Pakistan,
the land of the Mughals, is a Muslim republic
located in the heart of Asia. It lies on the
north-west of the Indian sub-continent, with
Iran on the west of it and Afghanistan in the
north.
Pakistan, that multi-dimensional country of
natural and historical wonders has finally
arrived on the world tourist map. A journey
through Pakistan is a fascinating encounter with
a country that has withstood countless
invasions, absorbed the culture and ethos of its
conquerors and preserved their essence in
monuments and archaeological heritage.
Landscapes that are the dream of poets and
nature lovers, exciting mountain trails,
hospitable and simple people, exotic cuisine and
a culture that goes back 5000 years are just a
few of the treasures that unfold once you are in
the country. Half a dozen civilizations
flourished here and left their signature on the
culture, art, architecture and cuisine.
Pakistan is southern Asia’s best kept secret and
is almost unknown to western travelers. The
modern nation was created in 1947 when Pakistan,
together with India, gained independence from
British rule. Featuring a mosaic of ancient and
modern cities, secluded mountain valleys and
mighty peaks, it is a country of extraordinary
variety and great ethnic diversity. Within the
borders of Pakistan the mighty River Indus flows
from the snow clad peaks of the Karakoram
through the fertile fields of the Punjab and the
deserts of Sind, to the warm waters of the
Arabian Sea, a journey of almost 2000km.
Pakistan
fostered a five thousand year old civilization,
remnants of which can still be seen in the ruins
of Mohenjo Daro and Harappa. The land was an
important halt on the trade route from Central
Asia into India and across to China. Over the
Khyber Pass, Kurram Pass, Bolan Pass and the
Khunjerab Pass, caravans laden with dried
fruits, silk, wool and precious stones labored
to their final destinations.
So if you are seeking adventure, want to lose
yourself in nature's wonders, looking for some
cultural stimulation or just want to intermingle
with the incredibly warm and hospitable people
of Pakistan, visit Pakistan and take back
lingering memories of this country of diverse
landscapes and people.
The country comprises of four provinces, Punjab,
Sind, Baluchistan and the North West Frontier
Province (NWFP). In addition, there are the
Federally Administered Tribal Areas and the
northern part of Jammu & Kashmir. The capital of
Pakistan is Islamabad with its twin city
Rawalpindi, while its largest city is Karachi in
Sind.
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