Nathia Gali:
Nathia Gali, located in the Abbottabad District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is a lesser-known yet popular destination among Pakistanis. While unfamiliar to many Western travellers, it offers striking natural scenery comparable to parts of Switzerland and Italy, with the added presence of local wildlife such as Rhesus monkeys and the common leopard.
The area is primarily known for its hiking trails, with several peaks accessible by foot or horseback. In particular The Mushkpuri Trail is beloved by locals, and after experiencing it firsthand, it's easy to see why. The peak was stunning and combined with the morning mist it was like I was on Game on Thrones Set. Just keep an eye out for wild leopards along the path—though sightings are becoming increasingly rare :(
One of the town’s unique charms lies in its vintage Suzuki Bolans, a staple mode of transportation here. The locals take immense pride in customising their vehicles, so nearly every car and van you encounter is adorned with vibrant paintwork and unique horns.
I would recommend anyone visiting Pakistan to visit this Pakistani folk-like village. On the the left is a visual diary capturing my experiences during the three days I spent there.
LAHORE AND ISLAMABAD:
I recently travelled to Pakistan to film a documentary on the Pakistan Mastiff, also known as the Bully Kutta, and in doing so, discovered one of the most misrepresented countries I have ever visited. Over three weeks of filming, I experienced a level of hospitality that far exceeded my expectations. Despite countless warnings about the country being “extremely dangerous” and fears of being “scammed or robbed,” I found these stereotypes to be entirely unfounded. While Pakistan’s past struggles with terrorism have shaped a negative image in Western narratives—often painting both Pakistan and Afghanistan as regions of chaos and conflict—the reality today is vastly different. The threat to tourists is remarkably low, and the warmth of the people is unmatched.
That said, I speak from the perspective of an adult male, which undoubtedly shaped my experience. Pakistan isn’t designed for conventional Western tourism; strict Muslim laws and a general lack of high-end infrastructure may pose challenges for some visitors. However, these differences are part of what makes the experience so rewarding. Instead of the typical pub culture found across Europe and especially the UK—where casual small talk is often fueled by beer or wine—I found myself sipping tea and Sprite, a refreshing alternative that encouraged more meaningful conversations.
One aspect of Pakistan that truly stood out was the overwhelming generosity of its people, particularly when it came to money. Time and time again, my friend Raef and I were offered free gifts from shopkeepers, complimentary car rides, and even places to stay—simply because we were guests in their country. One encounter that perfectly captured this spirit of kindness involved an Uber driver named Farhad. He spent seven hours with us, helping us locate filming spots, introducing us to five male Bully Kuttas, and even treating us to tea at a friend’s house. At the end of the day, we expected a hefty bill for his time, but Farhad refused any payment. Though we eventually insisted on paying—understanding we were in a more fortunate position—his generosity left a lasting impression.
On the left is a visual diary of my trip, capturing the street life of Lahore and Ishlamabad—from its upscale neighborhoods to its shanty towns. I invite you to see Pakistan through a different lens.