While we must not forget that Pakistan is a high-risk destination, it remains a country with much to offer. From the high mountains of the North to the shores of the Arabian Sea, the landscapes are sumptuous. Colorful trucks, overloaded rickshaws and cricket games add to the charm of the country.

Pakistan, the Islamic Republic of Asia, is confined between Iran, Afghanistan, China, India and the Arabian Sea. The contrast of Pakistani territory is measured in the geographical differences of its provinces. In the north, the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges; in the centre, the rich alluvial plains of Punjab; the arid plateaus surrounded by dry mountains of Balochistan in the west; the inhospitable landscapes of the Thar desert in Sindh in the southwest. The capital of the country is Islamabad, located in the north of the country and important political, economic and cultural center. Its historic capital, Karachi, on the east coast of the Arabian Sea, is the country's largest and most cosmopolitan city. Lahore, capital of Punjab, is Pakistan's number one tourist destination. Its architecture reflects the Mughal but also British past of the country. The calm of its parks and shady gardens contrasts with the animation of its bazaars. The city is also home to a large number of tombs, mosques and mausoleums. Punjab province is one of the most stable regions in Pakistan. Bawahalpur is an ideal base to discover the Cholistan desert, populated by semi-nomadic tribes, or the Lal Suhanra National Park, an important nature reserve. The Gandhara region is rich in Buddhist heritage still visible in Pakistan. More than fifty archaeological sites are scattered around Taxila, a city more than 3,000 years old. Balochistan is the largest province in Pakistan. The Urak valley is a reflection of the region, not very fertile and desiccated. A valley where Hanna Lake, with its blue-green waters and pine planted banks, is an oasis. A postcard decor. The mountainous region of the Northwest Frontier Province is a confusing destination. North of Peshawar, the green Swat valley, with its torrents, icy lakes, orchards, and flowery slopes offers the most beautiful landscapes of the region. Renowned as a Buddhist pilgrimage site, this valley is rich in more than 400 Buddhist sites. The Northwest Frontier Province is also a region where the country's cultural diversity can be measured. Here the Pakistanis wear the traditional costumes, make the musical folklore last but also sporting with the practice of Polo or Bouzkachi, an equestrian game. Multicultural, multi-ethnic (mostly Punjabis but also Pashtuns, Baluchis, Kashmiris, Sindhis, Hazaras...), Pakistani society is mainly Muslim. 87% of the country's 140 million inhabitants are Muslims. The beginning of autumn (September-October), neither too hot nor too cold, is the best time to discover the whole country. To stay in the north, summer is more favourable while the cool period, from November to the end of March is recommended for the south and the Punjab plain. Generally speaking, it is better to avoid May to June, due to the monsoon and very high temperatures, as well as the month of Ramadan. Pakistan is first known for its conflicts with two of its border countries: Taliban Afghanistan in its northern tribal areas and India to the east, with which it shares Kashmir territory. A situation of insecurity associated with religious fundamentalism that hinders the discovery of a country yet of great beauty. If the journey must be approached with caution, Pakistan is a magical country. Its breathtaking landscapes are among the most beautiful in Asia, starting with those of the northern mountain range. Cradle of an ancient civilization, Pakistan is full of sublime architectural remains. It is also the crucible of Hinduism and Buddhism, two of the most important religions in the world.

More a tip than a bribe, bribes apply in Pakistan in all kinds of situations and can open many doors. At the hotel, this tip is left to the discretion of the guests. The taxi driver's fare is about 10% of the fare.

Art and culture in Pakistan
Pakistani sculpture is dominated by Greco-Buddhist friezes; craftsmanship by ceramics, goldsmithery, silks and wood and metal engraving. Hand-woven wool carpets, leather shoes and sandals, embroideries decorated with small mirrors, Bukhara silks and fabrics, cashmere shawls, old bracelets and jewellery, wool caftans... also find a place of choice in the bazaars of Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi. In terms of culture, traditional dances are energetic.