Northern Areas of Pakistan:

Northern Areas of Pakistan is the most spectacular & fascinating region of Pakistan. Here, world’s three famous mountain ranges meet the Himalayas, the Karakorams & the Hindukush. The whole Northern Areas is like a paradise for mountaineers, climbers, trekkers, hikers & anglers.


The Karakoram Pakistan:
The historic Karakoram Pass (5575m), an ancient trading route between the Northern Pakistan & Xinjiang (China), gives its name to the range west of it that forms the watershed between the Indus & the Central Asian deserts. The eastern boundary of the Karakorams is the upper Shyok river from where it extends over 322 km westwards to the karumbar river & the Hindukush range, to the north Shaksgam tributary of the yarkand river & to the south, the Indus bounds the karakorams, Here the Nanga Parbat (8126m) massif is the western anchor of the great Himalayan range which stretches in an arc 24, 124 km east to Burma, it boundary & barrier the razor edge which for centuries has determined the destiny of south Asia. Such is the setting of the Karakoram Range, this remnant of a primeval ice age. The third pole with extensive glacier systems & the greatest concentration of lofty mountains in the World.

 
Highest Peaks in Pakistan:
Of the fourteen over 8000 meters high Peaks on earth, four occupy an amphitheatre at the head of Baltoro. Their shapes, forms, sizes & colors provide tremendous contrast, which defy description. These are K-2 (8611m) world’s second highest peak in the World. The undisputed monarch of the sky, Broad Peak (8047m) massive Gasherbrum I (8068m) & Gasherbrum II ( 8035m) the Pakistani Pyramids that even Cheops would have preferred for a  tomb, Muztagh Tower, deceptively sheer, Chogolise, the Bird Peak, in whose eternal embrace lies Hermann Buhi, the first man to climb Nanga Parbat, the Cathedrals of Baltoro with their great knife edge ridges, the sky cleaving monoliths of Trango Towers & the most beautiful of all, the Peak of perfection, Paiyu (6600m) first climbed by a Pakistani expedition in 1977. There are scores of over 7000 meters high peaks in the karakoram ranges & hundreds of nameless summits below 6000 meters, In the Lesser Karakorams there are equally great peaks such as Rakaposhi (7788m) the dominant giant in Nager & Hunza Valleys. Its north face is fantastic precipice (5791m) of plunging snow & ice.
The Hindukush is also a mountain vastness containing hundreds of peaks, many above 7000 meters including Trichmir (7705m) that is the highest point of the range. The western bastion of the Himalayas is Nanga Parbat (8125m), once dreaded as the” killer Mountain” but climbed many times by various expeditions since the first disasters.  


Longest Glaciers in Pakistan:
Some of the longest glaciers outside polar region flow in the karakorams. The Siachin glacier is 75 km long. The Hisper, (52km) joins the Biafo at the Hisper La (5154m) to form a 116 km long ice corridor. The Batura is 58 km in length. But the most outstanding of these rivers of ice is the Baltoro (62km). This mighty glacier, fed by some 30 tributaries, constitutes a surface area of 1,219 sq km. Seen from a distance, Baltoro appears smooth & beautiful but in fact it is a chaotic tumbling mass of rock & ice, troughs & hillocks & the debris of centuries. It is a unique, remote corner of earth. For here, in a frozen wilderness of crags, cornices & crevasses raise lowering spires of granite, great snowy peaks with fluted icy ridges & pinnacles that pierce the sky.


Silk Route & the Karakoram Highway Pakistan:
For many centuries, caravans have braved these tortuous mountains treading precariously along paths providing shortcuts between the great towns of Central Asia & the rich markets of South Asia. However, the trails were hazardous, angry rivers horrifying to contemplate, & the nature’s storms caused even the most intrepid to quall on the high passes & in the desolate gorges. In 1947, travel in & out of the Northern Pakistan could have been described almost as it had been 15 centuries earlier by the Chinese pilgrim Fa Hien, in 400 AD , The way is difficult & rugged, running alone a bank exceedingly precipitous, When one approaches the edge of it, his eyes become unsteady, & if wishes to go forward in the same direction, there is no place on which he can place his foot, & beneath are the waters of the river called the Indus, Thus the traders of yore had travelled over this route for centuries & carried silk, tea & porcelain from China to be bartered for gold, ivory, jewels & spices from South Asia.
It is against this backdrop that Pakistan & China joined hands in 1967 to construct a 900 km, Karakoram Highway on the alignment of the ancient Silk Route, for its sheer mountain grandeur 7 breath- taking panorama of beauty, few places on earth can match the superb landscape through which the karakoram highway snakes. A fantastic & unforgettable spectacle is the passage of the highway along the Batura glacier, rated as the World’s seventh largest glacier, The Khunjerab Pass which the highway crosses, & the nearby Mintaka Pass, lie astride the fabulous ancient Silk Route that led from Europe to Asia & over which history’s most famous tourists once travelled. These include the Ventian Marcopolo, after whom has been named the wild Marcoplo Sheep, in the 13th century, the Chinese Monk Fa Hien in the  in the 4th century & the Central Asian historian, Abu Rehan Al- Beruni in the 11th Century.
Today, the Karakoram Highway Connects Islamabad with Kashgar (China). Via Abbottabad, Mansehra, Thakot, Besham, Pattan, Chilas, Gilgit & Hunza across the 4733 meters high Khunjerab Pass. The Highway, built by the Pakistani & Chinese engineers, has been described as a marvel of civil engineering & even as ‘ The Eight Wounder of the World; Karakoram Adventure Holidays s Pakistan can book Bus tickets from  Sost( Pakistan) to Taxkurgan ( China), for overland traffic betweenPakistan & China, Open from 1st May till 31st December every year.  


Mountaineering & Climbing in Pakistan:
Since 1954, when the karakoram range of Pakistan was opened to expeditions for climbing & trekking, the mountains & glaciers of the north have become an international playground. There are hundreds of peaks still lying un-climbed. This is a great challenge for the mountaineers & climbers the World over.  


 
 
Permit:
All Peaks routes for mountaineering have been designated as open zone or restricted zone. Permits for climbing peaks in open zone, are issued by the Ministry of Tourism Pakistan, within 24 hours of the receipt of application. However, for peaks routes in restricted zone, permits are issued within 14 days from the date of receipt of the application in Ministry of Tourism Government of Pakistan.


