The Khewra Salt Mine is the second largest salt mine in the world. It is located, as the name suggests, in the town of Khewra in Pakistan’s Punjab province, which lies in the salt range of the Potohar plateau. The Khewra Salt Mine is famous for producing pink Himalayan salt and is a widely visited tourist attraction. 

Salt production in the mine continues, but a section has been designated for tourists. Here, one can admire enormous salt chambers of various shapes and sizes, saltwater ponds, and interesting sculptures. It is worth taking the train ride into its interior, as the route might be too long for some to walk (about 2 kilometers one way).

History of the Khewra Mine

The salt deposits in Khewra were discovered when Alexander the Great crossed the Jhelum region during his Indian campaign in 326 BC. Interestingly, legend says that it wasn’t humans who discovered the deposits but his army’s horses, which unexpectedly began licking the stones. However, salt trade in this place only began during the Mughal era, more than a thousand years later. 

The Khewra Salt Mine is also known as the Mayo Salt Mine because it was visited by Richard Southwell Bourke, known as “Lord Mayo,” who was the Viceroy of India for several years. The main tunnel was developed by H. Warth, a mining engineer, in 1872 during British rule. Pakistan regained the mine only in 1974, and to this day, it remains the country’s largest source of salt, producing over 350,000 tons of pure halite annually. 

Mine Construction and Salt Extraction

The Khewra Salt Mine is excavated at the base of a thick layer of highly folded, faulted evaporites of the Salt Range. It consists of 19 levels, with as many as 11 being underground. It extends about 730 meters into the mountains, and the total length of its tunnels is about 40 km. Extraction is carried out using the chamber and pillar method, which involves extracting only half of the salt while leaving the other half as support for what lies above.   

Properties of Khewra Salt and Its Uses

Khewra salt is the most renowned rock salt in all of Pakistan. In its raw form, it contains small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, as well as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and chromium as trace elements. It has many uses: it is used for cooking, as bath salt, and as a raw material for various industries, not to mention the decorative products made from it. These include salt lamps, vases, and sculptures, which are exported to many countries.

Tourism

The Khewra Salt Mine is an attraction visited by over 200,000 tourists annually, bringing in significant revenue. Tourists are taken into the mine by the Khewra Salt Mines Railway. Inside, they can admire saltwater pools and artistic sculptures, including a replica of the Minar-e-Pakistan tower, a statue of Allama Iqbal, and a model of the Great Wall of China. Guided tours are also available for those interested.

In 2003, two phases of expansion of the surrounding facilities and tourist attractions were carried out at a total cost of 9 million rupees. In 2007, a clinical section with 20 beds was established in the mine for treating asthma and other respiratory diseases using salt therapy. In February 2011, Pakistan Railways began operating special trains for tourists from Lahore and Rawalpindi to Khewra. On-site, you will also find souvenir shops filled with fascinating items made of salt.

If you are in the area, I encourage you to visit this unique attraction! The Khewra Salt Mine is a place worth seeing because of its significance and impressive size. So don’t forget to add it to your list! Has anyone already visited the most famous Pakistani mine? Write in the comments what impressed you the most? 

See also:

Salina Turda – An Amazing Salt Mine in Romania

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Lahore is the second largest city in Pakistan and the capital of the Punjab province. It is situated on the Ravi River in the northeastern part of Punjab and has a population of over 13 million people. It is one of the most significant industrial and economic centers in the country. The beauty of local monuments combines with the charm of narrow streets and markets. Today, I’ll take you on a journey through this fascinating city!

Shahi Hammam

Shahi Hammam, also known as Wazir Khan Hammam, is a Turkish bath built in 1635 during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. It was constructed by the Mughal court’s chief physician, Ilam-ud-din Ansari, commonly known as Wazir Khan.

The bathhouse has over twenty interconnected rooms and was intended for public use. It consisted of three parts: the first serving as a dressing room, the second offering warm baths, and the third with hot water. These baths were divided into separate sections for men and women and, in addition to the reception chamber, also had a prayer hall. Most of the rooms have been preserved in their original state.

Shahi Hammam was restored between 2013 and 2015, yielding excellent results. The bathhouse is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

13 Lahore Gates

The Lahore Gates once served as thirteen different entrances to the walled city. Some of them have been damaged over time, but during the British rule in Pakistan from 1849 to 1947, several were reconstructed and restored. The most famous is Delhi Gate, but Gates like Roshnai, Akbari, Sheranwala, Kashmiri, and Masti are also noteworthy.

