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2011-02-19T17:08:00.001+05:00

US warns citizens of potential threat in Europe

2010-10-03T23:17:00.000+05:00

The US today warned its citizens travelling to Europe to guard against potential terror threats in view of intelligence reports that Pakistan-based terror outfits are planning Mumbai-type attacks in cities like London and Paris. The 'travel alert' issued by the US State Department advised US

citizens living or travelling in Europe to take more precautions about their personal security, and is a step below a formal travel warning.

Citing the potential for terrorists "to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure", the travel advisory said: "US citizens should take every precaution to be aware of their surroundings and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when travelling".

The alert has been prompted by the volume of intelligence on possible terror threats, amid reports that Pakistan-based terror outfits are planning Mumbai-type attacks in cities across Europe. "Current information suggests that Al-Qaida and affiliated organisations continue to plan terrorist attacks," it said.

"European governments have taken action to guard against a terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions," the alert, which expires in January next year, says.

The alert said said terrorists "may elect to use a variety of means and weapons and target both official and private interests". A senior US official was quoted as saying by CNN, that in addition to the travel alert from the State Department, "US military installations are taking prudent precautions. This is a serious situation."

CNN said a possible backlash from the French 'burqa' ban is considered a factor in the warning. The French Senate had recently approved a law banning veils that cover the face, including the burqa, worn by some Muslim women.

Since the Mumbai terrorist strikes, law enforcement officials and intelligence agencies have been warning that there was a huge potential of such an attack being emulated in cities across the globe.

This is the first time that the intelligence agencies in Europe and the US have gathered such an information.

A major terrorist plot to target cities in UK and other European countries was unravelled recently, with intelligence agencies saying that an estimated 20 British youths were being trained in al-Qaeda run terror camps in Pakistan's tribal areas to be sent to attack their home countries.

2010-05-22T11:41:00.000+05:00

Japan: Traveling with Babies in Japan

Babies are welcome in Japan, and you'll often hear "kawaii!!" or "cute!!" from locals as they check out the baby. Some advice for foreign travelers in Japan:

Baby food in jars is not readily available at grocery or department stores. Most Japanese parents cook fresh food for their babies. Try looking for jars at large pharmacies in the baby section. Fruit, veggies, chicken, and yogurt, amongst others, are available.
Diapers and powdered formula are widely available.
If you plan to ride trains, bring a small, folding stroller. Trains can be very crowded, and locals will appreciate your efforts to minimize space.
Water in Japan is safe to drink and use for washing.
Many public bathrooms in Japan, particularly older ones, do not have soap. Carry a small hotel-sized liquid soap for washing up after a dirty diaper change. For modern facilities including changing stations, soap and air driers, look for department stores.
The baby floor of higher-end department stores such as Mitsukoshi often has a baby room, with changing stations and areas for breast feeding.

Happy and safe travels!

2010-05-22T11:39:00.002+05:00

Japan: Ryokans

Japan is truly a unique country, and one of the aspects that makes it so original is its accommodation system. One of the options that you might have is ryokan, which is a traditional Japanese inn.

Staying in ryokan initially can seem intimidating but it is not that difficult to arrange and could offer you a great deal of insight into a traditional Japanese way of life. With the Internet at hand, it is really easy to book a ryokan. http://www.itcj.or.jp/indexwel.html is a good website which is an association of Japanese inns and another good site is http://www.japaneseguesthouses.com/in.... Both of these sites are easy to navigate and book your trip.

The advantages to staying in ryokans are multifold: it’s truly different to staying in the usual hotels, it is not expensive at all, and if you book a ryokan that is located in the area of hot springs, it can provide truly unforgettable experience of taking a bath in the hot springs (some ryokans even have outside baths).

The most important difference between ryokan and the regular hotel is that guests sleep on the floor on the sleeping mats which for some people is very convenient and comfortable. You can not walk in your shoes in the ryokan, but slippers are provided. That way the place is cleaner, and it actually feels like you are in somebody’s house rather than in a hotel. In your room you will find yukata, which is a Japanese robe similar to kimono (but simpler) which you can put on while you are in the ryokan.

You can also try a Japanese breakfast in your ryokan (it is usually not included in the price – it is about 7-10 dollars per person), and you don’t have to eat it everyday. The food is really unusual and it is definitely not your Western breakfast. It is beautifully presented and very filling.

Some places like Hakone (close to Tokyo and next to Mount Fuji) have ryokans that are built in the area of hot springs. Traveling to Hakone is a good idea for a trip, where you can indulge for a night or two in the stay in the traditional ryokan and take a bath in the hot springs (as often as you want) and have a beautiful and delicious kaiseki-style dinner and breakfast. It is an expensive option but for those who like to try things such as this, it's worth the money.

The prices in the ryokan are per person and are reasonable in comparison to regular hotels. It can be a good option for families who can stay in the same room rather than book several rooms at the hotels.

2010-05-22T11:38:00.000+05:00

Japan: Recommended Reading

Cultural / Social

Largely due to the undoubted "economic miracle" of Japan, and probably a large slice of western male Geisha-obsession as well, many English language novels and non-fiction on Japan and the Japanese romanticise their subject, or approach the study of Japanese society assuming a cultural cringe. Examples here include: fiction like James Clavell's Shogun (1975), and the "historical fiction" of the same true story; Giles Milton's Samurai William (2003), and Memoirs of a Geisha(1997) by Arthur Golden.

Lisa Martinueau's 1993 book Caught in a Mirror: Reflections of Japan is a welcome reality check to read before you go. A British journalist living in Tokyo over the late eighties and early nineties, she corresponded the many great events of that era, like the death of former Emperor Hirohito, and the infamous "Recruit" political scandal. Although written in an anecdotal style, and despite the books age now, the illuminations of the Japanese and the minute detail of their everyday lives are still very relevant to Gaijin travellers wishing to understand the very human side of this unique culture today.

Refer also to the New Scientist 1993 review: link -

http://www.newscientist.com/article/m...

...although one could disagree with Horsley that Martineau does not provide insight into the working of "cooperative dynamics" amongst the Japanese. On the contrary, her detailed insight into particular persons' decisions and actions under given social circumstances goes a long way towards imparting an understanding of why the Japanese behave the way they do.

Travel Pictorial - Country or Natural Wonder

Always browse any or all Travel Pictorial books about a country, region or a natural wonder of the world . You will find excellent photography to view at leisure. Check out any bookstore or library ( lending or reference ).

The Web

Trip Advisor's Japan Forum is a great place to search for tips and ask for advice:www.tripadvisor.com/ForumHome.

There are several links that any traveler to Japan should keep handy. First, in general most prefectures, cities, and towns have at least some information in English; so if you have a specific location in mind, do a Web search for that place and see what information they have to offer. Some are better than others, but I have found some wonderful information in this way.

A good transportation link is Hypderdia: www.hyperdia.com. This site is an interactive rail timetable. You'll need to click the English link in the top left (unless you read Japanese), and bear in mind a couple of things: 1. If you're using a rail pass then choose 'except Nozomi'; Nozomi refers to the fastest Shinkansen (bullet train) and the rail pass is not valid. 2. Be aware of what time is shown on the schedule; it defaults to the local time in Japan.

Another good link is http://www.japanrailpass.net/. This site has all you need to know about the Japan Rail Passes.

If you are looking to travel by the metro/train, the below site will be useful. If you know your start and end point train station you wish to take, this will map out the most efficient (and cost effective) way to get to your destination. The site is available in both Japanese and English: http://www.tokyo-subway.net/english/

The Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO) has a lot of great information, including a listing of festivals and events: http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/.

Travel Guide(s) - Country, Region or City

Always glance through any Travel Guide for the region you are planning to visit. You will always find some nuggat of useful information. The layout and content will always vary with the publisher. Every traveller should make it a priority to browse one or all of the guides listed below. It will be a great education to browse the layout and view the excellent photography. You decide which of the travel guide(s) you like the best.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide(s)
Insight / Discovery Channel Travel Guide(s)
Lonely Planet Guide(s)
AA Explorer, AA Key or AA Spiral Guide(s)
Note: You will find about thirteen ( 13+ ) other publishing companies travel guides in bookstores.

Travel Books - Children or Junior

Browse the children's or junior section of your local library for travel and geography guides. You will find a variety of guides to countries, regions or natural wonders of the world. The majority of these guides will be less than fifty pages in length. They will contain an excellent overview of a country etc. They are an excellent introduction to travel for a novice traveller.

Travel DVD or Video Viewing

These are a few ideas for finding Travel DVD's in your local area.
Local Video Rental Store
Local Library - Travel Video or DVD
Any large music store will have a range of travel DVD's or Video's on sale.
Travel Video Store has an excellent internet site.
BBC Video series website section
Pilot Travel Guide series
National Geographic Travel DVD or Video Series
Escorted Tour Companies DVD or Video's e.g. Rick Steves'
National Tourist Bureaus MAY have a introduction Video or DVD on offer or Photo Gallery on their Internet site

2010-05-22T11:37:00.000+05:00

Japan: Rail Travel Using JR

Train travel in Japan is probably one of the best in the world: very clean, modern, efficient, comfortable and very punctual .

There are basically three levels of rail service for JR trains: shinkansen, limited express and local. One of the best known rail services in the world is the high-speed Shinkansen or “Bullet Train,” which has scheduled service between most major cities including Niigata, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and Hakata. Limited Expresstrains offer less expensive, long-distance service to cities not served by the Shinkansen on major JR routes. Local and Rapid trains, as the name implies, provide shorter commuter service within urban areas and to smaller towns.

JR trains have two classes of service: ordinary class and first-class or “green car” service. First class cars are identified by a green clover symbol next to the entrance door. Green car service is considerably more expensive but more comfortable and less crowded. One other difference from the U.S. is that smoking is still allowed in some rail cars. If you board one you will know it, but just move to another car if it bothers you.

