From coastlines to the tallest mountains in the world, divinity has blessed Pakistan with a topography that is second to none. A wide range of options are available and it is an all-season destination. Due to its geography and location, Pakistan has a continental type of climate. The mean temperature in summer in the plains is 38’C while in the desert and desolate regions it could climb up to 47’C. The north of Pakistan is mostly a mountainous region with a mean temperature in winter around 11’C to 17’C but in upper regions, it falls below -14’C.
The three tallest mounting ranges in the world converge in Pakistan. The Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Hindukush all grace this land. We also border the fabled area of Pamir with China and are located right next to the roof of the world. The mountain systems in the northeast and the west have caused the emergence of some of the most breathtaking and challenging mountains in the world.
The central part of Pakistan is plain experiencing drainage of water from the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent and the high mountain glaciers in the country. As mentioned earlier, there is a water system of five rivers in the central part of Punjab. This is the lifeline of farming and agriculture in Pakistan. The western part is more rugged with a scarcity of water with harsh climatic conditions. It is an arid zone. The eastern border with India has a large wasteland which is in fact extension of the Indian deserts into Pakistan. The southern part of Pakistan has a coastal line with the Arabian Sea, with major ports like Karachi and Gwadar established as strong economic zones.
Pakistan has four major provinces, Punjab, the densely populated largest province, Sindh is the next with mostly desert parts, Khyber Pakhtunkhawa in the west sharing a long borderline with Afghanistan. Finally, the less populated but mineral-rich Baluchistan, which has a border with Afghanistan and Iran.
The north of Pakistan borders with China and Afghanistan while in the northeastern part lies part of Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Central Pakistan – The Plains
Winter season (November to March) – The temperatures are milder and more comfortable. They range from 11’C to 19’C in the plains. Take a tour from Karachi and see the plains, known for their archeological sites.
Indus Valley Civilization – Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa are perhaps worldly marvels that no sightseer can afford to miss. The Sufi shrines are great cultural sites.
Thar and Cholistan – A wonderful place. The extension of the great Indian desert of Rajasthan into Pakistan. Full of cultural and colorful ethnic settlements.
The Indus Saga – Explore Pakistan as it runs the length of the country on the banks of the mighty river Indus. A huge number of Sufi shrines, full of ‘dervishes’ communion with people traveling from all over the country. Manchar lake is home to indigenous people with their distinct culture of spending their lifetimes on boats. The pottery of Hala and Multan and the Ajrak makers of Sindh are two real highlights of this tour.
Northern Pakistan – mountains and valleys
Pakistan is heaven for mountain lovers. The northern part of Pakistan has more mountains than any other country in the world.
In the northern region, almost every village has awe-inspiring sights of some huge mountain with a snow-capped top. There are streams running down to the main rivers.
Whether you are a serious mountaineer, or even a trekker or a hiker, or even a casual sightseer, Pakistan is the place to be. Islamabad, the capital is connected with the northern areas.
There are flights and road routes leading out of Islamabad. Gilgit and Skardu are the main cities in the north and both have established Airports.
This is the land of the greatest mountains in the world – K2, Broad Peak, Rakaposhi, Nanga Parbat, and lots more.