Delhi Gate, as the name suggests, opened to the east, towards Delhi, the former capital of the Mughal Empire. It served as the main entrance to Lahore at the time, with its doors closing every night. It is a unique example of Mughal architecture, with intricate carvings, inlays, and towers.

Wazir Khan

Mosque Wazir Khan Mosque is a 17th-century mosque that was commissioned during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. The mosque was ordered by the Mughal court’s chief physician, mentioned earlier, Hakim Ilam-ud-din Ansari, known as Wazir Khan. Construction began in 1634 and took seven years to complete. The mosque is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Considered the most beautiful mosque of the Mughal era, Wazir Khan is renowned for its hand-painted tiles with intricate patterns known as kashi kari, as well as frescoes adorning its inner walls. The building has been undergoing thorough restoration since 2009. If you plan to visit, remember to dress appropriately!

Badshahi Mosque

Badshahi Mosque is an iconic congregational mosque built on the orders of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Its construction was completed in 1673. Located opposite Lahore Fort, it is considered one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. It is the largest mosque of the Mughal era and the third-largest mosque in Pakistan.

Above the entrance, numerous small marble and red sandstone minarets dominate, with an inscription commemorating the builders visible at the gate. The exterior of the mosque is adorned with carvings in white marble with floral motifs, characteristic of Mughal art.

The Badshahi Mosque houses relics attributed to the Prophet Muhammad and his descendants. As an interesting fact, you can communicate in a whisper from one corner to another, and no one else present in the mosque will hear it!

Lahore Fort

Lahore Fort, located at the northern end of the walled city, covers an area of over twenty hectares. During the peak of the Mughal Empire’s grandeur and wealth in the 17th century, Lahore Fort was almost entirely rebuilt.

After Emperor Akbar’s initial reconstruction, his successors, including Emperors Shah Jahān and Aurangzeb, significantly expanded the fort, adding new, often beautifully decorated buildings. As a result, Lahore Fort represents various stages of Mughal architectural development, making it unique. It is divided into two parts: the administrative, accessible through the main gates, and the hidden residential section.

Haveli Restaurant

If you appreciate good food and want to taste Pakistani specialties, be sure to visit the Haveli Restaurant! It is located in the historic Haveli Khalil Khan building, representing the rich heritage of the region. The menu includes both traditional local dishes (such as handi, kabab, and tandoori) and international cuisine, so everyone will find something they like. From the restaurant terrace, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Lahore and Badshahi Mosque, and the food is delicious and worth recommending!

What to do? Henna Painting Art

Henna, known as “mehndi” in Pakistan, has been part of the culture there for many years. You have probably seen these traditional, intricate designs in photos! It is a temporary form of decoration featuring symbolic, floral, and geometric shapes. Designs on women’s hands are a regular part of ceremonies such as weddings. In Lahore, I had the opportunity to visit an artist and experience henna painting on my own skin!

Pollution in Lahore

Lahore ranks high on the list of cities worldwide regarding air pollution according to the Air Quality Index (AQI). An AQI above one hundred becomes unhealthy, and in Lahore, it can reach almost two hundred – a dangerous level not only for sensitive individuals but also for the general population. I truly felt this during my stay there, especially on the first night! The city, like several others in the Punjab province, grapples with a massive smog problem.

Other Attractions in the Area

Khewra Salt Mine

The Khewra Salt Mine is the world’s second-largest salt mine. It is located in the Salt Range on the Potohar Plateau, rising from the Indus Plain in Punjab.

The mine is famous for producing pink salt, often sold as Himalayan salt. It is a significant tourist attraction, attracting over two hundred thousand visitors annually. The mine’s known history dates back to its discovery by the troops in 326 BCE, but salt trading is believed to have started in the Mughal era. It remains the country’s largest source of salt, producing over 350,000 tons annually.

Katas Raj Temples

The Katas Raj Temples near Chakwal in the Punjab province of Pakistan were built in the era of Hindu Shahis from around 615-950 CE and are dedicated to the god Shiva. They are one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Pakistan and are still used by members of the Hindu community today – including those who travel there from abroad.

Legends say that the place where the temples were built was visited by the Pandava brothers from the famous “Mahabharata,” and the entire complex was built to commemorate their visit.

Katas contains Satgraha, a group of seven ancient temples, five others dating from the medieval period, as well as remains of a Buddhist stupa and havelis (a type of Vishnu temple) scattered around the sacred pond.

Lahore is a city that allows you to get closer to the history and culture of Pakistan through its monuments and tradition-soaked places – so different from ours!

