Discovering Pakistan https://discoveringpakistan.com/ Offering multiple domestic group & private tours Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:53:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://discoveringpakistan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/favicon.ico Discovering Pakistan https://discoveringpakistan.com/ 32 32 Hunza Water | Where to get it and how to make it! https://discoveringpakistan.com/hunzawater/ Tue, 17 Jan 2023 19:56:07 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=3114 What actually is Hunza Water?Hunza Water is the name of glacier water that the people of Hunza consume without any filtration. The secret of Longevity In 1963, Dr Patrick Flanagan was consulting for the United States’ Pentagon when he met the Father of Fluid Dynamics, Dr Henry Coanda. “Water is the most important thing you […]

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What actually is Hunza Water?
Hunza Water is the name of glacier water that the people of Hunza consume without any filtration.

The secret of Longevity

In 1963, Dr Patrick Flanagan was consulting for the United States’ Pentagon when he met the Father of Fluid Dynamics, Dr Henry Coanda.

“Water is the most important thing you put in your body, but not all water is equal”, said the legendary Romanian scientist as he told Dr Flangan about his quest for the Fountain of Youth for the past 60 years.

He had been studying the five mountainous regions in the world where people commonly lived healthy and productive life for over 100 years, and discovered that while their diets were different, the one thing they had in common was type of water they consumed.

One such region was Hunza land in North Pakistan, where the water contained certain silicate minerals that originate from the surrounding glacial mountains and the people drink the glacial water containing all those minerals.

Taking over the research, Dr Flangan discovered that these minerals gave the Hunza water anomalous properties such as a lower surface tension and freezing point. Other qualities include a high zeta potential, natural colloids, minerals and unique tiny silica.

The Hunza water is substantially similar to the water surrounding our cells, resulting in better cellular hydration and nutrient absorption for the people who consume it.

How to make Hunza water

Dr Flangan told us the recipe to make it without even going to Hunza.
Let’s follow the instructions down here,

Ingredients

  • Large, clear glass pitcher or vessel with a lid (to hold the water)
  • A clear mason jar that can be sealed with a non-metal lid
  • Chunks of Himalayan pink salt
  • A window with lots of direct sunlight
  • High quality, filtered drinking water
  • A non-metal teaspoon (we like this stainless steel option)

Instructions

  1. Sterilise the large glass container or pitcher, then fill it with filtered drinking water.
  2. Cover the container, and set it in a sunny window for 24 hours to increase the “chi” or life force of the water. This step replicates the natural sunlight water would be exposed to whilst melting down the glaciers in the Hunza Valley.
  3. Using large, rock-sized Himalayan salt crystals, place as many as you can in a mason jar. Remember, don’t cover your jar with a metal lid as it can react with the salt; choose a wooden or plastic lid instead.
  4. Fill the jar with your sun water, pouring it over the salt crystals. Refill the “sun water” and set it back in the window. You will have your “salt water” and your “sun water.”
  5. Let the crystals sit in the water for another 24 hour period. This will allow the water to become saturated.
  6. When “infused,” this water is called sole; you’ll remove about a teaspoon of sole a day, and continue to top the jar with more water as long as you can still see the salt crystals. Make sure to use a non-metal teaspoon to remove sole. Add a teaspoon to a full glass of sun water.
  7. Drink on an empty stomach in the morning and wait approximately 30 minutes prior to consuming any other food or beverage.
  8. Once the salt crystals in your sole are gone, you can start over the process.

Myths about Hunza water

It is the name many foreigners and local tourists use to refer to Araq (A moonshine brewed locally in Hunza). But in actual, it is not true. Hunza water is just a drinking water and not an alcohol.

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The ultimate Tour Guide to Hunza Valley https://discoveringpakistan.com/hunza-valley-tour-guide/ https://discoveringpakistan.com/hunza-valley-tour-guide/#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2021 10:14:00 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=3332 The Indus valley civilization dates back to some 1000 years ago when Shahreis ruled this place before the Islamic age. Hunza Valley is also said to be the Shangri-la(heaven) on Earth by James Hilton in his novel ‘Lost Horizon‘. Hunza Valley is famous for its scenic views of nature, the high mountains of the Karakoram […]

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The Indus valley civilization dates back to some 1000 years ago when Shahreis ruled this place before the Islamic age. Hunza Valley is also said to be the Shangri-la(heaven) on Earth by James Hilton in his novel ‘Lost Horizon‘.

Hunza Valley is famous for its scenic views of nature, the high mountains of the Karakoram and its culture.
If you ever plan to go to Hunza Valley, here’s a complete guide for you!

People of Hunza Valley and their Culture

People of Hunza Valley are extremely friendly like I haven’t found such friendliness and hospitality anywhere in Pakistan. You might find such hospitality in other regions, as well as people of Swat, are very hospitable.
BUT, the most amazing thing about people of Hunza Valley is that they’re educated (97.6% literacy rate, highest in Pakistan) and above all, THEY ARE ACCEPTABLE.

