Overview
Travel warning
Travellers are currently warned against travel to certain parts of Pakistan; these areas the northern and western areas of Baluchistan, the western area of the North West Frontier Province and the Fedreally Administered Tribal Areas and Agencies. The level of caution in these areas in subject to change and visitors are advised to contact their local government travel advice department prior to travel for the latest information.
Pakistan has borders with Afghanistan, India, Iran and the Arabian Sea. The terrain varies from rugged and mountainous to flat, alluvial plains. Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea near the mouth of the Indus. The streets are lively with hundreds of street restaurants, teahouses, samosa and juice stalls. Boats can be hired to sail out of the harbour. Lahore, in the Punjab, is a historic, bustling city with buildings of pink and white marble. There is plenty to see: bazaars, the Badshahi Mosque – one of the largest mosques in the world and an example of Moghul architecture rivalled only by the Taj Mahal. Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan since 1963, and Rawalpindi, are both located on the Pothowar Plain. The old part of the town boasts fine examples of local architecture and the narrow streets are crammed with bazaars where craftsmen are still using traditional methods. The Northern Areas has some of the highest mountains in the world including the famous Nanga Parbat and second highest mountain in the world, K2. Pakistani cuisine is based on curry or masala (hot and spicy) sauces accompanying chicken, mutton, shrimps and a wide choice of vegetables. Cultural programmes of traditional music and dance can be seen and the Pakistani Arts Academy performs at various times during the year.
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