If you’re planning a trip to Pakistan, you might be interested in the following posts:

• 12 Things To Know Before Visiting Pakistan
• What to See in Pakistan? Attractions and Travel Plan
• Islamabad – What to See in the Capital of Pakistan?
• Wagah: A Display of Strength at the Pakistan-India Border. How Did the Conflict Between These Countries Begin?

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During my travels in Pakistan, I was eager to participate in this extraordinary ceremony, namely the ceremony at the Pakistan-India border. Because of this, we traveled to Wagah, and if you want to see what it looks like on the other side of the border, go to Atari.

Every day, in the late afternoon, a spectacular flag-lowering ceremony takes place at the border between Pakistan and India. This display of strength between the two countries is thrilling. Soldiers from both countries “compete with each other.” And on both sides of the border, you can hear cheers akin to those in a football stadium; there’s a lot of emotion.

And although I’m smiling in the photos, I kept thinking throughout the entire time about the possibility of this border being open one day. So that Pakistanis and Indians could shake hands and live together as neighbors.

Pakistan-India Conflict

I don’t know if you’re aware, but to this day, the greatest likelihood of a nuclear conflict is between India and Pakistan. It’s not secret knowledge, but it’s seldom discussed.

Why can’t these two countries live in peace?

The Indo-Pakistani conflict has been ongoing since 1947. Before that, the British arrived here, bringing various “benefits,” but primarily exploiting the region in a way that can’t be described in a single sentence. London mainly “ruled and divided,” while also plundering. The British Raj consisted of present-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar (established in 1858).

Sure, the arrival of the British had its positives; for example, they introduced a day off from work and banned child labor under nine years old, and they brought in railways and modern medicine. Telegraphs and the royal mail were significant conveniences.

The history is long and complex. Of course, some of the locals in positions of power received a steady high income and other privileges in exchange for supporting British rule. However, almost all the profitable ventures remained in British hands. The Indian subcontinent was exploited to the fullest.

During this time, Churchill said, “I hate Indians. They are a beastly people with a beastly religion,” but this sentiment applied to practically all inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent. Many avoidable tragedies occurred there.

For instance, in 1943, Bengal was gripped by famine, caused by British imperial policies. The British army confiscated 1 million tons of rice. Although it was foreseeable that this would end badly, Churchill refused aid from other countries. Over 3 million people died of hunger.

Returning to the conflict between Pakistan and India, during the British colonial era, even deeper social divisions emerged, which persist to this day. Not only were there divisions across the entire country, but also religious segregation. During British rule, Muslims were often treated as second-class citizens. Going to school or getting better jobs was often impossible for them.

Partition of India and Pakistan

In 1947, the British left the Indian subcontinent, and India and Pakistan were partitioned. The boundary between them was determined by the British (the Radcliffe Line). However, initially, Pakistan was divided into East and West, on both sides of India. Simply put, present-day Bangladesh was part of East Pakistan, and after the partition, there were also conflicts and the deaths of millions of people.

The resettlements after the partition of India and Pakistan were truly difficult and bloody. Between 10 to 20 million people were relocated for religious reasons, during which at least hundreds of thousands, and according to some estimates up to two million people, died.

But that wasn’t the end, as in the same year, the first conflict occurred (the First Indo-Pakistani War, also known as the First Kashmir War). The reason? Two-thirds of Jammu and Kashmir went to India, and one-third to Pakistan, even though the majority of people in that area were Muslim. As a side note, Polish pilots took part in this war on the Pakistani side in 1949.

Although the UN called for a referendum allowing Kashmiris to decide their own future, the referendum was never implemented, and the dispute over its ownership was never resolved. Over the years, there have been many more conflicts, battles, and wars between Pakistan and India.

The history of this conflict spans decades, so I’ll return to the initial statement regarding the nuclear conflict: In 1998, India conducted test explosions of five nuclear devices, and Pakistan, seizing the opportunity, also conducted such a test in the Chagai mountains in Balochistan (six tests in total). Fortunately, this hasn’t been repeated since then, but this conflict and the nuclear arsenals of both countries are why this place is considered one of the most dangerous in the world.

I’d like to conclude all this with a quote from Romesh Dutta. This Indian writer wrote, “History knows of no case where one nation has ruled another to the benefit of the ruled.”

I think we Poles can say something about that, as I don’t think anyone misses the Soviet Union.

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Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is a completely new city built in the 1960s, which sets it apart significantly from other cities in the country. Aside from its different layout, the city lacks the characteristic chaos found in other Pakistani cities.