No matter what you’re wearing or what kind of party animal you are, they’ll accept you, just don’t mess with local people else you’re good to go.

Hunza Valley has a very unique culture, it is located in between China’s provincial region XINJIANG and Afghanistan, so it shares a very rich culture.
Anyhow, you’ll find yourself as soon as you cross Gilgit city and enter Hunza valley.

Route Map to Hunza Valley

If you live anywhere in Punjab, Sindh or Balochistan, you have to come to Islamabad first.
But if you live in KPK, you can continue your traveling from Besham/Battgram/Naran/Mansehra, whichever is accessible to you.

Ok, from Islamabad…

You have to reach Abbottabad first, whether you opt. Hazara motorway or G.T road. Then, continue your journey till Mansehra,
From Mansehra, you have the choice of two routes!

Route A(Grey): Mansehra to Chilas via Naran and Babusar Top. This route can only be accessed from July to September as it remains close to the rest of the year due to snowfall.

Route B(Red): Mansehra to Chilas via Besham and Dasu. This route is opened all the year but it is a rather long and hectic route.

Route C(By Air): Book a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit (1.15hrs), then get a cab from Gilgit to Hunza Valley.

From Chilas, you have to travel on Karakoram Highway, it is not just the road but the 8th wonder of the world, till Gilgit city and a further 2hr drive to Aliabad, the capital town of central Hunza Valley.

How much time will it take?

If you’re going on your vehicle, follow Google maps for navigation purposes but don’t believe the time of travel Google tells you (It is accurate in some parts but it will not guide you well throughout).
(You must stay one night in Naran/Besham/Dasu or Chilas and continue your journey next morning as you can’t travel in a night on Chilas road plus it is too hectic to travel up to Hunza Valley without night stay)

So, the estimated times (Normal traffic) are given here:

Islamabad to Hunza Valley via route A (625km): 19hr
Islamabad to Mansehra (156km) – 3.5hrs
Mansehra to Naran (121km) – 5hrs
Naran to Babusar Top (65km) – 3hrs
Babusar Top to Chilas (49km) – 1.5hrs
Chilas to Gilgit (134km) – 4hrs
Gilgit to Hunza (100km) – 2hrs

Islamabad to Hunza via route B (716km): 23hr
Islamabad to Mansehra (156km) – 3.5hrs
Mansehra to Battagram (69km) – 3hrs
Battagram to Besham (53km) – 2hrs
Besham to Dasu (79km) – 2.5hrs
Dasu to Chilas (125km) – 6hrs
Chilas to Gilgit (134km) – 4hrs
Gilgit to Hunza (100km) – 2hrs

Best Route

If the road till Babusar Top is opened, must go for it(Route A). As it is way more scenic and beautiful from Mansehra to Babusar and road is paved and clear all the way.
If Babusar Top is closed yet, then you have left with no other option than Route B.
The road is clear and paved from Mansehra to Besham but is under construction due to CPEC from Dasu to Chilas and is too bumpy.

Which vehicles can go to Hunza

As already mentioned, the roads are paved, though some parts are not paved it’s not a problem at all for any vehicle. Any vehicle from bicycle to a motorbike, Mehran to Land Cruiser and Bolan to Coaster can go there.

Temperature Guide:

It’s cold all the year in Hunza, you won’t find anything near to Summers of Lahore in Hunza.
The temperature remains cold at night in summers too, as sometimes it goes below 0oC too. However, the temperature never goes above 20oC in summers. And in winter, you have to bear something like -10oC to -20oC.
But if you are planning to go to Khunjerab Pass (a.k.a. China border), then brace yourself for impact! xD
As you can expect snowfall in June or July too. The temperature never goes above 0oC at Khunjerab Pass and it goes way negative and unbearable in winters (though, you can’t go there in winters due to closure of roads)

What should you pack when visiting Hunza

Don’t bring too many extra clothes, just a few very necessary items to be packed when you come here(rest of the stuff like toothbrush, towels, etc. is all up to you).

  • Raincoat/Windbreaker
  • Jacket/Warm clothes
  • Even warmer clothes (If you’re planning to visit Khunjerab Pass)
  • Extra pairs of socks
  • Joggers/Hiking Boots
  • Extra pair of shoes
  • Gloves/Stoler/Muffler scarf/Shawl (Must for kids and Families, also recommended for men and boys too if you’re planning a visit to Khunjerab Pass ku k mard ko dard hota ho ya na ho, thand zurur lgti hai xD)

Places to visit in Hunza

Here is the most interesting thing, Places to visit in Hunza. So, let me start a list long of places.

On way to Hunza from Chilas
-Garam Pani Chashma (Near Raikot Bridge)
-Fairy Meadows (3 hr jeep ride from Raikot Bridge, then 3hrs of trekking to reach Majestic Fairy Meadows)*
-Nanga Parbat viewpoint
-Three mountains junction viewpoint (Where Hindukush, Himalayas and Karakoram Range meet together)
-Naltar Valley (3hr jeep ride from Normal, a point on KKH)**
-Rakaposhi viewpoint (In Aliabad)

*You need to add 2 extra days on your trip to visit Fairy Meadows.
**You need to add one extra day on your trip to visit Naltar Valley.

