Kerry Lugar Bill. What to do?

Pakistan is facing a multidimensional critical situation now-a-days. The American Congress has approved a draft of support bill for Pakistan presented by Senator John Kerry and Senator Luger. There are so many contradictions in Pakistan regarding the contents of this bill and the words used in this bill depicting the conditions/bindings on Pakistan. Let’s have a fair analysis of this issue.

How great is the actual amount?

The total amount of this support bill is about 1.5 Billion US Dollars amounting about 120 Billion Pakistan rupees. It is to help build infrastructure of communications, education and etc. It means that 10 Billion Pakistan rupee per month and thirty three crore per day. Dividing this amount at the population will give the answer of about 2.0 rupees per day. What to do with this amount?

Important Intention of USA behind this Bill

The intentions of USA described in the bill are being discussed but one very important intention is not being felt and discussed. Through this nominal support, they want Pakistan to always be their dependant. When they will keep on funding us like this peanut, we will never go to explore our natural resources.

Eye on our Natural Resources

Pakistan is the most mineral rich country in the region. Before us USA knows that there are huge natural resources located in Balochistan, Sindh and Punjab. USA has hundred times more need and consumption of these resources than us and does not want us to explore these natural resources. Just coal explored in Thar, Sindh, is of about many times more than this aid.

Tax Resources

In a recent interview, the Head of Federal Board of Revenue, Mr. Abdullah Yousaf said that if there is no political influence and tax theft in Pakistan, an amount of about 800 Billion of Pakistan rupees can be collected, While USA is about to give us 600 Billion rupees. Why to go for that.

Shameful attitude of the Government

The government was, initially, claiming that it is a great achievement of the government to have such bill passed/approved by the congress. When it started criticism on it by all stakeholders, government took an immediate turn and said that it is their internal bill which they have passed for themselves. Army was concerned on some content which according to them was included after army has reviewed. So in all this issue, there are many turns by the government which are not acceptable.

What we really need?

We have all the required resources whether human or natural. What we merely need is a loyal, devoted, visionary, honest and committed leadership. Unfortunately, so far, we don’t have. Let’s hope and pray for such leader so that we may also be self sufficient and not dependent on USA who is just an exploiter.

Article Source:Article Buster-Kerry Lugar Bill. What to do?

Muzaffarabad

Muzaffarabad is the capital of Azad Kashmir and is situated near NWFP, Pakistan. River Jehlum and river Neelum flow in its vicinity. The local language spoken here is Hindko.The city is surounded by lofty mountains which provide a fascinating scene to the onlookers. The city is visited frequently by local and foreign tourists.

In ancient times Muzaffarabad was the capital of Shahi dynasty, that ruled most of the Kabul valley and the ancient Gandhara, and was called Udabhanda. The recent name was given to it by its ruler Muzaffar Khan. The city was made the capital of Azad Kashmir after the 1948's war between Pakistan and India. On October 8, 2005 Muzaffarabad was hit by a disastrous and violent earth quake measuring 7.6 on Richter Scale.

Here are some of the beautiful places of Pakistan:

Red Fort:
This glorious fort was built by emperor Muzaffar Khan in 1646. Later on the Dogra rulers reconstructed it. In the Durani and Moughal reign, however, it was neglected. The architecture of the fort shows that great experts in design and structure participated in its construction. It is surrounded on three sides by theNeelum River formally known as the Kishenganga River. The northern part of the fort had terraces with steps leading to the bank of the river. The eastern side was very well protected from the hazards of flood waters, but some parts on the north side have suffered damage. There used to be an inn at the entrance to the fort, but only traces of that structure remain now.

Shaheed Gali:
Shaheed Gali is situated at the height of 1640 meters above sea level at a distance of about 16 kilometers westward from Muzaffarabad. From Shaheed Gali a trek of 4 Kms leads towards a spot namely "Sri Kot". A tourist is bound to be fascinated by the serenity for the backdrop of the area. A tourist Rest House is available for accommodation at Shaheed Gali.

