Top 11 Must-Visit Destinations in Pakistan

While the majestic Himalaya and Karakoram ranges have historically attracted thrill-seeking travelers to northern Pakistan, these iconic peaks are just a fraction of the stunning locations to explore in the country.

In reality, captivating sites are scattered throughout Pakistan, from the bustling coastal city of Karachi to the ancient Mughal heritage of Lahore.

Our curated selection of the finest places to visit showcases diverse landscapes and architectural wonders, a rich history spanning millennia, and vibrant elements of contemporary Pakistani culture. This journey highlights why Pakistan stands out as one of Asia's most thrilling tourist spots. It’s time to plan your adventure!

1. Lahore

Top Spot for Cultural Experiences

If you can visit just one location in Pakistan, ensure it’s Lahore. Recognized as a Unesco City of Literature and featuring numerous Unesco World Heritage Sites, this historic Mughal city stands as one of the most significant in the country, while also boasting a vibrant contemporary cultural scene.

The Lahore Fort has been recently revitalized with assistance from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, while the Shalimar Gardens rank among the finest Persian-style gardens worldwide. The awe-inspiring Badshahi Mosque is not only one of Pakistan’s iconic structures but also one of the most stunning religious edifices globally. Additionally, the city's culinary offerings are exceptional.

Travel Tip: Secure accommodation in or around Lahore’s Walled City to conveniently explore many historical sites on foot.

2. Multan

Top Destination for Spirituality

Multan, often referred to as the City of Saints, remains a key hub for Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam. This ancient city has been inhabited for millennia—dating back to the time when Alexander the Great besieged it in the 4th century BCE, solidifying its status as one of the most historic locations in Pakistan.

Among the city's highlights are its stunning Sufi shrines, particularly the Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, adorned with intricate turquoise tiles, and the predominantly pink Mausoleum of Shamsuddin Sabzwari, topped with a vibrant yellow dome.

Travel Tip: Multan becomes particularly lively during the Urs festivals, which celebrate the death anniversaries of local saints. As the festival dates are based on the lunar calendar, they vary each year—be sure to verify the dates for the upcoming year when planning your visit.

3. Karakoram Highway

Top Destination for Scenic Beauty

Stretching 1,300 kilometers (808 miles), the Karakoram Highway ranks among the finest road trips globally. Travelers enjoy breathtaking views of towering peaks like Nanga Parbat (8126m/26,660ft) and Rakaposhi (7788m/25,551ft) as the highway winds through Gilgit and Hunza, heading north toward the China border.

Journeying the segment from Gilgit to the Chinese border is one of Asia’s most exhilarating adventures—you can catch a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit and then hire a 4WD vehicle with a local driver for your exploration.

Planning Tip: The northern section of the Karakoram Highway remains closed from January to April due to severe ice and snow, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

4. Rohtas Fort

Premier Destination for Military History

The area now known as Pakistan has a long history of territorial disputes, evident in the numerous fortifications scattered throughout the country. The most prominent of these is Rohtas Fort, located near Dina.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is regarded as the finest surviving example of Mughal military architecture in Asia, featuring 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) of sandstone walls and 14 seemingly impregnable gates, safeguarding an extensive and well-preserved complex of mosques, step wells, palaces, and residential buildings.

Planning Tip: Rohtas Fort is located north of Lahore, just off the Grand Trunk Road (NH5) – it's a great stop while traveling between Lahore and Islamabad/Rawalpindi.

5. Fairy Meadows

Top Destination for Hiking

Fairy Meadows National Park is undeniably one of Pakistan's most stunning locations. Towering Nanga Parbat (8126 m/26,660 ft), the ninth-highest peak in the world, overlooks lush grasslands and alpine forests that are home to brown bears and deer. During spring and summer, wildflowers adorn the meadows, and the tranquil scenery is mirrored in the still waters of small lakes.

Planning Tip: While there are several tourist cottages and guesthouses at Fairy Meadows, camping offers a more immersive nature experience. You can access the area from Raikot Bridge, located on the Karakoram Highway south of Gilgit.

6. Moenjodaro

Top Destination for Ancient History

Moenjodaro, which translates to 'The Mound of the Dead,' was established in Sindh over 4500 years ago, making it one of the oldest cities in the world. It served as the hub of the technologically and culturally sophisticated Indus Valley Civilization, which extended beyond Pakistan into Afghanistan and India. This site was the first in South Asia to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The expansive ruins feature excavated streets, granaries, guard towers, and even an impressive public bath.

7. Shandur Pass

Top Spot for Spectator Sports

Situated at 3720m (12,204ft) above sea level in Gilgit-Baltistan, the Shandur Pass is one of Pakistan's most stunning mountain regions. Nestled near the picturesque Shandur Lake, this high-altitude pass is home to Pakistan's premier polo field, where an annual tournament takes place between teams from Gilgit and Chitral. The matches are conducted on horseback under freestyle rules, drawing in thousands of enthusiastic spectators to the Polo Festival.

Travel Tip: The Shandur Polo Festival is held every year from July 7-9, so make your arrangements early due to high demand for accommodation and transport.

8. Karachi

Top Destination for Nightlife

While Western-style nightclubs are scarce in Pakistan due to the country's alcohol-free status (unless with a government permit), Karachi offers a lively nightlife scene after dark. Venues such as Base Rock Cafe and The Second Floor (T2F) draw passionate crowds of live music enthusiasts. Each evening, food lovers swarm Burns Road and Rashid Minhas Road, enjoying their bustling restaurants and street food stalls. Coupled with the city's vast beaches, this vibrant atmosphere is a delightful surprise for many travelers in Pakistan.

9. Katas Raj Temples

Top Spot for Myths and Legends

Though modern Pakistan is predominantly Muslim, before the advent of Islam, various faiths such as Hinduism and Buddhism flourished. The central pool of the Katas Raj Temples in Punjab is believed to have formed from the tears of the Hindu deity Shiva, and according to the Sanskrit epic Mahabharata, the Pandava brothers were exiled to this site.

Historical accounts also reference a Buddhist stupa, and remnants of it can still be seen alongside the ruins of several temples, a small fort, and havelis. While the structures are in disrepair and conservation efforts have been minimal, Katas Raj remains a fascinating area to discover.

10. Hiran Minar

Ideal Spot for a Day Trip

While we all cherish our pets, Mughal Emperor Jahangir took his devotion to the next level by constructing Hiran Minar for his beloved antelope, Mansraj, whom he referred to as 'Lord of all animal beings.' This early 16th-century tomb, minaret, and pavilion overlook a vast reservoir at the heart of what used to be a royal hunting ground, now transformed into a wildlife reserve. Animals and birds continue to emerge from the surrounding scrub forest to drink, making it one of the top destinations in Pakistan for wildlife watching, fishing, and enjoying the serene environment.

Planning tip: Hiran Minar is just an hour's drive from Lahore and can be easily paired with a visit to the nearby Sheikhupura Fort.

11. Attari

Best for Spectacle and Ceremony

The Attari-Wagah border post is the sole land crossing between Pakistan and India. Its daily closing ceremony stands out as a grand display of military theatrics, with soldiers from both nations striving to outdo each other in high kicks, loud shouts, synchronized parades, and impressive facial hair. Grab a seat in the stands and join the enthusiastic, flag-waving crowd for an entertaining afternoon.