Pakistan sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

The best way to get acquainted with culture and traditions of Pakistan is to travel to the most famous cities and landmarks of the country. The city of Karachi is considered the cultural capital of the country. The city was founded in the 18th century and until 1959 Karachi was the administrative capital of the country. The majority of landmarks of the city can be seen during a walk on Mcleod Road and Bandar Road streets, which are home to the State Bank, the Royal Court, beautiful Lyari Waterfront, Mohatta Palace and Frere Hall. However, Mazar-e-Quaid (Jinnah Mausoleum) and Masjid-e-Tooba Mosque remain the most famous landmarks of the city. The mausoleum was built in honor of the founder of Pakistan - Mohammed Ali Jinnah. This is the most sacred landmark in the country.

Several interesting monuments and other places of interest can be found in Hyderabad, first mentions of which belong to the pre-islamic period. Qutb Shahi Fort and an old market, which is located nearby, are beautiful reminders of previous centuries. The so-called historical complex is surrounded by numerous small streets and quarters, which were also built several centuries ago. Another important landmark is located not far away from the city. This is Lake Manchar, the biggest lake in the country and the wintering ground for thousands of birds. One more ancient city that is also worth visiting is called Mohenjo-daro, which was founded more than 4,000 years ago. The city is very popular with tourists, so you will easily find a guide or an excursion that will show you old quarters of Mohenjo-daro. Ruins of an ancient citadel and a palace are among the most famous places of interest here. There is also a large exhibition hall, where visitors can see several collections dedicated to artworks and artifacts found during archaeological excavations. Within several decades the Museum of archaeology has added many precious items to its collection - ancient jewellery, ceramics, weapons and figurines.

The city of Lahore traditionally attracts travelers with its magnificent architecture. Yet during the 16th century the city got many beautiful mosques, palaces, lush gardens and parks. Lahore Fort is the largest architectural complex of the area. This part of the city is a popular excursion destination as there are several big palaces, beautiful gardens and spacious exhibition halls there. Do not forget to see such beautiful places as Badshahi Mosque, magnificent Chauburji Gardens and make an excursion to Aitchison College. Travelers, who are keen on nature reserves, are also recommended to visit Quetta as this city is home to Hazarganji Chiltan National Park, and Pishin Valley is famous for waterfalls and numerous gardens. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

History and Entertainment

Pakistan is one of the oldest countries in the world. In the 3rd-2nd centuries BC, it was a center of the Harappa civilization. Later, these lands were conquered by the Aryans. The formation of the future state was significantly affected by conquests of Alexander the Great. In the 1st-2nd centuries AD, the Kushan Empire was formed. Today, it is officially recognized as a place where Buddhism was generated.

In the 8th century, Islam was disseminated here. In the 13th century, the empire came to the Mongol Empire. The powerful empire had existed for over 500 years and then was separated into several autonomous lands. In the 19th century, Pakistan saw the colonial period. Its entire territory became a part of British India. In the 30s of the last century, the liberation movement was established and succeeded in 1947.

Pakistan is one of the most picturesque and most interesting Asian countries. It attracts travelers not only with its rich historical heritage, but also with unique traditions. Tourists should also pay their attention to food traditions. The brightest components of the Pakistan cuisine are meat dishes. The meat here is cooked on the open fire.

You can taste one of the popular meat dishes called samosa right in the streets. It is cooked and served in small street stalls. Char-grilled meat is rolled in flatbread and served with lettuce sometimes. Those who want to taste something exotic should order mutton with cottage cheese at one of the national restaurants.

Colorful markets of Pakistan will not leave shopping enthusiasts indifferent. One of the most popular national souvenirs is hand-made patterned carpets. Prosperous tourists can buy unique ivory items. In local gift shops, you can buy a very beautiful salt lamp and choose accessories of natural semi-precious stones. There are craft stalls in every city of Pakistan. They sell exclusive leather accessories, hand-made crockery, wooden items and pieces of art. All shopping enthusiasts should remember that it is accustomed to bargain in Pakistan. The bargaining will be relevant everywhere except big supermarkets and shopping malls.