Travel
The 6 finest highway journeys in Pakistan
With its unimaginable vary of spectacular surroundings, Pakistan affords some really epic highway journeys. With a rented automotive and driver – or your individual wheels – you possibly can drive the world’s most dramatic mountain freeway, observe historic invasion and commerce routes, drift between Sufi shrines and desert forts, or observe the mighty Indus River from the excessive mountains to the Arabian Sea.
En route, you possibly can cease at roadside dhabas (truckstop eating places) for tea and kebabs, chat with the drivers of Pakistan’s psychedelic freight vans, and pause in a single day in distant mountain valleys past the attain of scheduled transportation. The scope for journey is nearly limitless.
Nonetheless, the times of driving an previous van via Iran and Afghanistan to Pakistan are lengthy gone. Not many international vacationers drive their very own automobiles via Pakistan nowadays, however there are different choices. Hardcore cyclists can pedal the Karakoram Freeway via a few of Asia’s finest roadside surroundings, and motorbike rent can also be an choice for skilled riders.
This stated, given the unpredictable visitors and changeable safety scenario in some elements of the nation, hiring a automotive and driver remains to be the commonest, and most secure, strategy to get round underneath your individual steam. To get you impressed, listed below are our favourite highway journey routes via Pakistan.
1. The Karakoram Freeway
Greatest highway journey for world-class mountain surroundings
Gilgit–Sost; 180km (112 miles); enable 4 days
Pakistan’s most spectacular highway journey is doubtless the gorgeous Karakoram Highway – typically abbreviated to KKH. This rugged route via the far north of the nation may simply be essentially the most scenic highway in Asia, if not the world – it truly is that good! The complete route runs from simply north of Islamabad to Kashgar in China’s politically troubled Xinjiang area, through the 4690m-high Khunjerab Cross, however most vacationers concentrate on the scenic, politically steady and logistically easy part between Gilgit and the Chinese language border.
From Gilgit, the route follows the Hunza River round hulking Rakaposhi peak (7788m), revealing superb views of the higher slopes at Nagar and Minapin. From right here, it’s a brief drive into the fabled Hunza Valley, Pakistan’s reply to Shangri-La. Break the journey right here at Karimabad, with its unimaginable valley views and medieval fort, and finances a while for mountain climbing or the detour up a facet valley for views of the epic Hopar Glacier.
Heading north from Hunza, you’ll quickly hit the surreal, turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, which shaped in 2010 after a large landslide blocked the valley. The freeway threads its manner via a sequence of lakeshore tunnels earlier than reaching extra dramatic surroundings round Gulmit and Passu. On this part of highway, the spectacular witch-hat peaks of the Karakoram Vary dominate the skyline, and the large Passu and Batura glaciers move inside a stone’s throw of the highway.
The area’s rickety suspension bridges present the backdrop for some irresistible selfies, and adventurers can discover the wild facet valleys of Shimshal and Chapursan. Most individuals finish their journey on the Pakistani border publish in Sost, however it’s doable to drive all the best way as much as the Khunjerab Cross, with some help from a neighborhood journey company. It’s an unimaginable journey to what may very well be described because the crow’s nest of Asia, and a becoming ending to a merely unimaginable highway journey.
Planning tip: Most vacationers begin the KKH journey with a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit, to keep away from the 19-hour bus journey via the culturally conservative and generally politically unstable Kohistan area. To discover the remainder of the freeway, rent a 4WD automobile and driver on arrival in Gilgit.
2. A Brief Drive within the Hindu Kush
Greatest drive for visiting distant valleys
Gilgit–Chitral; 400km (250 miles); enable 3–4 days
This excellent 4WD journey takes you thru the attractive and distant mountain valleys of the Hindu Raj and Hindu Kush mountain ranges to achieve the gorgeous area of Chitral, bordering Afghanistan. Fly from Islamabad and rent a automobile and driver in Gilgit for this wild journey.