In Central Hunza

-Karimabad Bazar (Experience the rich culture of Hunza in their local bazar)
-Baltit Fort
-Altit Fort
-Hopper Glacier(In Nagar Valley, few km from Karimabad)
-Eagle’s Nest or Duiker(The most amazing viewpoint to experience sunset and sunrise at ladyfinger peak)
-The Majestic blue water Attabad Lake
-6 stunning tunnels on KKH

In Upper Hunza/Gojal
-Hussaini Suspension Bridge (on way to Khunjerab from Hunza)
-Passu Cones
-Passu Glacier
-Gulmit (A beautiful village along KKH)
-Shimshal (Another beautiful village)
-Sost (Said to be the LAST TOWN OF PAKISTAN)

Khunjerab National Park
The National Park is a beautiful site itself where you can spot Ibex and Yaks but the road is way picturesque than any other site seeing points.
-Khunjerab Pass (China Border 15,500ft altitude)
-Highest ATM in the world (near China border is situated NBP’s ATM)

Easy Way to visit Hunza even if you’re low on budget!

Visiting Hunza valley costs you a lot of money in terms of fuel cost, challans, and hotels. But if you want to explore all this in low price, just don’t worry.
Try our Exclusive Hunza Valley tour

Better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times

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Muhammad Ali Sadpara – The man who will live forever https://discoveringpakistan.com/muhammad-ali-sadpara-the-man-who-will-live-forever/ Mon, 15 Feb 2021 16:49:24 +0000 http://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=54772 Muhammad Ali Sadpara was, is, and will forever live in our hearts. His soul filled with love and the craze of mountains. Back in 2015, there were 2 most difficult challenges in the world of Mountaineering, the Winter Summit of Nanga Parbat (8,126m) and K2 (8,611m). In 2016, Muhammad Ali Sadpara climbed Nanga Parbat in […]

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Muhammad Ali Sadpara was, is, and will forever live in our hearts. His soul filled with love and the craze of mountains.

Back in 2015, there were 2 most difficult challenges in the world of Mountaineering, the Winter Summit of Nanga Parbat (8,126m) and K2 (8,611m).

In 2016, Muhammad Ali Sadpara climbed Nanga Parbat in winters for the first time and made history.

Mountain climbing is a different world, in this world, Mountains talk to the climbers and climbers talk back to them.

You need to be in love with mountains to know why does climbing matter?

Also Read: K2 – Movies based on the second-highest mountain in world K2

His dream was K2, he wanted to hoist the Pakistani flag at the highest point in Pakistan, that too in winters which have never had done before.

Every year, many climbers come to Pakistan in winters just to take the honor of being the first to summit K2 in winters, this year Nepalese team did it, and how come our Hero come back without rising Pakistani flag at the summit of mighty K2.

Muhammad Ali Sadpara did summit the K2 but something happened on the descent and made K2 his permanent resting place.

Also Read: K2 – Different names, Etymology, Facts, and Geography

The cause of death is still unknown and might be possible it will stay unknown forever.

As he got disappeared (it is possible that he fell in some crevasse or buried in a thick layer of snow, or the wind blew him up) but all I know is Muhammad Ali Sadpara, John Snorri and Juan Pablo got disappeared as many people have disappeared on K2 before.

Also Read: K2 – Different names, Etymology, Facts, and Geography

Brave hats off to him, he was not an ordinary man but a man of steel who is taller than K2. And his name will live forever.

Rest in Peace all missing climbers of K2 Winter Summit 2020/21.

Update about his Dead body:

Muhammad Ali Sadpara died on February 5, 2021 while attempting to summit K2, the second highest mountain in the world. His body was found on February 7, 2021 by a search and rescue team on the mountain. Sadpara had previously summited eight of the world’s 14 highest peaks, including Mount Everest.

His death was met with widespread condolences from the mountaineering community and Pakistan’s government.

John Snorri and Muhammad Ali Sadpara – who died during K2 Winter Expedition

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Nepalese Team Made first Winter Climb of K-2 and Broke the Record! https://discoveringpakistan.com/nepalese-team-made-first-winter-climb-of-k-2-and-broke-the-record/ Tue, 19 Jan 2021 14:46:33 +0000 http://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=54665 K2 is one of the most challenging mountaineering goals in the world and one of the most treacherous. Extreme, erratic weather and acutely challenging climbing conditions challenge the technique, stamina, and psychological ability of the most accomplished mountaineers to the maximum and sometimes beyond. Many men and women while climbing the mountain, ended up with […]

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K2 is one of the most challenging mountaineering goals in the world and one of the most treacherous. Extreme, erratic weather and acutely challenging climbing conditions challenge the technique, stamina, and psychological ability of the most accomplished mountaineers to the maximum and sometimes beyond. Many men and women while climbing the mountain, ended up with devastating results – more than 70 of them died or vanished, attempted to hit the top. However, this second-highest peak in the world also has a special and all too frequently deadly appeal for the best mountaineers of the world.