One reason for this is that Islamabad is relatively expensive, so there isn’t as much demand for street food. Additionally, there isn’t as much motorbike or cart traffic with animals, as seen in other cities. For such sights, it’s better to visit the neighboring city of Rawalpindi, which previously served as the capital.

Returning to the topic of exploring Islamabad, in this post, I’ll take you through popular attractions, recommend some eateries, and suggest where you can book accommodation.

Attractions in Islamabad

Islamabad was created in the 1960s. Its architect, Greek Constantinos Apostolou Doxiadis, developed the city’s master plan, dividing it into different zones. However, instead of focusing on the architectural layout, I’d like to point out that the city is truly young. Therefore, the number of attractions is limited, and it lacks historical landmarks. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting; it’s a green, modern city that showcases the direction in which Pakistan can develop.

Faisal Mosque

Located at the foot of the picturesque Margalla Hills, the mosque is named after King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, who financially supported this monumental project. It’s Pakistan’s national mosque, and the fifth largest mosque in the world. From numerous proposals submitted in an international competition, the design by a Turkish architect was selected. The mosque resembles a Bedouin tent, surrounded by impressive minarets reaching a height of 79 meters. Its prayer hall can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers, and the entire complex can host up to 100,000 faithful.

The mosque is particularly scenic from the viewpoint located on the Margalla Hills.

Tips for Visitors: Visiting the mosque begins traditionally – by removing shoes before entering the courtyard. It’s best visited in the afternoon; the sunset adds to its charm. The entrance for women is on the left side of the main entrance to the prayer hall. Men pray downstairs, while women pray upstairs.

Pakistan Monument

Perched on Shakarparian Hill, the Pakistan Monument is an ideal spot for watching the sunset and is beautifully illuminated at night.

The symbolism of the Pakistan Monument emphasizes the strength and unity of the nation. Its shape resembles a blooming flower, consisting of four main petals, each representing one of Pakistan’s four provinces (Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), and two smaller petals representing minority groups (Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir).

Margalla Hills National Park

Located on the outskirts of Islamabad, the national park covers an area of over 17,000 hectares, comprising hilly terrain, forests, valleys, and clean streams. It’s a key area for nature conservation, offering an escape from the urban hustle and bustle. It’s home to various animal species such as the Bengal fox, Indian leopard, Rhesus macaque, and Indian pangolin. The park boasts numerous trekking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

The highlight is the Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, offering a picturesque view of Islamabad, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.

Interesting fact – it has already happened that a leopard ran on the streets of Islamabad.

Daman-e-Koh

This is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll amidst nature and admiring the city panorama from a height. The Faisal Mosque, Seventh Avenue, and Rawal Lake can be admired from this picturesque perspective. Situated on the Margalla Hills surrounding the northern part of Islamabad, this garden is not only a viewpoint but also a tourist attraction and a favorite spot for residents. Walking along its scenic paths, you may encounter its unusual inhabitants – free-roaming monkeys, adding charm to the place.

Monkeys in Islamabad

I mentioned monkeys, which can be found primarily in the Daman-e-Koh garden but also in other places, such as near the Faisal Mosque. They are Rhesus macaques, small monkeys weighing between 3 to 14 kilograms. Unfortunately, they are sometimes harassed on the hills, which can make them quite nervous.

Rawalpindi

If you’re visiting Pakistan and plan to see only Islamabad before heading to the mountains, I recommend visiting the nearby city of Rawalpindi. It was the capital of Pakistan before it was moved to Islamabad, and although it borders Islamabad, the two cities are quite different. Rawalpindi is more “Pakistani,” with more chaos. Islamabad is more orderly, and it’s worth seeing the contrast between the two cities.

What to Know: Rawalpindi is the sixth-largest city in Pakistan, with a population of 2,430,388. Meanwhile, Islamabad currently ranks ninth (1,266,792 inhabitants).

Centaurus Mall Shopping Center

While in Islamabad, it’s worth visiting the Centaurus Mall shopping center as it offers a wide selection of stores, both Pakistani and international. It’s a great place for souvenir shopping or picking up local clothing.

Where to Eat in Islamabad?

When it comes to restaurants and eateries in Islamabad, there are many options, but it depends on whether you like spicy food. Pakistan offers a different level of spiciness, so I recommend starting with:

• Kabul: an Afghan restaurant that is less spicy than Pakistani cuisine, with fairly similar dishes. Delicious meats, naan bread, and fresh vegetables. Highly recommended.
• Smokey Cauldron: a Harry Potter-themed restaurant where you can try a variety of dishes from different parts of the world, all prepared with passion and care.
• Loafology Bakery: an ideal place if you’re looking for a spot for a tasty breakfast, a light snack, or simply delicious bread to go. Their fresh bread, tasty sandwiches, and pastries are really good. Perfect for a quick meal during the day. Interestingly, the founder is half Polish.

