KARACHI :From pleasing landscapes to stunning sceneries, Pakistan is home to many mesmerising locations.
While its diverse cultural heritage, breathtaking Karakoram views and enchanting ruins of ancient archaeological cities continue to excite travellers, a much lesser known part of the country sits in all its glory waiting to be visited by adventurous voyagers.
Forget Switzerland or Greece, here we have handpicked our six favourite spots that should be on your bucket list in case you need to unwind.
1. Hunza Valley
En route to Hunza Valley. PHOTO: HASSAN SAJID
Located in the mountainous valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza is home to several picturesque riverbanks and hills. With vibrant colours surrounding the exotic scenery, it definitely makes it to our holiday wishlist. Snow leopards, markhors, ibexes and red-striped foxes can also be found in the region.
2. Saiful Muluk Lake
Saiful Muluk Lake. PHOTO: HASSAN SAJID
Next is a classic. Lake Saiful Muluk or Saiful Muluk Jheel is situated in the northern end of the Kaghan Valley, near the town of Naran in the Saiful Muluk National Park. With crystal clear water, surrounded by sky high mountains, travellers from Pakistan and globally make sure not to miss out on this extraordinary sight.
3. Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake. PHOTO: HASSAN SAJID
Known for its turquoise waters which cut the dramatic terrain, Attabad lake has a rather interesting story behind its formation. It is a lake in the Gojal Valley, Hunza, that was formed in January 2010 by a landslide dam, displacing thousands of residents. The lake has since become a tourist attraction itself for its phenomenal scenery.
4. Babusar Pass
Top view of Babusar Pass. PHOTO: HASSAN SAJID
Situated in the north of the Kaghan Valley, Babusar Pass is based in between mountains and grasslands. Like Kaghan, thick forests surround the tourists’ pathway to the valley itself, especially on the higher slopes.
5. Desoai National Park
Deosai National Park. PHOTO: HASSAN SAJID
Also referred to as the ‘Land of the Giants’, Deosai is a high-altitude national park, located in northern Pakistan in the Skardu district of Gilgit-Baltistan. The lush green park is accessible to tourists only in the summer. The Tibetan wolf, Himalayan ibex, Tibetan red fox and golden marmots are the main wildlife in the region.
6. Satapara Lake
Satapara Lake. PHOTO: HASSAN SAJID
It is one of the largest fresh water lakes located in the northern areas of the country. The lake offers ample opportunity for trout fishing, boating and rowing. It provides fresh water to the neighboring population of Skardu. Driving to this beautiful location from Skardu will not take you more than a few minutes.
How many places will you visit?
Pictures by: Hassan Sajid.