The mighty K2, also known as the “Savage Mountain” may not have never been conquered in winters if not for those Nepalis “Sherpas” because they did what everyone thought was “the impossible”. 16th January 2021, was a day when the history was written as the mighty K2 was conquered successfully during the harsh winters for the very first time. Apart from the very steep slope, it is a place where the temperature could fall below then -50 Celsius – indeed a trip only for the daring.


Mountaineers have been looking forward to summit the magnificent K2 since the 1980s (after the first winter summit of Mount Everest). It was only after the successful summit of the Nanga Parbat or the “killer mountain” in the winters of 2016 when K2 remained the only 8000 meters peak in the world that was not conquered during the winter season.

Also Read: K2 – Movies based on the second-highest mountain in world K2

Well not anymore! At 17:00 local time, the Nepalese team shocked the whole world and did something that was thought to be impossible. The team of 10 not only summit the Savage Mountain successfully but also returned to the base camp safely, marking the 16th January 2021 as one of the most important days ever in the history for the mountaineers.

With this summit, the long-awaited record has been made – crown goes to Nepalese Sherpas. Kudos to all of you! You have made your nation proud by making this remarkable achievement! You have shown the world that you truly are the people made for the mountains.

Also Read: K2 – Different names, Etymology, Facts, and Geography

This group was lead by renowned mountaineer “Mingma G” and “Nirmal Purja” who have already set multiple world records. Here is the list of all 10 brave climbers.

  1. Nirmal Purja
  2. Gelje Sherpa
  3. Mingma David Sherpa
  4. Mingma G
  5. Sona Sherpa
  6. Mingma Tenzi Sherpa
  7. Pem Chhiri Sherpa
  8. Dawa Temba Sherpa
  9. Kili Pemba Sherpa
  10. Dawa Tenjing Sherpa

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Lahore as Love Destination in 2021-New York Times https://discoveringpakistan.com/lahore-as-love-destination-in-2021/ Mon, 11 Jan 2021 12:28:03 +0000 http://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=54602 Lahore ~ a city of Liveliness has been mentioned as one of the World’s dream destinations to Love in 2021 in The New York Times. New York Times asked their readers to tell them about different places that loved, encouraged, and comforted in the last year. 52 of the over 2000 cities were chosen and […]

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Lahore ~ a city of Liveliness has been mentioned as one of the World’s dream destinations to Love in 2021 in The New York Times. New York Times asked their readers to tell them about different places that loved, encouraged, and comforted in the last year. 52 of the over 2000 cities were chosen and listed, among which Lahore is the one!

Pakistan has a poor reputation and has always been ignored by travelers coming to South Asia. Yet some of the kindest and friendliest people are Lahoris. They are always welcoming and love to look for travelers to feed them. People from different cities of Pakistan, come to Lahore to study and work. Lahore has its own unmatchable beauty. The hot summers of Lahore can be unbearable, but lights twinkle in the middle of the fog in the winter. The historical center of the region, Androon Lahore, is full of Mughal monuments. It’s also home to the World’s Largest Mosques – Badshahi Mosque and Grand Jamia Mosque. There are so many places to visit and too much to have in Lahore that one can never get bored. At almost every corner of the city, you will find a Dhabba, restaurant, or a cafe to dine-in. As far as the food is concerned, Lahore is known for its variety of food and best in taste! From an expensive and fancy restaurant to a little food stall, food is absolutely full of taste and appetizing.

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Mountain Girls Premier League 2020 https://discoveringpakistan.com/mountain-girls-premier-league-2020/ Tue, 25 Aug 2020 12:08:04 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=52622 Pakistan’s passion-filled event ‘Mountain Girls Premier League’ recently took place in Hunza. Gulmit Young Stars Club and the Shah Talib FC played the final. As they defeated Shah Talib FC 2-0, the Gulmit Young Stars Club won the match. Ten teams from around Hunza had taken part in this gathering. Gulmit Young Stars’ Ruqaya Farheen […]

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Pakistan’s passion-filled event ‘Mountain Girls Premier League’ recently took place in Hunza. Gulmit Young Stars Club and the Shah Talib FC played the final. As they defeated Shah Talib FC 2-0, the Gulmit Young Stars Club won the match.

Ten teams from around Hunza had taken part in this gathering. Gulmit Young Stars’ Ruqaya Farheen was named ‘Player of the Series.’ The ‘Best Goalkeeper’ award went to Gulmit Young Stars’ Bibi Asdaf. She allowed just one goal in the tournament. The ‘Player of the Match’ award went to Gulmit Young Stars’ Marvi Baig. Marvi scored one final goal, and five tournament goals.

The event’s chief guest was Mr. Kamil Jan, a social activist from Shishkat Gojal. During his speech, he said that he would still support women’s such healthy activities in his city. The final guest, Mr. Ghulam Tahir, Vice Chairman Rupani Hunza Foundation, distributed masks to the crowd along with his staff. He acknowledged participating teams and appreciated the girls for their achievements. The tournament’s sponsor was Gilgit-Baltistan Department of Tourism.

