We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Wen Tang, a member of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Wen Tang is from Singapore, and submitted the following report about a solo trip to Pakistan. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 2 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: Urdu (the national language), English
Baltit Fort, Karimabad, Pakistan
What do you think of when someone talks about Pakistan?
Unfortunately, many people associate it with terrorists. This is something I can understand due to the way the media portrays the country, which is often in a bad light. But this is precisely why I decided to travel there: to challenge the stereotypes.
First, I visited historic Lahore, the capital city of the province of Punjab near the Pakistan-India border and witnessed the beautiful and patriotic flag lowering ceremony held every evening. There are several historic sights to see in Lahore and a walk in the bazaar seems like a step back in time!
Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan is the place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Lahore. It is also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is very well organised, clean, and pollution-free and you will meet warm and friendly people wherever you go! Oh yes, you will definitely be invited for chai (tea) and lunch or dinner by the locals in an attempt to understand more about your country and culture.
The highlight of my visit was definitely the time spent in Gilgit-Baltistan, the northern frontier of the country. I traveled on the Karakoram Highway which is the world's highest international land border connecting Pakistan and China.
As I visited during the autumn season, the colors in Hunza were spectacular and the cold desert in Skardu was breathtaking as well.
Here, the people are equally hospitable and friendly towards foreigners. Hitchhiking is pretty easy in this region and I usually got a ride within 10 minutes of waiting. I was also offered food and fresh fruit by local farmers and had a great time exploring this region.
Housing some of the most remote mountains ranges in the world, Northern Pakistan is also a trekking and climbing wonderland for intrepid travelers.
Overall, Pakistan is a relatively cheap destination in terms of accommodation and food. Transport is not really a big issue as you can get around on rickshaws, buses, or even hitchhike.
There is so much to do, learn, and experience in this country. I had a great time exploring the country and her cultures. Go with an open mind and I am sure you will rank Pakistan as one of your favorite travel destinations.
It is one of those places I will definitely re-visit in the near future!
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, Pakistan
Autumn in Hunza, Pakistan
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety – 2 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language – 2 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 1 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 3 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 2 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)
Last updated: 19th January, 2017
Source: Solo Travel Destination: Pakistan
No comments:
Post a Comment