Pir Chinassi:
Pir Chinassi is located eastward of Muzaffarabad. Due to its scenic beauty, velvet green plateaus and wonderful climate, it wins admiration of nature lovers. The view of the summit of the mountain peaks spell bounds a tourist. Devotees of Saint Shah Hussain Bukhari, take pilgrimage to rejuvenate their adust heart. The adjacent Pirchinassi, phawna da Danna and the areas in the bottom of Pirchinassi are also worth seen and ideal for hiking, trekking and camping activities. Tourism Department has also constructed a tourist lodge at Saran.

Other Places:
Other places include Patikka, Chehla Bridge, Kundle Shahi and Chikkar.

Buses and minibuses make the scenic journey regularly from Islamabad (4-5 hours). If you're self-driving, the route via Muree is probably the quickest. Kohala is the entry point into Azad Kashmir, where you'll need to get through a checkpoint. On own transport you need 40-50 minutes to reach Murree. Then 2 hours to reach Kohala Bridge and 30 minutes to reach Muzaffarabad. Approximately its 3 and half hours on you own car. You can adopt the route Islamabad - Abbottabad - Mansehra - Gari Habibullah - Muzaffabad as well.

River Jehlum

Historic bridge near River Neelum

Muzaffarabad

Kalam valley

Kalam valley, like other vales of Northern Pakistan, is rich in natural beauty. It is known for its waterfalls, lakes, lush green hills and other gifts bestowed upon it by the nature. Being only at a distance of 270km from Islamabad it is frequently visited by tourists and adventure travelers. The river of Swat flows though this region and offers spectacular scenery to the visitor. The neighboring valley of Laddu is also breath-taking.

The fascinating places of Kalam valley include:

Kandol Lake:
It can be reached in about three hours from Laddu. It is advisable that you take a guide along with you.

Mahudand Lake:
It is a lake about 40 km from Kalam. It is accessible with a four-wheel drive vehicle, and is a good location for fishing.

Other Lakes:
These include Lake Naseerullah and Lake Saifullah.

Snow capped mountains of the valley

Kaghan Valley

Mahudand Lake

Mahudand Lake

Kondol Lake

The river of Swat

Murree

The word Murree has been derived from “Murhi” meaning “a high place”. It is a hill station situated along the Islamabad-Kohala highway, 30km away from Islamabad at the border of Punjab and Azad Kashmir. It is a very popular summer resort due to its cool and chilly climate. In winter the city hides itself in a thick blanket of snow. An American journalist Camile wrote, that,

"Everything and Anything can happen in Murree. Romance is in the atmosphere; intrigue is in the air. The roads to this happy holiday's resort embrace both the heaven and earth. In Murree it is easy to fall in love"

Murree was founded by Sir Henry Lawrence in 1851 as a sanatorium for British troops deployed along the Afghan border. A proper town was built in 1857. The town also served as the summer head quarters of Punjab local government till 1876. During the war of independence of 1857 the local tribes of Murree, under the command of Sardar Shehbaz Khan and Malik Nawab Bahadur Khan, fought against the British army. After considerable loss, the British army had to sign an agreement with the local Abbasi tribe. But this agreement was ignored by the British who regained control of the town. Afterwards a number of English officers settled here permanently and raised families.

The most beautiful places in Murree include:

• Kashmir Point


• Pindi Point - a chairlift runs up to here


• The Mall - the main strip with shops, hotels and restaurants.


• Lawrence College & Church


• Many locals believe that Mary, mother of Jesus, is buried in Murree and that the town is named after her (formerly Mari). Her supposed tomb sits on a hill underneath a television tower. Locals can point you in the right direction. You may need special permission to visit.

Taxis and buses run from Islamabad, and take about 1 hour. It is a picturesque drive and has a few well developed tourist spots at Charra Pani and Company Bagh. The Chattar water park is only 15 minutes outside Islamabad. There is also an alternate but longer route to Murree from Islamabad via Nilore and Simli Dam. The alternate route joins at Lower Topa. The mountain drive is refreshing and the scenery is breath-taking especially on the Nilore-Simli-Lower Topa route.