Trekking in Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan:  
Northern Pakistan is a Trekker’s Paradise.
Most of the trekking routes lie in the Northern Mountains of the Karakorum, the Himalaya the Hindukush & the Pamir. Trekking Season start from May & end till the end of October. The Ministry of Tourism Government of Pakistan. Has defined trekking as walking below 6000m. It has designated three zones for trekking open, restricted & closed. Foreigners may trek anywhere in open zone without a permit or services of a licensed mountain guide. For trekking in restricted zone, foreigners must deposit a fee of US$ 50 per person per trek to obtain a trekking permit from Ministry of Tourism, it also requires hiring a licensed mountain guide, buying a personal insurance policy for the guide & the porters & attending briefing & de- briefing at the Ministry of Tourism, at the beginning & the end of each trekking trip. No trekking is allowed in closed zones, which are the areas near Pak-Afghan border & near the line of control with Indian held Kashmir.


White Water Sports in Pakistan:
Only those who dare take up the challenge of the frothy white waters of the roaring mountain rivers in Northern Pakistan know the excitement & thrill that such sports offer. Tourists can now undertake white water sports such as rafting, canoeing & kayaking ect. In the rivers Indus, Gilgit, Hunza, Swat. Shigar, Shayok & Kunhar. White water sports in these rivers of Northern Pakistan hold immense potential for the adventure lovers & sportsmen. 


Angling in Pakistan:
Rivers & lakes of Northern Pakistan are filled with trout. Popular with the anglers are: Kunhar river, Lake Saiful Maluk, lake Lulusar & lake Dodipatsar in Kaghan valley: Swat river & Mahodand lake in Swat valley, Gilgit river, Phandar lake, Handrab lake (along the Gilgit- Shandur Road). Chitral river & Shandur lake, Astor river & Rama lake in Astor valley: Sadpara & Kachura lakes in Skardu Valley ect. The fishing season lasts from April to September, & permits are available from the local Fisheries Department.
 
Skiing in Pakistan:
Ski facilities are available at Naltar & Kalabagh( Nathiagali), Anuual ski tournament is organized by Pakistan ski Federation at Naltar in February.
 
Polo Game in Pakistan:
The favorite sport in Northern Areas is polo, which originated here. It is more rugged, free style version than the sedate variety known in the plains.
A polo tournament is held in Gilgit from 1 to 7 November. However, passion for Polo remains the highest on the Worlds highest Polo ground. Every year, Shandur (3700 meters) invites visitors to experience a traditional polo tournament between the teams of Chitral & Gilgit from 7th to 9th July. The festival also includes folk music, folk dance, traditional sports & a camping village is be set up on the Pass.  


Baltistan:  
Baltistan spread over 26,000 square kilometers, Baltistan is situated amid the great Himalayas & Karakoram ranges on either side of the mighty Indus & its tributaries, surrounded by Gilgit & Hunza Valleys in the West, Indian held Kargil, Ladakh & Kashmir regions are in the East & Southeast. The Chinese province of Sinkiang lies in the North. It is also known a” Little Tibet” because of its proximity as well as ethnic, cultural & linguistic bondage with Ladakh & Tibet in the East, Baltistan itself consists of six valleys namely Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, Kharmang, Gultari & Rondu. The city of Skardu (2286m) situated on the left bank of the mighty riverIndus is linked with Islamabad through a 766 kilometers long metailed road. A daily Boeing flight also operates btewwen Islamabad & Skadru.  
Every year Baltistan passes through pleasant summer ( 2 dergee C to 40 degree C) from March to September severe winters, freezing . It contains the most spectacular & fascinating mountainous region of the world where hundreds of virgin peaks still lying unclimbed challenging climbers the world over. Hikking among them is an awesome experience but exploring the valleys & the local culture is equally rewarding. The most prominent peaks among these are K-2 (8611meters) second only to Everest, Gasherbrum I & II , Hidden Peak,Broad Peak, Masherbrum, Chogolinga ect. Baltistan also has an extensive glacial chain which includes the 75 kilometers long Siachen glacier, the largest glacier in the world outside the polar region, Concordia, Baltoro ect. Medicnal plants & delicious tempetate fruits specially apricots rich in taste & flavor are abundantly available. Polo matches in Skardu are a great attraction especially on festival occasions. In fact it is a traditional Balti game, which is called “The Game of Kings” or “ The King of Games” It has now become popular throughout Northern Areas including Chitral. During the second week of August each year, a polo tournament is held to mark the liberation of Baltistan from Dogra rule in 1948.
 
Skardu:
 Skardu, capital of Baltistan is perched on 2438 meters above sea level in the backdrop of the great peaks of the karakorums. Balti people are a mixture of Tibetan & Caucasian stock & speak Balti an ancient form of Tibetan.Due to the similarity of its culture, lifestyle & architecture with Tibet, Baltistan is also known as the ( Little Tibet). It borders on the Chinese province of Xinjiang & Indian- Occupied Kashmir. The tourist season is from April to October. The maximum temperature is 27 degree C & minimum October 8 dergee C. Apart from its incomparable cluster of mountain peaks & glaciers Baltistan.s five valleys, Shigar, Skardu, Khaplu, Rondu & Kharmang are noted for their luscious peaches, apricots, apples & pears.

What to See in Baltistan:


Kharpocho Fort: 
Skardu has an ancient Fort known as Kharpocho Fort (king of Forts) situated on a small Buddhisatvas is carved on a rock, three kilometers from Skaedu across Sadpara Nullah on Skardu Sadpara road. Pre- historic men & animals figures are carved on rocks along Kachura Lake. Some rock carving & diagram of a monastery near Perkuta ( Mehdiabad) Nalah are also found.

Lovely Lakes:
Upper Kachura (34km), Lower Kachura ( Shangrila-29km) Lake & Sadpara (8km) Lake, are very famous for fishing & boating.


Shigar Valley:
The gateway to the great mountain peaks of the karakorams, Gasherbrum & K-2, is only 23 km away from Skardu via jeep road. Shigar valley’s gentle, irrigated slopes are filled with terraces of wheat, maize & barley its orchards of apricots, mulberries, peaches, plums, pears, apples & nuts are unique to Baltistan. The wooden mosque in the middle of the town was built by Kashmiri carpenters several hundred years ago. There is the ex- Raja’s old Fort & Palace in the village.

Khaplu Valley:
This beautiful valley of the Shyok River is 103 km east of Skardu Khaplu is the starting point for most trekking & climbing expeditions, Many famous mountains such as Masherbrum, Saltoro, Sia Kangri, K-6, K-7 are located here. Chaqchan mosque is one of the earliest mosque in Baltistan (1504AD) attributed to Sayed Ali Hamdani. There is a palace of Raja of Khaplu & remains of Thorsikhar Fort.


