Pakistan’s top 15 must visit tourist places: From ancient civilisations to mountain wonders

Dubai: Pakistan has a lot to offer to both domestic and international tourists.

From mighty peaks in Gilgit-Baltistan to ancient ruins in Sindh and golden deserts of Punjab and Balochistan, Pakistan offers an unmatched diversity of experiences.

With growing recognition from international travel guides and improved infrastructure, the country is well on its way to becoming one of the world’s top emerging destinations.

In recent years, the country has been steadily gaining international attention for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage. Here are 15 must-visit places across Pakistan that define its rich beauty and culture.

A paradise for nature lovers, Hunza is famed for its snowcapped peaks like Rakaposhi, emerald rivers, and vibrant culture. Karimabad’s Baltit and Altit forts showcase centuries-old history, while Attabad Lake offers boating in surreal blue waters. Each autumn, the valley turns golden with apricot and apple orchards, making it one of Pakistan’s most photographed destinations.

Gateway to K2 and other iconic peaks, Skardu is home to breathtaking lakes and valleys. The Deosai Plains, one of the highest plateaus in the world, bloom with wildflowers each summer and are home to the endangered Himalayan brown bear, earning it the title “Land of Giants.”

With views of Nanga Parbat—the “Killer Mountain”—Fairy Meadows is listed among the world’s most beautiful camping sites. Accessible only by jeep track and hike, it offers a raw, adventurous escape surrounded by alpine meadows, pine forests, and starry skies.

Known as the “Switzerland of the East,” Swat combines natural beauty with cultural depth. The Malam Jabba ski resort draws winter sports enthusiasts, while ancient Buddhist ruins remind visitors of its Gandhara heritage. Waterfalls, rivers, and lush summer meadows complete the valley’s charm.

Pakistan’s most beloved hill station, Murree, offers misty pine forests, bustling bazaars, and panoramic viewpoints just a short drive from Islamabad. Beyond Murree, Nathia Gali and Ayubia provide quieter retreats with hiking trails, wildlife, and fresh mountain air.

The cultural heart of Pakistan, Lahore is home to Mughal wonders such as the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and Shalimar Gardens. Its Walled City, vibrant food culture, and heritage museums make it a living museum of South Asia’s history and hospitality.

Pakistan’s capital is a modern, green city nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills. Tourist highlights include Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, Pakistan Monument, and hiking trails that attract both families and adventurers. The city blends urban convenience with natural tranquility.

One of the world’s oldest urban centers, Mohenjo-Daro is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the genius of the Indus Valley Civilization. Its advanced drainage systems and city planning astonish visitors, offering a rare glimpse into life 4,500 years ago.

Pakistan’s commercial hub and cultural melting pot, Karachi offers something for everyone—sunset at Clifton Beach, history at Quaid’s Mausoleum, or shopping at Saddar’s bustling markets. Known as the “City of Lights,” its food culture and nightlife give it unmatched energy.

With pristine beaches and surreal rock formations, Gwadar is Pakistan’s hidden coastal gem. The Makran Coastal Highway journey is as stunning as the destination, offering views of Hingol National Park, Kund Malir Beach, and the famous Princess of Hope rock sculpture.

Rising dramatically from the Cholistan sands, Derawar Fort is a monumental 9th-century structure. The desert hosts the annual Cholistan Jeep Rally, along with camel safaris and desert camping. Night skies here reveal some of the clearest views of the Milky Way.

Known as the “City of Saints,” Multan boasts a rich spiritual and architectural heritage. Its Sufi shrines, including Shah Rukn-e-Alam’s tomb, display stunning Islamic architecture. The city is also famous for its handicrafts, blue pottery, and delicious mangoes.

Bahawalpur was once the seat of a princely state, and its palaces still reflect royal grandeur. Noor Mahal, an Italian-style palace, is a standout attraction. Nearby Lal Suhanra National Park offers desert, forest, and wetland ecosystems, making it a unique destination.

Pakistan’s largest national park, Hingol combines desert, mountains, and the Arabian Sea. It is home to rare wildlife, the sacred Hinglaj Mata temple, and natural marvels like the Princess of Hope rock formation. The park is a perfect stop for eco-tourists.

Often called the “Great Wall of Sindh,” Ranikot is one of the largest forts in the world, stretching over 30 kilometers. Its massive walls snake over hills, creating a dramatic sight. Despite being centuries old, it remains one of Pakistan’s least-explored wonders.