Additionally, in Islamabad, it’s worth trying freshly squeezed juices; they’re delicious. Just remember to specify that you don’t want them salted.

Where to Stay in Islamabad?

If you’re looking for a reliable place to stay in Islamabad, consider staying at the Serai Boutique Hotel – Rockville House. This hotel not only offers comfortable rooms but is also located in a peaceful area, ensuring a restful sleep after a day of sightseeing. The breakfasts are tasty, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

You can find the hotel at this link.

If you’re planning a trip to Pakistan, you might be interested in the following posts:

12 Things To Know Before Visiting Pakistan

What to See in Pakistan? Attractions and Travel Plan

What to See in Lahore, the Second Largest City in Pakistan

The post Islamabad – What to See in the Capital of Pakistan? appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

What to see in Pakistan? Many people have asked about my travel plan to Pakistan. And although most of it is saved in the highlighted Stories on my Instagram, I know that many people prefer written form, interspersed with photos.

I planned my trip together with Gosia, who runs her travel agency in Pakistan. We flew in March, so it was still before the season. Therefore, before I begin, I would like to draw attention to a few related issues.

Firstly, there was still snow in the mountains, so traditional trekking was out of the question. If someone is focused on hiking, the best time for it starts in May, and sometimes it’s not possible to complete the entire route due to weather conditions.

Secondly, our initial plan changed because the Pakistani airline PIA changed the flight to Skardu three times. Fortunately, I didn’t have to worry about anything because Gosia immediately offered alternative options, and we simply had to skip the Hunza Valley. At least I have one more reason to return to Pakistan, we’ll get there next time.

Let’s start sightseeing!

Islamabad

Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, was established in the 1960s. The city makes a different impression compared to others; you could say it’s a model city with much less chaos. Attractions in Islamabad include:

• Pakistan Monument, inspired by Mughal architecture, symbolizes the unity and cultural diversity of the country.
• Faisal Mosque, not only a place of worship but also an important tourist attraction with beautiful architecture and panoramic views.
• Margalla Hills, a range of hills north of Islamabad, attracts tourists with hiking trails and abundant wildlife and flora.
• Daman-e-Koh, a viewpoint at the top of a hill, offers unforgettable views of the city and surrounding areas. Wild monkeys can also be found here. Recommended accommodation: link

Lahore

Lahore is the second most populous city in Pakistan and one of the largest cities in the world. It is home to about 12 million people and is known for its numerous historical monuments. Arriving from Islamabad, you might be surprised at how different the two cities are from each other. Islamabad is orderly, while Lahore is a city where you can expect huge chaos, which is incredibly interesting.

What’s worth seeing in Lahore?

• Lahore Fort, built in the 16th century during the Mughal dynasty, combines elements of Hindu, Islamic, and Persian architecture. Sheesh Mahal, or the Palace of Mirrors, is a place within the fort, built with a thousand mirrors at the request of Emperor Shah Jahan, who wanted to surprise his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This palace has been inscribed on the UNESCO list.

• Badshahi Mosque, built in the 17th century during Aurangzeb’s reign. It is still one of the largest in the world. Although it has not always served as a place of worship, its impressive architecture of red sandstone and marble elements delights visitors.

• Lahore’s Old City also hides other beautiful monuments, such as Wazir Khan Mosque, Shahi Hammam Turkish Baths, and many others.

Recommended accommodation: LOKAL Rooms x Lahore (Cavalry)

See also: What to See in Lahore, the Second Largest City in Pakistan

Khewra Salt Mine

The Khewra salt mine is one of the oldest salt mining sites in the world. Interestingly, pink Himalayan salt is mined there. The Khewra salt mine is not only an important source of salt but also a unique tourist attraction.

The Khewra salt mine is still active, but of course, specially prepared places for tourists are visited. You can admire huge salt chambers of various shapes and sizes, salt lakes, and sculptures, and there’s even a place for prayer.

It’s worth taking the train inside because the walk is quite long (about 2 kilometers one way).

