam Jabba. From the airport, Malam Jabba is about 45 kilometres.

Mala Jabba Ski Resort is the joint effort of the Pakistan government with its Austrian counter part. Well equipped with modern facilities, Malam Jabba has fine infrastructure and offers a number of facilities like roller/ice-skating rinks, chair lifts, skiing platforms, telephone facility and snow clearing equipment. Accommodation is also available and restaurants offer local and international cuisine.

source:http://www.tourtopakistan

THE WORLD HIGHEST 2ND MOUNTAIN K2

K2 MOUNTAIN

K2 is the second-highest mountain on Earth (after Mount Everest). With a peak elevation of 8,611 metres (28,251 ft), K2 is part of the Karakoram segment of the Himalayan range, and is located on the border[1] between Pakistan's northern territories,[2] and the Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County of Xinjiang, China.[3] K2 is known as the Savage Mountain due to the difficulty of ascent and the 2nd highest fatality rate among the 'eight thousanders' for those who climb it. For every four people who have reached the summit, one has died trying.[4]

The name K2 is derived from the notation used by the Great Trigonometric Survey. Thomas Montgomerie made the first survey of the Karakoram from Mount Haramukh, some 130 miles (210 km) to the south, and sketched the two most prominent peaks, labelling them K1 and K2.[5]

The policy of the Great Trigonometric Survey was to use local names for mountains wherever possible[6] and K1 was found to be known locally as Masherbrum. K2, however, appeared not to have acquired a local name, possibly due to its remoteness. The mountain is not visible from Askole, the last village to the south, or from the nearest habitation to the north, and is only fleetingly glimpsed from the end of the Baltoro Glacier, beyond which few local people would have ventured.[7] The name Chogori, derived from two Balti words, chhogo ('big') and ri ('mountain') (شاہگوری) has been suggested as a local name, but evidence for its widespread use is scant. It may have been a compound name invented by Western explorers[8] or simply a bemused reply to the question "What's that called?"[7] It does, however, form the basis for the name Qogir (simplified Chinese: 乔戈里峰; traditional Chinese: 喬戈里峰; pinyin: Qiáogēlǐ Fēng) by which Chinese authorities officially refer to the peak. Other local names have been suggested including Lamba Pahar ("Tall Mountain" in Urdu) and Dapsang, but are not widely used.[7]

Lacking a local name, the name Mount Godwin-Austen was suggested, in honour of Henry Godwin-Austen, an early explorer of the area, and while the name was rejected by the Royal Geographical Society[7] it was used on several maps, and continues to be used occasionally.[9][10]

The surveyor's mark, K2, therefore continues to be the name by which the mountain is commonly known. It is now also used in the Balti language, rendered as Kechu or Ketu[8][11] (Urdu: کے ٹو). The Italian climber Fosco Maraini argued in his account of the ascent of Gasherbrum IV that while the name of K2 owes its origin to chance, its clipped, impersonal nature is highly appropriate for so remote and challenging a mountain. He concluded that it was...

"...just the bare bones of a name, all rock and ice and storm and abyss. It makes no attempt to sound human. It is atoms and stars. It has the nakedness of the world before the first man - or of the cindered planet after the last."[12]

Tourist Places

COME & EXPLORE PAKISTAN

Punjab

Its name meaning 'Land of Five Rivers', is the richest, most fertile and most heavily populated province of Pakistan. (Originally the five rivers referred to the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej and Beas - but the last is now in Indian Punjab only, so the Indus is now included as Pakistan's fifth river). In Punjab, live over 70 million people - more than half the population of the entire country. Geographically, it is a land of contrasts, from the alluvial plain of the Indus River and its tributaries to the sand-dunes of the Cholistan Desert, from the verdant beauty of the pine-covered foothills of the Himalaya to the strangely convoluted lunar landscape of the Potwar Plateau and the Salt Range.

In the 17th century, Lahore became one of the greatest Mughal cities in the subcontinent. A town near Lahore was the birthplace of Guru Nanak, the 15th century founder of the Sikh religion, and Lahore was the capital from which Maharaja Ranjit Singh ruled his 19th century Sikh Empire. The British coveted this fertile region, and overthrew the Sikhs in 1849, annexing Punjab to their Indian dominions, with Lahore as its provincial capital. Finally, it was in Lahore that the All India Muslim League passed, on 23 March 1940, its Resolution for the Creation of Pakistan.

The best time to visit northern Punjab is in the spring, from February to April, and in the autumn, from September to November. Southern Punjab is extremely hot in summer, so Multan is at its best in winter, from November to February.