Pakistani women’s athletes are now making the country proud. However, Gulmit’s Pakistani women’s football team has shown it’s an epitome of confidence, self-belief and determination. In Pakistan, every woman can take them as an inspiration to pursue their dreams.

These young, vibrant, and ambitious individuals show to the world that women too, regardless of all of the challenges that may come their way, can do whatever they want to do once they set their minds into it.

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Historical Places to Visit in Lahore https://discoveringpakistan.com/historical-places-to-visit-in-lahore/ Thu, 28 May 2020 11:46:20 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=52195 Lahore is known as a populous city of Pakistan in the province of Punjab. It is also the 2nd largest city of Pakistan and 18th largest city around the globe. Many tourists come, visit this ancient city, and explore its tremendous beauty. Being rich in culture, history and greenery, it is also famous as ‘City […]

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Lahore is known as a populous city of Pakistan in the province of Punjab. It is also the 2nd largest city of Pakistan and 18th largest city around the globe. Many tourists come, visit this ancient city, and explore its tremendous beauty. Being rich in culture, history and greenery, it is also famous as ‘City of Gardens’. The entire Lahore architect is historical, and the elegance of the ancient, brick buildings can be clearly seen. So many places we have in Lahore that attract the visitors. In this article, we would suggest a few historical places to visit in Lahore.

Let’s have a look at the best historical places to visit in Lahore:

  1. Badshahi Mosque

Visiting Lahore? Must visit Badshahi Mosque first!

A Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, built one of the most popular tourist attractions, Badshahi Mosque in 1673. It covers a large area that many reports suggest that the Mosque can have 40,000 people at one time. Made from the red sandstones, this mosque is a definition of pure art. It is one of the best-known sights of the cities, with the elegance and grandeur of the Mughal being an important tourist attraction. This Mosque also has a small museum having the belongings of Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H), His daughter and His Son-in-Law.

  1. Minar-e-Pakistan

Clear from the name, Minar-e-Pakistan is an ancient Minar (Minaret) of Pakistan. It was established at the site of the Lahore Resolution – adopted by the All-India Muslim League on 23 March 1940. Nasreddin Murat Khan, a Pakistani architect and civil engineer, designed and built this Minar. It is a huge tower that rises about 62 meters from the ground. The Tower combines Islamic and western architecture. After the independence of Pakistan, it was constructed in 1960. This surely reserves great importance in the history of Lahore.

  1. Lahore Fort

Lahore Fort, also known as Shahi Qila or Royal Fort, is located at the northern end of the walled city of Lahore. The foundation of the Lahore Fort dates back to 1566, under the reign of Emperor Akbar, who bestowed the fort on Islamic as well as Hindu motifs a symmetric architectural style. It has 21 significant monuments dating back to Emperor Akbar ‘s era. At the height of its splendour and opulence, while joining the Mughal Empire, the Fort of Lahore was almost completely rebuilt in the 17th century.  Therefore, being rich in its history, it has also been home to Sikh Emperors after the fall of the Mughal Empire.

  1. Lahore Museum

Also known as Lahore Wonder House, The Lahore Museum is located at The Mall Road in Lahore. It was founded in 1865 at a smaller location. However, opened in 1894 at the present location in the British Colonial Period. Lahore Museum has now been one of Pakistan’s most visited and highly regarded museums. It also houses a large collection of Buddhist paintings from the ancient Indo-Greek and the Kingdoms of Gandhara. It also has collections from the Mughal Empire, the Sikh Empire and the British Empire in India.

  1. Jahangir’s Tomb

The Tomb of Jahangir is a 17th-century mausoleum built for Emperor Jahangir, a Mughal Emperor. The mausoleum was built in 1637 and is situated on the banks of the Ravi River, at the Shahdara Bagh site in Lahore. It is renowned for its decorative art, marbled interior and its exteriors, richly decorated with parchinkari (stonework). In October 1627, the emperor died at the foot of the Kashmir River at Rajauri. His body was moved from Kashmir to Lahore in November 1627 by a funeral procession. In the tomb, Dilkusha Garden, where he got buried was considered as a favourite spot of Jahangir and his wife Nur Jahan.

  1. Shalamar Gardens

Built during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, Shalamar Gardens, also known as Shalamar Bagh. They are located in Lahore. The construction began in 1641 and completed in 1642. These gardens date back to the time when the Mughal Empire was at its artistic joy and now it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Pakistan. The Shalamar Gardens were designed to reflect an earthly utopia in which human beings co-exist in complete harmony with all elements of the natural world in a Persian paradise garden.

  1. Wazir Khan Mosque

The most decorated mosque of the Mughal era is Wazir Khan Mosque. It is renowned for its intricate pottery-glaze tiles called Kashi-kari – that synthesizes the decorative styles of Mughal and modern Punjabi and its interiors almost fully decorated with elaborate Mughal era mural paintings. The paintings are drawn from the decorative traditions from several regions. The mosque was built on an elevated plinth, with the main portal opening onto the Wazir Khan Chowk. Wazir Khan Chowk has decorated with elaborate tile work and calligraphy that includes verses of the Quran, and verses of the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H).