Murree remains charming all year round.

Beautiful Blue Sunset

Chairlifts in Patriata

Murree: Top View

Kaghan Valley

The 155km long Kaghan Valley is situated at an altitude of 4170m (13690ft) in the Mansehra district, NWFP, Pakistan. Kunhar river flows through its length. Local languages spoten here are Hindko and Gojri while Urdu is also spoken.

The tourist attractions of Kaghan valley are many and are very popular among tourists specially its lakes. These include Lake Saif-ul-malook, Lake Dodipatsar and Lalusar Lake. The mountain peak of Malika Parbat (5, 296m) is also accessible from Kaghan valley. In addition to these, Shorgan is also regarded as a fascinating place.

Most visitors to Naran pay a visit to Saiful Muluk Lake (10,500 feet) 6 miles east of town. If the road is open you can arrange transportation by jeep. If the road is closed, it is an easy, gradual three-hour walk, and the lake is a lovely spot for a picnic. you can also take some guide with you. you can ask it from hotel, or any shops but make a good deal. Espacially if you plan to walk in may/june, due to big ice-glaciers you may require a horse to put all your luggage on it. Brown Trout and Mahasheer are stocked in the pure silvery waters between Kaghan and Naran. The Kunhar river's trout is considered best in the South Asia.

The Kaghan area can reached by road via the towns of Balakot, Abbottabad and Mansehra. In Balakot, one may find buses and other transports to reach Kaghan or Naran. It can also be reached from the capital, Islamabad. You can drive in a rented car, taxi, station-wagon or bus to Abbottabad which is 122 kms from Islamabad and 217 kms from Peshawar. Abbottabad is also a Charming town spread out over several low, refreshingly green hills.

The tourist season of Kaghan valley is from May to September.

Lalusar Lake

Kaghan Valley

Lalazar, Kaghan Valley

Gilgit

Gilgit is a mountain town in the north of Pakistan. Its ancient name was Sargain. Later on people started calling it Gilit. Today the locals call it Sargain-Gilit. Gilgit is spread over an area of 3800sq km (14700 sq mi) and has an altitude of 1500m (4900ft). It is famous as a major hub for traveling and mountaineering expeditions in Northern Pakistan.

In ancient times Gilgit was an important town on the Silk road. It name is also present in the accounts of well known travelers like Xuanzang and Faxian. Its rulers were once Hindu but about five and a half centuries ago the Muslim era began. In 1877 the British established Gilgit agency which in 1935 came under their control along with the valleys of Hunza, Nagar and Yasin. Gilgit became a part of Pakistan in 1947 and took an active part in 1947's war for Kashmir.

The attractions of the place include Kargah Buddah a 7th century rock with Buddah engraved on it's face, the valley of Naltar, 700 hundred years old monument of Taj Moughal,Hunza Valley, Ferry Meadows in Raikot, Shigar town, Skardu city, Haramosh Peak in Karakoram Range, Bagrot-Haramosh Valley, Deosai National Park, Astore Valley, Rama Lake, Juglot town, Phunder village, Yasin Valley and Kargah Valley.

Gilgit is just off the Karakoram Highway between Chilas and Karimabad, and most people arrive by road. The main bus stand is on the Karakoram Highway, and requires a taxi ride or shared jeep to reach from town. There are booking agents in town for long distance buses along the Karakoram Highway. The journey from Islamabad can take as long as 24 hours.

The best season to visit is from May to mid October. The local dialect is Shina, however, Urdu and English are also spoken and understood.

Buddha engraved on rock at Kargah Buddha

Rakaposhi, Northern Areas,Kashmir, 27th highest of the world at 7788m

A bridge over river near Gilgit

Heaven on Earth!!

