Pakistan is a country full of beauty, culture, and kind people. It has high mountains, green valleys, deserts, rivers, and busy cities. I had always heard about Pakistan from friends and travel blogs. This year, I decided to visit and see it with my own eyes. It was one of the best trips of my life.
In this blog, I will share my journey, places I visited, the food I ate, and what I learned. I hope this helps you if you are thinking about visiting Pakistan too.
Day 1–2: Arrival in Islamabad
I started my trip in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. It is a clean and calm city with wide roads and green trees everywhere. I stayed in a hotel near the Faisal Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in Asia. It looks very beautiful, especially at night with lights.
I also visited Daman-e-Koh, a viewpoint in the Margalla Hills. From there, I saw the whole city from above. The air was fresh and the view was amazing.
In the evening, I went to Saidpur Village, a small village with restaurants and art shops. It’s a nice place to walk, eat, and relax.
Day 3–4: Murree and the Hills
From Islamabad, I took a car to Murree, a hill station about 2 hours away. Murree is a popular place for families and couples. It’s cool there, even in summer. I saw clouds touching the mountains and had tea while sitting above the clouds!
I walked along the Mall Road, which has many shops, cafes, and street food. I ate hot corn and spicy fries. I also took a chairlift ride in Patriata, which gave a bird’s eye view of the forests and mountains.
Day 5–6: Lahore – City of Culture
After the hills, I traveled to Lahore, a city full of history and culture. Lahore is colorful and loud but also very welcoming. The first place I visited was the Badshahi Mosque, a huge and beautiful mosque made of red stone.
Next to the mosque is the Lahore Fort, a historical fort from the Mughal time. I walked through the old rooms, gardens, and halls. It felt like I had gone back in time.
In the evening, I watched the Wagah Border Ceremony, where soldiers from Pakistan and India perform a special march. The crowd was very excited and full of energy.
I also visited Anarkali Bazaar, a famous market where I bought traditional clothes and souvenirs.
Day 7–8: Food in Pakistan
One of the best parts of my trip was the food. Pakistan has rich and spicy dishes. Here are some of my favorites:
- Biryani: Spiced rice with chicken or beef.
- Chapli Kebab: A spicy meat patty from the north.
- Halwa Puri: A sweet and salty breakfast dish.
- Chicken Karahi: Chicken cooked with tomatoes, spices, and butter in a wok.
- Mangoes: The sweetest mangoes I have ever tasted!
I also drank lassi, a yogurt-based drink that is cool and tasty. And of course, many cups of chai (tea) every day.
Day 9–10: Hunza Valley – Heaven on Earth
Then came my favorite part of the trip: Hunza Valley in northern Pakistan. It took a long drive, but it was worth it. Hunza is surrounded by tall mountains, rivers, and small villages. The people there are very friendly and peaceful.
I stayed in a guesthouse in Karimabad, the main town. From my window, I could see Rakaposhi Mountain covered with snow.
I visited Baltit Fort, an old fort on a hill. It has great views of the valley. I also hiked to Altit Fort and walked through the old streets of the village.
In the evening, I sat near the Hunza River and watched the sunset. It was so peaceful.
Day 11: Gilgit and the Journey Back
I spent one night in Gilgit, a small city in the north. From there, I flew back to Islamabad. The flight was short, but the views from the plane were amazing. I saw snow-capped peaks and winding rivers from the sky.
What I Learned in Pakistan
Pakistan taught me many things. The media sometimes shows only the bad side, but I saw the truth. People are kind, helpful, and full of hospitality. I was invited to many homes and offered tea, food, and warm smiles.
I also learned about different cultures inside Pakistan. From Punjabi songs to Pashto dances and Hunza traditions, each area has its own charm.
Safety and Tips for Travelers
Many people ask: “Is Pakistan safe?” My answer is yes. I felt safe in all the places I visited. Of course, like any country, you should be careful in busy areas, follow local advice, and respect the culture.
Here are a few tips:
- Dress modestly, especially in religious places.
- Try to learn a few local words like “Shukriya” (Thank you).
- Carry cash, as some places don’t take cards.
- Drink bottled water.
- Be open-minded and kind. People will respond the same.
Conclusion
My trip to Pakistan was full of beauty, surprises, and new friendships. I saw snowy mountains, green valleys, historic cities, and colorful bazaars. I ate amazing food and heard stories that touched my heart.
If you love nature, culture, and meeting kind people, Pakistan is a perfect place for you. It is still a hidden gem for many travelers, but I believe more people will discover its magic in the coming years.
I left Pakistan with a full heart, a camera full of photos, and a promise to return one day. I hope this blog helps you understand Pakistan a little better and maybe inspires you to plan your own journey.