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Wagah Border Ceremony

Twenty-four kilometers from Lahore, an extraordinary ceremony takes place every day at the Wagah border, the only road connecting Pakistan with India. This historical ceremony dates back to 1959 and is an incredible display of military precision, conducted by the Pakistan Rangers and the Indian Border Security Force. The ceremony continues

The show starts in the afternoon (check the hours before arrival because it changes) and lasts about 40 minutes. You also need to sign up in advance for entry, providing your details along with passport numbers.

Katas Raj Temple

In the past, this area was also inhabited by Hindus. That is, still a small number of followers of this religion live in Pakistan, but there were more of them before the creation of Pakistan. A relic from that period is the Shri Katas Raj Temples complex. The complex consists of several Hindu temples, surrounded by gardens and ponds, the most important of which, the Katas pond, is considered sacred by Hindu worshipers. According to mythology, this pond was created from the tears of the god Shiva after the death of his wife Sati.

Flight Islamabad – Skardu

It was an amazing experience for me. If you’re in Pakistan, it’s definitely worth it. The flight on this route offers views of really high mountains, reaching 7000 and 8000 meters above sea level. From the plane window, we were able to see the Nanga Parbat mountain. The flight is very impressive, and I can highly recommend it. I know that the route to Gilgit is also beautiful, but smaller planes are used on it, and travel in larger planes is simply more comfortable.

Below you will find attractions in Skardu and the surrounding area that we managed to see.

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Skardu

Landing in Skardu, you will definitely focus on the mountains. However, in Skardu itself, it’s worth visiting local shops and buying spices, nuts, or sweets, for example. In addition, precious stones, which are extracted in this region, deserve attention, so be sure to visit a local jewelry store. In my opinion, this is the best souvenir you can bring from Pakistan.

Recommended accommodation: Dynasty Hotel Skardu

Sarfaranga Cold Desert

Sarfaranga Desert is one of the two cold deserts in Skardu that I managed to visit. It is located at an altitude of 2460 meters above sea level, and when driving to Shigar, it is impossible to miss it. The desert is surrounded by mountains, making an incredible impression, and the calm in the middle of the dunes is almost unreal. There is also a complete lack of network coverage.

It’s worth taking a jeep tour of the desert; for me, it was quite an extreme adventure that I will probably remember for years to come.

Katpana Cold Desert

Katpana Desert is another cold, high-altitude desert in the area. Temperatures range from +27°C to -25°C, depending on the season and the day. In the desert, you can see huge sand dunes, which in winter are sometimes covered with snow. It is one of the highest deserts in the world. It is located at an altitude of 2,226 meters above sea level. The desert is really large, but the area near Skardu airport, near Katpana Lake, is most often visited by tourists.

Manthokha Waterfall

Manthokha Waterfall is located in the Kharmang Valley, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. The waterfall is about 55 meters high, but it is not a natural phenomenon – it was created by humans. It is surrounded by green pastures and streams, amidst the high Karakorum mountains. It looks really beautiful.

Fun fact: during the season (summer), trout are served in the nearby restaurant, and visitors can also visit the fish farm.

Chocolate Rocks

The Chocolate Rocks turned out to be a picturesque stop on the route through the Gilgit-Baltistan region. As the name suggests, they look like they’re made of chocolate! It may not be an attraction worth traveling for, but it’s definitely worth planning your route to include them

Kachura Lakes: Upper Lake

The Kachura Lakes are located at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level and consist of the Upper Kachura Lake and the Lower Kachura Lake, also known as Shangrila Lake (I’ll write about it below). These picturesque lakes have crystal-clear water. The upper lake is 70 meters deep. In summer, the temperature is around 15°C, and in winter, the surface freezes. I personally recommend a boat trip on the lake – it’s a really great experience.

Lower Kachura Lake, also known as Shangrila Lake

Lower Kachura Lake, also known as Shangrila Lake, due to the resort established there in 1983. The lower lake has a completely different climate than the one just above. Interestingly, its name comes from Shangri-La, the idyllic Himalayan paradise described in the 1933 novel “Lost Horizon” by British writer James Hilton. Shangri-La, in Tibetan, means “paradise on earth”.

Shigar Fort

It is also called the Fort on the Rock (it was set on a huge rock), an ancient fortress in the city of Shigar. It was built in the 17th century by the Raja of the Amacha dynasty.

After thorough renovation by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan, the fort was transformed into a museum and luxury hotel managed by Serena Hotels. It is a unique place, located in the picturesque surroundings of the Karakorum range, which is worth visiting when in the area. The guide in the fort tells really interesting stories and is extremely friendly.

What to see in Pakistan?