Lahore Affairs: The Wazir Khan Mosque

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Snowfall in Ayubia in May After More than a Century! https://discoveringpakistan.com/snowfall-in-ayubia-after-more-than-a-century/ Thu, 21 May 2020 23:53:10 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=52157 The rich green mountains of Abbottabad’s local Ayubia town received snowfall in the period of May. This month is known for bringing hotter climate, after more than a century. Ayubia is known as the Forest of Khyber Pakhtunwa, and is famous for its greenery and wildlife. Rainfall happens to be a usual activity in Ayubia […]

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The rich green mountains of Abbottabad’s local Ayubia town received snowfall in the period of May. This month is known for bringing hotter climate, after more than a century. Ayubia is known as the Forest of Khyber Pakhtunwa, and is famous for its greenery and wildlife. Rainfall happens to be a usual activity in Ayubia but snowfall in May had been an extremely unusual activity.

According to The Express Tribune, close by regions, including the Galiyat area, also got light snowfall on Tuesday. It was quite an irregular event for the neighborhood. Rao Taimoor Ali tweeted: “Snowfall on Tuesday was very unusual even for the local population.”

A report by the local English Daily cited a 90-year-old resident of Ayubia. He said that he had not seen such climate since the British pioneer rule. According to the elder sibling of a local resident, the beautiful district got snowfall once and for all in the period of May in the 1920s. The chilly climate used to be exceptionally unforgiving even in June, a while back when his ancestors lived in the area.

Galliyat Development Authority (GDA) Director General (DG) Muhammad Raza Habib had gotten reports from his group in Ayubia about the climate. The report included that because of the unforeseen snowfall, there was no causality or unsettling influence for regular citizens living in the area.

“The change in climate was because of COVID-19 pandemic as the majority of the world is under lockdown”, said Rina Saeed, an Islamabad-based writer.

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Watch these Travel Movies & Recall Your Travel Memories https://discoveringpakistan.com/watch-travel-movies-recall-your-travel-memories/ Sun, 10 May 2020 17:31:52 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=52118 Do you miss traveling being stuck at home? You are not alone! Watching movies is always an amazing chance to remove boredom and we have a list of fun travel movies that you can watch on Netflix in Quarantine. No.1: 7 Years in Tibet Heinrich Harrer, an Austrian climber and mountaineer shares his experiences in […]

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Do you miss traveling being stuck at home? You are not alone!

Watching movies is always an amazing chance to remove boredom and we have a list of fun travel movies that you can watch on Netflix in Quarantine.

  • No.1: 7 Years in Tibet

Heinrich Harrer, an Austrian climber and mountaineer shares his experiences in Tibet between 1939 and 1951 during World War II. He breaks out of prison and travels to the holy city of Lhasa. He soon comes close to the 14th Dalai Lama after being his instructor.

  • No.2: Into The Wild

Based on a true story, Into The Wild represents the tail of a young college graduate, Christopher McCandless ready to embark on his own journey of adventure. He hiked across North America into the Alaskan Wilderness in the early 1990’s. The Alaska scenes portray the areas around the abandoned bus on the Stampede Trail and were filmed 80 km south of where McCandless died in the small town of Cantwell.

He gives up everything and prefers spending his life in the wild, strange huh? That’s what traveling does to people!

  • No.3: Expedition Happiness

A Travel documentary, which has nothing to do with happiness made by a young German couple who desire to leave the lights of a big city, Berlin and feed their souls by wandering around nature on an epic road trip. They attempt to travel to Canada, Alaska, U.S. in a refurbished school bus, with their dog. How romantic is that?

Truly, this movie will inspire you to explore the beauty of your country!

  • No.4: Holiday in the Wild

A newly widow, Kate decides to travel on a second honeymoon in Africa all by herself, after her husband ends their marriage. There, she and Derek, a pilot, rescue a baby elephant and help it back to health. Filled with beauty and nature, Kate falls in love with her new surroundings.

Well then, who doesn’t love to be surrounded by nature?

  • No.5: The Bucket List

A comedy drama film, presenting two ill friends left with only six months to live who decide to go on an adventure and explore life. They end up making a bucket list with all the things they never tried before and start by taking a road trip.

After all, friends are for life!

Which is your favorite Travel Movie? Do let us know in comments below!

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Top 10 Honeymoon destinations in Pakistan 2020 https://discoveringpakistan.com/honeymoon-destinations-in-pakistan/ Sat, 11 Apr 2020 15:15:27 +0000 https://discoveringpakistan.com/?p=52034 Pakistan is home to beautiful places and there are so many hidden gems of Nature that are extremely pure and romantic. Not just romantic but scenic mountains, meadows, lakes, rivers and even deserts. Here is the list of Top 10 Honeymoon destinations in Pakistan! (To get information about hotels, their rates, bargain tricks and everything […]

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Pakistan is home to beautiful places and there are so many hidden gems of Nature that are extremely pure and romantic. Not just romantic but scenic mountains, meadows, lakes, rivers and even deserts. Here is the list of Top 10 Honeymoon destinations in Pakistan!