Bullet trains that accept the JR Pass have both reserved and non-reserved seating. Check the sign boards, which are posted in both English and Japanese, to determine which cars are non-reserved. The location of each car number is listed on the platform, so that you can make a line at the appropriate spot. For a non-reserved train, arrive early to maximize your chance of obtaining seating. Even for reserved seating, arrive 5 minutes in advance so that you have sufficient time to board. The trains depart promptly.

Rail travel in Japan is relatively easy for foreign visitors since most stations have signs and schedule boards in English as well as Japanese. However, be prepared to handle your own luggage since there are no porters or carts at railway stations. Travelers who can not handle their own luggage are advised to hire a guide to help them. Each bullet train car has a section at one end of the car where large luggage can be slid behind the first row of seating for storage. There are also large overhead racks, which can accommodate small and medium sized bags.

One bit of caution: train fares in Japan are very expensive compared to Europe and other western countries. If you’re planning on taking the train frequently (or even if you only plan on one or two inter-city journeys), a JR rail pass may be a wise decision. JR passes are available for 7, 14 or 21 consecutive days of unlimited travel on the national JR network. (Travel on lines that are operated by private rail companies, metropolitan subways, monorails and tramways are not covered on a rail pass.) Also, rail passes can only be purchased outside of Japan. Once in Japan, you take the voucher they gave you to an office in the train station and they will exchange it for the actual pass. When you do so, you will have to decide what day to start the travel - they stamp it on the pass. You will also have to show your passport. (According to the fine print you are supposed to have your passport available whenever travelling on the pass. It isn't valid for Japanese citizens.) But once you have the pass, just show it at the entrance gates and off you go. (Hint: when you get the actual pass ask for a copy of the English language Shinkensen schedule, if you plan to use that service. It's handy to have all the schedules available for planning.) Also note that the pass is not valid on the Nozomi Shinkansen, which are the fastest trains with the least stops. But the other services are still quite good; if you're making two or more long distance trips it's probably worthwhile. You can also use it for local JR service (including local services in Tokyo which serve as intra-city public transport) but that wouldn't solely cover the cost of the pass. But it can make a nice bonus.

2010-05-22T11:35:00.002+05:00

Japan: Photo Gallery

Here is the link to some photographs of Japan.

Images of Japan

Japan

2010-05-22T11:34:00.001+05:00

Only in Japan

Here is a list of Japanese Holidays:
New Year (shogatsu)January 1 (national holiday) Like a lot of Asia, this is the most important holiday in Japan. Businesses will be closed on that day; non-retail businesses often take longer breaks at this time of year. Expect crowds of people traveling, especially to ski areas and onsen.
Coming of Age (seijin no hi)
Second Monday of January (national holiday) Men and women who turn 20 in that calendar year are celebrated men and women is celebrated on this national holiday. This is a good time to see people dressed in traditional clothes.
Beginning of spring (setsubun)
February 3
Setsubun is a holdover from when Japan followed the lunar calendar. While not a national holiday, people celebrate by going to shrines and temples nationwide. Some shrines might have festivals on this day.
National Foundation Day (kenkoku kinenbi)
February 11 (national holiday) This day celebrates the crowning of the first Japanese Emperor in 660 BC.
Valentine's Day
February 14 This isn't a national holiday, but like a lot of countries it's a 'romantic' holiday. However, in Japan women give to men on this day.
Doll's Festival (hina matsuri)
March 3 Also called girl's festival. This is a good day to go to a traditional Japanese family's home; many people still put up displays of dolls in the house. Sweet sake is consumed and chirashi sushi is the food of choice.
White Day
March 14 In 1978 the National Confectionary Industry Association decided that there was a tremendous marketing (and, thus, sales) opportunity being missed. Since Valentines day was for women to give to men, they created this holiday for men to give to women. It's been increasingly popular every year and has spread to other Asian countries.
Spring Eqinox Day (shunbun no hi)Around March 20 (national holiday)
This is a Buddhist holiday (ohigan) celebrating the spring and autumn Equinox Days.
Golden WeekThe following 4 holidays are part of the Golden Week period when most Japanese have vacation from work and, thus, travel. See: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2282.html
Showa Day (Showa no hi) - Golden Week
April 29 (national holiday) This is officially the celebration of the birthday of the last emperor (Showa is his posthumous name; most of the world knows him as the WWII emperor Hirohito). Before 2007, April 29 was known as Greenery Day (which is now celebrated on May 4). Showa Day is part of the Golden Week.
Constitution Day (kenpo kinenbi) - Golden Week
May 3 (national holiday)This national holiday is to remember the new post-WWII constitution; this is part of the larger Golden Week holiday period
Greenery Day (midori no hi) - Golden WeekMay 4 (national holiday)
Greenery Day was celebrated on April 29 until 2006 as a celebration of Emperor Showa's love of nature.
Children's Day (kodomo no hi) - Golden Week
May 5 (national holiday) Also called boy's festival.
Star Festival (tanabata)
July/August 7 The Tanabata festival takes place on the 7th day of the 7th month. When it is celebrated depends on the region: July by the Julian Calendar, August according to the Lunar calendar. Around this time of year you'll see people writing wishes on paper and tying them to specially made bamboo 'trees'.
Ocean Day (umi no hi)
Third Monday of July (national holiday) This is a recently introduced national holiday to celebrate the ocean. Officially this day represents the return of Emperor Meiji from a boat trip to Hokkaido in 1876.
ObonJuly/August 13-15
Obon is a festival to commemorate deceased ancestors. Most of Japan celebrates this in August. Expect large crowds on the first and last days of the Obon week. Also expect some wonderful festivals and fireworks displays.
Respect for the Aged Day (keiro no hi)
Third Monday of September (national holiday) Respect for the elderly is a very important aspect of traditional Japan. This national holiday celebrates the elderly and wishes for logevity.
Autum Equinox Day (shubun no hi)
Around September 23 (national holiday) This is the second ohigan celebrattion. Graves are visited on this day.
Health and Sports Day (taiiku no hi)
Second Monday of October (national holiday) In 1965 Tokyo hosted the Olympics, a major post-war milestone and a major waypoint in Japan's ascension to becoming a major world economic power. This holiday celbrates the opening of those Olympics.
Culture Day (bunka no hi)
November 3 (national holiday) Culture Day is a day to promote culture and a love of peace and freedom. Public institutions (schools and government offices) will give awards for cultural or other special achievements.
Seven-Five-Three (shichigosan)
November 15 Shichigosan is not a national holiday but is an important cultural day. Families take their children to a Shinto shrine (often wearing traditional clothes) on either Nov. 15 or the closest weekend day. The day is for girls aged 3 and 7 and boys aged 3, 5, and 7; odd numbers are especially important in Japanese traditional numerology and this holiday is an old one. One reason for the gender difference is due to a tradition added by the samurai: boys at age 5 were allowed to where the Hakama (a traditional outfit) for the first time. Expect to see crowds of children and their parents in shrines praying for health.
Labour Thanksgiving Day (kinro kansha no hi)
November 23 (national holiday)
This national holiday is to celebrate the workforce.
Emperor's Birthday (tenno no tanjobi)
December 23 (national holiday) In Japan the birthday of the current emperor is always a national holiday. This day celebrates the birth of the current Emperor (Tenno). If the emperor changes, the national holiday changes to the birthday date of the new emperor.
Christmas
December 24-25 This is not a national holiday. However, many Japanese consider this a romantic holiday, sort of a third Valentines Day. Some areas of Japan decorate with fantastic Christmas light displays (Kobe's Luminarie, a remembrance of the 1995 Hanshin Earthquake, has so many lights that some people take off their jackets/scarves/gloves due to the heat generated).
New Year's Eve (omisoka)
December 31 December 31 is not a national holiday and, unlike the West, the real celebration isn't until New Years day (as is true across much of Asia that celebrates the Julian calendar new year). Expect crowds of people traveling, particularly to ski areas and onsen.

Japan: Exploring Japanese Subculture

2010-05-22T11:31:00.001+05:00

To the outsider, Japan is an exotic and interesting place to visit. The safety, cleanliness and hospitality usually jumps out at most visitors. Many perceptions are not necessarily rooted in reality. Things are not always as they appear, and a little understanding of Japanese subculture can help to explain things and often enhance the appreciation of Japan. Here are some examples of Japanese subculture.

Gambling is illegal in Japan. However, take a look at the game of pachinko (Japanese pinball) For anyone who has played pachinko or has seen the noisy parlors, it seems like an activity motivated in winning money. Actually, it is. What distinguishes pachinko from gambling in Japanese law is the fact that no monetary payout is made by the pachinko parlor. Only prizes such as candy, stuffed animals and innocent looking "tokens" are awarded. Those "tokens" are valuable only in the local area and only to the local pachinko parlor area where they are exchanged for cash at another, distinct establishment officially not associated with the pachinko parlor (at least on paper or under government registration). The exchange establishment is usually a small window in the side of a building around the corner from the pachinko parlor entrance. After placing your tokens on the small counter at the window, cash magically appears. Believe it or not, this is not gambling in Japan.
Japan has a chronic homeless problem just like any other country in the world, however, the homeless in Japan often have some characteristics not shared by homeless in other developed countries. For instance, many have day jobs where they earn enough to eat and take care of their daily needs. Some even have bank accounts and have substantial savings. There is chronic alcoholism amongst the homeless in Japan but drug use is far less prevalent than in other countries. A very good book on day workers was published a few years back on Sanya called Sanya Blues by Edward Fowler, describing an area in Nihonzutsumi, Taito ward where day workers congregate and live, some in flop houses, others in homeless encampments. One thing a tourist doesn't have to be worried about is being solicited, panhandled or bothered by homeless people in Japan. There are laws against this and most don't want to deal with the consequences. It's perfectly safe to walk past. You will almost never see signs or containers to throw coins in, either. Despite such outward appearances, they are not homeless by choice. To an outsider, it might appear like this, yet - most in Japan realize that the homeless population were a product of Japan's recession and the termination of "salary men" jobs.

