Margalla Hills National Park, established in 1980, is a sprawling 17,386-hectare protected area in northern Islamabad, offering a blend of biodiversity, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities. Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, the park features rugged hills, dense forests, and over 30 hiking trails, including popular routes to Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa. Home to diverse flora and fauna, including leopards, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species, it is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. With stunning views of Islamabad and eco-conscious initiatives, the park is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.
Khunjerab Pass, at 4,693 meters in the Karakoram Mountains, is the world’s highest paved international border crossing, connecting Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan with China’s Xinjiang region via the Karakoram Highway (KKH), dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” A key part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), it facilitates trade and tourism while offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and Khunjerab National Park’s wildlife, including snow leopards and Marco Polo sheep. Formed in 1982 and historically part of the Silk Road, the pass—meaning “Valley of Blood” in Wakhi—combines adventure, history, and natural beauty, though over-tourism and altitude risks require careful planning. Its monumental gate and year-round snow make it a bucket-list destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Hingol National Park, Pakistan’s largest national park, spans 6,100 square kilometers along the Makran coast in Balochistan, established in 1988 and accessible since the 2004 Makran Coastal Highway., Named after the Hingol River, it features six ecosystems—deserts, mountains, forests, plains, mud volcanoes, and marine habitats—supporting 257 plant and 289 animal species, including endangered Sindh ibex and marsh crocodiles., Iconic attractions include the Princess of Hope rock formation, named by Angelina Jolie in 2004, the Balochistan Sphinx, and Hinglaj Mata Mandir, a major Hindu pilgrimage site., Despite plastic pollution and underdevelopment, the park’s surreal landscapes, Kund Malir Beach, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers.,