Satpara Lake:
Nine kilometers south of Skardu is beautiful Satpara Lake, brilliant blue & stocked with rainbow trout. The walk to the lake is a dry, moderately steep three hours (8-9km) climb up Hargisar Nala from the City.


Deosai Plain:
The deosai plains, about 50km southwest of Skardu, comprise an immense, uninhabited grassy plateau, which borders Indian administered Kashmir,No where are the plains lower than about 4000 meters, they are only accessible for about four months each year & snowbound for the rest.
A trek across the plains has become popular jeep trek route between Skardu & Astore valley.
From July to September, you can trek from Astore valley to Skardu in as little as a week. Intrepid mountains bikers have done Astor to Skardu in five days.
Hushe Valley & Mashabrum View:  
Those who would like to see gorgeous 7821 meters massif of Mashabrum without trekking to it could try & walk up the Shyok Valley road pass the police checkpoint & the turn off to Hushe Valley towards Surmo.
Hushe is the trekker’s route to Mashabrum & an alternative to Shigar for mountaineers heading towards Concordia. For a close look at Mashabrum you can take a four day, three nights walk on a moderate grade from Khaplu to Hushe & back, with stops at Kande, Hushe & kande again.


Thalay Valley:
Thalay valley gives a glimpse of the Mashabrum range up this valley is three or four day trek from Khasumik over the 4572 meters Thaley La to Shigar.


Shigar Fort Residence:
(The Palace on the Rock).                                                                 
Built upon a huge boulder at the foot of a steep rock. Shigar Fort/ palace is known locally as Fong Khar, literally, the Palace on the Rock, it is located in oasis, like surrounding, irrigated by the waters from the glaciers of Baltistan, one of the most impressive regions in the karakoram ranges, & unsurpassed in natural beauty & cultural richness.
The complex at Shigar comprises the 400 year old fort/ palace & two more recent buildings, the Old House, & the Garden House. The former palace of the Raja of Shigar has been transformed into a 13 room heritage guesthouse, with the grand audience hall serving as a museum of Balti culture & featuring select examples of fine wood, carving, as well as other heritage objects.
Furnishings in the 13 historic rooms are discreet & tasteful, utilizing simple wooden furniture & hand woven textiles produced by craftsmen from the neighboring village. Original features such as bed niches as integral parts of the rooms. They provide a rare & unique atmosphere, which cannot be experienced anywhere else in Pakistan.  
The Garden House has been converted into a guesthouse with seven modern rooms, each including a television, The verandas off each room overlook the traditional Amacha garden, which is shaded by a centuries old Chenar tree & features a Kashmir style pavilion set within a square water basin.
The Old House features the reception a guest lounge, terraces & restaurant areas. There is easy access to the orchards & garden areas, which offer spectacular views & numerous areas for relaxation & leisure activities.


Leisure Activities:
While many visitors choose the Shigar Fort Residence for its beauty & tranquility, there are a variety of activities in the area. These range from hiking to the old Shigar Fort or trekking to K-2 base camp, day hikes to remote valleys & other points of interest such as the Deosai plateau, visits to cultural sites that reflect the unique mix of Hindu, Buddhist & illamic influences, including the Buddha Rocks, & the nearby settlements of Khaplu, Kiris & Kharmang a short hike to the organic village of Nangasoq, near Skardu, a visit to the hot springs at Chutron ( two hours from Shigar), or perhaps a polo match in the birthplace of the game.  


Organic Village Nangsoq:  
The first organic village of Pakistan, Nangsoq is opened to tourists located at a walking distance of 45 minutes, 2 km, from Skardu main city behind the historic Kharpocho fort, just at the meeting point of the Indus & Shigar Rivers. This village was jointly visited by His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan & the Royal Couple of UK Prince Charles & Lady Kumala Parker on April 11, 2006, The route to this organic village is one of the most exciting scenes of the the whole visit to Skardu. It gives the visitors a memorable & surprising experience of  trekking simultaneously on narrow but safe mountain path, on sandy bank of the Indus & stony foot of historic Madoqkhar, Un-like other parts of the country, farmers in this village, instead of using modern agricultural machineries & equipments, still follow the centuries old traditional & local tools & plant for cultivation & food production.  


Sadpara Lake:   
At a distance of eight kilometers south of Skardu or 15 minutes drive lies the awesome Sadpara Lake where Sadpara Dam is being constructed. It has clean water full of trout fish & a Fairy Tale Island in the centre.  
Kachura Lake:
The lakes are situated at a distance of 30 kilometers west of Sradu. The upper Kachura lake is famous for its natural beauty & the lower Kachura for Shangrilla & Tibet Motel.  
  
Katpana Lake:
A lovely drive of only 10 minutes from Skardu main city the fascinating traditional ancient villages of Sundus & Katpana, will bring you at the bank of picturesque Katpana Lake, where you can watch a large population of migrating ducks swimming in the crystal clear water.


Buddah Rock Carvings:
This historical rock is situated between Skardu city & Sadpara Lake on the bank of Hargisa stream. The images of great Buddha surrounded by his disciples more then 1400 years old sculpture. It was a place of worship for Buddhists till the middle of 14 century AD.

Mohenjodaro: 
About 350 miles (580km) from karachi on the highway via Dadu lies Moenjodaro which, in the local language, means Mound of the Dead. It is one of the sites of the Indus valley Civilization which flourished here 5000 years ago.


Thar: 
Thar desert of Sindh is yet another area of considerable intrest, its landscape, flora and fauna are totally different then other parts of the country . The rising sand hills which extend without interruption into Rajasthan in India, are dotted with stunted thorny bushes, coctus and small villages where people live in mud plastered conical hutments.


Sukhur:  
In and around sukhur there are many intresting sites having important historical as well as archacological significance. Sukhur is full of mausoleums of saints. The tomb of Mir masum dominates the skyline of the city and there are several moaques which are attractive.


Cholistan: 
Pakistan covering over25000 sq. km.It extends south into the Thar desert in Sindh and towards east into India Rajasthan desert.


Multan: 
The mediaeval, memorable, majestic, mysterious and mystique Multan. In fact the history of Multan is the sub- continent every invader from Alexander to the Mouryans. kushans, Huns, Arabs, Ghaznavids, Mughals, Afghans, Sikhs and right to the british fought for the control of this magnificent city. it is considered as a city of saints and sufis and mystics. whatever the truth, multan is probably the oldest living city in south Asia.


Harappa:
Harappa is located on an earlier course of the river ravi and like Maenjodaro the excavations have revealed a series of cities, stacked one upon another, with its citadel and great granary, seems similar in many ways to Maenjodaro and like its southern sister city appears to have thrived around 3000-1700Bc. The Harrapan society seems to have been egalitarian, pursuing a rather simple way of life.


