Pakistan is a country in South Asia bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan and Iran to the west, and China to the north. The capital of Pakistan is Islamabad, while its largest city is Karachi.
Pakistan is known for its many stunning natural destinations. One of its main attractions is the spectacular Himalayan mountains, including the world's highest peaks. Apart from mountains, Pakistan also boasts beautiful valleys such as Swat Valley and Hunza Valley. Read on for the top 10 natural attractions in Pakistan, complete with their locations.
1. K2 Mountain
K2 Mountain is one of the most iconic natural attractions in Pakistan. It is the second-highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest, reaching a height of 8,611 meters (28,251 feet). Located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region in northern Pakistan, K2 Mountain attracts mountaineers from around the world to conquer its challenging peak.
2. Himalayan Mountains
The Himalayan Mountains stretch along the northern border of the country and cover much of the Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. These mountains are part of a larger mountain system that extends from India to Nepal.
Some of the world's highest peaks, including K2, the second-highest peak in the world, are located in this region. In addition to K2, there are other challenging and famous peaks in the Pakistani Himalayas, such as Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum, and Broad Peak.
3. Swat Valley
Swat Valley, also known as the "Switzerland of the East," is one of the most beautiful natural destinations in Pakistan. Located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in the northern part of the country, this valley is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Swat Valley is surrounded by the majestic Hindu Kush Mountains, providing a breathtaking landscape with lush green valleys, clear rivers, and stunning waterfalls.
4. Hunza Valley
Hunza Valley, located in Gilgit-Baltistan, is often referred to as "Shangri-La" or the "Eternal Valley." Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, this valley offers stunning mountain views, lush green valleys, and clear rivers. Additionally, the spring season in Hunza is famous for the beauty of blooming flowers spread throughout the valley.
5. Saiful Muluk Lake
Saiful Muluk Lake is one of the most famous natural attractions in Pakistan located in the Mansehra district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. It is situated at an altitude of about 3,224 meters (10,578 feet) above sea level.
According to local legend, the lake is named after a prince of love story, Saiful Muluk, who is believed to have met a fairy on the lake shore. The love story between Saiful Muluk and the fairy has become part of Pakistan's cultural heritage, adding to the allure of the lake for visitors.
6. Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake, also known as Gojal Lake, is a man-made lake located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The lake was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide in the area.
The landslide occurred when a block of ice fell from the mountain slope, blocking the valley and forming a new lake underneath. As a result, a new lake was formed, with a length of about 21 kilometers (13 miles) and a maximum depth of about 358 meters (1,175 feet).
7. Khunjerab National Park
Located in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khunjerab National Park is the highest protected area in the world. Its location reaches about 4,880 meters above sea level.
This area is home to various rare flora and fauna species, including deer, eagles, snow owls, and more. Additionally, the park is also a stopover for some large mammal species such as polar bears and brown bears.
8. Deosai National Park
Deosai National Park is famous for its vast grasslands, beautiful lakes, and abundant biodiversity. Deosai is known as "The Land of Giants" as it is home to various wild species, including the Himalayan brown bear, ibex, wolves, and Himalayan marmots.
9. Satpara Lake
Satpara Lake is a stunning lake located near the city of Skardu in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Pakistan. Satpara Lake was formed by a dam built to store water from rivers and melting snow around the Karakoram Mountains. The clear and calm waters of this lake create a breathtaking landscape, especially with the backdrop of snow-capped mountain peaks.
10. Gwadar Beach
Gwadar Beach is located in the port city of Gwadar in Balochistan province. Famous for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear blue waters, this beach offers stunning views for visitors. Additionally, the beach is also known as an ideal location to enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
With its stunning natural landscapes, green valleys, and unique biodiversity, Pakistan is an incredible destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Whether exploring the majestic Himalayas or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Gwadar, Pakistan's natural beauty continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