Skardu

Skardu is the capital of Baltistan, the newly formed province of Pakistan. It is situated at the border of Chinese Xinjiang region and Indian-occupied Kashmir at an altitude of 2438 meters in the Karakoram mountains. The native people of this marvelous place are a mixture of Tibetan and Caucasian stock and speak the ancient Balti language. Due to Baltistan's closeness to the Tibetan culture it is also referred to as Tibet-e-Khurd meaning the Little Tibet. The everyday life of the people of Skardu is very similar to that of “Land of Lamas”.

The tourist attractions of Skardu include Kharpocho fort (King of Forts) situated on a hill overlooking the town, Kachura lake famous for its brown trout located at a distance of 32km from Skardu, the Sadpara lake with a fairy-tale island at is center 8km away from the town, the valleys of Khaplu and Shigar and the famous Buddha rock carvings dating back to 8th century A.D. Baltistan is known for its "Pattu" - hand woven woollen cloth for jackets, coats etc. You can also pick up colorful intricately embroidered "Chugas" (Baltistani gown) and wooden spoons at Skardu bazaar.

The tourist season is from April to October. The maximum temperature is 27 C and minimum (October) 8 C. Skardu can be reached by plane. Pakistan International Airlines fly daily from Islamabad (Pakistan's capital city). The air journey is full of thrills and would itself be regarded as the highlight of the visit. It can also be reached via Karakorum highway using daily bus services offered by Nothern Area Transport Company from Islamabad. Its very hilly drive. 20 hours from Islamabad.

Another big city of Gilgit is four to five hours drive away from Skardu. You can go to Pakistan - China border via Gilgit. You may visit most famous Khunjrab Pass, K-2 Mountain base camp etc.

Mountains surrounding Skardu

Indus river near Skardu

Flight to Skardu

Karakoram Highway

Extending from Hasanabdal in Pakistan to the Chinese Kashgar region, through the Khunjerab Pass, is the Karakorum highway which is also referred to as the "Ninth Wonder of the World". It is situated at an altitude of 4693m (15,397ft) and is the world's highest border crossing. Officially it is also called National Highway 35 or N35. It has a length of 1300 km (806 km in Pakistan and 494 km in China). The highway also serves as a popular tourist attraction.

In the past, this was a caravan trail (a part of ancient Silk road). Later on, the Chinese and Pakistani authorities built a two way highway which was completed in 1986 after 20 years of construction work. While building this road 892 workers lost their lives including 82 Chinese and 810 Pakistanis. The Karakorum Highway is also known as the Friendship Highway in China.

The highway has become a destination for tourists, mountaineers and adventure lovers from all over the world as it provides an easy access to many towering mountains, exotic valleys, glaciers and the heavenly towns of Gilgit, Sakardu, Nagar and Hunza these towns are the main hubs for mountaineer expeditions in Pakistan. The Hunza was the original Shangri La that inspired the novel (and later movie). Hunza is known for its orchards, moderate Islam, welcoming hospitality and beautiful scenery. The following mountains are accessible from the Karakorum highway:

• Nanga Parbat, Northern Areas,Kashmir, 9th highest of the world at 8126m


• Rakaposhi, Northern Areas,Kashmir, 27th highest of the world at 7788m


• Diran, Northern Areas, Kashmir, most dangerous mountain in Pakistan Shishpar, Northern Areas,Kashmir


• Ultar Peak, Northern Areas,Kashmir


• Tupopdan, Northern Areas,Kashmir, also known as Cathedral Peaks near Passu

There are more than 20,000 pieces of rock art and petroglyphs all along the highway that are concentrated at ten major sites between Hunza and Shatial. The carvings were left by various invaders, traders and pilgrims who passed along the trade route, as well as by locals. The earliest date back to between 5000 BC and 1000 BC, showing single animals, triangular men and hunting scenes in which the animals are larger than the hunters. These carvings were pecked into the rock with stone tools and are covered with a thick patina that yields their age.

Lets Go!

The best time for a trip to Karakorum highway is spring and the start of autumn. The highway is closed to tourists for part of the winter and the desert area at its northern end can be very hot in summer. The starting points are Kashgar (China) or Gilgit (Pakistan). A number of transport companies offer bus service between the major towns of the highway. You can take a PIA flight or bus from Gilgit to Islamabad the capital of Pakistan.