• Bahawalpur

Bahawalpur is 889 km from Karachi. The founder of the state of Bahawalpur was Nawab Bahawal Khan Abbasi I. The Abbasi family ruled over the State for more than 200 years (1748 to 1954). during the rule of the last Nawab Sir Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi V, Bahawalpur State was merged with Pakistan in 1954. Bahawalpur was formerly the capital of the state and now is the District and Divisional Headquarters of Bahawalpur Division.It is an important marketing centre for the surrounding areas and is located on the cross roads between Peshawar, Lahore, Quetta and Karachi. Saraiki is the local language of the area.

Urdu, Punjabi and English are also spoken and understood by most the people. There are three palaces, the main one Noor Mehal. Bahawalpur is also known for its distinctly embroidered slippers and shoes and the filigree pottery which is made here. It has a marble mosque in the Fawara Chowk and a few British buildings like the Science College. Bahawalpur has a modest museum having a fine collection of coins, medals, postage stamps of former State of Bahawalpur, manuscripts, documents, inscriptions, wood carvings, camel skin paintings, historical models and stone carving etc. of Islamic and pre-Islamic period.

MAJOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES OF PAKISTAN

sites-------------province

1. Moenjodaro---------Sindh
2. Kot diji--------------Sindh
3. Harappa-------------punjab
4. Taxila---------------punjab
5. Takht-e-bhai--------nwfp
6. Mehar garh -------- balochistan

MAJOR MUSEUMS OF PAKISTAN

Museums

1. 
   National Museum Karachi
2. 
   Allama Iqbal Museum Lahore
3. 
   Archaeological Museum Peshawar
4. 
   Archaeological Museum Saidu Sharif
5. 
   Archaeological Museum Taxila
6. 
   Folk Heritage Museum Islamabad

The North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) (Urdu: śhumāl maġribī sarhadī sūbha شمال مغربی سرحدی صوبہ) (other informal names include Sarhad, Frontier Afghania as well as Pakhtunkhwa, Pashtunistan and Pakhtunistan) is the smallest of the four provinces of Pakistan.[2] The NWFP is home to the majority Pashtuns (locally referred to as Pakhtuns) as well as other smaller ethnic groups.

The province which was although Officially Founded in 1901 at Shahi Bagh Garden Function in Peshawar Arranged By Lord Curzon The first Chief Executive of The Province , NWFP was formed From the Areas annexed from Emirate of Afghanistan who Termed it a Temporarry Measure, after the Durand Line Agreement was made in 12 Nov 1893 at Parachinar , Now Separated and is Part of FATA, through a Royal Commission set up by Afghan Emirate and British East India Company administered India, NWFP borders Afghanistan to the northwest, the Northern Areas to the northeast, Azad Kashmir to the east, Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) to the west and south, and Pakistani Punjab and Islamabad Capital Territory to the southeast.

The principal and dominant language is Pashto (locally referred to as Pakhto) and the provincial capital is Peshawar (locally referred to as Pekhawar). The Government of Pakistan led by the Pakistan Peoples Party and Awami National Party, to accommodate a demand by the Awami National Party, proposed the province’s name be changed to Pakhtunkhwa.

Baluchistan

West of the Indus Plains is Baluchistan, the largest province in Pakistan with an area about 343,000 square km. But though it's bigger than the British Isles, it only has a population of about one million, due mainly to its daunting arid geography.

In the south of the province, Makran is almost entirely desert with low, dry hills rising from 300 meters to 2500 meters in the north. In the west there is a large salt lake, Hammum-i-Maskhel, and more expansive desert plains. This is where the Chagai and Toba Kakar Mountain Ranges form the borders of Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Baluchistan is outside the monsoon zone and has, with the exception of the hilly and arid mountainous regions, a pleasant climate. In winter the temperature falls to as low as - 30 C while in summer it ranges from 18 to 30 C. The province has been influenced by the civilizations in the Indus, Dir and Swat Valleys. One of the oldest Neolithic sites (6000 BC) is to be found at Mehr Ghar just south of Bolan Pass. This culture faded away in 3000 BC about the same time that the Indus Valley Civilization emerged.

Fiercely independent Baluchistan never really became part of the Mughal Empire, but effectively remained an autonomous frontier tributary. In India they fought the Hindus and gained some influence in the Punjab and Sindh. In order to survive they expediently changed their loyalty and allegiance when necessary; at one time with the Moghuls, then the Persians and the Afghans, but their constant was the fight for Islam. When the Mughal power declined they took on the Sikhs, the Marathis and finally the British, who arrived in 1841.

