11 tourist attractions to visit in Pakistan

We look at the top 11 places a tourist must visit while traveling in Pakistan

Despite Pakistan's rich history, visible in its mosques, forts, landmarks and national monuments; the country is not always on a traveler's list.

That all changed when a travel blogger from Australia recently traveled to Pakistan and uploaded breathtaking photographs on her Facebook page, from around the country. She wasn't the only one sharing photographs.

Humans of New York’s Brandon Stanton's visit to Pakistan this year also changed things for travelers after he shared photographs of Hunza, Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.

We look at the top 11 sites a tourist must visit while traveling in Pakistan.

1. Pakistan Monument, Islamabad

The Pakistan Monument is a representation of all four provinces and three territories of the country. It was designed to look like a blooming flower which represents the nation's progress and development.

PHOTO: REUTERS

2. Mohatta Palace, Karachi

The exterior of the palace is laden with pink jodhpur stone and a local yellow stone and its facade is trimmed with windows, floral motifs and intricate detailing. Built in the 1920s, the palace comprises several rooms and levels.

PHOTO: RABZONPAKISTAN

3. Anarkali Bazaar, Lahore

The bazaar is one of the oldest striving markets in the country, selling jewelry, textiles and antiques among other goods. As one of the oldest markets in Lahore, it is known for its numerous traditional food stalls.

PHOTO: FORMUN

 4. Faisal Masjid, Islamabad

Designed by a Turkish architect, Faisal Masjid is shaped like a desert Bedouin’s tent, and is an iconic symbol in the capital city.

PHOTO: REUTERS

5. Hiran Minar, Lahore

Hiran Minar, translated into 'Deer Tower', was known to be a favourite spot for ancient rulers to hunt. The hunting complex lies just north of Sheikhupura town.

PHOTO: SHAISTA BUKHARI

6. Minar-e-Pakistan, Lahore

Also known as the 'Tower of Pakistan', Minar-e-Pakistan is located in Lahore's Iqbal Park. The public monument was constructed in the 60s, on site, where the Lahore Resolution was passed in March 1940.

PHOTO: ONLINE

7. Lahore Fort, Lahore

Locally referred to as 'Shahi Qila' the fort manifests the rich traditions of Mughal architecture. Spread over approximately 20 hectares, the fort can be found at the corner of the walled city in Iqbal Park.

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

8. Mazar-e-Qaid, Karachi

Mazar-e-Qaid, or Jinnah Mausoleum, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Karachi. It is the final resting place of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Designed by famous architect Yahya Merchant, the mazar is made of white marble and is elevated 54-square-metre platform.

PHOTO: ASIM BHARWANI

9. Shalimar Gardens, Lahore

The Mughal inspired gardens are a prominent feature of Lahore. The gardens, built under the rule of Shah Jehan, cover an area of approximately 80 acres.

PHOTO: DEFENCE.PK

10. Sheesh Mahal, Lahore

Sheesh Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of Mirrors', was constructed under the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It has been inscribed as one of UNESCO's world heritage sites since 1981.

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

11. Badshahi Masjid, Lahore

Commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb, the Badshahi mosque is the second largest in Pakistan. Its elaborate courtyard and red brick structure makes it a magnificent structure to say the least.

PHOTO: AMS