(To get information about hotels, their rates, bargain tricks and everything local, you can contact us and its free of cost, we just love to help)

10. Kaghan Valley: 

Kaghan valley is a beautiful place to behold your honeymoon. Home to many lakes and surrounded by staggering mountains with river Kunhar flowing right beneath the main Kaghan road.
You can visit Lulusar lake, Saif-ul-Malook lake, Babusar Pass (Freezing Cold and elevation of 13,500 ft.) on your trip.

Recommended No. of days: 3-4
Best Places to Stay: There are some very good hotels in Naran bazar, Jheel road and Batakundi which are very accommodative and romantic too with beautiful views from your window.
Must to do activity: Shopping in Naran bazar, sitting on river Kunhar with your feet in the water.


P.S: Remains closed most of the year, can be visited from May to October.
Visit in September or October to get cheapest rates of hotels.

09. Shogran Valley:

Shogran is beautiful valley located near Kiwai, Kaghan. This place has silence, purity of nature and lots of greenery (and lots of snow in winters). Shogran is accompanied by the extremely beautiful Paye Meadows, which can be accessed by Jeeps from Shogran. Paye Meadows is home to Makra Peak, the name of this peak comes from Spider. When snow falls on Makra Peak, it seems like a giant spider of snow sitting on mountain.

Recommended No. of days: 2-3
Best Places to Stay: Shogran Valley is home to some beautiful hotels and cottages which are very romantic and silent.
*For some adventure lovers, you can camp at Paye Meadows (we can arrange that for you).
Must to do Activity: Lying with your partner at night in grass and staring at crystal clear stars for hours.


P.S: Only drive by yourself to Shogran if you’re a very confident and expert driver, else Park your car in Kiwai and hire Jeep from there.
Can be accessed all year!

08. Kalam Valley:

Kalam valley is the heart of Swat and also called Switzerland of Pakistan. Kalam has some of the most scenic views of Nature. Staggering Hindukush, Mahudand lake, Ushu Forest and Swat river to entertain you while you’re on your honeymoon. Kalam is nothing less than Switzerland. If you visit in Summers, The greenery welcomes you and if you visit in Winters, you can witness probably the best and ever memorable snowfall of your life.

Recommended No. of days: 3-5
Best Places to Stay: Bahrain is a very beautiful spot to stay overnight and hotels have beautiful views from windows. Kalam bazar is the most recommended place to stay, offering some very comfortable hotels as well.
Must to do Activity: Shopping from Kalam Bazar and enjoying Trout Fish right from the river.


P.S: Do not dress too bold in Bazars, They won’t say anything but people just don’t like such dressing. Avoid Traveling in night from Swat to Kalam.

07. Kumrat Valley:

If you’re looking for big comforts, then this might not be for you. But a heaven for adventurers and trekkers. Kumrat Valley is a big thick forest with lots of signs that God has not just created this but crafted this valley. Jahaz Banda is a beautiful meadow to camp and go for trekking of Magical Katora Lake.

Recommended No. of days: 4-5
Best Places to Stay: Dir has some very good hotels to stay. In Kumrat, Kaala Chashma is a very peaceful place away from rest of the world to camp. You can camp in Jahaz Banda as well if you’re looking to trek for Katora lake or Jahaz Banda waterfall.
Must to do activity: Make breakfast for you and your wife and eat near the river bank.


P.S: Do not go if you are not comfortable in camps or Huts. Its just pure nature to observe.

06. Kashmir:

Kashmir is just like a part of heaven put on Earth. It is just beautiful to celebrate your honeymoon and make some amazing memories. Everything in Kashmir from Neelum Valley to Ratti Gali lake and Kel to Dolly of Arang Kel is breathtaking. A must go place for your honeymoon.

Recommended No. of days: 4-5
Best Places to Stay: Keran has some great hotels with great views of Neelum Valley to stay. Kel is recommended place to stay while you’re on your honeymoon.
Must to do activity: Ride Dolly from Kel to Arang Kel to have an amazing experience.

P.S: Best time to visit is from May to September.

05. Astore:

Astore is one of the most beautiful places to behold purity of Nature in Pakistan. Accompanied by the view of Gigantic Nanga Parbat and extremely beautiful Rama lake. If Astore Valley is a Pizza, Rama lake is cheese. Minimarg is a beautiful point to visit in Astore, and it is truly truly heaven. The sceneries Astore has to offer, are unbelievably scenic. Justtttt go here!!!
Deosai can be visited from Astore, it is the second highest plateau in world, home to Himalayan Brown bears and many other precious wildlife species. (Super cold, but can only be accessed from July to September) 

Recommended No. of days: 6-7
Best Places to Stay: Not a wide variety of choices, but Astore city has some very good hotels to stay. Or if you have some good friends from Army, you can stay in Minimarg which is truly the BEST, but it requires permission from Army.
Must to do activity: Go early morning to Rama Lake and witness sunrise there.


