What to see in Pakistan: 9 must-sees
Discover what to see in Pakistan: 9 must-see destinations, from Lahore (cultural capital) to Islamabad. Predominantly natural and city; each entry includes the best time to visit and the link to its official source.
Natural(5)
Follow the paths skirting Lake Saiful Muluk, in the Kaghan Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — one of Pakistan's highest waters, set about 3,224 meters above sea level. The bluish-green water mirrors Malika Parbat, the valley's highest peak, visible from the shore. Hike the surroundings, watch marmots and mountain birds, and listen for the local legend of Prince Saiful Muluk and the fairy Badr Jamal that gives the lake its name. Access runs from Naran, open mainly between May and September because of the snow.
Explore the Hunza Valley, in Gilgit-Baltistan, where the Hunza River cuts apricot terraces beneath Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar, both over 7,000 meters. Walk to the Passu Glacier, cross the hanging bridges of Hussaini and stroll Karimabad among the Altit and Baltit forts, which have watched over the valley for centuries. In spring the cherry trees bloom, and in autumn the poplars turn gold. The Hunzakots — known for their hospitality and long lives — greet you with salt tea and chapshuro, the local meat pie.
Stop at dawn in the Thar Desert, in Sindh, when the golden dunes near the Indian border still hold mild temperatures. Hire a local guide to roam the sand, the oases and the geological formations of the territory, and watch the fauna and flora that survive in this arid environment. Set aside several hours for the walking and carry enough water, because the heat climbs fast after sunrise.
Walk the pine and cedar trails of Murree, the Punjab's hill station, where snow covers the slopes in winter. Walk Mall Road among shops and cafés, ride up to the Kashmir Point or Pindi Point lookouts and gaze over the valley from above. Hike among humid woods, spot mountain birds and breathe the cold air that drew the British, who founded the town in the 19th century as a refuge from the summer heat of the Pakistani plains.
Cross the desert in the Tamanrasset area, where sand alternates with oases and rock formations sculpted over millions of years. Here you can hike between dunes, watch the wildlife and flora adapted to the aridity, and sleep beneath a sky without light pollution. This landscape lies at the country's western extreme and should be visited only with authorised operators, given the long distances and remote conditions. Carry enough water and plan each leg before setting out.
City(3)
Behold Lahore, Pakistan's cultural capital, where the fort and Badshahi Mosque keep a thousand years of history. Walk the walled city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, and cross its thirteen gates toward bazaars such as Anarkali, full of spices, fabrics and handicrafts from the Punjab. Try nihari and seekh kebab on the Gawalmandi food street, visit the Shalimar Gardens and watch the Wagah border ceremony, a few kilometers from the center.
Explore Islamabad, Pakistan's planned capital since 1959, where modern architecture rises at the foot of the Margalla Hills. Walk wide sectoral avenues, visit Faisal Mosque with its Bedouin-inspired design, and browse bazaars selling spices, fabrics and Pakistani crafts. The city combines contemporary government buildings with gardens, mountain trails and a cuisine mixing kebabs, naan and chai tea on every corner.
Stroll Karachi, Pakistan's largest city and economic capital looking out over the Sea of Oman. Cross the bustling Empress Market bazaar, built in 1889, and head to the Mazar-e-Quaid tomb, the white marble mausoleum dedicated to Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Walk Clifton Beach promenade at sunset, try the local biryani on Burns Road, and watch the trucks painted with colorful art working their way down the avenues.
Religious(1)
Look at Hinglaj Temple, Pakistan's oldest Hindu temple, set among caves and rivers deep in Balochistan. Walk its sacred grottoes, where pilgrims leave offerings and light oil lamps beside the figure of the goddess. Cross the Hingol River winding between the rocks and listen to the chants echoing inside the main cavern. Study the reliefs carved into the stone and the devotional structures marking the ritual route. Feel here a refuge of peace and reflection, where architecture and history keep centuries of shared faith.
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