Lahore:
Lahore is the city clams attention not only of the politicians, rulers and students of history, archaeology and antiquities, but also of the general and even casual visitors or readers as it offers many interesting places and faces. It is full of life and attracts millions of visitors of every class and cread every year from all parts of Pakistan as well as abroad. It has its own personality and charm not equaled easily by any other city of the subcontinent.


Quetta:
The city sprawls over a plateau about 4500 feet above sea level, but tresses by knife edge, grey mountains of takatu, zarghoon and chiltan etc. these hill ranges vary in the height having their own high points and valleys whose hidden beauties deserve attention and exploration.


Ziarat:
This small hill resort is located around 8000 feet above sea level and offers cool-dry climate. Apart from old juniper forest, this is now disappearing fast, the valley of fears abundance of roses and fragrant lavender Bushes which cover significant part of the landscape.


Gwadar:
Gwadar is the second largest town of balochistan today. Its beach is excellent, the best in Pakistan, and its mountains area are beautiful too.


Uch Sharif:
Uch Sharif, during the 13th century it was an important center for religious, cultural and literary, pursuits and attracted scholars, saint, poets and pirs from several parts of Asia. The town is now known for its ancient tombs and mosques through much of their glory has been lost but even the ruins are considered as beautiful even today and attract hundreds of visitors.


Wahgah Border:
 The Pakistan India border is 29 km (18 miles) from Lahore along the GT road at Wahgah flag ceremonies are held daily, raising in the morning and lowering 30 minutes before the sunsets. This daily routine is colourful and traditional. The Indian and Pakistani soldiers trying for military perfection.


Islamabad:
Islamabad the new capital is located in the lap of the margala hills extending far into the murree hills and beyond up to Kashmir. Often dismissed as a modern, characterless city, Islamabad has certain attractions of its own, with its wide trees lined avenues and parks, gardens and fountains giving it an air of spacious senses and abundant greenery. Its main asset is its setting at the foot of the margala hills which dominate the city rising up to 1580 meters (5184 feet).


Murree:
Murree also called as Malika-e-Kohsar, (Queen of the hills) lies on one of the outer Himalayan spurs, in the north-east of Islamabad.


Bhurben:
About 10 km from and known for its first class nine halls mini golf course amongst the hills which attract a large number of enthusiasts. There is a golf club, a rest house and one of the most spectacular resort hotels.


Nathiagali:
Nathiagali with its fascinating landscape, refreshing walks, bracing climate, beautiful ridges thickly covered with pines, chest net, oak and maple, and above all, its quiet, calm an


Kalam:
Its great attractions is its altitudes and therefore cool climate during the summer months, as well as the beauty of the surrounding valley and mountains.


Shogran:
Shogran is located at 2400m above sea level. It is the most beautiful place in the Kaghan valley and ideal for spending a weekend. You can either track up to summer pastures at about 2700m to the forest rest house (2 hrs walk) or trek down to kawai on the main Balakot. Kaghan road, through a dense pine forest. The walk up to summer pasture could be more exciting as you could see malika Parbat (5296m) the highest mountain in Kaghan valley, and whose shadow in the clear white water of Saif-ul-Maluk adds to the beauty of this legendry lake. hiking is superlative.


Kalash valley:
Also known as Kafiristan, has been whittled down to three valley only which are situated in chitral. The northern most district of pakistan. The entire area covered by these valleys is a paradise of rolling green hills, corn fields, rushing streams full with icy cold water add trout, waving walnuts, peachs, pears, appricots,mulberry, apples and grapes.


Taxila:  
Taxila is one of the famous archeological sites of the Gandhara period and there are hundreds of legends spun around the Taxila sites, ruins of which can be seen even today. It remained center of Buddhism for centuires and thus is a must for all those who visit North of Pakistan.


Azad Kashmir:   
The heaven on Earth is physically the scythe- shaped. The territory of Azad jammu and Kashmir is dotted with a vast chain of scenic and natural beauty spots amidst flowing steams, gushing out springs and flowering plants. The mountain tops over the valleys look like circular and rectangular caps. The panorama is really pleasing.


Peshawar 
Peshawar is the main entreport to the planes of Pakistan,is one of the oldest cities of Asia.
For over two thousands of years it has been  the gossiping,marketing,and meeting place for the 
people of central Asia,the middle east and the subcontinent of Pakistan and India etc.


Chitral
Chitral is the area of outstanding natural beauty with spectacular chances of trekking and mountain climbing.It is also the land of singing streams,wonderful valleys,deep and steep gorges  and a variety of people.


Gilgit Baltistan
Gilgit is a town of orchards of ,fields, shops and springs,houses and streets appears to have placed there quite naturally.People are never far from nature.The shops run almost in two.three rows  over a mile  or so interspersed by school and municipal offices.


Hunza
The shangrilla of Pakistan,located in the Northern Areas of the country, is surrounded by high 
mountains deep glaciers and fruit laden gardens.The clear air and natural diets of hunza people
help them to live long and happy lives.


Skardu
Skardu has been a dream land of the mountaineers from all parts of the World for over hundreds of years.It is to the northeast of skardu that the karakorum mountains assume their most impressive and unyeilding characters.


Deosai
It contrasts sharply with ring of jagged rocky mountains that surrounds it on all sides.Gently rolling
 hills extends into the distance as far as the eyes can see clothed in a soft cladding of vegetation and carpeted with brighted coloured flowers in summer.The plateau is population free rivers flow past crystal clear and icy cold.


Kaghan valley  
Kaghan valley is 160 kilometers long.kaghan valley is sat amongst the lush green panorom.At 
the northern adge of the monsoon belt,kaghan supports an abundance of vegetation.The lower slopes are well cultivated with spectacular terraces,higher up. the mountains are clothed in forest of himalayan pines and fir with snow cover peaks looming above.


Neelum Valley
About 240 kilometers long,the picturisque.Neelum valley is situated to the north and north east of Muzafar Abad.running parallel to the kaghan valley,it is seperated from it by snow covered peaks,someover 4000meters above sea level. excellent scenic beauty,panoramic view,towering hills on both sides of the noisy Neelum river,lush green forests,enchanting streams,high altitude lakes and attractive surroundings make the valley a dream come true.


Karakorum High Way
The karakorum high way follows one of the principle silk road routes.Pakistani proudly refers to the road as the eighth wonder of the World.The KKH was carved into the  Indus valley above the furious torrents of the Indus river,right up through the Hunza valley and over the mighty Karakorum mountains via Khunjerab pass to China.