Day one takes you up the Gilgit River previous the attractive facet valleys (and former impartial kingdoms) of Punial, Yasin and Ishkoman. In a single day in Gupis or Phander, each famed for trout fishing, earlier than heading up the attractive Langar Valley to crest the Shandur Cross at 3810m. Make the journey in July and you’ll attend the wild, three-day polo pageant that pulls lots of of equestrian followers to this lovely, extensive mountain move.
An extended descent takes you round towering Buni Zom peak and thru the Mastuj valley into the Chitral area, previous views of huge Tirich Mir (7708m), the best peak within the Hindu Kush. Take a break in Chitral and go to its well-known fort, earlier than making a closing drive out to the three Kalash Valleys of Rumbur, Bumboret and Birir, residence to the culturally distinctive, non-Muslim Kalasha individuals.
Detour: Simply west of Gilgit, it’s price making the 5km journey out to the massive, Seventh-century standing Buddha carved on a cliff face at Kargah Nala – a relic of pre-Islamic civilizations in Pakistan.
3. Alongside the Grand Trunk Highway
Greatest highway journey for historical past lovers
Lahore–Peshawar; 520km (323 miles); enable 3 days
For a style of central Pakistan’s most attention-grabbing sights, take a highway journey alongside one of many Subcontinent’s most historic roads – the Grand Trunk Highway, based within the third century BCE. This well-known route spans the width of the nation, from the Indian border to Afghanistan. The trendy freeway thunders with heavy visitors, so it’s not a foul concept to rent a automotive and driver for this journey.
Begin with a few days within the Mughal metropolis of Lahore, visiting its historic fort, the gorgeous Seventeenth-century Badshahi Mosque, and the Lahore Museum, the place Rudyard Kipling’s father was as soon as curator. Go to the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Jehangir as you drive out of city for bonus Mughal magic.
The primary stage of this journey alongside the Grand Trunk Highway crosses the Ravi, Chenab and Jhelum rivers, three of Punjab’s eponymous Panj Ab (5 Rivers). It’s price pausing on the banks of the Jhelum to discover the colossal Rohtas Fort, after which, additional west, the 2000-year-old stays of the mighty Buddhist stupa at Mankiala.
In a single day in energetic Rawalpindi or its extra orderly twin-city, Islamabad, the Pakistani capital, residence to the most important mosque within the nation. End the day with a wonderful sundown dinner at Monal within the Margalla Hills overlooking the capital.
An hour’s drive northwest from Rawalpindi is Taxila, the middle of the Kushan-era kingdom of Gandhara, the place the Indian Emperor Ashoka constructed a Buddhist college and the place a few of the most acquainted motifs in Buddhist iconography have been created. There are many monastery and stupa ruins to lift the heart beat of newbie archaeologists, each right here and additional west alongside the Grand Trunk on the Gandharan web site of Takht-i-Bahi close to Mardan.
Passing extra Mughal ruins within the metropolis of Hasan Abdal, the Grand Trunk Highway lastly crosses the mighty Indus River at historic Attock Fort to enter Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, the place you finish the journey on the atmospheric frontier metropolis of Peshawar, well-known for its Central Asian-style bazaars, teahouses and mosques. Test the safety scenario earlier than driving to Peshawar, as there have been points right here up to now.
Detour: Kick off your journey from Lahore with a 25km detour east to the Pakistan/India border at Attari-Wagah to observe burly Pakistani troopers attempt to out-stomp, out-scowl and out-salute their Indian counterparts on the fascinating closing-of-the-border ceremony.
4. Alongside the Indus via Sind & Punjab
Greatest highway journey for cultural immersion
Karachi–Lahore; 1500km (930 miles); enable 8 days
Few foreigners take the time to discover rural Sind or the southern portion of Punjab, however there are some exceptional off-the-beaten monitor Sufi shrines right here, in addition to fabulous archaeological websites and spectacular Islamic structure. Safety stays a difficulty in locations, so that is one journey the place you’ll profit from an skilled information that will help you discover lodging and navigate your manner via the various police checkposts. A police escort could also be required in locations corresponding to Multan and Lakarna. Be sure you journey in winter (November to February) to keep away from the brutal summer heat.