Japan: Culture

2010-05-22T11:14:00.000+05:00

Prices of Things in Japan

Items at Convenience Stores

Rice ball- 120 yen

Bottled drink (550 ml)- 140 yen

Pastry-style bread- 120-200 yen

Lunch box (obento)- 400-1000 yen

Chewing gum - 110 yen

Cigarettes-250-400 yen

*Prices are exclusive of 5% sales tax.

Meals

Bowl of noodles(soba/udon/ramen)-500-800 yen.

Lunch set ("teishoku")- 800-1500 yen (prices vary on size/quality of meal)

Dinner at fast-food sushi shop ("kaiten-zushi")-1500 yen. Draft beer 500 yen. (Fast-food sushi shops sell plates of sushi ranging from 100 yen to 350 yen per dish, with 2 pieces of sushi per dish.)

Dinner at casual grill-style restaurant ("robata-yaki"/ "izakaya")-2000 yen. Beer/sake add 500 yen per drink.

Beer garden admission- 3000-3500. Summer season only. Most rooftop beer gardens have all-you-can-eat buffets and also offer all-you-can-drink deals, included in the cost of admission.

Dinner at real sushi bar(fresh fish) - 6000 per person, maybe more depending on what you order & amount of alcohol consumed. Most expensive toppings are toro(tuna belly), ikura (salmon roe), uni (sea urchin), awabi (abalone)...

Accommodation

Fleabag hostel (shared everything)- 1500 yen (single) - Budget inns/hostel info:http://japaninfo.esmartweb.com; youth hostels info:http://www.jyh.or.jp/english/index.html

Cheapie inn/business inn/hotel (usually ensuite)- from 3500 yen(single), 5500-7000 yen(twin/double) *These sometimes include breakfast, if you are very lucky.

Budget hotel/nicer business hotel (ensuite)- from 4500 (single), 6000-9000(twin/double). The ever-popular Toyoko hotel chain falls into this price range.http://www.toyoko-inn.com/eng/hotelli...

Japanese Inns (ryokan)-these can range from 5000 per room to 50,000 per room. The upscale ryokans roomcharge include dinner that night and breakfast the next morning. Best to see the homepage and then decide. www.luxuryryokan.com

Western Chain Hotels-usually start around $100 for a single.

For a good deal of reasonable accommodation options search the RakutenTravel site here: http://travel.rakuten.co.jp/en/

Transport

Taxis- prices vary from city to city and are more expensive in metropolitan areas. Around 500 yen on the meter to start. A 10-minute ride might cost you 1500 yen. Fares are higher at night.

Buses- fares increase the further you go. Buses generally start at 150 yen or so.

Trains- for local trains, the cost increases the further you go. Sample fare on JR West: 15 kms (15 minutes)=320 yen.

Shinkansen (super-express)- quite expensive (about 6000 yen per hour) but the railpass is a good investment if you are covering a lot of ground while you are in Japan. See here for railpass info: http://www.japanrail.com/JR_japanrail...

Entertainment

Baseball game- tickets 500-5000 yen

Movie theater-1000-1800 yen. Usually a discount for students, plus the first and last showings are often discounted. Some places have a "ladies day" as well...

Karaoke- 700-1000 per hour for a "box" or cheapie studio. Karaoke bars will set you back 2000-5000 per person, depending on how much you drink and snack.

A night at a bar- 500-1000 for drinks. Prices are listed on menus. Some places have a "cover" which ranges for 500-1000 yen per person. If there are attractive women sitting next to you pouring you drinks, you will be in a place known as a "hostess bar" and expect to pay 5000 yen just to sit down and have one drink.

Places with live music- known as"live house", usually charge only admission, but sometimes include a drink.

Admission

Japanese Gardens, Shrines, Temples, Castles- 300-1000 yen. (Himeji Castle, for example, is 600 yen for adults, 200 yen for children)

Museums- 800-1500 yen. For most larger exhibits, you can go to a convenience store and get advance tickets that can save you a few hundred yen. (Called "mae-uri ken" in Japanese)

Aquariums- vary greatly, but 1000 and up. The Kaiyuukan Aquarium in Osaka is a pricey 2000 yen (but worth it!)...

Hotsprings- natural, country hotsprings are very cheap- 300-800 yen, but those high-tech places with numerous baths, whirpool jacuzzis and waterslides are from 1000 yen up...

Amusement Parks- Most are between 3000-5000 yen. Disneyland charges 5800 yen for adults, 5000 for juniors (12-17) and 3900 for kids. Discounts are given for multi-day passes.

2010-02-13T11:13:00.001+05:00

The islands of Greece

The seas of Greece are sprinkled with over two thousand islands and islets.
The Greek islands have been a popular tourist destination for a long time, and each island of Greece with its unique topography, history, and culture attract thousands of visitors from around the world every summer.
Tourists flock to the Greek islands every year to enjoy a few days of beautiful weather, unique architecture, and the character of Greek hospitality. With so many islands to choose from, one is bound to find their favorite vacation spot, and while many preffer to island hop, others return to the same island year after year.
The gamut of character is incredibly wide. There are islands that have been forgotten by time that allow visitors to feel as if they live in a different era, and there are islands that offer cosmopolitan luxuries for every contemporary taste. There are quiet island spots where one can be lost in solitude, and also there are islands where one can be absorbed in the crowds.
Better yet, several islands offer everything in one destination. Islands like Rhodes and Crete are popular because they offer spectacular topography, unique hospitality, beautiful beaches, exciting tourist resorts, fascinating history, unique culture, quiet villages, and party-till-you drop towns.

Greek Island Reports & Photos:

Aegina

Corfu
Crete

Elafonisos

Hydra

Kefalonia

Kos

Lefkada

Milos
Mykonos

Naxos

Paros

Paxos and Antipaxos

Rhodes

Santorini

Serifos

Sifnos

Skiathos

Tinos

Zakynthos ( Zante )

Given the beautiful weather and the amount of sunshine that bathes the Greek islands in the summer, they have become the favorite destination of millions of Europeans and who choose the Greek islands to spend their annual vacation. Needless to say, several of the most popular islands of Greece are overrun by tourists in the summer, but depending on one’s taste, being among so many people who are there just to have fun together is not a bad place to be.
Alongside the most touristy islands of Greece are the quiet holiday spots with sleepy villages, picturesque promenades, endless sunny days, and crystal cool waters.
The major industry these days for most of the islands is tourism, but the remnants of the yesteryear activities of fishing, diving, commerce, and small-scale agriculture are everywhere. Greek islanders have a strong sense of tradition, and despite the considerable development of tourist infrastructure, they retain the unique cultural character of their individual island.
The unique topography, the long history of invasions, and the long tradition of commerce imprint each island with unique characteristics. Once you experience one Greek island, you will want to see them all. Searching for the perfect island is half the fun and might entice you to Greece annually for life.

Greece Island Groupings

Greece is surrounded by three seas: the Ionian Sea to the west, the Aegean sea to the East, and the Sea of Crete to the south. They are all northern extensions of the Mediterranean sea that touches the south of the Peloponnese and Crete.
Accordingly, the islands of Greece are divided into Ionian and Aegean Islands and they in turn are separated into smaller administrative groupings or prefectures.

The Ionian Sea

The islands of the Ionian Sea all belong to the prefecture of Eptanisa. Eptanisa means “seven islands” and the grouping is comprised of

Corfu
Paxi and Antipaxi
Lefkada
Kefalonia
Ithaki
Zakynthos (Zante)
Kythira and Antikythira

The Aegean Sea

The islands of the Aegean Sea are divided into several administrative regions:

Saronic Gulf Islands (Islands of the Saronic Gulf and the vicinity)

Salamina
Aegina
Poros
Hydra
Spetses

Sporades (Islands of the northwest Aegean Sea)

Skiathos
Skopelos
Alonnisos
Evia and Skyros,
despite their proximity to the Sporades, these two islands administratively belong to Sterea Ellada

Souther Aegean Islands that include

Cyclades

Andros
Tinos
Syros
Mykonos
Delos
Paros and Antiparos
Naxos
Little Cyclades

Iraklia
Shinousa
Koufonisia
Donousa

Amorgos
Ios
Santorini (Thera)
Anafi
Sikinos
Folegandros
Milos
Kimolos
Sifnos
Serifos
Kythnos
Kea

Dodekanese

Rhodes
Halki
Karpathos
Kassos
Kastellorizo (Megisti)
Symi
Tilos
Nisyros
Kos
Astypalea
Kalymnos
Leros
Patmos
Lipsi
Arki
Agathonisi

North-Easter Aegean Islands

Ikaria
Fournoi
Samos
Chios
Inousses
Psara
Lesvos
Agios Efstratios
Samothraki
Thassos
Despite their position in the northeastern Aegean, Thassos and Samothraki islands belong administratively to the Easter Macedonia & Thrace prefecture.