The Karakorum Highway

The mountains of Karakorum

The highway on a rainy day

Ansoo Lake

This tear shaped lake is situated at an altitude of 16490 feet(5027m) in the vicinity of Malika-e-Parbat (Queen of mountains) in the Himalayan range. (In Urdu “Ansoo” means tear). Nature kept this beauty hidden from the eyes of humans until 1993 when a pilot of Pakistan Air Force reported it's existence during a low flight over it. Earlier, even the local people did not know that it existed.

It can be reached via a difficult trek from the Saif-ul-Maluk lake which is itself a marvelous place. The journey takes about one day and one night. One must be a good hiker if he wants to reach Ansoo lake because no jeep or car can reach there. Mules or horses can be hired but still one has to travel at least 50% of the path on foot. There are a number of streams in way but it is highly recommended that you take plenty of fresh water and juices with you. The ideal time for the visit is from July to August because in the end of August heavy snow fall begins.

So, first reach Lake Saiful-Malook. Do spend some time there and enjoy. From there, I suggest hire a guide who should be a local of these areas. The Path to Ansoo Lake is straightly passing from the base camp of Malka-e-Parbat, the most beautiful peak near Saiful-ul-Malook. You can hire mules along with guide to carry your camps and heavy utensils. And it would be a good exercise if you carry your bags yourself and take pity upon poor animals :) It should take not more than 2 or 3 hours to reach Base Camp of Malka-e-Parbat. If you happened to stay at base camp, then don't forget to enjoy the beautiful scenes of Malka-e-parbat during the evening time.

Let me specify that this whole track is full of very beautiful and marvelous scenes of mountain peaks covered with snow, so with the difficulty of climbing you will really enjoy the scenes!!

Ansoo Lake

Hike to the Ansoo Lake

Nathia Gali

Nathia gali is a famous hill station located in Hazara, NWFP, Pakistan. The place is popular for it's spectacular mountain scenery and favorable climate (Being at an altitude of 2500m the climate is much cooler then the rest of Galiath). Local people are extremely peace-loving, hospitable and friendly. They belong to the Karal tribe and speak Hindko language belonging to the Indo-Aryan branch of languages. Urdu is also understood as a secondary language. Literacy rate and standard of living are rising rapidly.

Nathia Gali

In the past, during the British reign, Nathia gali served as the summer headquarters of the Chief Commissioner. The mountain resort is a home to various kinds of wild life including different kinds of birds, butterflies and monkeys. Recently the World Wildlife Federation has started breeding leopards in it's woods. The cusine of Nathia gali is particularly very delightful. The daals, chicken karhais, barbecued foods and fresh naans in the bazaar too are thoroughly enjoyable, as are halwa puri breakfasts and freshly made roadside pakoras and jalebis. Corn on the cob is usually available all over the hill-station at various points. There are a couple of grocery stores now stock most supermarket items that are available in the cities.

Nathia gali is situated at one hour drive from Muree and Abbotabad and two hour drive from Islamabad. A number of hotels, lodges and rest houses are present for accommodation. Tourist months are April, May and September.

Mukeshpuri

Miran Jani

Road to Nathia Gali

Hindu Kush; The Hindu Slayer

Extending from central Afghanistan to north-western Pakistan is the great mountain range of Hindu Kush. It roughly marks the boundary between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The word Hindu-Kush means 'The Killer of Hindus' and the range has been named so because a number of Hindu slaves died here due to extreme climate. It's highest peak is Tirch Mir which has a height of 7690m while the average elevation of Hindu Kush is about 4500m.