Pakistan is a huge country, and seeing everything is practically impossible. Therefore, in our journey, we focused only on selected points in the northern part of the country. We also found time to admire the views, have long conversations about customs, culture, but also about life in Pakistan.

In my opinion, exploring such a distant country with a different culture with a local guide is much more interesting because I just like to know a lot. And although I can read about attractions in a guidebook, a book won’t answer my questions. Thanks to exploring with Gosia and our Pakistani guide, we knew which dishes not to try (because they would be too spicy for us), we could learn how Pakistanis approach issues such as religion, ask them about how the education system works, how important family is to them, and many other things. To be more precise, we literally asked about everything.

You can find more posts about Pakistan here:

12 Things To Know Before Visiting Pakistan

The post What to See in Pakistan? Attractions and Travel Plan appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

If you’re here, you’re probably considering a trip to Pakistan. My journey to Pakistan was an extraordinary and fascinating experience. However, I don’t deny that it requires some preparation and knowledge of local customs. So, in this post, you’ll find some practical information that might come in handy when planning your trip. From formalities to my experiences regarding safety and health.

Before I begin: I wish you a successful trip to Pakistan – I personally look forward to returning there with great pleasure!

Formalities before traveling to Pakistan

To travel to Pakistan, you will need:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of planned return from Pakistan.
• A visa, which needs to be obtained before departure. There is no option to purchase a visa upon arrival – all documents were checked at the airport before departure by an airline employee. You can obtain it online; we needed an invitation and to fill in specific details (occupation, family, and even religion). It was a visa on arrival – single entry, costing $35, checked by an official on-site.

Flights to Pakistan

We flew from Prague to Karachi with a layover in Istanbul. It was a really inexpensive option; we paid just over 100 euros for a round trip.

• The best option in terms of time is Qatar, but it is expensive.
• The cheapest are flydubai and PIA.

Vaccinations and Health

Before traveling to Pakistan, you can consult a travel doctor for information on additional vaccinations (there are no mandatory vaccinations) and health prevention. Regarding prevention, much depends on the places you will visit and how long you plan to stay in Pakistan. We had good travel insurance as standard. It’s worth taking capsules to restore bacterial flora because the most common problem among tourists in Pakistan is food poisoning. Therefore, it’s worth drinking only bottled water, avoiding drinks with ice, and being cautious about that. Moreover, if you’re going to the mountains, it’s worth knowing that at high altitudes, water boils at a lower temperature, which can also be a cause of food poisoning. Unfortunately, I experienced this, but luckily it was not serious.

Before departure, we prepared a standard first aid kit. It contained stomach medicine, painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, throat lozenges, vitamins and minerals, and others (bandages, plasters, disinfectants). We traveled around Pakistan with Gosia, who lives there, runs a travel agency, and is a pharmacist by education, so we found out that most medicines in Pakistan are available without a prescription, especially strong medicines for food poisoning (e.g., metronidazole, which calmed our intestines).

Currency in Pakistan (and how to pay there)

The Pakistani Rupee is the official currency in Pakistan. Cards are accepted in larger stores, but you simply need to bring cash with you because withdrawing from ATMs can be unreliable. You can exchange currency on the spot at an exchange office, for example, in a shopping center. When exchanging, you need to have your passport. It’s best to bring dollars or euros to this country. Payment by card is often cheaper than cash payment because the government subsidizes cashless transactions. Sometimes the difference can be several percent in favor of card payments.

Transportation in Pakistan

When it comes to planning your trip, it can be challenging for many reasons. We, as I mentioned, traveled with people who are knowledgeable about the topic, which was a great help to us. Why? I’ll explain. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights are often delayed or even canceled. Our Islamabad-Skardu flight was rescheduled 3 times, so we had to completely change our travel plans (the total delay was over a day, so hotels, car rentals, or guides were also changed). At this time of year, we didn’t have other airline options (FlyJinnah is better). Therefore, if someone prefers others to handle such surprises for them, I recommend using a local travel agency, as I mentioned, we used TukTuk Tours.

In Pakistan, you can travel by car (you can rent a car with a driver), the aforementioned plane, or train (which nobody recommends), and bus (there are inexpensive and good intercity connections). Highways are well maintained, but other roads vary.

Driving in big cities requires vigilance due to ubiquitous motorbikes, tuk-tuks, and disregard for traffic rules. Maciek drove around Lahore, and it was a kind of attraction for him.

