Pakistan

After exploring the beautiful India we headed to Pakistan with the Samjhauta Express. We arrived in Lahore, the second largest city of Pakistan. Lahore seems to be one of the oldest cities in the world and walls surround it.

While we were on the train I read some interesting facts about the habits here. Since we are in Pakistan we have to take into account that we cover our bodies so we have to wear long sleeves and skirts. When you meet someone in Pakistan, wait until this persons reaches his or hers hand because in Pakistan people who don't now each other can't touch. Even Pakistan women will not talk to us because they aren't allowed to talk to strangers. When you are invited in somebodies house you have to taste the food that they present, if you reject they will see this as an insult. When you're in a conversation don't rush through it but take it slowly. When you eat and you eat everything that's on your plate they will see this as a sign that you want more to eat. So if you’re finished, leave a little bit food on your plate, but not too much otherwise they will this as an insult. Also praise the food!

When we arrived with the train we walked into this beautiful historical city Lahore through the Delhi gate. It is named that way because the gate faces into the direction of Delhi. Once we entered the city walls we saw the inner city with breath taking palaces. We went to visit the Lahore Fort, it's on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Next visit was the Badshahi Mosque, this was for a long time the largest mosque in the world. We covered our heads to enter this marvellous building.

Another site that we really wanted to visit was Shalimar Gardens. There are 410 fountains in these gardens! The construction of these gardens started in 1637 and they are also on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We strolled around in this beautiful landscape.

The second city we wanted to visit in Pakistan was of course the capital Islamabad. During our ride to Islamabad we made a stop in Katas for the Katas Raj Temple. This historical temple made us al quite with his historical beauty. Some people were even swimming in the water!

Arrived in Islamabad we discovered the city. But soon we were exhausted from the last days and decided to have a quiet night. We have realised that our trip is almost over... And there's still so much to see and do...

Good night

Amina

Katas Raj Temple

Sources: Wikitravel.org