Alexander the great, along with his great army, passed through this range in 327 B.C. Also the mid-eval Muslim traveler Ibn-e-Batuta mentioned this range in his chroniclers. The passes of this range have been of a great military importance because via these passes Soviet union could launch an attack against British India. Today America is fighting the war against Taliban in the part of Hindu Kush present in Afghanistan. The eastern part of Hindu Kush present in Pakistan is a heaven for mountaineers and tourists as some of the most sublime valleys (including the famous Chitral valley) and towering mountains are present in this region. The famous mountains include:

• Darban Zom- 23687 ft./7220 m.


• Istor-o-Nal- 23871 ft./7276 m.


• Koyo Zom- 22603 ft./6889 m.


• Noshaq- 24581 ft./7492 m.


• Saraghrar- 24110 ft./7349 m.


• Shachaur- 23241 ft./7084 m.


• Trich Mir- 25282 ft./7706 m.


• Asso peak- 19029 ft./5800 m.

"The Karakoram and Hindukush, at the western end of the great mountain chain of South Asia and Central Asia, contain the greatest concentration of high peaks and the greatest expanse of glaciers of any mountain range outside the subpolar zones of our planet. These mountains are also home to a kaleidoscope of people, whose diversity and uniqueness offer a personal counterpoint to the immensity of the physical terrain and climate extremes". [John Mock & Kimberley O'Neil ]

A picturesque hut with the Hindu Kush mountains in the background

Lake Saif-ul-Maluk

Located near the valley of Naran, at an altitude of 3,224 m (10,578 feet) Lake Saif-ul-Maluk is undoubtedly the most enchanting place in the world. The place casts such an immense impact on the onlooker that for a moment he considers himself in heaven. The famous Sufi poet Mian Muhammad Bakhsh wrote a legendary fairy tale which revolves around the lake. It tells the story of a Persian prince who came across a fairy at the lake and fell in love with her. Even now some people believe that, in full moon, fairies descend from there home in the sky, to take the a bath in the lake.

A breath taking view of the lake

Lake Saif-ul-Maluk is regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in Pakistan. The lake is accessible from Naran by a 14km long road. It can also be visited on foot from Naran which takes almost 4-5 hours. During the journey one witnesses some of the most beautiful sights and sounds of nature. The water source of this lake are the towering glaciers around it which provide it with fresh water and help to keep it clear. Although after the earth quake of 2005 in the northern areas of Pakistan, and the government's recent war against terrorism, their was a sharp decline in the number of tourists visiting the region but now the tourism industry is flourishing again. One needs a strong sense of adventure to enjoy this marvel. But believe me it is totally worth it!!

A recently built bridge

Fun Facts About Pakistan

Following are some interesting facts about Pakistan:

• Pakistan is the only Muslim nuclear state in the world.


• In 1970s Pakistan had the largest irrigation system.


• Terbella dam is one of the largest mud dams in the world.


• Siachen, situated in the northern region of Pakistan, is regarded as the world's highest battle field.


• Pakistan has world's oldest Juniper forest at Ziarat.


• Pakistan occupies 46th position on the A.T. Kearney/FP Globalization Index.


• Pakistan is the 6th most populus country in the world.


• The highest building in Pakistan is the Habeeb Bank Plaza, Karachi.


• Pakistan's first artificial setellite (Badar 1) was put into orbit on July 16, 1990.


• The largest mosque in Pakistan is Faisal Mosque situated in Islamabad.


• Pakistan is the largest producer of salt in the world.


• The first Pakistani president who took oath in Urdu was Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.


• Maulvi Abdul Haq is known as "The Father of Urdu Language.


• The national game of Pakistan is Hockey but Cricket is most popular among Pakistani people.


• Pkistani Hockey star, Safdar Abbas is regarded as the youngest hockey player in the world.


• Inzimam-ul-Haq was the first Pakistani cricketer who made 10,000 runs in ODI Cricket.


• Pakistani cricketer Hanif Muhammad is known as little master.


• Pakistani cricketer Abdul Qadir is called dancing bowler due to his peculiar bowling style.


• Benazir Bhutto was the first Muslim woman who became the prime minister of a democratic state.
  