Crete

Visiting the Greek islands

By Sea

To serve the multitude of islands, Greece has developed the most extensive network of ferries in Europe. In the last five years the fleet has been modernized and expanded with new ferries that sail between the islands, faster and safer than any previous years. One major accident in the island of Poros in the late 90s was the starting point for this modernization of the fleet, and maritime regulations that have become stricter to ensure the safety of the passengers. The newer ferries, besides speed and safety have added considerable comfort to their offerings.
The ports of Piraeus and Rafina are the busiest hubs of ferry activity. Between them they connect every major and minor island of the Aegean with every conceivable kind of boat. The islands closest to Athens can be reached within a few hours from these two ports, while islands further away require an overnight ferry ride.
Also see: Ferries in Greece

By Air

The largest, and most popular Greek islands have airports that connect them to Athens and Thessaloniki by air. Most flights to the islands leave from Athens airport, and in high season they are connected directly with major European cities via charters that land with some regularity.
Smaller islands have smaller airports and see flights more infrequently, but several development programs have subsidized air travel between smaller Greek cities and Islands. For example, there is air travel between the city of Sitia in Crete and Alexandroupoli in eastern Thrace.
Link: Athens Airport

More info

Best of Greece

2010-02-13T11:11:00.000+05:00

Beaches of Greece

My family and I visit Greece every year and inevitably we spend a great deal of time at the beaches of Greece during the summer. We like to travel around to discover new Greek beaches, and we tend to rate each beach after our visit.
This is not an official guide; Instead, these are our own observations of the beach qualities as we experienced them during our visit. Our beach reports here is based on on-site visits. Certain beaches we have visited only once, while many we have seen several times. Beaches are arranged here by province or island.

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I have put together this guide to the beaches of Greece we have visited in hopes that future travelers can find it helpful.

Please choose a destination on the left menu bar for more information and pictures from the beaches of Greece.

If you have visited one of the Greek beaches listed here, and would like to submit a report , please send an email to greeklandscapes.com and you report

2010-02-13T11:06:00.002+05:00

Best Travel Destinations in Greece

This topic always pops up in conversations I have with friends who plan a visit to Greece: "What places should I include in my two-week long itinerary"? I often pondered with the question myself, and knowing that no matter where I go there will always be another place I wish I had visited, I return to Greece with my family year after year just to find out that the best we have not seen yet. Every year's visit packs a few surprises that make it even better that the previous trips. I grew up in Greece, and I have traveled extensively around the country before I moved to the USA, and even now I make sure to visit Greece at least once per year. So I will include here my own personal favorite Greek destinations in brief, while in the other pages of this site I get to elaborate a little on each place.
The best vacations are often measured not by where one wanders, but by the friendships, the relationships, and the family bonds that one forges once there. The landscapes then act as mere vehicles for delightful moments.
A place is not enough. An open mind is also required to absorb the new social, cultural and visual signals that surround a traveler. Once this is understood, then it does not hurt to be absorbed by a unique topography, an ancient landscape, to be touched by a cool meltemi breeze, or to be lost in the azure ocean.
So then where is the best place to visit in Greece? What is the absolute must-see locale? To answer the question one must define one's own interests first. Greece can offer an incredible gamut of activities.
The cultural and historical background of Greece has sprinkled the landscapes with ruins that span six thousand years. The alternating invaders, the peacefull settlers, and the country's position at the crossroads between east and west, have all left their mark on the Greek cultural landscape. Archaeological sites abound in the country side, and museums in cities protect priceless artifacts from antiquity. It would be an omission to visit Greece and leave without experiencing the ancient Greek culture; the culture that is credited with the birth of western civilization.

2009-11-21T15:55:00.000+05:00

Legends says that they are descendants of sick soldiers of the Alexander's army. true or not Kalash people are a fascinating stock. Happiness never leave them. they party at the death off a relative, sign that the soul has been relieved from the worries of this world. The remote valleys of these lofty mountains are the home for many such ancient communities.

ITINERARY: (15 DAYS)

ISLAMABAD

ISLAMABAD-PESHAWAR

PESHAWAR

PESHAWAR-CHITRAL

CHITRAL

CHITRAL-SWAT

SWAT-CHILAS

CHILAS-GULMIT

GULMIT

GULMIT-HUNZA

HUNZA

HUNZA-GILGIT

GILGIT-BESHAM

BESHAM-ISLAMABAD

FLY OUT

CULTURE

2009-11-21T15:52:00.002+05:00

Northern areas of Pakistan is the meeting point of four of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, namely The Himalayas, The Karakorums, The Hindukush and The Pamirs. These mountain systems were the last geographical mystery to be solved in the world.

The people living here are of Aryan stock, separated from the main tribal some 2000 years ago, from the window of your coach we promise to show you seven peaks higher than 7000 mts.

PESHAWAR	The historical Northern outpost for the caravans
SWAT VALLEY	Here, for the first time Buddha was shown in Human form
SKARDU	The heart of Karakorum, where the Indus is young
HUNZA	Shangrila, where every body lives for hundred yearss

ITINERARY: (15 DAYS}

ARRIVE ISLAMABAD

ISLAMABAD-PESHAWAR

PESHAWAR-SWAT

SWAT-CHILAS

CHILAS-SKARDU

SKARDU

SKARDU-GILGIT

GILGIT-GULMIT

GULMIT

GULMIT-HUNZA

HUNZA

HUNZA-GILGIT

GILGIT-BESHAM

BESHAM-ISLAMABAD

FLY OUT

2009-11-21T15:33:00.001+05:00

Nested High amongst some of the highest peaks in the world encircling the beautiful Kachura Lake, surrounded by lovely fruit trees, lies the Shangrila "Heaven on Earth".

A vacation spent in Shangrila resort Kachura is just not another, but a lifetime experience that one would want to Re-Live again and again. At Shangrila, you are offered an environment friendly, peaceful atmosphere, a complete escape from the distractions of the routine life, although you would be only a phone call away.

ITINERARY:

Day 01	Arrive Islamabad Day Excursion to Murree Afternoon Drive back to Islamabad O/N Regency Hotel
Day 02	Islamabad - Skardu Morning Flight to Skardu Transfer to Shangrila resort Afternoon Excursion of Satpara lake O/N Shangrila Resort Hotel.
Day 03	Skardu Day Excursion to Shigar Valley O/N Shangrila Resort Hotel
Day 04	Skardu Day Free at Leisure O/N Shangrila Resort Hotel
Day 05	Skardu - Islamabad Flight to Islamabad Sightseeing Tour of Islamabad Afternoon Visit Bara Market Later Transfer to Airport for your home bound flight.
Cost for group size 06 person Rs. 7125.00 per person sharing twin room. Additional supplement for single room Rs. 2650.00 Child above five years sharing room with parents 15% of the tour cost.

2009-11-21T15:32:00.003+05:00

Karakoram Highway links Pakistan with China over Khunjerab Pass. 120 Kms from Abbotabad road will join the Indus River Gilgit is the main town in the northern areas. 100 kms north of Gilgit is Hunza. The valley of Gardens and Orchards. In the summer Hunza remain flooded with all kinds of fruits, most delicious being the Hunza Apricots.

ITINERARY:

Day 01	Islamabad - Besham O/N Pine Park Hotel.	270 kms
Day 02	Besham - Gilgit O/N PTDC Motel.	340 kms
Day 03	Gilgit - Hunza O/N Hunza View Hotel.	100 kms
Day 04	Sust Excursion Day Excursion to Pak / China Post O/N Hunza View Hotel.	85 kms
Day 05	Hunza - Chilas O/N Way House Shangrila	245 kms
Day 06	Chilas - Swat Drive over Shangrila Pass to Saidu Sharif Swat O/N Swat Continental Hotel.	310 kms
Day 07	Swat Upper Valley Excursion Drive to Kalam Late afternoon drive back to your hotel O/N Swat Continental Hotel.	100 kms
Day 08	Swat - Islamabad - Destination Drive back to Islamabad on arrival transfer to Airport for your home bound flight	270 kms
Cost for group size 06 person Rs. 8475.00 per person sharing twin room. Additional supplement for single room Rs. 2995.00 Child above five years sharing room with parents 25% of the tour cost.

2009-11-21T15:31:00.002+05:00

Swat Valley has every thing which makes Alpine Valleys so popular, white water streams, thickly forested mountain slopes, lush green meadows and snow covered mountains. Above all what makes Swat so attractive is the culture of its inhabitants the Yousaf Zai pathans. During the tour you will visit Swat, Besham, Abbotabad, Nahiagali and Murree.

ITINERARY:

Day 01	Islamabad - Swat O/N Swat Continental Hotel.	270 kms
Day 02	Swat - Kalam O/N PTDC Motel	100 kms
Day 03	Mahodand Lake excursion late afternoon return back to Kalam O/N PTDC Motel.
Day 04	Kalam - Besham O/N PTDC Motel.	130 kms
Day 05	Besham - Murree Drive to Murree via Abbotabad and Nathiagali O/N Blue Pine.	325 kms
Day 06	Murree - Islamabad Patriata Excursion and later continue on Islamabad O/N Regency Hotel.	69 kms
Day 07	Islamabad - Destination Sightseeing tour of Islamabad city and Bara Market in Islamabad.
Cost for group size 06 person Rs. 7800.00 per person sharing twin room. Additional supplement for single room Rs. 2750.00. Child above five years sharing room with parents 25% of the tour cost.

2009-11-21T15:30:00.002+05:00

At the foot hills of Himalayas about 200 kms from Islamabad lies the Kaghan Valley. The way passes through the town of Abbotabad and Mansehra before you enter the valley at Garhi Habib Ulllah. Main tourist attractions are Shogran, Naran, Lake Saif-Ul-Maluk and Babusar pass.

