Pakistan is home to a plethora of fascinating cultures, stunning sights, and all kinds of delicious food. With all of these things combined, it is no surprise that tourism in Pakistan is on the rise.
The country is home to a number of famous UNESCO World Heritage sites. Some of the best-known include Mohenjo Daro, which is known as one of the oldest cities in the world.
1. Faisal Mosque
The Faisal Mosque is one of Pakistan’s most famous landmarks and one of the most popular places of worship for Muslims worldwide. It is located in Islamabad and is surrounded by the picturesque Margalla Hills.
The mosque was completed in 1986 to designs by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay and is considered the largest mosque in the world. It also houses a library, lecture hall and museum.
The design of the mosque reflects a unique combination of modern construction and stylization with symbolism and abstraction. This mosque demonstrates the judicious and harmonious use of diagonal, horizontal and vertical lines in structural design and decoration.
2. The Edhi Foundation
The Edhi Foundation is a charitable organization that runs hundreds of ambulances, homeless shelters and orphanages across Pakistan. The charity is famous for its selfless actions, putting lives before wealth.
The organization operates over 100 schools and vocational centers, which offer training in areas like driving, paramedical training and pharmacy. It also provides help to people who are mentally disabled and unable to live independently.
During the heat wave in Karachi last year, the foundation used its ambulances to evacuate victims and a morgue was set up to hold unclaimed bodies. It also arranges soup kitchens, called Langers, which serve free meals to low-income families.
3. Pulau
Pulau is a paradise for nature lovers and day trippers looking to unwind. Located off Singapore’s north-eastern coast, this tranquil island sanctuary offers a unique mix of historical and natural attractions.
As well as beaches, there are hiking trails and challenging bike paths. Camping sites are also available and the island’s granite quarries provide a glimpse into the country’s history.
The range of birds spotted on the island is impressive too, with species ranging from stork-billed kingfishers to collared kingfishers to white-throated kingfishers. There are also shrikes, hornbills, parakeets and pittas.
4. Mangoes
Mangoes are one of the most popular fruits in Pakistan. It has a variety of different flavours and is often used in chutney and mango desserts.
In addition, mangoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals and help in weight loss by boosting digestion. They are also high in fiber and antioxidants.
They are mainly cultivated in Sindh and Punjab, where they are popular for their delicious taste. They can be eaten raw or made into juices.
They can also be used in making shakes and ice creams. They are a sweet fruit that comes in a range of different flavours, from mild to intense.
5. Truck Art
Truck art is an important part of Pakistan’s culture. It’s a popular form of artistic expression, and it’s often used to promote social causes.
The first trucks in Pakistan began to get decorated with painting and panelling, especially Bedford-style truck models imported during the 1920s. The painters started incorporating intricate patterns and embellishments on their work.
In the 1950s, Karachi became the center of this tradition when Hajji Hussain, an artist known for his elaborate palace frescoes, settled in town.
The designs on the trucks mimic the exquisitely refined court decoration of 16th- and 17th-century Mughal emperors. They also draw inspiration from motifs that are reminiscent of Sheesh Mahal, or mirror palace, halls in Mughal palaces and forts.