  

Thatta

The historic town of Thatta is situated at a distance of 100km (60 miles) from Karachi, the financial capital of Pakistan. Population is about 22000. The biggest lake of Pakistan known as the Keenjhar Lake is also present in it's proximity. People from all over Pakistan come here to see the monuments and tombs present here. A number of these monuments are on UNESCO's World Heritage list.

The history of Thatta dates back to the 14 century when it was the capital of Lower Sindh region. Later on during the reign of Soomro tribe, Thatta was made the capital of whole of Sindh. From 1592 to 1739 it remained under the Moughal throne. Then in 1739 Nadir Shah, the reckless ruler of Persia, occupied it. Following are some remarkable places of this city:

Shah Jehan Mosque:

Moughal empror Shah Jehan, also known as the builder king due to his architectural intellect, built this mosque in 1674. The mosque has been built with red bricks and blue colored glazed tiles. It has 33 arches, 100 domes and no minaret. It is regarded as the largest mosque in the world with such number of domes and has been built in such a manner that sound of Imam can be heard in every corner of the mosque without any loud speakers. On the whole the mosque, with it's combination of red and blue, looks like an enormous Mosaic!

Makkli Hills:

Makkli is a burial place covering an area of 8km diameter. It started from the shrine of fourteenth-century Sufi, Hamad Jamali. Gradually the cemetery grew around the shrine and it became one of the largest necropolises in the world with the graves of some 125,000 Sufi saints. Imperial mausoleums are also present in the cemetery which are divided into two major groups, those from the Samma (1352–1520) and Tarkhan (1556–1592) periods. The tomb of the Samma king, Jam Nizamuddin II (reigned 1461–1509), is an impressive square structure built of sandstone and decorated with floral and geometric medallions. Similar to this is the mausoleum of Isa Khan Tarkhan II (d. 1651), a two-story stone building with majestic cupolas and balconies. In contrast to the syncretic architecture of these two monuments, which integrate Hindu and Islamic motifs, are mausoleums that clearly show the Central Asian roots of the later dynasty. An example is the tomb of Jan Beg Tarkhan (d. 1600), a typical octagonal brick structure whose dome is covered in blue and turquoise glazed tiles.

Tomb of Prince Ibrahim Bin Mirza

Islamabad

Islamabad is the capital and one of the most beautiful and modern cities of Pakistan. It is the tenth largest city of Pakistan with respect to area while in terms of population it is third largest. It is located in the Potohar Plateau in the north of the country. It was built in 1960s during the reign of Ayub Khan. Before Islamabad, Karachi was the capital of Pakistan. It is also regarded as one of the most well planned cities of South Asia and has been ranked as a Gamma World City, as of 2008.

This area was first inhabited by the Aryan community. It was present at one end of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization about 5000 years ago. Also, the armies of Alexander and Genghis Khan passed through this region. In the recent past a small town known as Saidpur was present here.

There were a number of reasons due to which capital was shifted from Karachi to Islamabad. Firstly Karachi was vulnerable to attacks from the sea whereas Islamabad is situated 750 miles inland. Secondly such a capital equally distant from all the major parts of the country was required. Other reasons include a better climate and its nearness to GHQ Rawalpindi.

Famous tourist attractions of the city include Shakar Parian Hills, newly constructed National Monument, the fascinating Heritage Museum, and the huge marble Shah Faisal Mosque, a unique example of modernist Islamic architecture, are the major highlights of the city. Faisal Mosque was constructed on the suggestion of King Faisal bin Abdul Aziz. With the area of over 5000 square meters and a capacity of over 300,000 worshipers, it is the biggest mosque in Pakistan and one of the biggest in the world. The newly constructed Lake View Park alongside Rawal Lake has become a favorite picnic spot in the city. The model village of Saidpur is also worth seeing. In short the city is a fascinating tourist attraction.

Faisal Mosque

Karachi, The City of Lights.

