The Most Beautiful cities to Visit in Pakistan: A Complete Travel Guide

As time goes by, this beautiful country increasingly becomes a historical, geographical, and cultural masterpiece, untouched by the mass tourist crowds and preserved in its most authentic form. Pakistan has it all, whether lively cities, astounding valleys, historical forts, or stunning snowy peaks. With its splendid variation, this country caters to all types of travelers, be it a tourist looking for an adventure, a modern city lover, or a historical enthusiast.

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In this post, we will discuss, by categories, the most beautiful parts of Pakistan to visit: the cultural and historical, the natural and adventure-based, the modern urban cities, and the religious or architectural monuments.

As part of the research for this travel guide, we have also provided answers to questions Pakistani travelers are most concerned about:

What is the oldest city in Pakistan?

Which Pakistani city is the cleanest?

Which city is the heart of Pakistan?

What are the cities’ nicknames in Pakistan?

1. Cultural and Historical Destinations in Pakistan

If you love history, Pakistan is the country for you. With Mughal forts and ancient cities that are thousands of years old, here is a list of my favorite historical and cultural sites.

Lahore – The Heart of Pakistan

Lahore, one of the largest and most beautiful cities of Pakistan, is often referred to as the “Paris of the East”. It is also the “Heart of Pakistan”.

Lahore Fort & Shalimar Gardens: UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing Mughal grandeur.

Badshahi Mosque: One of the world’s largest mosques, and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.

Food Streets: Lahore is the country’s food capital. From spicy curries to mouth-watering kebabs, it never disappoints.

Nickname: The Heart of Pakistan

Multan – The City of Saints

As one of the oldest cities in Pakistan, Multan carries the name City of Saints due to its many Sufi shrines.

Multan Fort: A symbol of the city’s history.

Shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya: A spiritual hub for centuries.

Blue pottery: Famous handicraft unique to this city.

Nickname: The City of Saints

Peshawar – Gateway to the East

Peshawar is a living museum. It is one of the historical cities in Pakistan, and the oldest as well, with roots going back over 2,000 years.

Qissa Khwani Bazaar. The “Street of Storytellers,” lined with vendors, recounts the history of the market and the tales of the people who walked through it. The hospitable residents of the bazaar would offer tea to passersby, which would create an atmosphere filled with conversations and stories.
The enchanting aroma of food long gone would drift through the air and join the tales in the bazaar. Each story and every spiced delicacy would lift the spirit of the crowd. The bazaar would evoke joy and happiness in the heart of every passerby. Each story would inspire another, becoming an endless loop of inspirations, each untold story waiting to be discovered in the bazaar.

Bala Hisar Fort. A massive construction. A visually unknown piece of the region’s border, the fort tells the story of the establishment of the border and the warning signs to would-be aggressors. The region, rich in history, has several hidden tales and is waiting to unfold with the appropriate research and work.

The stunning houses are impressive examples of Peshawar’s historic architecture. The structures were built in a style typical of older Peshawar, and dressing and appropriate decoration offer a little glimpse of the past. Peshawar has several hidden tales waiting to be discovered.

Nickname: Gateway to Central Asia

2. Natural & Adventure Cities in Pakistan

This is the country to visit if you enjoy unspoiled beauty, tall mountains, and large bodies of water. Pakistan has one of the world’s most majestic and awe-inspiring wildernesses filled with extreme adventure.

Hunza Valley

Many people label the area “Heaven on Earth,” and the region can be emphasized for its beauty of the area. The immense, beautiful peaks and hospitable people surrounding the area,l ike Ultar Sar and Ladyfinger Peak, are truly remarkable.

Baltit & Altit Forts: Emblematic of the area, providing a vantage point of the surrounding territory.

Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint: A Popular place to watch the sunset.

Skardu

Another of the picturesque, adventurous places in Pakistan, and the place to enter some of the most gigantic mountains in the world, K2, is in the vicinity.

Shangrila Lake: Referred to as “Heaven on Earth.”

Deosai National Park: Known as the “Land of Giants.”

Sheosar Lake: One of the world’s highest lakes.

Swat Valley

With its green valleys, rivers, and snow-covered peaks, Swat is often referred to as the “Switzerland of the East.”

Malam Jabba: The most well-known ski resort in Pakistan.

Kalam Valley: A popular destination for those who love to trek.

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Naltar Valley

Naltar is one of the most enchanting valleys in Northern Pakistan, having skiing slopes and beautiful, vibrant lakes.

Kaghan and Naran Valleys

Ideal for families and adventurers, this region has wonderful lakes, including Saif-ul-Mulook, which is virtually a picture from a fairy tale, and Lulusar, which has crystal clear water.

Neelam Valley, Azad Kashmir

This is one of the most beautiful and peaceful valleys of Pakistan, dotted with green trees, rivers, and waterfalls.

Attabad Lake

This lovely turquoise lake formed after a landside in 2010, and is now popular for camping and boating.

Shimshal Valley

Also known as the “Valley of Mountaineers,” Shimshal is famous for its high-altitude pastures and extreme trekking.

3. Modern & Urban Cities in Pakistan

Aside from the incomparable natural beauty, urban cities in the country are equipped with modern infrastructure, shopping centers, and a variety of cultural and recreational activities.

Islamabad – The Cleanest City in Pakistan

As the capital city of the country, it is greatly appreciated for its greenery, organization, and beautiful planned structure.

Faisal Mosque: The largest mosque in Pakistan, a modern architectural wonder.

Pakistan Monument: Symbolizing unity.

Margalla Hills: Perfect for hiking and scenic views.

Nickname: The Green City

Karachi – The Largest City to Visit in Pakistan

Pakistan’s largest city, its financial hub, and the most cosmopolitan destination in the country.

Clifton Beach: A popular picnic spot.

Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum: The resting place of Pakistan’s founder.

Port Grand: Offering seaside dining and entertainment.

Nickname: City of Lights

4. Religious & Architectural Landmarks

The country also showcases some of the most beautiful mosques and holy places.

Badshahi Mosque (Lahore)
One of the biggest mosques in the world. Constructed by Emperor Aurangzeb and completed in 1673.
Faisal Mosque (Islamabad)
An icon of contemporary mosque and one of the biggest mosques in the world.
Shah Jahan Mosque (Thatta)
Constructed in 1647, this mosque is known for its beautiful tile work and 93 domes, which is the largest number of any mosque in the world.
Kalasha Valleys (Chitral)
Home to the unique indigenous Kalash people, these valleys are rich in unique culture, traditions, and colorful festivals.
Hingol National Park (Balochistan)
Famous for its “Princess of Hope” rock formation and the annual Hinglaj Mata Hindu pilgrimage.

Multan – City of Saints

Peshawar – Gateway to Central Asia

Islamabad – Green City

Swat – Switzerland of the East