About Peshawar City
(The Gateway to Central Asia).
Peshawar is a city of many splendors; it is the city of the brave. It is embedded in history, having been in existence as far back as 4000 years BC. Over the centuries, the inhabitants of Peshawar have witnessed the march of many conquerors, some ruthless, some brave & magnanimous. It is a city of legends & of folklore.  Proud, rugged & fierce as they may appear, Pathans inhabiting this age old city are a very hospitable people. Peshawar also retains much of its traditions, old grandeur & character, having been in the path of all major invasions of the Sub- continent. As the invading armies rolled down the historic Khyber Pass, Peshawar saw the march of Alexander’s warriors as well as those of the Huns, the Mughals & so on. Later in history, Peshawar also witnessed the march reverse direction as the British who held sway over other parts of the Sub- continent, tried  to establish a foothold around the valley & beyond to maintain accessibility to the north through the Khyber Pass, Although the Pathans took over the area in & around. Peshawar at the end of the seventh century, the Muslims first conquered the area including Peshawar in the tenth century AD it was not until the beginning of the sixteenth century AD that the Mughals achieved a firm foothold in Peshawar & beyond into the Sub-continent with Emperor laying the foundation of the famous Mughal dynasty which continued to rule the sub-continent with grace & grandeur for more than centuries. Although conquered by the Greeks & ruled in turn by Buddhists, Sikhs & the Mughals & despite being annexed by the British until independence in 1947, Peshawar is a city of devout Muslims. The successive invasions have helped to enrich the cultural mosaic of the city. It is, therefore, not uncommon even today to find an old village bearing a Greek name. The people are handsome with sharp features closely resembling those of the Greeks.


Places of Interest:
Qissa Khawani Bazaar: Side by side with wide boulevards & modern avenues, Peshawar retains the narrow lanes & streets as well as the typical crowded oriental bazaars, overflowing with goods & people. Among the most famous of the Peshawar bazaars is the Qissa Khawani Bazaars, immortalized by the British poet & writer Rudyard Kipling as the street of the story tellers. The Peshawar bazaars flourished as the city has traditionally been a wholesale market for goods transported across the Khyber Pass to & from Afghanistan & the Sub continent. In fact it has also been a resting post for merchants carrying their wares beyond Afghanistan into Central Asia. For any visitor to Peshawar, Qissa Khawani is an unavoidable haunt. It retains all the romanticism & chivalry that has been the hallmark of the area. Tribesmen & traders gather here to exchange news & anecdotes & to haggle & bargain. As the fierce but friendly, warm & hospitable Pathans chatter & gossip between cups of sweet tea, brightly painted & gaily decorated trucks vans & cars pass by, with all horns blaring. The bazaar also has all other trappings of the oriental market place with street vendors dispensing health pills, fore telling fortunes & the snake charmers alluring people towards their baskets full of snakes, minus the venom of course.

Bala Hisar Fort:
For the visitors, Peshawar offers more than the chram of its bazaars & its people. There is the Bala Hisar Fort built by the Mughal Emperor Babar in the early sixteenth century.

Masjid Mahabat Khan:
The mosque built in 1630 AD by Mahabat Khan, the Mughals governer of Peshawar is a marvelous piece of architecture, through lost its original glory, long ago. This was yet another feather in the cap of Engineer, Shahjehan (1628 – 1658 AD), it is still one of the impressive religious buildings.situated in the Andar Shahar Bazaar.

The Pehawar Museum:
To see the most invaluable collection from various archaeological sites, one must visit the Peshawar Museum. You can see relics of different civilizations especially Gandhara period (300 BC – 300 AD) on display in scientifically arranged galleries. The treasure trave tells you the untold history of the region.
Islamia College, Peshawar University:
Islamia College is a historical place Founded by Sahibzada Abdul Qaiyum, an educationist of British period, the College later served as awareness creator among the populace, willing to fight for the cause of freedom. Some of the most renowned personalities were students of this prestigious institute, which later became a part of Peshawar University.

Excursions from the City:

Khyber Pass:
The road west of Peshawar leads up to the historic & immortal Khyber. The drive through the Khyber Pass, the scene of innumerable battles & insurgencies, brings you face to face with the indomitable Afridi Pathans who could never be effectively subjugated by the British with all their might & strength. They are a people who would never bow their heads in subjugation but act with spontaneous friendliness & hospitality when they so wish.
The Khyber Pass bears many mementos of the numerous invasions dating back to many centuries. The most visible, however, are those of the British presence in the area during the later half of the last century & the first half of the present. At a number of points along the Pass, you will see insignias of various British regiments carved into the rocks.
Jamrud Fort:
Situated near the Baab-e- Khyber or Khyber Gate, this is an old fortress, built by famous Sikh General Hari Singh Nalwa, who lost his life fighting against the forces of Amir of Kabul in 1837.
Landikotal:
Is the last railway station of Pakistan, lying en-route the Pak- Afghan Border. An Old bazaar offers little attraction to the tourists with the sale of arms & imported goods.

Warsak Dam:
One of the gigantic tasks that the Pakistani engineers ever performed in Country’s history  is multi- purpose Warsak Dam. Situated 30 km north-west of Peshawar, the Dam has a total capacity of 240,000 KW & can serve to irrigate 110,000 acres of land.
Kohat Pass:
The Kohat Pass is situated about 40 km south  of Peshawar, in the tribal territory. The tribes got fame through manufacturing best quality of weapons. They are very intelligent in copying & making exact replicas of genuine fire-arms.
Takht Bhai:
Dates back from 2nd to 3rd century AD the site presents the highly developed structure of a Buddhist monastery in the form of remains only. It is located atop a 160 meters high hill, some 80 km from Peshawar. Shopping:
The bazaars of Peshawar are buyer’s delight. Craftsmanship is of an exceptionally high standard with brass & copper-work, intricately carved woodwork & handsome designed Peshawari sandals being the principal attraction.
Accessibility:
The capital of NWFP is well connected by rail, road & air with other parts of the county. The Pak- Afghan Border at Torkham is a place of recalling the rich history when warriors would enter into the lands of frontier province to proceed for conquering India.

