Pakistan

Few Westerners know much about Pakistan beyond media impressions of Islamic fundamentalism, communal violence and martial law, but it contains some of Asia's most mind-blowing landscapes, extraordinary trekking, a multitude of cultures and a long tradition of hospitality.

It's the site of some of the earliest human settlements, home to an ancient civilisation rivalling those of Egypt and Mesopotamia, and the crucible of two of the world's major religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. It's far more than the last hurdle before reaching India.

Warning

Several of Pakistan's provinces present security challenges to travellers. Military operations along the Kashmiri Line of Control are ongoing, and Pakistan regularly engages in a dangerous game of brinkmanship with India. Keep abreast of latest developments.

In Sindh Province, anti-Western sentiment occasionally bubbles over into violence. Visitors to upper Sindh are encouraged to notify authorities beforehand. Visitors to the tribal areas of the Northwest Frontier Province should obtain permission from the Home & Tribal Affairs Department beforehand.

Sectarian violence in Punjab Province has eased, although Christians are still occasionally targeted. Trekkers heading for Gilgit, Hunza, Chitral and the upper Swat valley should hire reputable guides to ward against assault. Finally, smuggling and clan conflict are common in Baluchistan.

Full country name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Area: 803,940 sq km
Population: 150.69 million
Capital City: Islamabad
People: Punjabi, Sindhi, Siraiki, Pashtu, Urdu, Baloch, Hindko, Brahui
Language: Urdu, Panjabi, English, Sindhi
Religion: 97% Muslim, 3% Christian and Hindu
Government: federal republic
Head of State: President Pervez Musharraf

GDP: US$282 billion
GDP per capita: US$2,000
Annual Growth: 5%
Inflation: 5.2%
Major Industries: Textiles, sugar, vegetable oils, agricultural products, cement, fertilisers, steel, chemicals, sporting goods, carpets
Major Trading Partners: US, Japan, Germany, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE

Pakistan

Few Westerners know much about Pakistan beyond media impressions of Islamic fundamentalism, communal violence and martial law, but it contains some of Asia's most mind-blowing landscapes, extraordinary trekking, a multitude of cultures and a long tradition of hospitality.

It's the site of some of the earliest human settlements, home to an ancient civilisation rivalling those of Egypt and Mesopotamia, and the crucible of two of the world's major religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. It's far more than the last hurdle before reaching India.

Warning

Several of Pakistan's provinces present security challenges to travellers. Military operations along the Kashmiri Line of Control are ongoing, and Pakistan regularly engages in a dangerous game of brinkmanship with India. Keep abreast of latest developments.

In Sindh Province, anti-Western sentiment occasionally bubbles over into violence. Visitors to upper Sindh are encouraged to notify authorities beforehand. Visitors to the tribal areas of the Northwest Frontier Province should obtain permission from the Home & Tribal Affairs Department beforehand.

Sectarian violence in Punjab Province has eased, although Christians are still occasionally targeted. Trekkers heading for Gilgit, Hunza, Chitral and the upper Swat valley should hire reputable guides to ward against assault. Finally, smuggling and clan conflict are common in Baluchistan.

Full country name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Area: 803,940 sq km
Population: 150.69 million
Capital City: Islamabad
People: Punjabi, Sindhi, Siraiki, Pashtu, Urdu, Baloch, Hindko, Brahui
Language: Urdu, Panjabi, English, Sindhi
Religion: 97% Muslim, 3% Christian and Hindu
Government: federal republic
Head of State: President Pervez Musharraf

GDP: US$282 billion
GDP per capita: US$2,000
Annual Growth: 5%
Inflation: 5.2%
Major Industries: Textiles, sugar, vegetable oils, agricultural products, cement, fertilisers, steel, chemicals, sporting goods, carpets
Major Trading Partners: US, Japan, Germany, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE