The best tourist destination

Letter May 25, 2019
Many people are unaware that our country is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisation in the world

Blessed with beautiful natural and historical sites, Pakistan has the potential to become a top tourist destination. Starting with the Northern Areas, we have beautiful mountainous landscapes. We have ski resorts like Malam Jabba and Naltar; and beyond that, Skardu, Hunza and Swat offer landscapes that can easily compete with those of Switzerland. If we further develop our mountaineering and trekking infrastructures, we can rival those of Nepal and Bhutan.

Moving down south, the Hingol National Park in Balochistan has the potential to be turned into the next Grand Canyon. Imagine tourist trekking, hiking and camping among these beautiful, natural structures. The province also has beautiful beaches. The Arabian Sea coastline can be developed into a prime beach destination, given the perfect weather conditions throughout the year.

Our country is also full of culture and art. Sindh and Lahore and other cities of Punjab and many places in K-P are prominent locations with a large presence of craftsmanship and artistry, unlike any of that seen across the world. Imitations of these artefacts can become a prime export for the economy and tourists would also invest in souvenirs from their trip.

Pakistan is home to incredible religious heritage. The Sufi trail across Sindh appeals to people of all faiths. Many important sites mark the birthplace of religions such as Sikhism, and Buddhist stupas in the north showcase the Gandhara civilisation and Greek influence on the region.

Many people are unaware that our country is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisation in the world, the Indus Valley Civilisation. Together with Makli necropolis and Ranikot fort, the country is a treasure trove for history buffs.

We also offer diverse and delectable food and our eateries have the potential to turn into star restaurants. All these qualities are proof that Pakistan can easily be a top tourist destination, if only we utilise our potential in the right way.

Karachi