P.S: Best time to visit, when you can access Deosai and Minimarg is from July to September.

04. Fairy Meadows:

Fairy Meadows lies in the heart of Nanga Parbat, just a mile from base camp. The Land of Fairies, far from everywhere, connected via a small trekk to rest of the world. Just an amazing place to be here. But again, like Kumrat, it’s not for someone seeking lots of comfort, but if you’re seeking to absorb lots and lots of Nature, Fairy Meadows is a place for you. It is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Pakistan. You have to trekk for 3-5 hours (based on your fitness level) or you can have horse ride (mules actually) till Fairy Meadows. The best part of this is sight of Nanga Parbat. Literally no words to explain the majesty and Greatness of this Killer Mountain.

Recommended No. of days: 5-6
Places to Stay: There are beautiful cottages made of wood in Fairy Meadows, which offer so much tranquility and vibes of Romance.
Must to do Activity: Lying on ground for hours in night to stare at sky to witness crystal clear milkyway.


P.S: Sunset and Sunrise in Fairy Meadows is magical to witness, when everywhere is dark and the only lit thing is bright Golden peak of Nanga Parbat. There are no mobile phone signals and not any WiFi in Fairy Meadows.

03. Phander Valley, Ghizer:

Ghizer is one of the most beautiful district of Gilgit Baltistan and quite underrated for tourism. It has a lot to offer in terms of Natural beauty. Phander is a heavenly valley in Ghizer and is home to beautiful Khalti Lake. If you plan a visit to Ghizer, Shandur is a must visited place. The amazing thing about this is the route of it. Ghizer can be accessed from Gilgit city and as well as Chitral. So, it makes a very good route, to go from Chitral and return back from Gilgit. Khalti lake and resorts on bank of Khalti lake are pure magic.

Recommended No. of days: 6-8
Best Places to Stay: Must have stay in Shandur in your list if you’re planning your honeymoon here. The most recommended place to stay in Ghizer will be on Khalti lake, PTDC motel Ghizer is also a very good option to consider.
Must to do activity: If you get a chance, grab a fishing rod, gas cylinder, cooking pot and some spices, and catch fish from Indus river and cook yourself.


P.S: If you want to go from Chitral to Ghizer, then best time to go is from July to September as Shandur Pass remains close most of the time in a year.

02. Hunza:

This is by far the heaven of Tourists, and the people of Hunza are way too accommodative. They don’t judge you whatever dress you wear. Hunza has so many things to offer, from majestic Attabad lake to staggering Rakaposhi, from historic forts to luxury hotel and resorts, from Passu Cones to highest border in world. Whenever time of year, you chose to go to Hunza, it will always entertain you and you won’t get bored even if you visit it for the 100th time.
If a list of ‘most romantic places to visit’ is made, Hunza will undoubtedly and unquestionably top the list, its mostly because of its vibes. It can be accessed all year, and an option to go is take a flight to Gilgit and hire taxi from there. Naltar valley is also a must visit point if you’re planning to go to Hunza on your honeymoon. 

Recommended No. of days: 6-8
Best Places to Stay: Must stay atleast one night at at Attabad lake, you have options of 5 star hotel, camps and pods with extremely scenic view. You should also consider staying in Eagles Nest as sunset and sunrise are just amazing from there. However, the recommended place to stay is Karimabad bazar.
Must to do activity: Experience sunrise or sunset at Eagles Nest and boating in Attabad lake is a very romantic idea.


P.S: A must visit place with your partner atleast once in life.

01. Skardu and Baltistan:

We have mentioned so many extremely beautiful places above in the list to go for your Honeymoon and all of them are just magical. But why is Skardu topping the list of best Honeymoon destinations in Pakistan is that the diversity of nature it offers, can not be seen anywhere in Pakistan. Skardu is home to beautiful lakes, staggering mountains, historical forts, the only cold desert in world, river flowing along the road, waterfalls and the second highest plateau in world, Deosai. You literally can get every craftsmanship of Nature in Skardu. And it can be accessed by just a 1:30hr flight from Islamabad. Skardu is also home to staggering Mountains, and also a gateway city to go for K2.

Recommended No. of days: 7-9
Best Places to Stay: So many recommended places to stay, must give a try to stay atleast one night in each. Upper Kachura, Shangrila lake (there are other great and budgeted hotels too other than Shangrila resort), Skardu City and Khaplu.
Must to do activity: Boating in Upper Kachura lake and enjoying local delicacies made from apricot.


P.S: If you have an extra-ordinary adventure in both of you, give a shot to have camping in Deosai for just 1 night, it will freeze you but totally worth to have a lifetime memorable experience.

There are one million things which can not be just described in words or can be shown in photos unless you visit them all.

Contact us if you need any help or advise in any of above places, hotels, rates, jeeps, car rental, anything. We’d love to help and guide you!
(Discovering Pakistan operates in all of above destinations, follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get relevant tour updates with budget pricing)

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