I get these questions every time I mention that I am from Pakistan: "Is the place you lived at in Pakistan safe? Were there terrorists living around that area?" And my response is always a frustrated no - this happens to me every time. Pakistan is a country that has a lot to offer way beyond terrorism, the Taliban, secular grouping and its corrupt government. This is what media has been showing you all these years, but there is a lot you are missing out on. It is a country that is ethnically diverse with lots of color, different cultures, historically significant civilizations and above all it houses one of the most welcoming people in the world.
There are few of the reasons why one should visit Pakistan:
1. Kalash
Kalash are indigenous people of Dard. They are only found in Pakistan and some regions of Indian and Afghanistan. They are culturally and religiously unique. They are polytheist and worship nature. There festivals are to die for.
2. Culture
Pakistan has numerous cultures as there are various ethnic groups in the country. You have Punjabis in the East and Sindhis in the South East. As you go North you find Pashtuns and Hazaras. This is not it. The culture differs from city to city.
3. Food
Pakistani cuisine is AMAZING. Everything smells delicious and looks beautiful. The aroma will make your stomach growl from hunger. And it's not at all like Indian food. Pakistani food is Pakistani.
4. Weddings
Pakistani weddings are so stunning and incredible that they should be on everyone's bucket list. You will never be able to get a chance to see so much color, happiness and beauty at the same time but in a Pakistani wedding.
5. K2
Pakistan also houses the 2nd highest mountain in the world. This mountain is on Pak-China border. The mountain is usually climbed from Pakistan side as the terrain is harder on China's side. This mountain is also the highest point in the Karakoram range.
6. Nankana Sahib: Sikhism
Pakistan is also the birth place of Sikhism which is one of the major religions in South East Asia. It is believed that Guru Nananak (the founder of Sikhism) was born in Pakistan. Every year thousands and thousand of Sikhs from all around the world to visit the shrine of their apostle at Nankana Sahib.
7.Northern Pakistan
Sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of Asia, Northern Pakistan is breathtakingly gorgeous.
8. Architectural master pieces
Pakistan has architectural wonders. From mosques to ancient gardens from the mughal era, all can be found in Pakistan.
Sukkar Bridge
Lahore Fort
Jehangir's (Mughal Empror) Tomb
Faisal Mosques
Pakistan Monument
9. Largest man-made forest
Pakistan holds the award to have the worlds largest man-made forest, Changa Manga. It is also one of the oldest hand-planted forest in the world.
10. Earthquake Island
After a massive earthquake in 2013 a new island came into being, just off the coast of Pakistan. It is one of the world's newest island and natures biggest master piece.
Last but not the least, the people of Pakistan are the most hospitable and welcoming people you will ever come across. I can bet on my life that there are millions of families ready to host tourists for free and open their houses for them. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Pakistan. It's economical, beautiful and these places are safe as well, believe me!