There are a number of doable routes north from Karachi, however most individuals plot a route through the ornate Chaukhandi tombs exterior of Karachi, the Banbhore archaeological web site (from the place Islam unfold out throughout Pakistan), the large Makli necropolis at Thatta, and the fairytale Ranikot Fort. The area’s must-see archaeological web site is Moenjodaro, south of Lakarna, the guts of the 5000-year-old Indus Valley civilization. If archaeology is your factor, you’ll want to additionally go to the ruins of Harappa additional north.
Proceed the journey previous Kot Diji Fort and the extraordinary Twentieth-century mosque at Bhong, then enter Punjab and discover the attractive Sufi shrines of Uch Sharif (the mausoleum of Bibi Jawindi is especially eye-catching). Discover extra chic Islamic structure within the type of the gorgeous tombs at Multan, earlier than ending the epic journey within the jewel of the Punjab, lovely Lahore.
5. The Fabulous Fairy Meadows
Greatest brief highway journey with mountain views
Raikot Bridge–Fairy Meadows; 17km (11 miles); enable 3 days (together with a day of mountain climbing)
Few highway journeys pack as a lot scenic punch into corresponding to brief distance because the 17km switchback mountain drive from Raikot Bridge, on the Karakoram Freeway south of Gilgit, as much as the luxurious alpine pastures of the Fairy Meadows, set on the base of 8126m-high Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth highest mountain.
Nanga Parbat anchors the far western finish of the Himalayas, marking the purpose the place the Himalayas meet the Indus River and the Karakoram and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, and it’s an extremely scenic spot. The astonishing views of the mountain’s north face are motive sufficient to go to the Fairy Meadows, however you need to use the lodging right here as a base for additional day hikes, together with as much as Nanga Parbat Base Camp. There are few different locations the place such dramatic excessive mountain views are so simply accessible.
Planning tip: Native transport operators at Raikot Bridge will insist that you simply make the journey in one in all their 4WD autos, and the police might demand that you simply take an armed guard (a response to the lethal terrorist assault at Nanga Parbat Base Camp in 2013). Nonetheless, you may get to Raikot Bridge by public transport.
6. A Baltistan Loop
Greatest highway journey for mountain majesty
Gilgit–Skardu; 170km (105 miles); enable 5 hours
Northern Pakistan has an abundance of spectacular mountain roads. For an alternative choice to the Karakoram Freeway, contemplate driving east from the city of Gilgit, alongside the Indus River on more and more precarious mountain roads till you attain the climbing gateway city of Skardu. En route, you’ll move superb views of the Nanga Parbat and Haramosh peaks, as you hint the dividing line between the Himalayas and the Karakoram vary.
Ultimately, you’ll enter the fringes of Baltistan, with its conventional mountain villages (we propose heading to Shigar) and high-altitude deserts. Look out for teams of trekkers and mountaineers heading uphill to the Base Camp for K2 (8849m), the world’s second-highest peak and mountaineering’s most difficult ascent.
Adventurers with a completely kitted out 4WD can loop their manner again to Gilgit in two days through the 4000m excessive plateau of Deosai Plains Nationwide Park and the distant Astore Valley. You’ll want an skilled native driver to information you alongside these distant and infrequently precarious mountain roads.
Driving suggestions in Pakistan
Self-drive automotive rent could be organized in massive cities corresponding to Islamabad, but it surely’s typically dearer than renting a automotive with a driver, so most individuals go for a driver, particularly given the difficult visitors circumstances in Pakistan. Motorbike rental can also be an choice in some cities; strive Karakorum Bikers in Gilgit in case you plan on exploring Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Karakoram Hwy is paved and in wonderful situation, so makes for a very wonderful bike or cycle journey. Observe that you’ll want an Worldwide Driving Allow to drive in Pakistan. If you happen to drive your self, drive cautiously and defensively, looking forward to pedestrians and livestock, and all the time give strategy to bigger autos corresponding to rushing buses and overladen vans.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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