Makran, once a thriving region with its capital in Panjgur and commercial entrepot in Tiz with 'great warehouses, palm groves and a beautiful mosque, with people of all nations', simply dried up.

Baluchistan is where the alternative rout of the Euro-Asian Highway passes from Zahedan in Iran to Taftan in Baluchistan and on to Quetta. Another alternative road turns south from Kandahar in Afghanistan into Chaman in Baluchistan - this was the route for freight bound for Afghanistan arriving through Karachi harbour. Apart from its importance as a transit area, there are mineral resources which are just beginning to be tapped. The Sui district has one of the largest gas deposits in the world.

Baluchistan is a province of contrasts. It has some of the bleakest landscape in the country with grim, jagged mountains, barren and arid land where the sparse greenery shrivels and wilts, but hidden away are some stunningly beautiful places.

See Also:Quetta

A little short of the place where the Urak valley begins and ten kms from Quetta is the Hinna Lake. The greenish- blue water of the lake provides a rich contrast to the sandy brown of the hills in the back ground.

The Urak valley is 21 km from Quetta city. The road is lying on both sides with wild roses and fruit orchards. Peaches, palms, apricots and apples of many varieties are grown in this valley.

Hazarganji Chiltan National Park, 20 km south-west of Quetta, rare animals like' Markhors' have been declared a protected species. The park is spread over 38,429 acres with altitude ranging from 2021 to 3264 meters.

It has a variety of wildlife specially Markhor of which there are five distinct kinds. The kind that is encountered most often is the Chiltan Markhor. The other animals include straight-horned Markhor, 'gad' (wild sheep) and leopards which occasionally migrate to the park from other areas, wolves stripped hyaena, hares, wild cats and porcupines.

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Coastline

The coastline of Baluchistan extends over 750 kms from Hub near Karachi, to the Gawadar Bay on Pakistan-Iran border. The whole area is rich with a variety of marine life and has long sunny beaches. Coastal towns of Pasni, Jiwani and Gawadar are linked by air with Karachi. The coastal tribes are as colorful as those of central and upper Baluchistan. Their colorful costumes, songs and dances are fascinating.

Passes

Bolan Passes

Along Bolan Pass, where the road winds through the picturesque mountains one is reminded of the huge odds that the armies from Central Asia and north must have faced when swooping down the plains of he present day Pakistan.

Khojak Pass

The Khojak Pass leads directly to the border of Afghanistan which is 153 kms away from Quetta. The scenery is as breath-taking here as it is at Bolan Pass. The journey to the border town of Chaman passes through a 4 kms tunnel, more than 1945 meters above sea level.

Lak Pass

Lak Pass is located between Kalat and Quetta. Here the highway takes a turn for Koh-e-Taftan, Saindak copper mines and Zahidan in Iran. On the hills, oblivious to the presence of the traffic and humans, hundreds of sheep browse upon the scant grass available.

Ziarat

Pakistan has a number of beautiful valleys, enchanting their spectators with enthralling beauty but Ziarat's is importance and an archaic treasure of Junipers forests. Situated about 122 km in the north of metropolis city of Quetta in Baluchistan, this popular picnic resort is at the elevation of 8,200 feet from the sea level. The summers in the valley are always pleasant, attracting a number of tourists, and the winters extremely harsh. Junipers forests, which are one of the world oldest, are the main source of lush green vista of the Ziarat valley. some of the trees in Junipers forests had been sowed as long as 5000 years ago, making Ziarat as the second biggest Junipers valley in the world.

The word Ziarat means a 'shrine' (grave of a holy man). A folklore tells a saint, Kharwari Baba, who is believed to have stayed in the valley and blessed it. He was a member of Sarangzai tribe and his original name was Mulla Tahir. Later he became a disciple of Nana Sahib. A number of miracles are attributed to Khurwari Baba. The shrine of Khurwari Baba, after which Ziarat was named, is located 8 km away from Ziarat and is visited by a large number of people to pay attribute to the divine soul.

Ziarat takes pride in hosting Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan on a number of occasions. He also spent the last days of his life in a government residency there.

This monumental residency was built in 1882 by the British government and till independence was in the use of the agents of the British governor general for India as their summer headquarters.

The residency is embellished with beautiful lawns, covered with grassy carpets and with roses, dancing at the rhythmic tunes of wind, all around the garden. From there one can have a striking view of the picturesque valley.

