Pakistan has a wide range of spectacular landscapes, from the steep peaks of the Karakoram range to the lush Indus River valley. While its rich cultural legacy, old Silk Road, and Mohenjo-Daro remain to continue to amaze visitors, journey farther afield to experience a less-known, wilder Pakistan.
Deosai National Park:
Known as “Land of the Giants,” a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains rises from the alpine plateau of Deosai National Park. The beautiful valley is washed by wildflowers and unusual butterflies each spring, giving it the nickname “Summer’s Palace” by residents who appreciate nature following the winter thaw. The Tibetan wolf, Himalayan ibex, and other species can be found in this biodiversity hotspot.
Tibetan red fox, and golden marmots, but the government granted the park protected status in 1993 with the goal of safeguarding the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear. The park was also nominated for World Heritage status in 2016.
Kaghan Valley:
The scenic Kaghan Valley in northern Pakistan is a realm of fairytales. According to one version of a local tale, amid the crystalline waters of Lake Saiful Muluk, depicted above, a prince of Persia fell in love with a fairy princess.
But a giant was also in love with the princess and held her captive. One day, the prince escaped with her, and in his fury, the giant flooded the valley and created lakes with his tears. Today, visitors from around the world travel to Kaghan Valley for its alpine lakes, mountain scenery, and clear night skies.
Makran Coast:
The N-10 or National Highway 10 is a 653 km national highway in Pakistan which extends along Pakistan’s Arabian Sea coast from Karachi in Sindh province to Gwadar in Balochistan province. It passes the towns of Ormara and Pasni, It s a scenic drive along Pakistan’s Arabian Sea coast. The route starts in Karachi and runs through Gwadar to the Iran border, and is considered a major infrastructural achievement. “Lion of Balochistan,” can be found along the highway.
Hunza:
Ice-capped peaks rise over the Hunza River in Gilgit-northern Baltistan’s area. The village of Hunza, located on the riverbed and surrounded by glaciers and gorges, has historically acted as a rest stop for visitors descending the Hindu Kush mountains into the Vale of Kashmir.
