Tourist Attractions In Pakistan

Lake View Park, officially Rawal Lake View Park, is a scenic recreational area located along the banks of Rawal Lake in Islamabad. Developed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the park spans lush greenery and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills. Established to promote tourism and leisure, it features boating, bird-watching, picnicking, and family-friendly amusement facilities. With its serene ambiance and diverse activities, Lake View Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking relaxation and outdoor fun near the capital city.

Attabad Lake, a breathtaking turquoise lake in Upper Hunza, was formed in January 2010 when a massive landslide blocked the Hunza River, submerging 20 km of the Karakoram Highway and five villages, displacing 6,000 people. Stretching 21 km long and 100 meters deep, it’s now a top tourist destination in Gilgit-Baltistan, offering boating, jet skiing, and stunning views of the Karakoram Mountains. Known as the “Jewel of Hunza,” it supports local economies through tourism but faces challenges like plastic pollution and over-tourism. Its vibrant waters, framed by jagged peaks and cultural richness, make it a must-visit for adventurers and photographers, despite the tragic history of its formation.

Banjosa Lake, an artificial reservoir at 1,981 meters (6,499 feet) in Poonch District, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, is a serene tourist resort 20 km from Rawalakot. Formed in 1992 by damming the Banjosa River, a tributary of the Poonch River, it’s surrounded by dense pine forests and lush mountains, earning it a reputation as a “piece of heaven.” Despite challenges like rough roads and occasional overcrowding, its crystal-clear waters, boating facilities, and scenic huts make it ideal for family picnics and nature escapes. Requiring an NOC for foreigners due to LoC proximity, it’s a popular weekend getaway from Islamabad (191 km), especially in summer.

• Trekking 3-4 hours from the base camp to the lake, surrounded by reddish-pink flowers and greenery
• Camping at the base camp or lakeside under starry skies (tents required)
• Fishing for Brown Trout in the lake using spinning lures or fly fishing
• Photographing crystal-clear blue waters, snow-capped peaks, and wildflowers
• Horseback riding from the base camp to the lake for families or less experienced trekkers
• Exploring nearby Hans-Raj Lake (4-hour trek from base camp)
• Hiking to Gattian Pass for views of Gattian Lake (additional 2-3 hours)
• Enjoying boiled eggs and qahwa (Pakistani green tea) from local vendors at the lake
• Observing local Kashmiri culture through interactions at Dowarian
• Stargazing at night with minimal light pollution

Khanpur Dam, a 51-meter-high reservoir on the Haro River in Haripur District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, lies 40-50 km from Islamabad. Completed in 1983 after 15 years it forms Khanpur Lake, supplying drinking water to Islamabad and Rawalpindi and irrigating local agriculture. Its blue-green waters, framed by Pothohar Plateau mountains, make it a top tourist spot, hosting water sports like jet skiing and paragliding, the annual Khanpur Dam Festival, and historical sites like Rajgan Mosque. Despite limited facilities, littering concerns, and no swimming, its vibrant activities and scenic beauty draw thousands weekly during peak seasons.

Kumrat Valley, a pristine alpine valley at 2,400-3,100 meters (7,800-10,170 feet) in Upper Dir District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is a haven of deodar forests, snow-capped Hindu Raj peaks, and the Panjkora River. Known for its lush meadows, waterfalls, and attractions like Jahaz Banda and Katora Lake, it draws adventurers and nature lovers. Local folklore, such as tales of Prince Kumrat, adds cultural depth. Rampant commercialization and littering threaten its raw beauty, but Pashtun hospitality and unspoiled landscapes make it a must-visit.