The Gorges

Baluchistan is an arid land which receives very low rainfall annually. But innumerable natural springs known as 'Karez' and streams provide enough water for drinking and cultivation of fruits and crops in most o the areas. There are more than half a dozen gorges around Ziarat formed by natural 'Karez' - spring water falling through narrow openings amongst the mountain rocks producing a dramatic effect. The sound of waterfalls singing to the tune of solid rocks while passing through narrow gorges creates a mystic atmosphere. The famous gorges along the road to Ziarat are Chutair Tangi, Kahn Tangi, Kawas Tangi, Fern Tangi and Sandeman Tangi. One can approach easily to these gorges by diverting from the main road to have a picnic, adventure and fun.

source:http://www.pakistan4ever.com/

CHITRAL

In the northwestern region of Pakistan lies the remote and peaceful valley of Chitral. Lying in the midst of Hindukush Range, it is one of the world’s most beautiful regions. Chitral offers enchanting scenery in the shadow of majestic Trich Mir, which, at 7,708m is the highest peak of Hindukush Ranges. The people of Chitral, the “Kho”, show traces of Persian and Turkish ancestry. They are known for their peaceful, uncomplicated character and unique culture

Chitral is more famous, however, for the Kalash people who inhabit the southwestern part of the region. The “Kalash Country” is spread over three Valleys; Bomboret, Birir and Rumbur. The Kalash have always fascinated anthropologists and historians by their obscure origins, colourful festivals, and curious customs and rituals.

Another interesting place near Chitral is Birmoglasht, the summer residence of the former Mehters (rulers). About 45 Kms north of Chitral Town are the famous hot springs Garam Chashma, known for their curing properties. A day trip to Buni gives further interesting insights into Chitrali rural life, plus views of beautiful Bunizom Mountain. Polo, the “Game of the Kings” is best seen here in its land of origin. Played by skillful, daring participants in traditional style, Polo tournament is held every year in July near Chitral at Shandur Pass between Arch rivals Gilgit & Chitral.Wildlife such as Marco Polo Sheep (ovis amon polis), Markhor or Ibex (caprafalconeri), Snow Leopard and Brown Bear are found in the heights of the Hindukush Mountains and are protected species.Chitral is easily accessible by a 50-minute flight daily from Peshawar, or by road from Peshawar to Dir and then over the Lowari Pass (3,088m), a spectacular journey of approximately 15 hours.

source:http://en.wikipedia.org/

PESHAWAR

NWFP, runs for over 1,100 kilometres (680 miles) along the border with Afghanistan. Peshawar is its capital, and the Vale of Peshawar, fertile and well watered by the Kabul and Swat rivers, is its heart. This was also the heart of the ancient kingdom of Gandhara and is rich in archaeological remains. The northern half of the province consists of five river valleys running roughly parallel, north to south: the Chitral, dir, Swat, Indus and Kaghan. These valleys are on the northern edge of the monsoon belt, so are fairly green and partly wooded in their southern sections. Northern Chitral and the upper regions of the Indus Valley are mountainous deserts, where cultivation depends entirely on irrigation. The NWFP south of Peshawar is below the monsoon belt and consists of low, rocky mountains

List of Popular Tourist Places

Islamabad: Faisal Mosque, Margalla Hills, the pass of ancient kings from Europe, Central Asia and Iran, Simly Dam, Rawal Lake,
Azad Kashmir: Muzaffarabad, Jhelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch
Balochistan: Ziarat, Bolan Pass, Mehrgarh, Khojak Pass
Federally Administered Tribal Areas & Northern Areas: Chakdara, Lower Dir, Upper Dir, Lowari Pass, Drosh, Chitral, Garam Chashma, Kohistan District, Besham, Pakistan, Chilas, Astore Valley, Nanga Parbat, Gilgit, Parri Bangla, Naltar Valley, Bagrot-Haramosh Valley, Juglot, Gashoo Pahoot, Rama Ishkoman, Yasin Valley, Ghizar, Baltistan, Skardu, Deosai National Park, Shigar, Khapalu Biafo glacier, Sadpar lack, Shangrilla, K2 base camp, K7, Broad Peak, Braqthok khaplu, Gondogoro-laa, Masherbrum, Hunza, Nagar, Gojal, Chalt, Aliabad, Karimabad, Altit Fort, Gulmit, Passu, Sost, Khunjerab Pass
NWFP: Peshawar, Kohat, Bannu, Mardan, Swat, Mingora, Saidu Sharif, Shangla District, Kalam valley, Haripur, Tarbela Dam, Havelian, Abbottabad, Thandiani, Mansehra, Kaghan Valley, Batagram
Punjab: Murree, Cholistan Desert, Uch Sharif, Multan, Harappa, Pakpattan, Lahore, Fort Munro, Panjnad, Salt Range, Rohtas Fort, Taxila, Lal Suhanra National Park
Sindh: Karachi, Mohenjo-daro, Hyderabad, Sehwan Sharif, Gorakh Hill, Manchhar Lake, Kot Diji, Kalri Lake, Bhambore, Thatta, Chaukundi Tombs, Makli Hill, Gateway of Pakistan, Haliji Lake, Kher Thar National Park, Hostorical City Thatto and Keti Bandar, Shahbandar, Jani Bandar, Bhanbhor, Gidu Bandar.

