Thursday, 4 April 2013

Skardu

Skardu, Pakistan is known for being a major tourism, trekking, and expedition base in the northern area. The mountainous terrain in this region includes four of the highest peaks in the world which makes it an attractive destination for tourists and mountaineers.
Because of the presence of mountain ranges and high peaks in the area of Skardu, mountaineering and trekking are the main activities that tourists engage to when touring in this area. Because of the fact that many tourists around the world go to Skardu to experience a different kind of rush, many establishments have been developed in the area to host its many visitors.
The following 8,000m above peaks are accessible from Skardu: the K2, the Gasherbrums, the Broad Peak, and the Trango Towers.
Skardu is also known for the Deosai plain which is considered as the second highest plateau in the world next to Tibet. This area is widely patronized by trekkers and gives a beautiful view of the Deosai Lake.
Because of its closeness to the mountains, Skardu has moderately warm summers and extremely cold winters.
Skardu can be reached via land or air. Via land, the normal route is to pass through the Karakorum Highway to a link road in the Skardu valley. There are also flights between Skardu Airport and Islamabad which you can utilize in order to reach the province. Because of the climate, the roads that lead to Skardu can be blocked for a certain period of time depending on the weather conditions.
When in Skardu, it is advisable to go to the serene lakes of Kachura which is the location of the Shangri-La Resort Hotel Complex and the Sadpara Lake which is the major water supplier in town and is also known for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings.
If you are looking for adventure and picturesque places at the same time, there is no doubt that Skardu should be your chosen destination.

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Multan

If you wish to go on a pilgrimage, visiting the city of saints in Pakistan will be a rewarding adventure for you. Multan, which is located in southern area of the Punjab Province, is located almost at the center of Pakistan.
Multan is a city that is ideal for agriculture and known for its many citrus and mango farms. The climate of Multan can be very hot during the summers. Dust storms are also common in the city.
Multan is a commercial and industrial center that is connected to the country via railways and airport. It is importantly considered in Pakistan as an agricultural, industrial, and tourist center.
Visiting Multan makes it necessary for you to view its prime attractions. The main attractions that you have to visit in this city are the Mausoleums of the Sufi Saints. Aside from these, Multan also has a generous number of mosques which are referred to in the past as jewels of the city.
You can also drop by the Multan Museum in order to see the city’s coin collection, medals, and postage stamps which came from the old State of Bahawalpur. The museum also contains old manuscripts, inscriptions, wood carvings, and other relics related to the Islamic and Pre-Islamic Periods.
One thing that is quite amazing about the people of Multan is their fascination for Cricket. In fact, their city government constructed a multi-purpose stadium in order to accommodate several national sports that include hockey, badminton, football, and of course, cricket. The stadium is the home of the Multan Cricket Association.
The place of mangoes and saints is definitely worth seeing. Go ahead and see Multan for yourself and get ready to be amazed by its beautiful attractions and tasty mangoes.

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Karachi

 

Karachi is the largest city and is also the center of banking, trade, and industry in Pakistan. It is where you can find the largest and most progressive corporations in Pakistan.
In Karachi, winters are mild and summers are hot. Winter months are the best time to visit this city. You can enjoy the sights in the mild and pleasant weather.
Karachi’s history is strongly related to Alexander the Great of Macedonia. It is known as the place where the conqueror stayed before going to Babylonia.
It is then known as the capital of Pakistan until Islamabad has been constructed and has then replaced it as the capital. It is home to Pakistan’s important cultural institutions such as the National Academy for the Performing Arts and the National Museum of Pakistan.
In terms of architecture, Karachi has various designs that include neo-classical architecture as seen in the KPT Building and the Sindh High Court Building and modern high rise style similar to the Dolmen City Towers and the Habib Bank Plaza.
In general, Karachi is also an accessible city in Pakistan. It is the location of the largest and busiest airports in Pakistan, the Jinnah International Airport. The Port of Karachi and the Port Qasim is also located in Karachi and is considered as the largest shipping ports in Pakistan. It is linked to the other parts of the country by the Pakistan Railways.
Karachi, more than being the financial capital of Pakistan, is also a holder of its cultural heritage. Visiting Karachi will surely give you a dose of history and contemporary adventure in one.

