Pakistan is becoming an eco-friendly destination. As a result, tourism companies and government organizations increasingly commit themselves to improve sustainable development.
This ideology has begun to emerge due to the accelerated growth of domestic and international tourism. The rapid pace of growth can potentially negatively impact the fragile natural environment of our tourism destinations, especially for its natural attractions.
Northern Pakistan attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists annually due to its high mountains, snow-capped valleys, beautiful beaches and lakes, sandy deserts, and stretches of incredible landscapes. However, environmental experts are extremely concerned about how it destroys the heritage and the amount of garbage this type of tourism produces.
As they have a cultural heritage, the ancient Silk Road and the ruins of Mohenjo-Daro continue to fascinate travelers; still, we recommend other places you can visit and support the sustainable purpose of tourism. These are the destinations:
1. Deosai National Park
Known as the Land of Giants. Every spring, it is covered with wildflowers and rare butterflies, and it’s a place where you can enjoy the wildlife after the thaw. This destination is home to the Himalayan wolf, Himalayan ibex, Tibetan fox, and to long-tailed marmots you will see during your tour.
The park was granted protection by the government in 1993, in order to safeguard the critically endangered Himalayan brown bear. It was also considered for a World Heritage Site in 2016. Take advantage of your visit and support the construction of a sustainable environment.
2. Kaghan Valley
The picturesque Kaghan Valley is a fairytale setting. Legend has it that a prince of Persia fell in love with a fairy princess in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Saiful Muluk. But there was a giant who was also in love with the princess and kept her prisoner.
One day, the prince ran away with her, and the furious giant flooded the valley and created lakes with his tears. This story gets visitors from all over the world to travel to the valley and see the lakes that were made.
When you visit, remember to maintain a space that allows sustainability.
3. Baltoro Glacier
This is one of the largest valley glaciers in the world that you can visit. It is a destination most visited by citizens of Pakistan due to mountaineering destinations such as K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum peaks. Although lately, the number of foreign travelers who want to do this kind of activity in new destinations has also increased .
4. Neelum Valley
The loop-shaped Neelum Valley lies among 4,000-meter peaks and is covered with green forests and streams. It’s a perfect destination to relax and fall in love with nature. The small mountain village of Arang Kel is known as the pearl of the Neelum Valley and it’s an ideal destination to stay overnight while visiting the area.
If you wish to visit this destination and support the country’s sustainability strategies, we recommend you plan your trip in advance. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a travel document.
Foreign travelers usually need to apply for a [Pakistan e-visa]. This document is valid for three months and allows visitors to stay in Pakistan for up to 30 days.
On the other hand, there is also the possibility of obtaining a visa on arrival in the country. Still, it is crucial to find out if your nationality allows you to apply for this type of visa. Unfortunately, only 65 countries can obtain a visa on arrival in Pakistan, and only for tourism purposes.
If you need more information about the travel document or how to apply, we recommend contacting some of the [iVisa] experts. They will be able to help you verify the documents you need and also help you process them in the time you need.