Tourism in Pakistan

While Pakistan has some social and political problems, it has also widely been stated as being the tourism industry's next big thing[1]. Pakistan has diverse cultures, peoples and landscapes [2].

The country's attractions range from the ruins of ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo-daro, Harappa and Taxila, to the Himalayan hill stations, which attract those interested in field and winter sports. Pakistan is home to several mountain peaks over 7000m, which attracts adventurers and mountaineers from around the world, especially K2[3]. The northern parts of Pakistan have many old fortresses, towers and other architecture as well as the Hunza and Chitral valleys, the latter being home to the small pre-Islamic Animist Kalasha community who claim descent from the army of Alexander the Great. The romance of the North West Frontier Province is timeless and legendary. In the Punjab is the site of Alexander's battle on the Jhelum River and the historic city Lahore, Pakistan's cultural capital, with many examples of Mughal architecture such as the Badshahi Masjid, Shalimar Gardens, Tomb of Jahangir and the Lahore Fort.To promote Pakistan's unique and various cultural heritage, the prime minister launched a "Visit Pakistan" marketing campaign in 2007. [4]
In 2009, The World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report ranked Pakistan as one of the top 25% tourist destinations for its World Heritage sites. Ranging from mangroves in the South, to the 5,000-year-old cities of the Indus Valley Civilization —Mohenjo

source:http://en.wikipedia.org/

Swat, Pakistan

Swat (Pakhto: سوات) is a valley and an administrative district in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) of Pakistan located 160 km/100 miles from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. It is the upper valley of the Swat River, which rises in the Hindu Kush range. The capital of Swat is Saidu Sharif, but the main town in the Swat valley is Mingora.[1] It was a princely state (see Swat (princely state)) in the NWFP until it was dissolved in 1969. With high mountains, green meadows, and clear lakes, it is a place of great natural beauty that used to be popular with tourists as "the Switzerland of Pakistan".[2].

In December 2008 most of the area was captured by the Taliban insurgency and it is now considered dangerous for tourism. The Islamist militant leader Maulana Fazlullah and his group Tehreek-e-Nafaz-e-Shariat-e-Mohammadi have banned education for girls and have bombed or torched "more than 170 schools ... along with other government-owned buildings."[3] The Pakistani government in late May of 2009 began a military offensive to regain control of the region.

source:http://en.wikipedia.org/

Nortern Aeras Of Pakistan

The Northern Areas (Urdu: شمالی علاقہ جات, Shumālī Ilāqe Jāt) is officially referred to by the government of Pakistan as the Federally Administered Northern Areas (FANA). The Northern Areas is the northernmost political entity within the Pakistani-controlled part of the former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. It borders Afghanistan to the north, China to the northeast, the Pakistani administrated state of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to the south, and the Indian-administered state of Jammu and Kashmir to the southeast. The Northern Areas, which became a single administrative unit in 1970, was formed from the amalgamation of the Gilgit Agency, the Baltistan District of the Ladakh Wazarat, and the states of Hunza and Nagar. With its administrative center at the town of Gilgit, the Northern Areas covers an area of 72,971 km² (28,174 mi²) and has an estimated population approaching 1,000,000. This area is part of the larger disputed territory of Kashmir between India, Pakistan and China.

source:http://en.wikipedia.org/

About Pakistan

Official Name:

Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Capital:

Islamabad.
Area:

796,096-sq. km. [Punjab 205,344; Sindh 140,914; Northwest Frontier Province 74,521; Balochistan 347,190; Federally Administered Tribal Areas 27,220 and Islamabad (Capital) 906 sq. km.]
Population:

130.60 million (1998 Census)
Ethnic Composition:

95% Muslims, 5% others
Per Capita Income:

US $ 460
Currency:

Pak. Rupee
Language:

Urdu (National language), English (Official)
Archaeological Sites:

Mohenjodaro, Harappa, Taxila, Kot Diji, Mehar Garh, and Takht Bahi
Major Cities:

Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Faisalabad and Multan.