ITINERARY:

Day 01	Islamabad - Balakot - Shogran at Balakot you change from air-conditioned coach to 4x4 jeep O/N Pine Park Hotel.	220 kms
Day 02	Sri Pai Excursion Drive by jeep to Sri Pai and back O/N Pine Park Hotel.	15 kms
Day 03	Sogran - Naran Drive by jeep to Naran O/N PTDC Motel.	70 kms
Day 04	Lake Saif-ul-Maluk excursion drive by jeep to Saif-Ul-Maluk late afternoon drive back O/N PTDC Motel.	12 kms
Day 05	Naran - Abbotabad at Balakot you will leave your jeep your coach joins you again O/N Shimla Hill Hotel.	160 kms
Day 06	Abbotabad - Islamabad Drive via Natia Gali and Murree O/N Islamabad Regency Hotel.	185 kms
Day 07	Day free for sightseeing tour of Islamabad afternoon visit bara market later transfer to airport for your home bound flight.
Cost for group size 06 person Rs. 8350.00 per person sharing twin room. Additional supplement for single room Rs. 3150. Child above five years sharing room with parents 25% of the tour cost.

2009-11-21T15:24:00.000+05:00

NORTHERN AREAS

SKARDU VALLEY

Skardu, capital of Baltistan is perched 2438 meters above sea level in the backdrop of the great peaks of the Karakoram mountain range. Skardu is linked to the national capital, Islamabad by PIA which operates one flight daily. The air journey is full of thrills and would itself be regarded as the highlight of the visit. After following the same air route which connects Gilgit to Islamabad/Rawalpindi, the plane turns right and flies over the gorge of the Indus river. Enormous rock faces rise on either side and at times it seams as if the wing tips of the plane would almost scrape against them. They never do. Baltistan is known as the "Tibet -e- Khurd" or little Tibet since its life style reflects that of the roof of the world and land of Lamas.

It borders on the Chinese province of Sinkiang and Indian occupied Kashmir. The tourist season is from April to October. The maximum temperature is 27^oC and the minimum is 8^oC. Apart from its incomparable cluster of mountain peaks and Glaciers Baltistan's five valleys Shigar, Skardu, Khaplu, Rondu and Kharmang are noted for their Luscious peaches, apricots, apples and pears. Shigar valley, 32 kms by jeep from Skardu is the gateway to the mountain peaks of the Karakoram. Skardu has a historic fort known as Kharpocho Fort. It was constructed by Ali Sher Khan Anchan who ruled from Ladakh to Chitral till the end of the 16th century. The two lakes - Kachura lake 29 kms. and Sadpara lake 8 kms. from Skardu - are ideal for fishing.

The Buddhist Rock:
In Skardu, the only surviving rock with Buddhist carving is located on Sadpara road.

Lovely Lakes:
Upper Kachura Lake, Kachura Lake and Sadpara Lake are very famous for fishing and boating.

Shigar Valley:
It is the gateway to the great mountain peaks of the Karakorams, Gasherbrum peak & K-2.

Khaplu Valley:
The beautiful valley of the Shyok river, 103 km. from Skardu. Many famous mountains such as Masherbrum, Saltoro, Sia Gangri, K-6, K-7 are located here.

HOW TO GET THERE.
By Air: PIA operates a daily Boeing flight from Islamabad Airport to Skardu. Return airfair is equivalent to $ 90 for foreigners.
By Road: A gravel-top 241 kms road track connects Gilgit to Skardu. The journey takes 6 to 8 hours.

Where to Stay:
Besides other reasonably priced hotels, PTDC K-2 Motel offers comfortable accommodation at Skardu. There are also government rest houses at Skardu, Sadpara Lake, Shigar Valley, Khaplu and Kachura Lake.

What to Buy:
Baltistan is known for its "Pattu" - hand woven woolen cloth for jackets, coats etc. You can also pick up colorful intricately embroidered "chugas" (Baltistani Gowns) and wooden spoons at Skardu's bazaar.

GILGIT VALLEY

At an elevation of 1,454 meters lies the Gilgit Valley. The quaint little town of Gilgit has spectacular science beauty. The peak tourist season is from May to October though the tourist season is round the year. The maximum temperature in May is 33^oC and minimum 16^oC and in September. Maximum 28^oC and minimum 11^oC.

Around Gilgit:
10 kms. from Gilgit town is a beautiful rock engraving of Buddha of 7th century A.D. at the mouth of the Kargah Nullah. A victory monument of Taj Mughal, built 700 years ago, is 30 kms. jeep drive from Gilgit town.
The bridge over the fast flowing Gilgit river is the largest suspension bridge in Asia(182 meters long and 2 meters wide) permitting enough room for one jeep at a time to cross.

Sher Qilla:
40 kms. from Gilgit - Trekking route links with Nathar valley. Trout fishing in Sher Qilla Nullah and a small lake.

Gahkuch:
Headquarter of Ghizar District - ideal place for trekking, good fishing sports and duck shooting in season. It is the gateway to Iskoman valley. Government rest house and private hotels are available. Archaeological sites in village and a near by village Hatoon.

Naltar Valley:
Three hours drive from Gilgit link road. Government rest-house, private hotels and a Ski slope, lush green Alpine forest with small lakes and glaciers, trout fishing in lake. Trekking routes link with Iskoman, chalt and Punial valley.

SPORTS:
The favorite sport in Gilgit is polo which local folks claim originated here. Its more rugged, free-style version than the sedate variety known in the plains. The polo tournament held from 1st November to 7th November is a festive occasion and draws a large number of visitors.

ANGLING:
The streams and lakes of Gilgit are full of trout. These are at Kargah Nullah (10 kms. from Gilgit), Singal (56 kms), Gakuch (73 kms) and Phander (117 kms from Gilgit). Permits for fishing are issued by the Assistant Director, Fisheries, Government of Pakistan, Gilgit.

TREKKING & HIKING:
Trekking and hiking in the rugged mountains and verdant valleys of Gilgit are allowed only in the "open zone" which extends upto 16 kms. short of the control line with Indian held Kashmir and upto 50 kms. short of the Afghan border.

MOUNTAINEERING:
Around Gilgit are towering mountain peaks, waiting to be scaled. Permits for mountaineering are issued by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad.

HUNZA VALLEY

The visitors to Hunza are overwhelmed by the rugged charm, the fragrant breeze singing through graceful poplar trees and the velvet-like green carpet of wheet fields, set against the background of snow-covered mountains.
Situated at an elevation of 2,438 meters, Hunza Valley's tourist season is from May to October. The temperature in May is maximum 27^oC and minimum 14^oC. The October temperatures are: maximum 10^oC and minimum 0^oC.

Most of the people of Hunza are Islamili Muslims, followers of His highness the Aga Khan. The local language is Brushuski. Urdu and English are also understood by most of the people.
Karimabad, the capital of Hunza, offers an awe-inspiring view of Rakaposhi (7,788 meters). The snows of Rakaposhi glitter in the moonlight, producing an atmosphere at once ethereal and sublime.

The fairy-tale like castle of Baltit, above Karimabad, is a Hanza landmark built about 600 years ago. Stilted on massive legs, its wooden bay windows look out over the valley. Originally, it was used the resistance of the Mirs (the title of the former rulers) of Hunza.

MOUNTAINEERING AND HIKING:
Hunza is ideal for mountaineering, trekking and hiking. Special permits are required for mountaineering. Please contact the Tourist Division, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad.

KARAKORAM HIGHWAY

A new all-weather road, the Karakoram Highway connecting Rawalpindi/Islamabad with China's Xinjiang Province runs through the Northern Areas.

The 805 kms. dual carriage metalled road starts from Havelian 100 kms. from Islamabad and winds through Abbottabad-Mansehra-Thakot-Besham-Pattan-Sazin- Chilas-Gilgit-Hunza to the Chinese Frontier across the 4,733 meters high Khunjerab Pass. The road built by the Pakistan Army engineers in association with the Chinese experts and technicians has been described as a marvel of civil engineering and even as "The Eighth Wonder of the World". Completed in 15 years, it has been forced through some of the world's toughest terrain. The road not only opens up the Northern Areas to trade and travel but provides easy access to hitherto closed regions, connected by jeep or goat tracks.

KAGHAN VALLEY

A holiday in the Kaghan Valley, the Himalayan hide-away, north-east of the Hazara district of Pakistan's North West Frontier Province, is an unforgettable experience.

Its mountains, dales, lakes, water-falls, streams and glaciers are still in a unbelievable pristine state, an unspoiled paradise. That is why it can be such a deeply satisfying experience to spend a few days in Kaghan. The Valley extends for 155 kms. rising from an elevation of 2,134 meters to its highest point, the Babusar Pass, at 4,173 meters. Kaghan is at its best in the summer months (May to September). In May the temperature is : maximum 11^oc and the minimum 3^oC. From the middle of July up to the end of September, the road beyond Naran, snowbound throughout the winter, is open right upto Babusar Pass. Movement is restricted during the monsoon season also.

The Kaghan Valley is accessible by road from Islamabad and Peshawar.
You can drive in your own or a rented car, taxi, station-wagon or bus to abbottabad which is 122 kms from Islamabad and 217 kms from Peshawar. Abbottabad is a Charming town spread out over several low, refreshingly green hills.

From there you drive 72 kms to Balakot, the gateway to the Kaghan Valley. Balakot has shrines of Syed Ahmed Shaheed and Ismail Shaheed Brelvi, the sub-continent's great freedom fighters.

For your drive to Kaghan, you switch over at Balakot to a jeep. Your first stop is 34 kms. away at shogran at 2,362 meters above sea level. At Kaghan, the little village that gives the valley its name 61 kms. from Balakot - you get down to stretch your legs.

At Naran, 23 kms. from Kaghan, you reach the half-way point. Naran also serves as the base for the whole valley. From here you can ride a jeep or horse or hike in excursions to several picturesque lakes, valleys and peaks.

Fishing is the chief sport in Kaghan. 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. Fishing licenses are issued by the Fisheries Department at Naran.

