When it comes to travelling around Pakistan without spending heavily on hotels, tourist packages and luxurious transportation, there are many places you can go other than the Murree, Hunza and Naran circuit.
Some of these can be reached via public transport or a shared car, and some are better suited for day trips.
These lesser-known destinations have their own beauty, history and unique experiences that aren’t as costly as big vacations.
Soon Valley
Soon Valley is situated in the city of Khushab, which includes lakes, hills, waterfalls and forests. Among its attractions are the Uchali, Khabeki and Jahlar lakes, and the Kanhatti Garden is another cheap place. It is also fairly easy to reach from Lahore and Islamabad.
Gorakh Hill
Gorakh Hill is a place very distinct from Sindh’s plains. It’s located at an elevated site in the Kirthar Mountains with cool weather and sunsets and incredibly clear night skies. The cost can be kept down by sharing a 4×4 ride with other travellers.
Ranikot Fort
Ranikot is one of the largest fort complexes in the world, and is an interesting choice for those who want to see history, not resorts. It is situated in the province of Sindh, and its gigantic walls follow rugged hills along the way.
Makli Necropolis
The trip to Makli is quite different. It is located near Thatta. The wide historic necropolis has stonework and tombs of centuries-old age. From Karachi it’s a fairly inexpensive day trip by public or shared transport.
Hingol National Park
Balochistan’s Hingol National Park is an example of a park that encompasses desert, mountains and coastline. The Princess of Hope and other natural sculptures offer beautiful sights without being too costly.
Katas Raj Temples
Chakwal’s historic complex offers a great mix of architecture, history, and beauty at an affordable price. It can also be combined with other attractions of Salt Range in the same tour.
Kanhatti Garden
Kanhatti Garden is a peaceful and serene alternative to the packed hills of Pakistan. It is hidden within Soon Valley. Its wooded areas, orchards and natural beauty allow it to be a day-trip destination for a simple picnic.
Uch Sharif
Uch Sharif in southern Punjab is a place for architecture enthusiasts, where one can find a number of historic tombs and Islamic monuments that are seldom visited by tourists. This town can be visited without spending a ton of money on ‘resort-style’ lodging.
Takht-i-Bahi
The historic Buddhist monastery near Mardan is a distinctive historical tour. There are opportunities for travellers to visit the archaeological sites with little expense.
Khewra Salt Mines
Travellers can also venture into the underground world at Khewra, instead of going to the mountains. For a quick, inexpensive trip from Islamabad, Lahore or nearby cities in Punjab, the salt mines are very convenient.