Local Customs

Just like in any journey, when flying to Pakistan, you need to know the local customs and culture. In this case, it’s worth knowing that:

• Pakistan is the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. As the name suggests, there is a Muslim culture. The most important thing is obviously the dress, as women do not wear shorts or short dresses, even tourists. However, regular trousers, such as linen or jeans, are perfectly fine. Head covering in public places by female tourists is not mandatory, except in places of religious worship.
• There are two official languages in Pakistan: Urdu and English.
• In Pakistan, there are professions that are hard to find elsewhere. There are doormen everywhere, refueling is done without getting out of the car (by an employee), and someone will hand us paper to wipe our hands in the bathroom. This surprises almost every tourist.
• Pakistan was formerly under British rule, so there is left-hand traffic, and many measurements are also British.
• Besides, in many places where prices are not fixed (e.g., souvenirs), it’s worth bargaining. It’s worth talking to local residents to find out which price is really favorable.

Safety in Pakistan

There are places in Pakistan that are considered less safe, mainly near the Iranian-Pakistani border. A so-called non-objection certificate (NoC) is required there from the MSW of Balochistan province (Quetta). Travelers are also assigned an armed police escort. In reality, this is primarily a remnant of times when it wasn’t safe; the escort is paid for by the state, and tourists leave tips. That’s not all: in this region, tourists must choose more expensive hotels, as they are “verified,” so it’s a source of income for many locals.

Furthermore, there are so-called Police check-ins in Pakistan where our documents are recorded, so the authorities know who is traveling where. This is important for many reasons; if something were to happen to someone, e.g., in the mountains, it’s known where to start searching.

Electricity in Pakistan

It’s worth knowing that in Pakistan, British-type sockets are used (in most places), so it’s worth bringing an adapter if your devices have different plugs. Moreover, in the mountains, there are occasional short power outages (lasting a few seconds).

Internet in Pakistan

I used an eSIM purchased at https://esim.sm/. The 5GB package for 15 days at the price of 6 USD was sufficient for my entire stay. The card operates on the Jazz network, and I had good internet access in most places. Before purchasing an eSIM online, make sure your phone supports it. eSIM support is mainly available on flagship models from various manufacturers.

Note – in the mountains, the Internet from the Jazz network practically did not work. You should buy a physical SIM card from the SCOM operator there; a passport is required to do so.

Climate and Weather in Pakistan

The area of Pakistan is 796,100 square kilometers. In terms of area, it is similar to Turkey, which measures 783,562 square kilometers. It’s really a huge country, situated at various altitudes. Generally, the climate in Pakistan can be divided into several main climatic zones. First and foremost, tropical dry and subtropical dry climates need to be distinguished. Nevertheless, many people choose to visit the mountains, where there is climatic tiering, and predicting the weather is much more difficult.

So, what to pack for Pakistan will depend on the places you plan to visit and the mentioned time and season. I know from experience that this is the most challenging part of preparing for the trip. Strong sunscreen is mandatory, even on cloudy days. But what about clothes?

What to pack for Pakistan?

We visited Pakistan in March. Therefore, if you’re traveling only to Islamabad or Lahore in the same period, you can bring long pants and a short-sleeved shirt + a sweater or jacket for the evening. You can also bring a dress (below the knee). You can buy local clothes on the spot; they are comfortable and really breathable. However, the weather changes in the mountains; during our trip, it was +30 degrees Celsius in Lahore, but in the mountains in Skardu, it was -20 at night. I was very stressed about packing well and not freezing or getting sick, and it turned out that, indeed, it was cold at night (but nobody walks at night, so there’s no need), and during the day, when it was 0 or +5 degrees Celsius, the sun was so strong that sweaters were enough for us. Strong face sunscreen was mandatory!

I panicked unnecessarily because in the mountains, sneakers were definitely sufficient (I didn’t trek), along with warm leggings and a wool sweater or warmer hoodie.

Pakistan – What You Should Know?

Many people want to know what to watch out for in Pakistan. As tourists, we are warmly welcomed, and although I’ve heard this many times, it made an incredible impression on me on the spot.

• However, although many people admire local food, it’s worth knowing that it can be really spicy, so if you’re not experienced with high levels of spiciness, it’s worth asking for the “not spicy” option. • There can be various surprises in hotels. For example, sometimes you have to call reception for hot water. Or, one room may not be renovated, and they will assign it to us.

Pakistan is a country that doesn’t suffer from an excess of tourists. If you’re looking for a place untouched by mass tourism, this might be the destination for you. I would gladly return there; I dream of seeing the Karakoram or Himalayas in the fall. And my first trip was so cool that I envy anyone who will be able to experience it themselves, for the first time.

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