Whether you’re looking for an epic biking adventure, experiencing a wonderful culture, witnessing breathtaking landscapes or trying orgasmic foods, Pakistan might not be the first destination that pops up. But it should be!

Pakistan is all of that and more and I’m not just saying this because I’m a Pakistani myself. As it so happens, recently we had four amazing and extremely overwhelmed riders who cycled the Karakorum Highway up in the north of Pakistan.

They had nothing but wonderful things to say about the country and their experience with the local people.

So what makes Pakistan a must-visit destination? Why should the northern frontier of the country be your next epic adventure?

Here are some of the reasons why.

Stunning landscapes

The north of Pakistan is rich with breathtaking landscapes. The journey up to the north is infused with mountains and valleys of the Hindu Kush, Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges. In between runs the monstrous Indus River – like a snake in the woods.

The views certainly rival many of the destinations that make it to any of the ‘top beautiful places in the world’ lists.

Throughout the four seasons of Pakistan, the scenery changes dramatically. Snow-capped mountains and monotone arid soil transition into bright hues of green and valleys become dotted with shocking pink blossoms of apricot trees.

With winter passing over, the colors of spring come out, making it one of the the best times to visit northern Pakistan.

Beautiful, kind locals

People of the north are genuinely very kind and friendly. Though their hands and faces are hardened with the changing weathers and difficult life, their smiles are soft.

Hunza is also known for its 100% literacy rate so when you speak with people here, you know they are educated and informed. They are also very helpful if you have any problems.

Adventures abound

When it comes to adventure, Pakistan has always been a dream destination for trekkers, motor bikers, and bicyclists. More and more domestic tourists and foreigners are visiting the north for a slice of adventure. They have been climbing mountains (some of the tallest in the world) for years, going on long bike journeys across the Karakoram highway and doing overnight treks in remote areas.

If that is something you like to do, Pakistan may be your next destination for a great adventure.

And yes, it is safe

Despite what the media says, Pakistan is actually fairly safe. Sure there are some regions in turmoil but it has gotten a lot better over the past few years. Security has increased.

A British couple had joined me on my recent trip up north. They live in Lahore for work and they expressed that they found Pakistanis super friendly and helpful. While they did say they didn’t have complete luxuries and liberty as they did back home, they never once felt unsafe.

Life is about risks, right? So why not risk coming to Pakistan and being surprised by how amazing it is.

Just ask these guys who joined our Karakoram highway biking tour in late April.

“The mountains you can find here in the Himalayas, the Hindu Kush or the Karakoram, you cannot find in Switzerland because it is so big. It’s beautiful here!” said one of the riders.