With an area of 3,530 km² (2,193 sq mi) Karachi is the largest city of Pakistan and the 20th largest city in the world. It is also regarded as one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Upon the independence of Pakistan it was made capital of the country. These days it serves as a major sea port, financial capital, center of social and educational activities and the capital of Sindh province. Being the birth and death place of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah it is respected by every Pakistani and due to the same reason it is known as "The City of Quaid". Karachi has been ranked as Beta World City, as of 2008. People from all over Pakistan visit Karachi to get higher education and for better employment.

In the past Karachi was visited by Alexander the Great who camped here for some time and prepared a fleet for the conquest of Babylonia after conquering Indus Valley. The Greeks used various names for the city including Krokola and Morontobara. In 712 the Arab commander Muhammad-bin-Qasim, in his early twenties, entered the Indus Valley through this port and fought with the armies of Raja Dahir. Raja was defeated and Sindh along with Karachi and it's port came under the control of Arabs. The Arabs called it Debal. The present city started life as a small fishing town found by Balochis. In those days it was called Kolachi. Soon it became a center of commerce and trade links were developed with Muskat and Persian gulf. A small fort was constructed for its protection, armed with cannons imported from Muscat. The fort had two main gateways: one facing the sea, known as Kharra Darwaaza (Brackish Gate) (Kharadar)and the other facing the Lyari River known as the Meet'ha Darwaaza (Sweet Gate) (Mithadar). The location of these gates correspond to the modern areas of Kharadar (Khārā Dar) and Mithadar. In 1839 British took over the fort and afterwards in 1843 British army annexed whole of Sindh. In 1864 the first telegraph line was laid between Karachi and in 1878 the city was connected to the rest of British India via rail. At last in 1947 it became a part of Pakistan.

Karachi is locally called "The City of Lights" and the night view of the city is truly magnificient. The highest building of Pakistan, Habib Bank Plaza, is also present here. The most remarkable places and tourists attractions include Clifton, Empress market, Mohatta palace, Tomb of Quaid-e-Azam and the Chaukandi tombs.

The Mohatta Palace

Chaukandi tombs

Kalash

In the mountain valleys of northern Pakistan live the people with most extraordinary rituals, beliefs and culture, the Kalash. Kalash are an ethnic group residing among the towering mountains of Hindu Kush range. Their population is about 6000 and they speak the Kalasha language belonging to the Indo-Aryan branch of languages (Urdu and Pushto are also understood widely as secondary languages). The word Kalash has been derived from the name of Kafiristan Kalasha which was present in Afghanistan.



These people are polytheists and their culture is completely different from the overall culture of Pakistan. The most remarkable element of their culture is the dress they wear. Women use long black robes and head gears with eye-catching beads, buttons and feathers on it while men distinguish themselves by wearing special woolen hats with feathers and small metallic bells on it. Most men use Shalwar Kameez as their general dress. Nature plays central role in the lives of these people. Every year a number of festivals and sacrifices are arranged to give thanks to gods. The three main festivals include Joshi festival in late May, the Uchau in autumn, and the Caumus in midwinter. Crows represent the ancestors of Kalash people. That is why crows are treated with respect and are fed at special occasions and festivals. In general the Kalash have a close link with Indo-Iranian traditions.

A man dancing during Uchaw festival

The Kalash were ruled by Mehtar of Chitral from 1700s onward. Although the original Kafiristan Kalasha (Afghanistan) was converted to Nuristan by Amir Abdur Rehman after the Durand agreement in 1890s, the Kalash of Pakistan enjoy a complete social and religious liberty and have strong relations with the Muslims of nearby areas. Strong measures are being taken to conserve the Kalash language as it has been declared endangered by UNESCO. Currently about 5,000 people speak Kalasha. Badshah Munir Bukhari unicoded the Kalasha Language in 2005. Working in close collaboration with various international researchers and linguists. Today the Kalash people are prospering and their numbers are increasing. Tourism now makes up a large portion of the economic activities of the Kalash. To cater to these new visitors, small stores and guest houses have been erected, providing new luxury for visitors of the valleys. People attempting to enter the valleys have to pay a toll to the Pakistani government, which is used to preserve and care for the Kalash people and their culture.