Pakistan is a unique place for holiday makers. Since it took its place on the global map on August 14th 1947, it has been attracting tourists from all over the world. Southern Pakistan is famous for its prehistoric Indus valley civilization (Moenjodaro and Harapa), Mogul monuments, and unspoiled desert culture. Northern Pakistan is noted for adventure, nature and views of undisturbed social life.

Pakistan is truly a paradise on earth for those who love to be in the lap of nature. The Karakorum, Himalayan and Hindu Kush mountain ranges with dozens of snowcapped lofty peaks challenge those who have the spirit of high adventure.

Pakistan's 803,943 sq. km. extend from the warm sunny beaches of the Arabian Sea to the distant gateway to China, Khunjerab. Its cultural heritage dates back to the 3rd century BC and farther. The Indus and Gandhara civilizations (600 BC) display unprecedented treasures of art, culture and religious beliefs. The famous Mogul period from the 16th to 18th centuries AD has also left behind a matchless asset of architecture in the region.

Gandhara art also traces the history of Buddhism as it flourished from here to Southeast Asia and China, carried across towering mountain passes by caravans, travellers, pilgrims and traders. Marco Polo's journey to China was taken overland via this part of the Roof of the World.

ACCESSIBILITY: More than thirty international airlines touch down at Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore, which are the important international airports of Pakistan.

Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (PIA) operates a comprehensive network of international services linking Karachi with New York, London, Manchester, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, Zurich, Rome, Jeddah, Kuwait, Dhahran, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Muscat, Nairobi, Zahidan, Dacca, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila, Beijing, Tokyo, Bombay, Delhi, Athens, Toronto, Istanbul, Jakarta, Yangon, Mali, Colombo, Katmandu, Ashkabad, Tehran, Tashkent, Almaty, and several other cities.

All major cities and important tourist resorts within Pakistan are also linked by air through regular PIA service.

PIA and British Airways operate three flights weekly to Islamabad directly from London and Manchester.

CLIMATE: The summer season in most of Pakistan begins in mid-April, while in the Northern Areas summer starts from mid-May. At summer's peak, the temperature on the southern plains may go as high as 45°C, and in the Northern Areas it may reach 38°C.