2009-11-21T15:22:00.003+05:00

BALOCHISTAN

Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan with an area of 347056 sq. Kms, over 40% of the country's land mass. It traces its history from times immemorial. Before the birth of Christ, it had commerce and trade with ancient civilization of Babylon through Iran and into the valleys of Tigris and Euphrates. Alexander the Great also had an encounter with the Serbia tribe of Balochistan. Muhammad Bin Qasim and Mehmood Ghaznavi also invaded Balochistan resulting in the development of Muslim character. Even today most tribal people of this province resemble Arabs and the inhabitants can be quite a fascinating subject of study by anthropologists.

A Balochi war song describes the province of Balochistan thus: "the mountains are the Balochi's forts; the peaks are better than any army; the lofty heights are our comrades; the pathless gorges our friends. Our drink is from the flowing springs; our bed the thorny bush; the ground we make our pillow."

Balochistan is a land of contrast. It has places with rugged mountains like Chiltan, Takatu, Sulaiman, Sultan etc. and plains stretching hundreds of miles. It has fertile land such as in Nasirabad and the tracks which are thirsty for centuries in the Pat section of Sibi district and the Makran desert zone. It has hottest places in the country like Sibi and the cool towns like Quetta, Ziarat, Kan Mehtarzai and Kallat where temperature goes below freezing point and these areas remain under a thick cover of snow in winter.

QUETTA

Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, 1692 meters above sea level, lies at the mouth of Bolan Pass. It has three large craggy mountains. Chiltan, Zarghun and Koh-e-Murdar, that seem to brood upon this pleasant town. there are other mountains that form a ring around it. Their copper red and russet rocks and crests that are powdered with snow in winters add immense charm to the town.

Quetta is an excellent base for further exploration of Balochistan. Loralai, the almond bowl of the country, is 265 kms away. Besides, there are numerous other valleys that are fascinating places to be in for explorers.

Quetta can rightly be called the fruit basket of Pakistan. Plums, peaches, pomegranates, apricots, apples, some unique varieties of melon like "Garma" and cherries, pistachios and almonds are all grown in abundance. Some pistachios also grow in Qila Saif ullah.

Saffron grows very well on mountains around 5000 ft (1524 meters) high. It is being cultivated on a commercial scale here. The yellow and red varieties of tulip grow wild around Quetta.

THE PEOPLE:

The inhabitants are mainly Pathan, Baluch and Brahui. You can also find Uzbeks, Tajiks and Turkamen rubbing shoulders with the other inhabitants. Nomadic tribesmen pass through Quetta Valley during spring and autumn with their herds of sheep and camels and their assorted wares for sale. This seasonal movement adds color to the life of the city.

The rugged terrain has made the people of the area hardy and resilient. They are known for their friendly and hospitable nature. To make a visitor comfortable is part of their tradition, like the rest of the people of Pakistan.

THE CITY:

The name Quetta is derived from the word "Kuwatta" which means a fort and, no doubt, it is a natural fort surrounded as it is by imposing hills on all sides. The encircling hills have the resounding names of Chiltan, Takatoo, Mordar and Zarghun.

The main thoroughfare and the commercial Center of Quetta is Jinnah road. It is a long boulevard lined with trees. Many important buildings like the Governor's House, Post and Telecommunication Offices are located along Jinnah Road.

BAZAARS:

Prominent bazaars of Quetta are located on Shahrah-e-Iqbal (Kandahari Bazaar) and Shahrah-e-Liaqat (Liaqat Bazaar and Suraj Gang Bazaar). Here you can find colorful handicrafts, particularly Balochi mirror work embroidery which is admired all over the world, carpets, with their pleasing and intricate designs, fur coats, jackets, waist-coats, sandals and other creations of traditional Balochi skills.
In the old bazaars one comes across quaint old tea-shops. These are the local "clubs". There are also many popular eating houses offering different types of delicacies. Among the delicacies you must try "Sajji" (Leg of lamb), which is roasted to a delightful degree of tenderness and is not very spicy. The tribesmen of the valley also enjoy "Landhi" (whole lamb), which is dried in shade and kept for the winters. "Kabab" shops are very popular.

Some of the finest mutton in the country is raised around Quetta. It has a delicious smell which can be sampled in the "Pulao" that most of the restaurants offer.

THE MUSEUM:

The archaeological Museum at Fifa road has a collection of rare antique guns, swords and manuscripts. Geological Survey Department on Sariab road (6 kms) has a collection of rocks and fossils. Only six kms from the city is the campus of the university of Balochistan.

ASKARI PARK:

Askari Park at the airport road offers amusement and recreational facilities.

HAZARGANJI CHILTAN NATIONAL PARK:

In the Hazarganji Chiltan National Park, 20 kms south-west of Quetta, Markhors have been given protection. The park is spread over 32500 acres, altitude ranging from 2021 to 3264 meters.
Hazarganji literally means "Of a thousand treasures". In the folds of these mountains, legend has it, there are over a thousand treasures buried, reminders of the passage of great armies down the corridors of history. The Bactrains, Scything, Mongols and then the great migrating hordes of Baluch, all passed this way.

FAUNA:

MAMMALS.
Markhor of which there are five distinct kinds, is the national animal of Pakistan. The kind that is photographed the most often is the Chiltan Markhor which, because of its long horns looks very conspicuous. Ever since the markhor has been given protection its number has multiplied.
Other animals in the park are straight horned markhors, "Gad" wild sheep) and leopards which occasionally migrate to the park from other areas, wolves, striped hyena, hares, wild cats and porcupines.
BIRDS.
Many birds like partridge, warblers, shikras, blue rock pigeon, rock nuthatch, red gilled choughs, golden eagle, sparrow, hawlks, falcons and bearded vultures are either found here or visit the park in different seasons.
REPTILES.
Reptiles like monitor and other wild lizards, eckos, Afghan tortoise, python, cobra, horned viper and Levantine may also be seen in the park.

EXCURSIONS FROM QUETTA

KARKHASA:
Karkhasa is a recreation Park situated at distance of 10 kms to the west of Quetta. It is a 16 kms long narrow valley having a variety of flora like Ephedrine, Artimisia and Sophora.
URAK VALLEY:
The Urak valley is 21 kms from Quetta City. The road is lined on either side with wild roses and fruit orchards. Peaches, plums, apricot and apples of many varieties are grown in this valley.
The waterfall at the end of the Urak valley, which is full of apple and apricot orchards, makes an interesting picnic spot.
HANNA LAKE:
A little short of the place where the Urak valley begins and 10 kms from Quetta is the Hanna Lake, where benches and pavilions on terraces have been provided. Golden fish in the lake comes swimming right up to the edge of the lake. A little distance away, the waters f the lake take on a greenish blue tint. Right where the water ends, pine trees have been planted on the grass filled slopes.
The greenish-blue waters of the lake provide a rich contrast to the sandy brown of the hills in the background. One can promenade on the terraces. Wagon service operates form city bus station at Circular road.

PISHIN VALLEY:

Some 50kms from Quetta is the valley of Pishin with its numerous fruit orchards, which are irrigated by "Karaz", a kind of artificial spring made by boring holes into rocks to bring to the surface the subterranean water. Sixteen kms from Pishin is the man-made lake Bund Khushdil Khan. Its cool gentle waters attract many visitors for duck shooting in early winter.

PIR GHAIB:

At a distance of 70 kms from Quetta on Sibi road is situated a popular picnic spot known as Pir Ghaib. Here a waterfall cascades down rocky mountain side making its way through many streams and ponds among the shady palm trees. You need a 4-wheal-drive vehicle to reach the spot from the main road.

ZIARAT

A visit to Quetta is incomplete without a trip to Ziarat. Situated 133 kms(3 hours by car) from Quetta at an altitude of 2449 meters above sea level, Ziarat is a holiday resort amidst one of the largest and oldest juniper forests in the world. It is said that some of the Juniper trees are as old as 5000 years.
The name Ziarat means "Shrine". A local saint, Kharwari Baba, is believed to have rested in the valley and blessed it. After his death he was buried here. People frequently visit the saint's shrine, which is 10 kms from Ziarat.

FORESTS AND ORCHARDS:

Extensive research is being done in the forest nurseries to replace the juniper forest with flowing trees as the regeneration of the juniper is very slow.
The magic of Ziarat is its honey, its flowers which attain large size here, its lush green grass and cool weather even in the hottest months of summer. "Shinshoab", a lavender like wild bush looks very lovely in twilights.

Nearly 4416 acres in and around Ziarat are under apple orchards. The apple grown in the orchards, particularly the black and red kuku variety are delicious. A fair amount of black cherry is also grown in Ziarat. The cherry season lasts from the 1st to 15th of June.

CHASHMA WALK:

Between the ever-ascending hills and the deep ravine, there is a mile-long stretch of flat land ideal for a peaceful walk. This is the "Chashma Walk" which leads to the springs or a "Chashma" that provide water for the town. It is only 2 kms from the "PTDC" Model Complex.

PROSPECT POINT:

The view from prospect point is rewarding. It lies at a height of 2713 meters above sea level and is 6 kms from Ziarat. The road is mettled, but a walk is recommended.

Once at the peak with wind whistling through the forest one can see the valley stretch out in undulating slopes in front. From a nearby cliff, one can clearly see the highest peak of these hills known as Khalefat, which rises to a height of 3487 metres. There is a small rest house situated nearby. Prior reservation may be made through the office of deputy Commissioner of Ziarat.

SHRINE OF BABA KHARWARI:

The shrine of Baba Kharwari is 8 kms from Ziarat town. A member of Sarang Zai, his name was Tahir. He became a disciple of Nana Sahib and a number of miracles are attributed to him. He is buried in a valley about 8 kms from Ziarat. A large number of people visit his shrine and offer sacrifices in his memory.
During Eid festival, the tribesmen gather around the shrine and hold wrestling and marksmanship competitions.