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Hyderabad

There are many hills that boast luscious green scenery. But nothing compares to a group of hills where the stunning city of Hyderabad lies. It is a perfect serene break-away spot for those who are enduring too much stress from the hustle and bustle of city living.
To love the place more is to appreciate the relevant events that took place in its history. And one of these major events is the clash between British troops and the local Talpur tribe in the Battle of Miani. This clash did not only leave bloodsheds in the past, but also some of the beautiful man-made architectures that thousands of tourists admire at present.
Hyderabad also serves as the center of government operations, and it also houses some of the biggest and oldest universities in the country. People here are very much involved in trade industry and small business. The city is also considered as the largest producers of bangles.
The hot and humid weather of the city is just perfect for anyone who will visit some of the historical sites. These include an archeological landmark of Amri, the tombs of Talmur Mirs, and the largest fort in the world, Ranikit Fort. The Sindh Museum contains artifacts and antique crafts that support the city’s accounts of the past.
For nature lovers, a perfect spot to visit in Hyderabad is the Indus River. It provides a tranquil ambiance for visitors, and a source of living for locals. Anyone will enjoy boating and sightseeing activities here.

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Chitral

In the northwest part of Pakistan lies a town overflowing with triumphant stories and architectural wonders. Chitral stands proud at the middle of the valley that is surrounded by the Hindukush mountain ranges.
One of the tourist’s spot that this place is proud of is the Chitral fort. It beams with its magnificent architectural design that leaves the tourists in awe. Another wonder spot is the Palace of Metar that houses the true stories of the past. History enthusiasts will find this place fascinating. The Jami Mosque that just in front of the Chitral fort serves as the center of religious practices of the locals.And for an awesome recreational sport of mountain polo, the Chitral Polo Ground is a perfect spot.
Anyone who would love to visit Chitral should never fail to visit the commercial center of the town that showcases tourist’s hotels and a street bazaar. Locales sell different items here, such as embroideries, hats, gems, potteries, and some of the tastiest street foods in the world. There are also restaurants that offer delicacies that combine the best of both the eastern and western world.
A simple stroll on the streets outside the commercial center is another simple way to learn more about the local culture. Anyone will admire women wearing embroidered gowns and jewelries. There are also some local folks performing the traditional dance, called Kalash.
Chitral is more than just a spot on the map. It is home for a great culture and marvelous wonders of the world.

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Saturday, 23 March 2013

Peshawar

The Capital of Pashtun Culture and Arts

During the Soviet War in Afghanistan in 1980, Peshawar became the home of Afghan refugees who fled during the conflict. Because of this, Peshawar consequently became the center of Pashtun culture and arts in Pakistan.
The astonishing establishments make Peshawar a great place to visit. When you go to Peshawar, it is important that you visit the landmarks that are unique to this city. These landmarks include the following:

• The Islamic College at the University of Peshawar

• The Peshawar Museum

• The Lady Reading Hospital

• The Sunehri Mosque

• Excavations of the Kanishka Monastery

• Peshawar’s Walled City

• The Mahabat Khan Mosque
  
  

Islam is the dominant religion of the area although there is also a relative population of Sikh and Hindu among its people.
Peshawar is connected to the major cities of Pakistan via the Karakorum Highway. The Peshawar International Airport is the main airport in the region. The roads of Peshawar are also linked to China and Afghanistan.
The city hosts its own film industry known as Lollywood where much of the Pashto films have been made. It also serves as the center for literature, political, and media related personalities.
There are also many activities that you can engage on while in Peshawar. During the summer season, you can do hiking tours in the mountains. If you intend to buy goods, you have to prepare yourself to bargain. Better yet, you can take a local with you when shopping for items. You can also start visiting the landmarks of Peshawar and be warmed by their cultural foundations. There are also many restaurants and food stops that you can try in this city. You can try eating on local restaurants to have a taste of Peshawar specialties or visit Western fast food chains.
While in Peshawar, you should also try the Kawa, or green tea which is known for its distinct flavor and sweetness.

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Lahore

It is the second largest city next to Karachi. Lahore, the capital of Punjab, is the cultural heart of Pakistan. The main language used in the city is Punjabi, the native language of the province.

The architectural designs of most buildings in Lahore are deeply influenced by the Mughals, which is why the city is called the Garden of Mughals. The intricate architecture and the rich culture of the city are the main highlights of Lahore.
The climate in Lahore is characterized by long summers, dry and mild winters, and dust storms.
It is one of Pakistan’s most accessible cities. Different transportation means can be found in Lahore. It is the home of the Pakistani Railways which is an important transportation means for commuters. Aside from this, the Pakistani Railways connect Lahore to far areas in the country for various reasons that include education, business, and tourism. Among other transportation roads are the Lahore Ring Road and the Grand Trunk Road. Buses, taxis, and even rickshaws are available in this city. There is also an airport, the Allama Iqbal International Airport, which is serviced by the Pakistan International Airlines in order to accommodate air travel.
Aside from the cultural uniqueness that is known to Lahore, it is also a host of many festivals all through out the year. This includes the celebration of the Eid ul-Fitr and the Eid ul-Adha. The annual urs, the death anniversary of the Sufi Saint, is also celebrated in Lahore. Also included in the list of the festivals celebrated in this city are the Festival of Lamps or Mela Chiraghan, the National Horse and Cattle Show, and the World Performing Arts Festival.
There are many fast food chains in Lahore these days. Western food chains like Mcdonald’s, Pizza Hut, Dunkin Donuts, and Kentucky Fried Chicken have already entered the territory of the food loving citizens of Lahore. For tourists, it is the delicacy of the food streets of the locales that is a must to try.
More importantly, there are many architectural establishments that you need to visit upon going to Lahore. The wide assortment of buildings that you need to see includes mosques like the Badshahi Mosque and Wazir Khan Mosque, mausoleums including that of the Sikh Emperor Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Jahangir’s mausoleum, the Lahore Museum, the Minar-e-Pakistan, and the Hazuri Bagh Baradari.

