Adventure travel in Pakistan

You may not realise it, but Pakistan is one of the top adventure travel destinations in the world. It has become such a sought-after travel destination that in 2018, the British Backpacker Society named it the top adventure travel spot.

What makes adventure travel in Pakistan so exciting? The country’s mountains are often cited as one of the top reasons to visit, but it isn’t just the country’s rugged peaks. Pakistan was a top tourism destination in the 1960s and 1970s, but Western media has made the country out to be feared rather than enjoyed since the Ronald Reagan 1980s. During its high point as a travel hotspot in the 1960s and 1970s, Pakistan was a part of the “hippy trail” that led individuals from Europe to eastern Asia.

Recent years have seen an increase in foreign tourists, from backpackers looking for something different to Buddhists seeking out Pakistan’s religious sites. Due to the increase in interest in the country from a tourism point of view, Pakistan’s government has begun to renovate some of its tourist attractions.

Compared to other nations, Pakistan has reopened and is accepting international travellers. With borders open once more, travellers can book their ideal adventure travel packages.

Pakistan has been labelled as an “adventure travel best-kept secret”. But you shouldn’t take other travellers’ words for it. Have a look for yourself and decide just how great an adventure travel destination Pakistan truly is.

Mountain Treks

Pakistan’s mountains are one of the leading lures for foreign travellers for adventure holidays. The most famous mountain within Pakistan’s borders is K2, the most difficult mountain to climb in the world. K2 was called the “mountain of mountains” by Reinhold Messner in 1979 due to the complexity and technical climb it takes to ascend.

While many people will claim Everest to be the hardest to ascend, expert climbers know just how deadly K2 can be. Trekking holidays are held throughout warmer months, enabling adventure travellers to Trek to K2 base camp, to K2 and Gondogoro and become one of the few to experience the size and intimidation of the mountain. A trek to the K2 basecamp is the most famous hiking route in the world today. By completing the trek to the K2 base camp, you can put your name on a shortlist of individuals who can claim to have completed it.

The Karakoram Mountains and Baltoro regions of Pakistan offer a variety of trekking adventures, and all are just as breathtaking as the others. You have plenty of choices when selecting a trekking holiday, and can pick one that fits into your holiday.

K2 isn’t the only mountain trek that attracts travellers, as Nanga Parbat, Snow Lake, Gondogoro La, and the Hindu Kush also attract thrill-seekers. Travellers wanting to simply enjoy the glorious mountain views rather than the heart-pumping treks can also enjoy hotel rooftop vistas that provide out-of-this-world sights.

Pakistan has more mountain peaks rising higher than 22,965ft than China and Nepal combined. Anyone seeking to trek, hike, and/or climb should skip over China and Nepal to explore the rugged outdoors in Pakistan. From the Shandur Pass, which sits at 12,250ft and has the world’s highest polo field in terms of altitude, there is so much to explore in the country’s peaks that climbers and trekkers won’t want to go home.

Cycling Trails

Mountain treks and climbs are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to adventure travel in Pakistan. The Pakistan Mountain Bike trail is one of the most popular experiences for thrill-seekers. An adventure cycling holiday takes place on the high roads of Gilgit-Baltistan, located in northern Pakistan. The cycling holiday stretches from Hushe to Hunza, allowing you to see a different world than you are used to.

A mountain biking holiday in the northern areas of Pakistan begins with a flight from Islamabad to Skardu. The town of Skardu sits on the edge of the Karakoram Mountains, providing an exquisite backdrop to the adventure. The region is known as Little Tibet and offers travellers a taste of both Pakistan and Tibetan life. During a cycling holiday, you will be able to look over the massive peaks of Masherbrum as you ride around the region.

Not only will you cycle and enjoy the outdoors of Pakistan, but you will also experience unique campsites around the Deosai Plateau. One of the highlights of the cycling trip is riding across the Shigar River on a bridge that will take your breath away in still plenty of fear as you ride across it.

Explore Rush Lake

Pakistan is a heaven for adventure holidaymakers. Rush Lake is an alpine lake located in Nagar Valley. It is one of the world’s highest alpine lakes at 4,694 metres. A trek at Rush Lake offers a taste of Himalayan adventure. The trek around and to the lake will take you to overdramatic glaciers and through lush meadows. The views around Rush Lake are awe-inspiring and truly unique.

First-time trekkers can enjoy the adventure as most of the hike is along trails surrounded by greenery. Camping along the route gives you the chance to spend nights below the stars as few other travellers do.

Many travellers have praised Pakistan for its “infectious” atmosphere, which can be found in the country’s largest cities down to its smallest villages. These villages are regular sights along treks as local people get to see individuals exploring their homelands.

What else can you experience?

Trekking, climbing, and cycling are not the only exciting adventures on tap in Pakistan. Adventurers can visit the markets of Karachi, which are always bustling with noise and excitement. Punjab is another top travel site with many foodies seeking out the region for its one-of-a-kind tastes. Peshawar is another part of Pakistan that adventure travellers descend on thanks to its history and vibrant culture.

Pakistan is on the cusp of being the No. 1 travel destination for people looking for adventure, excitement, and something out of the box. Famed luxury travel website Conde Nast claimed its editors are excited about the country’s travel future.

Pakistan has immense potential as an adventure travel destination. It is only going to increase in popularity, so don’t miss your chance to visit the country before anyone else.

Inspired by the adventure holidays Pakistan has to offer? Want to know more about adventure travel possibilities in Pakistan? Just give our expert advisors a call or send an email to info@trangoadventure.com.

Our advisors are happy to help you choose the right adventure holiday. They live in Pakistan, and they know the area inside out. Ask them for assistance, advice, or recommendations, and they are more than happy to help create an amazing adventure holiday in Pakistan.