ZINDRA:

Fourteen kms from Ziarat is the picturesque Zindra. Zindra derives its name from the Pushto word "Zindra" meaning "four grinding mills".
Zizree (16 kms) and Nauna Dam(20 kms) are also interesting places for an outing near Ziarat.

QUAID-E-AZAM RESIDENCY:

Quaid-e-Azam residency with its lush green lawns, chinar trees and flowers gardens commands a striking view of the whole valley. It is of historical importance, as the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, stayed there during his last illness. It houses the relics of the father of the nation. The Residency was built in 1882 by the British and used by the agent to the Governor General as his summer headquarters.

FERN TANGI:

It lies 10 kms from Ziarat, off the main road to Quetta. A small waterfall formed by the mountain spring flows down. It is a 2 kms walk from the main road to the waterfall and is an ideal place for picnic.

SANDEMAN TANGI:

It is just 4 kms from Ziarat. It is a dramatic waterfall cascading down the rocks and provides fun to the visitors.

CHUTAIR VALLEY / TANGI:

About 13 kms from Ziarat on way to Loralai is the beautiful Chutair valley. It is a 30 minutes drive to Chutair from Ziarat There are green picnic spots in the valley. There is also a rest house in case one wants to stay longer. The crude and rustic huts made with the bark of juniper trees in which the inhabitants of the area live, are strikingly different from dwellings in other villages. Nearby is Chutair Tangi which is worth visiting.

BOLAN PASS:

For many centuries, the Bolan pass has been the main entrance to Quetta district. It is historically significant, used as the gateway by most of the immigrants from central Asia in their drive to discover new homelands in South Asia. The two other important passes are the Lak Pass between Quetta and Kallat and the Khojak Pass near the border with Afghanistan at Chaman.

Along Bolan Pass where the road winds through picturesque mountains one is reminded of the huge odds that the armies from Central Asia and the north must have faced in their raids on the plains of the present day Pakistan. In winter, trains of camels, as they slowly plod their way through to the top, look fascinating. The Bolan links Quetta with the plains of the Punjab and the upper Sindh through the town of Sibi by road and train. The train passes through 21 tunnels.

LAK PASS:

Lak pass is located between Kallat and Quetta at a point where the highway makes a turn for Koh-e-Taftan, Saindak copper mines and Zahidan in Iran and the other section links Karachi via Kallat, Khuzdar and Bella. PTDC Model at Khuzdar and Taftan caters for motorists. The view from the top of the pass is interesting. Trucks, trailers and lorries laden to their brim with merchandise and passengers move along at great speeds. Down below these kiosks sell beverages. On the hills, unmindful of the presence of the motorized transport and the human beings, hundreds of sheep browse upon the scant herbage available there.

KHOJAK PASS:

The Khojak Pass is 7575 ft. above sea level. It leads directly to the border of Afghanistan at Chaman which is 153 kms away from Quetta. The train passes through the longest tunnel of the sub-continent. The scenery is breath-taking as here as it is at Bolan Pass.

HARNAI PASS:

The entire population of Hardware Baba and for that matter of the entire Ziarat, migrates to Harnai in extreme winter. Harnai Pass, about hours drive from Loralai, is just as spectacular as the Khyber Pass near Peshawar.

SIBI

Sibi is 163 kms from Quetta. It has great historical importance. It derives its name from Sewa race. The name of Alexander and the Muslim conquers like Muhammad Bin Qasim, Mehmood Ghaznavi and Nasir-ud-Din Kabacha are associated with this place. Mir Chaker Khan Rind, the legendary Baluch hero, built a massive fort in the 15th century near Sibi, the remains of which are found near the town.

During the British rule a residency and Victoria Memorial Hall known as Jigra Hall were built where annual Jigras were held until Pakistan came into being. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ail Jinnah also presided over the annual Darbar at Sibi as first Governor General of Pakistan. The Jigra Hall is now converted into a museum. It has a collection of pieces found at the archaeological sites of Mehrgarh, Nasshero and Pirak.
The annual Sibi festival marks the famous horse and cattle Show with other festivities held in the month of February.

MEHRGARH:

Neolithic Mehrgarh is a 9000 years old site of settlement in Karachi district at the foot of Bolan Pass near Sibi. Supported by Pakistan's Department of Archaeology, French archaeologists are carrying out extensive excavations, studies and research have lead to pushing back these settlements to some 9000 years. Thus the chronology of civilization in Pakistan established through the study of Moenjodaro and Harappa has been pushed back by over 4000 years.

Research shows that the people have lived in houses and were involved in hunting, domestication of animals and farming cereals like barley and wheat and later cotton too. This hunting-farming society developed gradually and their pursuits were creative. During the early period these people used stone and bone tools. Subsequently they produces and wore ornaments of beads, sea shells and semi-precious stones like Lapis lazuli. A museum has been set up at Sibi where a wide range of rare finds from the site of Mehrgarh are on display.

BALOCHISTAN COAST- LINE:

The Balochistan coast-line extends over 750 kms. For Hub near Karachi to the Gwadar bye on Pakistan-Iran border. The whole area is rich with long un spoilt golden sunny beaches and a variety of sea fish. Because of the importance of this coast Pasni, Jiwani and Gwadar, the three important coastal towns, have been linked by air with Karachi and Quetta. Gaddani beach near Karachi, is an industrial zone based on fisheries.

The coastal tribes are also as colorful as that of central and upper Balochistan. Their colorful customs, songs and dances are equally fascinating.

TAFTAN

At least 10 buses daily leave Quetta for Taftan, 608 Kms away on the Iranian border - a journey of between 15 to 24 hours. The road is surfaced for the first 500 kms, or as Nokundi, where you can spend the night in a local 'hotel'. You leave Quetta to the south and follow the Kallat road over the Lak Pass. At the foot of the pass, about 30 kms from Quetta, the road forks and a sign in English informs you it is 2256 kms to Tehran and 686 kms to Zahidan. The Pakistani customs post stops all incoming and outgoing traffic here.

It is a long haul to Iran, mostly across undulating desert. The first stop is "Nushki", 115 kms away, the next Dalbandin, about 180 kms further on. near here are the onyx mines which provide the stone for the green ashtrays, candlesticks and goblets on sale in the Karachi bazaars. It is another 166 kms to Nok Kundi with a stop for food in Yamaha. The is being surfaced to the border, so while works are in progress it is slower going for the last 110 kms to Taftan, where there is another customs and immigration to negotiate before you cross the border to Mirjawa and the Iranian authorities. It is still about 100 kms to Zahidan.

The train to the border runs only twice a week and is extremely slow. There was a weekly PIA flight on Sundays from Quetta to Mashad, Iran, but this has been temporarily discontinued. There is a PTDC information center in Taftan.

THE MAKRAN COAST

The Makran coast is Balochistan's southern strip and stretches for 754 kms. Long sandy beaches, rugged promontories and tidal creeks characterize the coast-line. There ranges of hills, rising to over 1500 meters (5000feet), run parallel to the coast: the Coastal Makran Range, 30 kms inland; the Central Makran Range, 130 kms inland; and the Siahan Range, 200 kms away from the sea. There is very little rain in the Makran region; the few villages and towns along the coast and between the hills are sustained by spring water.

Many of the Makran people are dark-skinned and have African features. They are probably descended from slaves brought by Arab merchants to the subcontinent. They subsist on fishing, date farming and camel breeding. Most of the men work part-time in the gulf state and Oman, and send money home to their families.

Alexander the great marched half his army home along the inhospitable Makran coast in 325 BC, and Muhammad bin Qasim came from Baghdad to Sindh through Makran in 711 AD. The Makranis stood firm against the Mughals, but bowed nominally to the British Raj. It is only since 1971 that some effort has been made to develop the region.

There is no road along the coast, but daily flights connect the four main coastal towns of Ormara, Pasni, Gwadar and Jiwani with Karachi, and there are flights to Quetta three times a week, Gwadar and Jiwani, both picturesque towns flanked by cliffs and beeches, belonged t o Oman for about 200 years. The Khan of Kallat gave them as a present to the sultan in the 18th century, and in 1958 they were sold back to Pakistan. Ormara is currently being developed as a major port.

Turbat, the divisional headquarters for Makran, is a small inland town near the hills, with little to recommend it but its 300 varieties of dates. Turbat is accessible by a rough road from Lasbela, and by daily flights from Karachi and Quetta. Panjgur, the principal date-growing area further north, can also be reached by air. The track from Khuzdar to Panjgur is very rough.

2009-11-21T15:20:00.002+05:00

N.W.F.P

PESHAWAR

Peshawar derives its name from a Sanskrit word "Pushpapura" meaning the city of flowers. Peshawar's flowers were mentioned even in Mughal Emperor Babar's memories.

Alexander's legions and the southern wing of his army were held up here in 327 B.C. for forty days at a fort excavated recently, 27 1/2 kms north-east of Peshawar at Pushkalavati (lotus city) near Charsada.

The great Babar marched through historic Khyber Pass to conquer South Asia in 1526 and set up the Moghal Empire in the Indo-Pakistan sub-continent.

The Khyber Pass and the valley have resounded to the tramp of marching feet as successive armies hurtled down the crossroad of history, pathway of commerce, migration and invasion by Aryans, Scythians. Persians, Greeks, Bactrians, Kushans, Huns, Turks' Mongols and Moghals.

Peshawar is now, as always, very much a frontier town. The formalities of dress and manner give way here to a free and easy style, as men encounter men with a firm hand-clasp and a straight but friendly look. Hefty handsome men in baggy trousers and long, loose shirts, wear bullet studded bandoliers across their chests or pistols at their sides as a normal part of their dress.

There is just that little touch of excitement and drama in the air that makes for a frontier land. An occasional salvo of gun fire, no, not a tribal raid or a skirmish in the streets but a lively part of wedding celebrations.