Khalty Gupis Valley

Welcome to the Trout valley for a unique Experience in Nature, Culture &
Sport Tourism:
Khalty Lake, paradise for Anglers:
Northern Areas at a glance.
The Northern Areas nestled among the Karakoram, Hindukush & Himalaya is considered as a piece of paradise on earth. The gigantic mountain ranges, lush green valleys, glaciers, rivers lakes, picturesque pastures & above all the culture & living patterns of people make it a unique place especially for tourists & visitors. Thousands of visitors from around the world visit & enjoy the beauty & tranquility in these mountainous areas administratively it has been divided into six districts: Astore, Skardu, Khaplu & Ghizer.
Khalty Areas:
Situated in district Ghizer Valley, Khalty is one of the most attractive places in Gupis Valley. It is on the crossroad to the famous Shandur pass which links the Northern Areas of Pakistan to Chitral in the Northwest frontier province of Pakistan. It offers a variety of attractions for those who wish to enjoy nature in its various shapes. The view of the area is breathtaking as it broadens out with green fields laced with poplar trees. The hallmark of Khalty is the stunning Khalty Lake, which is abode to the famous trout fish introduced by a British in 1914. Gupis has a historical significance as it was the route of early Buddhist pilgrims who used to travel from China to Gandhara Swat & other pilgrimage sites in South Asia. This area was also a means of access for invading armies from Chitral & other Kingdoms to the North.
Key attractions:
Like other important sites in Gupis Valley, Khalty has a rich variety of historical & natural attractions which are beyond imagination. Visitors from across the world have so far visited this area but the hidden treasures in various forms & shapes are still unknown to rest of the world. Some of the attractions include:
Archaeological sites:
The existence of archaeological sites testifies the historical significance of this area & makes it unique even today mainly from the perspective of historians, archaeologists & visitors, Megalithic circles & carved stones enrich the archaeological heritage of Khalty area as well as the entire Gupis Valley.
Megalithic Circles:
On the way to Gupis there are some places along the way where boulders have fallen down the mountain & have come to rest in the middle of the fields they are ominous sights. One imagines that they must have shattered while falling, these broken pieces of rock look like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle lying close to each other. At the junction of Yasin & Gupis River, there is an archaeologbutical site which is 3500 years old & is home to variety of megalithic circles in the place called Dewano Das. The shapes & sizes of these megaliths very & it is an amazing place to see these wonders. Those who have had the opportunity to see such wonders in media or print may have enjoyed it but an eye witness can only imagine the real pleasure of being amidst these amazing megalithic circles.
Stone Carvings:
Khalty has yet another attraction in the form of stone carvings. The impressions of different animals made on these stones remind us of the artistic nature & aesthetic sense of the people who lived in these mountainous areas thousands of years ago. It also depicts the existence of variety of animals in these areas which have now become extinct or exist in limited numbers.
Nature at its peak in Khalty Gupis Valley:
The landscape & terrain of Gupis speaks volume about the variety in natural beauty. There are a number of places which have unique characteristics & each place has its own identity. Key sites of attraction include Hamerdas, Jandrote, Khalty, Dahimal, Bathraith, Thingai, Pingal, Shamaran, Phander, Gulakhmuli, Handrap & Teru. The existence of stunning lakes coupled with rivers make a value addition to the richness of the entire valley in terms of tourism. The river flows through a narrow gorge to enter the Gupis Valley where it spreads out into many branches bisecting the fields at many places & the many streams interlacing with each other as they shimmer in the sun to give it a unique look as it travels along the valley towards Gilgit. The mountains on either side of the valley tower up towards the sky & in some areas the clouds hug the sides of the mountains to cover the peaks. Once you happen to visit this gorgeous valley, you will just have the opportunity to enjoy much more beyond your imagination. In the Khalty Lake & its surrounding areas, there are a lot of attractions for visitors which include.
Angling:
The famous Khalty Lake lies towards Phunder, the expanse of the lake stretches to about 12 to 15 km & is 1 to 2 km wide. The water is as calm as a satin sheet; Khalty Lake is the home of trout fish. Angling is the famous sport here & is unique all over the Northern Areas. Tug of war with these boneless animals is a unique experience which gives both pleasures & nutrition. Fishing is allowed in between April & October each year as the rest of time is breeding season. Fishing licenses are available for daily or seasonal fishing. Latest equipments for fishing are available for sale or on rent.

Boating:
Across the glittering & crystal clear water, boating is yet another thrilling experience amidst the lush green valleys. The rich & ready wheat fields gives a feeling of being closer to the magnanimity of nature. There is a small green spot across the Khalty Lake adjacent to the mountain which is a unique resort for taking rest & enjoying the breathtaking scene of the lake & the entire valley.
Trekking:
The landscape of Khalty valley is quite thrilling & heartening for trekking. A blend of hilly, sloppy & plane areas offer fantastic opportunities for trekking & enjoying the beautiful scenes of the valley.Camping:
For those travelers who wish to stay in tents in these valleys we can provide them . there are many options for camping near the beautiful lakes or on different destinations while trekking. River Crossing with Pulleys:
While crossing the gorgeous river with the help of rope & pulleys, one may marvel the river reflecting like molten silver in the sun. It is a unique experience with joy, thrill & excitement whilst crossing these rivers during the summer.
The Climate & People:
The most important aspect of this area is the climate which is just unique & matchless. The fragrant air which is just pure, the fresh water, healthy & traditional food & above all the hospitality of the people make this area distinctive from any area in the world where tourists visit.
Venturing on this beautiful journey is a life time experience & Compels one to visit this area again & again.


Lahore the Mughal Show Window:
History:
Lahore has been the capital of Punjab for nearly 1000 years. Besides being the Mughal Show Window, Lahore is the cultural academic & intellectual centre of Pakistan. For 200 years, beginning from about 1525 AD, Lahore remained a thriving cultural center of the Mughal Empire, when it was beautified with palaces, gardens, monuments & moques.During the British regime, many monuments sprang up in Lahore, which blended beautifully with the Mughal, gothic & Victorian styles of architecture.
Legend has it that the city was founded by two sons of Rama about 4000 years ago. Reminiscence of its hoary past are the remains of a subterranean temple (attributed to Rama the legendary hero of Ramayana) found in the northern part of the Royal Fort, Hieun, tsang, the famous Chinese pilgrim has given a vivid description of Lahore city, which he visited in the early 7th century AD Abu Rehan Muhammad bin Ahmed Al- Biruni, in his Tarikh-e- Hind, at the time of Mahmud Gazni’s invasion also mentioned Lahore in detail. Lying on the main trade & invasion route of South Asia, Lahore has been ruled, built & plundered by a number of dynasties & hordes, From 1024 to 1186, it was governed by Mehmud of Ghazni & the Ghaznavid dynasty, then by Muhammad of Ghor & finally by the various Sultans of Delhi. However, it touched the zenith of its glory during the rule of the great Mughals (1524-1752) who were fond of art, architecture & culture, gave Lahore some of its finest monuments that are extant today.