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Islamabad-Rawalpindi

Considered as the twin cities of Pakistan, Islamabad and Rawalpindi are distinct in culture and ancestry. Islamabad, on one hand, is the tame one while Rawalpindi is the wild brother.
Islamabad is a suburban area with less pollution, clear weather, and very little traffic. Roads are wide and lined with roses. It is also very clean and highly maintained. A visit in Islamabad will never turn into a humdrum event because of the many things that you can do within the city. There is a variety of hangouts and food shops that you will enjoy going to while within the city.
Aside from these things, Islamabad is a city of architecture. You should see the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, the Assembly Building, the Awami Markaz, and some of the embassies in Diplomatic Enclave as testament to this.
Rawalpindi is a busy town. Despite the fact that it is considered as the twin city of Islamabad, the remarkable difference between the two cities should be noted. The relaxed nature of Islamabad is the complete opposite of the bustling activities in Rawalpindi. The Raja Bazaar is one of the most visited sites in this town where you can find friendly and hospitable shop owners and almost every item you will ever need.
Historically, Rawalpindi is a garrison town during the Old English Period and up until now, it is the head quarters of the Pakistani Army.
Although these two cities are quite different from each other, nonetheless, Islamabad and Rawalpindi are destinations you need not miss.

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Gilgit

Feeling the cool gust in Gilgit, Pakistan is like falling in love for the first time. This humble place that lies at the foot of the Karakoram mountain ranges offers more than just mountaineering expeditions and winter getaways.
Formerly known as Sargin, this spot lies in the north where some of the tallest mountains are on its guard. It is an ideal spot for trekking and  hiking, as well as for some sightseeing. The picturesque view commands a  romanticmoment among honeymooners and lovers around. It is not only rich in natural sceneries, but also historical stories that shaped the western part of the globe.
One of the famous attractions in Gilgit is the Nactar Valley where one can enjoy ski lifts and jeep rides with a complementing sight of a magnificent lake. The Deosai National Park is another site to behold. It holds another beautiful lake and it is home to wild animals that are unique to this place. Some of these are the Himalayan brown bear, golden marmot, red fox, and the leggar falcon.
The city of Skardu is one of the most advanced areas in Gilgit. It is a commercial center that houses bazaars, trekking supply shops, souvenir shops, and local goods store. It is also where the Skardu Fort is located that is famous for the central mosque.
No one can ever deny that Gilgit, Pakistan is truly a superb haven. It is a place where anyone can be with nature and urban living at the same time, and experience a one-of-a-kind adventure.

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Sunday, 10 March 2013

Bhurban

Opulent stories of the past and an awesome wildlife. These are the two main ingredients that make up the well-heeled place of Bhurban, Pakistan. It is a spot like no other; a special place on earth where luxury can be experienced through simple ways.
Bhurban, Pakistan is a small town that stands like a gem in the middle of Murree Hills. And since it is being surrounded by huge masses of earth, this town boasts of fascinating landscapes that will definitely take one’s breath away. It is a perfect spot for thrill-seekers and adventure aficionados. Trekking and hiking are two of the major surprises that await anyone who would like to discover more about the place.
But visiting some of the man-made wonders will already give some hints of the glories of this place. Its stories of survival and triumphs against foreign oppressors have shape the image of this town to the world.
A simple game of golf in the famous nine-hole course is a unique experience in this town. Finding respite in resorts and swimming pools that overlook the majestic sceneries is a dream come true for busy persons. And to complete the enriching experience is a dining experience that showcases the best Pakistani cuisines.
But Bhurban, Pakistan boasts nothing more than its wildlife. There are a wide collection of fauna and flora that reminds anyone of the greatest gifts of nature. The local government showed inspiring efforts to preserve these wonders that the locals and the visitors of this town will preserve forever.

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