Remember, we are in the land of the Pathans - a completely male-dominated society. North and south of Peshawar spreads the vast tribal area where lives the biggest tribal society in the world, and the most well known, though much misrepresented.

Pathans are faithful Muslims. Their typical martial and religious character has been molded by their heroes, like Khushhal Khan Khattak, the warrior poet and Rehman Baba, a preacher and also a poet of Pushto language.

Today, they themselves guard the Pakistan-Afghanistan border along the great passes of the Khyber, the Tochi, the Gomal and others on Pakistan's territory, but before independence they successfully defied mighty empires, like the British and the Moghal and other before them, keeping the border simmering with commotion, and the flame of freedom proudly burning.

Peshawar is the great Pathan city. And what a city! Hoary with age and the passage of twenty-five centuries, redolent with the smell of luscious fruit and roasted meat and tobacco smoke, placid and relaxed but pulsating with the rhythmic sound of craftsmen's hammers and horses' hooves, unhurried in its pedestrian pace and horse-carriage traffic, darkened with tall houses, narrow lanes and overhanging balconies, intimate, with its freely intermingling crowd of townsmen, tribal, traders and tourists - this is old Peshawar, the journey's end or at least a long halt, for those traveling up north or coming down from the Middle East or Central Asia, now as centuries before when caravans unloaded in the many caravan series now lying deserted outside the dismantled city walls or used as garages by the modern caravans of far-ranging buses.

THE OLD CITY:

Until the mid-fifties Peshawar was enclosed within a city wall and sixteen gates. Of the old city gates the most famous was the Kabuli Gate but only the name remains now. It leads out to the Khyber and on to Kabul.

You come across two-and -three story houses built mostly of unbaked bricks set in wooden frames to guard against earthquakes, Many old houses have beautifully carved heavy wooden doors and almost all have highly ornamental wooden balconies. There is a tall and broad structure whose lofty portal look down upon the street. This historical building houses the police offices and the site was occupied centuries ago by a Buddhist stupa, then by a Hindu temple and then by a Moghal sarai. It was, in Sikh days, the seat of General Avitable, an Italian soldier of fortune in the service of Ranjit Singh.

QISSA KHAWANI BAZAAR:

Here perhaps visiting travelers or the relaxing townsmen were regaled with stories by professional story tellers, in the evening, in the many teashops that still adorn the bazaar front with their large brass samovars and numerous hanging teapots and teacups.

As in most eastern bazaars, the shops of delicacies predominate, and here too you will find many colorful fruit shops displaying the glorious harvest of Peshawar's unrivaled bread and justly celebrated "Kababs" and "Tikkas" meat sizzling on hot coals, in the many wayside cafes.

Leather goods shops are the next most numerous, selling that wonderful footwear, the Peshawari "Chappals" or sandals, belts, holsters and bandoliers and a special variety of light but sturdy suitcase called "Yakhdaan".

OTHER BAZAARS:

As you move up, the Qissa Khawani Bazaar turns left and here begins the bazaar of coppersmiths whose jewel-like engraved and embossed jars, bowls, ewers and plates are piled up in shops like glistening treasure trove. Other famous bazaars of Peshawar are the Khyber Bazaar. Bird Bazaar and Meena Bazaar, Jewellery Bazaar and Mochilara (Shoe Makers' Bazaar).

In fact, the variety of craft in which Peshawar excels even today is amazing and this is a part of the city's character often eclipsed by its martial tradition. Remember that it was in this valley of Peshawar that there flourished that remarkable school of Ghandhara sculpture, which is one of the glories of Pakistan's heritage.

CHOWK YADGAAR:

Soon you reach the central square called chowk Yadgaar the traditional site of political rallies. The two routes from the old city meet here. Parking of cars can safely be done only at this place in the old city.

MOSQUE OF MOHABAT KHAN:

The only significant remaining Moghal mosque in Peshawar was built by Mohabat khan in 1670 A.D. when he was twice Governor of Peshawar under Moghal Emperors Shah Jehan and Aurangzeb. The mosque was nearly destroyed by fire in 1898 A.D. and was only saved by the unremitting efforts of the faithful. The extensive renovation of the mosque was done by the traditional craftsman. The mosque is a fine specimen of Moghal architecture of Emperor Shah Jehan's period. The interior of the prayer chamber has been lavishly decorated with floral work and calligraphy.

BALA HISAAR FORT:

The mighty Bala Hisaar Fort lies on both eastern approaches to Peshawar city. It meets the eye when coming from Rawalpindi or from the Khyber. It is a massive frowning structure as its name implies, and the newcomer passing under the shadow of its huge battlements and ramparts cannot fail to be impressed. Originally built by Babar, the first of the Moghals in 1526-30, it was rebuilt in its present form by the Sikh Governor of Peshawar, Hari Singh Nalva, in the 1830's under the guidance of French engineers. It houses government offices at present.

PESHAWAR MUSEUM:

Peshawar Museum is housed in an imposing building of the British days. It was formerly the Victoria Memorial Hall built in 1905. The large hall, side galleries and the raised platform which were used for ball dances now display in chronological order finest specimens of Gandhara sculptures, tribal life, the Muslim period and ethnography.

SETHI HOUSES:

These houses are situated in Mohallah Sethian and can be approached from Chowk yadgaar. These are highly decorated style of building with carved wooden doors, partitions, balconies, mirrored and painted rooms. The Sehtis are the traditional business community of Peshawar. The main house was built in 1882 AD. by Haji Ahmed Gul who migrated from Chamkani (a near village) almost 6 generations ago.

NEW PESHAWAR:

Across the railway line was built the new modern Peshawar, the Cantonment, like the ones which the British built near every major city for their administrative offices, military barracks, residences, parks, churches and shops.

The Peshawar "Sadder" (Cantonment) is a spaciously laid out neat and clean township with avenues of tall trees, wide tarred roads, large single storied houses with lawns and a pervading scent of rare shrubs and flowers that is Peshawar's own.

The heart of the sadder is the Khalid bin Walid (Company) Bagh which is an old Moghal Garden. Its huge ancient trees and gorgeous big roses are a sight to remember. Two other splendid old gardens are the Shahi Bagh in the north-east and the Wazir Bagh in the south-east, all of which give the character of a garden city to Peshawar.
In Sadder, there are the splendid modern state bank building, Governor's house, hotels, old missionary Edwards collage ,archly stocked museum, fine shopping area and right in the middle is the tourist Information center at Dean's hotel (Phone:279781).

The Peshawar of the hoary past is the old city, the Peshawar of the British period (1849 to 1947) is the Cantonment but the Peshawar of independent Pakistan is the vast extension of the city west and east.

Westward, on the road to the Khyber, where in the days gone by, no one was safe from tribal raids, today stretches a long line of educational and research institutions, such as the Academy of rural development, the teachers training college, the north regional laboratories of the council of scientific and industrial research and many others.

But the pride of Peshawar today is its university, a vast sprawling garden town of red brick buildings and velvet lawns, which comprises a dozen departments and colleges of law, medicine, engineering and forestry. Special mention must be made of the Islamia college, which was the pioneer national institution that ignited the torch of enlightenment in this region,67 years ago.

The road stretching out east towards Rawalpindi is lined for miles upon miles with factories producing a variety of goods and also orchard producing some of the world's finest plums, pears
and peaches. Rice, sugar-cane and tobacco are the rich cash-crops of the well-watered Peshawar valley through which flows the Kabul River and at the end of which the mighty Indus forms the district boundary for 48 1/2 Kms (30miles),the two joining near the historic Attock fort.

KHYBER PASS

The prime attraction in this region is the Khyber Pass situated in the Sulaiman Hills which form the western barrier of Pakistan. The hills dip down here, leaving a passage sometimes as broad as 1 1/2 kms and sometimes as narrow as 16 meters. The pass begins near Jamrud Fort 18 kms from Peshawar and extends beyond the border of Pakistan at Torkham 58 kms away.

You may travel by road from Peshawar via Jamrud fort which lies amongst low stony hills capped with pickets manned by Khyber Rifles. Also on the way you will see Ali Masjid and the fort with insignia of the regiments that have served in the Khyber. On route is also the Sphola sputa of Buddhist period and Landikotal Bazaar until you reach the border post at Torkham. The other exciting way of seeing Khyber Pass is to undertake a 42 kms and 3 1/2 hours journey to Landikotal by the equally legendary Khyber Railway.

SWAT VALLEY

Valley of Swat, with its rushing torrents, lakes, fruit-laden orchards and flower-bedecked slopes is an idyllic valley. It has a rich historical past. It was described as "Udayana" (the garden) in ancient Hindu epics where Alexander of Macedon fought and won some of his major battles before crossing over to the plain of Pakistan.

Swat was once the cradle of Buddhism where at one time more than 1,400 monasteries flourished. It was the hub of the Gandhara school sculpture which was an expression of Graeco-Roman style mixed with the local Buddhist traditional sculpture.

The valley of Swat sprawls over 10,360 sq.kms. The normal temperature is maximum 21.11C and minimum 7.22C. Tourist season is all year round. The main town of the valley is Saidu Sharif with a museum which houses most archaeological finds excavated in the area.

CHITRAL-KALASH VALLEYS

A 50 minutes flight from Peshawar takes you to the north-western extremity of Pakistan where lies the exotic valley of Chitral. Towering the valley is the majestic 7,705 meters high Trichmir peak. In three narrow valleys about 40 kms from the town of Chitral live the famous Kafir Kalash tribe. They are known the world over for their primitive pagan traditions and their love for dance and music. Chitral has many sculpture springs and is popular for trekking and mountaineering. Facilities exist for trout fishing. There are a number of hotels in Chitral proper.