Monuments, Mosques & Shrines:
The Royal Fort (world Heritage Site).
The Mughal Emperor Jalal uddin Muhammad Akbar held his court in Lahore from 1584- 1596 AD. He built the massive Lahore Fort in 1566 AD on the foundation of an old mud fort dating back to 1021 AD & enclosed the city within a red brick wall boasting 12 gates. The Royal Fort is rectangular in shape (380x 330 meters). Two main gates are located alongside the centre of the western & eastern walls. Every succeeding Mughal emperor as well as the Sikhs & the British in their turn, added a pavilion palace gate or wall to the fort. The complete tour of the fort takes around one & a half hour The entrance is through Alamgirl Gate built in 1674 by Aurangzeb Alamgir. A ramp leads from Alamgirl Gate to Mussamah Burj Gate on the left & on the right, to the Royal Kitchens, Maktab Khana was built by Jehangir in 1618 Moti Masjid (built by Shah Jehan in 1644) isentered via steps rising from the courtyard north of Maktab Khana Diwan-e- Aam ( Hall of Public Audience ) is an open pavilion with 40 pillars built by Shah Jehan in 1631 ( restructured by the British in 1841). The marble pavilion & red sandstone balcony were originally built by Akbar in 1566 alongwith Diwan-e- Khas (Half of Private audience) behind the balcony Masiti or masjidi gate east of Diwan-e- Khas was the original main gate built by Akbar & receives its name from the Maryiam Zamani mosque located outside the gate  Jehangir’s Quadrangle, north of Diwan-e- Aam, are one of the most attractive area of the Fort. Started by Akbar in 1566 & completed by Jehangir in 1617, the building in the east, west & south side of the court reflect typical Akbari style with richly carved red sandstone columns & elaborate animal shaped brackets, Khawabgah-e- Jehangiri ( Jehangir’s sleeping chambers) the main building on the north, houses an interesting musem containing an ivory model of the Taj Mahal, some excellent illustrated manuscripts, pieces of calligraphy, miniature paintings, collection of coins & portrait of the  last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar. The Hammam ( Jehangir’s Bathhouse) is in the southwest corner of the quadrangle. A musem west of the bath, (the sleeping chamber of Mai Jandan) contains a fine collection of Mughal & Sikh arms & paintings Shah Jehan’s Quadrangle is the building complex to the north. It consists of his sleeping chambers (1633). The fresco of Radha & Krishna in the main room here dates back to Sikh period, Shah Jehan’s Diwan-e- Khas (1645) is the graceful arcaded pavilion of marble on the northern side of the Quadrangle. The Lai Burj (Red Tower – built between 1617& 1631 by Jehangir & Shah Jehan) is the octagonal summer  pavilion in the northwest corner of shah jehan’s  Quadrangle Adjacent to it is the zenana sehan ( Ladies Courtyard)  built by shah jehan in 1633. The kala burj  (Black Tower) atwin summer pavilion to the Lal burj is in the northwest corner of the ladies courtyard . The court of the shish mahal ( the palace of mirrors) is the most beautiful palace in the Fort. It was built by Shah Jehan in 1631 as private apartments for his empress. The whole of the interior is covered with mirror mosaics, carved & gilded plasterwork & pietra dura inlay. The Naulakha pavilion named for nine lace rupees it cost to build in 1631 is a small marble room on the western side of the court. This side of the Shish mahal courtyard has excellent views of the Badshahi mosque & the Samadhi Ranjit Singh. At the end of your tour, you will come out of the Shish Mahal & turn to the right & down the broad, shallow steps of Hathi Paer (Elephant Path). This was the private entrance of the Royal Family leading straight to Shah Burj. As you leave the Fort through the Shah Burj Gate, you can notice 350 years old mosaics set into the outer face of the Fort wall.
Badshahi Mosque:
The imperial of the Badshahi mosque is across the courtyard from the Alamgiri gate of the Lahore Fort. The mosque made up entirely of red sandstone, was built by Empperor Aurang zeb in a record time of two & a half year. It was completed by 1674 AD; it has a beautiful spacious portal which measures 21.33 meters in height & a courtyard that measures 161.5 X 160.6 meters. It is said to be the largest mosque courtyard in the world for outdoor prayers. The marble domes cover seven prayer chambers. Four lofty minarets stand at the four corners of the mosque, each with an outer circumference of 20 meters, soaring up to 54 meters, in the chambers above the gate of the mosque ,are housed relics attributed to the Holy Prophet of Islam ( peace be upon Him). His daughter & his son-in-law. These are said to have been brought to South Asia by Amir Taimur. Within the mosque, almost all the colors have been used to paint the floral designs but the overall effect remains one of sobriety, elegance, piousness & simplicity.
Shalimar Gardens (World Heritage Site):
Five kilometers east of the Old City on the GT road, are the famous Shalimar Gardens, laid out by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in 1642 AD. The Gardens are spread out in typical Mughal style & are surrounded by high walls with watchtowers at the four corners. Originally, the Gardens were spread over seven ascending terraces but only three remain now, which cover an area of about 42 acres. The brickwork of the floors of the three terraces has been restored according to the original patterns, which differ on each terrace. At the end of the first terrace, there is a marble pavilion under which water flows & cascades down over a carved, marbel slab creating a waterfall effect. Across the waterfall, is a marble throne. At the end of second terrace, is a beautiful structure called Sawan Badhon, a sunken tank with niches on its three sides. Water cascades down from it in sheets in front of the niches, producing the sound of the falling rain. In the olden times a oil lamps were placed in the niches, which reflected myriad colors, through the water, Shalimar Gardens have the privilege of being the stage of many important state receptions. Outsides lights on the first & the second terraces of the Gardens have been installed & the area is illuminated half an hour after sunset. Wazir Khan’s Mosque & Shahi Hammam (The Royal Bath):
To visit the most beautiful Mosque of South Asia, you will have to enter the Kashmiri Bazaar through Delhi gate, Shahi  Hammarn is just inside the gate on the left. The Wazir Khan’s Mosque is about 300 meters further inside the bazzar & on the left. The Mosque & the Hammam were built in 1634 by Hakim limuddin, popularly known as Wazir  Khan, from Chital, the Governor of Punjab under Shah Jehan, made of bricks, this unique mosque is decorated with brightly colored glazed mosaics of Mughal floral designs on a clear yellow background.

