The 806 km Karakorum Highway constructed along the ancient Silk Road linking Pakistan to China is the highest trade route in the world. Additionally, the nearby Mintaka Pass lies along the fabulous ancient Silk Road that linked Europe to Asia and over which history's most famous tourists once travelled. These include the Venetian trader Marco Polo in the thirteenth century, the Chinese Monk Fe Hien in the fourth century, and Arab historian Al-Beruni in the eleventh century.
In Pakistan's eastern Karakoram, Baltoro Glacier is one of the world's largest valley glaciers. Though difficult to access, it is one of the most highly trafficked regions in Pakistan because of mountaineering destinations like K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum peaks at its head. The area is not only known for its stunning scenery, but as a life source—a large portion of northern Pakistan's population depends on meltwater from the Karakoram glaciers.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is well known for its varying natural beauty, comprising some awe-inspiring valleys and mountains in the north, including the Kaghan and Swat valleys, and the famous Khyber Pass.Spread over 72,496 square km, the northern areas of Pakistan are as captivating and mesmerising in beauty as the other regions. Amid towering snow-clad peaks, several over 8,000 metres, the beautiful serene valleys of Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu are magnificent.
Question 1: What is the significance of the Karakorum Highway mentioned in the paragraph?
Answer: The Karakorum Highway is the highest trade route in the world, constructed along the ancient Silk Road, linking Pakistan to China.
Question 2: Who were some historical figures mentioned in connection to the Silk Road in the paragraph?
Answer: Historical figures mentioned include Marco Polo, Fe Hien, and Al-Beruni, who traveled along the ancient Silk Road linking Europe to Asia.
Question 3: What is the importance of the Baltoro Glacier in Pakistan?
Answer: The Baltoro Glacier, located in Pakistan's eastern Karakoram, is one of the world's largest valley glaciers and serves as a major mountaineering destination due to peaks like K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum peaks at its head. It also provides meltwater essential for northern Pakistan's population.
Question 4: What regions in Pakistan are mentioned for their natural beauty in the paragraph?
Answer: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is highlighted for its awe-inspiring valleys and mountains, including the Kaghan and Swat valleys, and the famous Khyber Pass. The northern areas of Pakistan, including Gilgit, Hunza, and Skardu, are also noted for their captivating beauty.
Question 5: What is the size of the northern areas of Pakistan mentioned in the paragraph?
Answer: The northern areas of Pakistan cover 72,496 square kilometers, and they are described as captivating and mesmerizing in beauty.
Question 6: Why are the Kaghan and Swat valleys famous?
Answer: The Kaghan and Swat valleys are famous for their varying natural beauty, including awe-inspiring mountains and serene landscapes, making them captivating destinations in Pakistan.