Sunehri Masjid (The Golden Mosque):
It is situated at the other end of Kashmiri bazaar. The Mosque was built in 1753 by Nawab Syed Bhikari Khan, it is a remarkably beautiful mosque with there golden domes.Maryam Zamani Mosque: Maryam Zamani was one of the Queens of Emperor Akbar. In 1614 she built a mosque near Masiti gate or the Lahore Fort. It is also called as, Segum Shahi Mosque. With its fine fresco paintings, the mosque depicts the sophisticated taste of the Mughal imperial harem.
Dai Anga’s Mosque:
Dai Anga (wet- nurse of Shah Jehan, real name Zeb-un-Nisa) was wife of Murad Khan, the magistrate of Bikaner under the Mughals. She constructed this mosque in 1635 near today’s Lahore Railway Station. It is embellished of Mr. Henry Cope, the first editor of Lahore Chonicle. The mosque was resorted in 1903.
Dara Shikoh’s Mosque:
Dara Shikoh, son of Emperor Shah Jehan & brother of Aurangzeb loved Lahore due to his deep devotion for Sufi Saint Hazrat main Mir. During that time the area surrounding the shrine of Hazrat Mian Mir was called Darapur, where Dara Shikoh built a mosque with exquisitely styled, palki domes.Mausoleum of Emperor Jehangir:
The tomb of the fourth great Mughal Emperor Jehangir, lies five kilometers northwest of the city centre across the Ravi River, along GT road at Shahdara. About 700 meters past Toll plaza on the ravi Bridge, turn right& follow the road for 600 meters before turning left to cross the railway line, About 700 meters further on is the massive Mughal gateway. The fresco-covered gateway of red bricks leads into Akbari Sarai built by Shah Jehan in 1637. It is a spacious garden quartered by footpaths & planted with huge chinar, shisham, peepul & Banyan trees. Around the four sides are 180 small rooms. On the eastern side, a red sandstone portal, inlaid with marble, leads into another Mughal garden with exact geometric patterns balancing each side. The marble tomb of Jehangir (died in 1627), is approached from four corridors leading from this garden. Three of these corridors are closed by intricate marble screens. The marble grave is elaborately inlaid with floral designs & the 99 attributes of Allah are inscribed on its two sides. On the top, is a verse from the Holy Quran. The tomb was built by Queen Noor Jehan & the Emperor’s son, Shah Jehan, around 1637.
Asif Khan’s Mausoleum:
The tomb of Asif Khan Jehangir’s brother in-law & father of Shah Jehan’s beloved Queen Arjumand Bano, is on the opposite (west) side of the Akbari Sarai. A passage on the left of handsome red sandstone mosque that stands opposite the gate of the Jehangir’s Tomb, leads through to Asif Khan’s tomb, its bulbous dome is visible from the Akbari Sarai as it looms over the top of the mosque.
Noor Jehan’s Tomb:
The Empress Noor Jehan, “Light of the World” was the only Mughal empress whose name appeared on the coins of the Empire. She was buried in 1645 at Shahdara outside Jehangir’s mausoleum, across the railway line. Her tomb once had a marble cenotaph, which she had built herself during her lifetime. The tomb suffered extensive damages along with her husband’s tomb at the hands of Sikhs when they gained power in Punjab in the beginning of the 19th century.
Kamran’s Baradari:
Kamran’s  Baradari (12 archways), the oldest Mughal building in Lahore, was built in 1540 by Mirza Kamran, son of Babar & step-brother of Humanyun, it was built as a summer house & remained a recreational place for the Mughals till the Ravi river changed its course during the period of Aurangzeb Alamgir. The Baradari has become now an island in the middle of the river (visit by boat downstream from the Ravi Bridge on GT road. Zebunnisa’s Tomb Garden:
Zebunnisa was the talented & learned daughter of Aurangzeb. She was a great poetess & wrote under the pen name of Makhfi. Addressing the waterfall in the Shalimar Garden. She sang:‘ O waterfall why are you lamenting. And what grief wrinkles your face? What was your pain, that all through the night? You were striking you’re head on the rocks & crying. Zebunnisa built a garden at Nawankot where she was buried after her death, in 1669 AD. Her tomb was once furnished with costly stones, pavilions & fountains. The remains of her extensive garden still exist with its certal gateway & two corner towers & speak high of the elegant taste of this 17th century Mughal Princess.
Saru Wala Maqbara:
The tomb of Sharif UN Nissa Begum is popularly known as Saru Wala Maqbara because of the images of cypress (saru) trees on its walls Sharif un Nissa was the water of a Mughal noble. She built a tower where she studied Quran every day. Respecting her wishes after her death. She was buried in the chamber of same tower along with a copy of the holly book & her jeweled sword. This unusual tower like tomb is 16 feet above the ground.
Ali Mardan Khan’s Tomb:
The tomb of Ali Mardan Khan is accessible by a 300 meters long walkway, relieved by an interesting pattern of light & shade filtering through the lattice roof, Ali Mardan Khan was a noble at the court of Safvid King. After surrender of Qandhar by Iranians to Emperor Shah Jehan in 1638, he joined the Mughal court & was appointed Governor of Kashmir & Lahore, also attaining the title of Amir-ul-Umara (Lord of Lords) He was a skilled engineer & built a number of canals including the one that feeds Shalimar Gardens, He died in 1657 AD & was buried in the tomb that he had built for his mother.
Nadira Begum’s Tomb & Garden:
Nadira Begum was the wife of Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shah Jehan, She is buried in a square shaped tomb near the shrine of Hazrat Mian Mir to whom the princely couple was spiritually attached. Constructed with massive brick masonry, the two story structure of the tomb was originally built as a Baradari, surrounded by an enormous water tank.
Anarkali’s Tomb:
The tomb of Anarkali is one of the most significant buildings of the
Mughal period, ingeniously planned octagonal building it is a memorial of the love- legend of prince Saleem ( Emperor Jahangir). According to a legend to a legend, Nadira Begum,  with the title of Anarkali belonged to the harem of Emperor Akbar Suspecting Jahangir’s intense passion for the beautiful Anarkali, Akbar  ordered Anarkali to be buried alive in a brick wall. She died in 1599 AD. & her tomb was later constructed by Jahangir in 1615 AD Circular in shape & roofed by a lofty dome; the tomb was once surrounded by a garden called Anarkali Garden. During the Sikh rule, the mausoleum was occupied by Kharak Singh, Later it served as the residence of General Ventura, the Italian General of Ranjit Singh’s army Under the British the tomb was converted into a Church. Since 1891, it has been used as Punjab Archives Museum with an amazing treasure for those interested in the history of British Punjab.
Wazir Khan’s Baradari:
Located in the rear of Lahore Museum is an elegant structure of Wazir Khan’s Baradari. The building is named after its founder, Hakim Limuddin (titled Wazir Khan), The Baradari ( 12 doorways) was origina