Lake Steinhude and its surrounding areas are ideal for water sports, cycling, horse riding, golf and picnics, and also quite interesting when it comes to architecture, art, music, and food culture: from quiet and peaceful spots in Mardorf, Rehburg-Loccum and Hagenburg to more lively bustling Steinhude, these areas are highly popular as to their natural beauty, and their activities and adventures in offer.

The imposing Bala Hissar Fort was once the seat of Afghan Durrani royals. Ownership was transferred to the Sikhs in the 19th century, with the fort eventually being rebuilt by the British to achieve its current look. Bala Hisar now houses the paramilitary forces of Pakistan, making it difficult to look inside, but an on-site museum is open to the public.

Security is of concern at present and trips to the Khyber Pass are best left for a better time (check official safety advice at your planned time of travel), but do seize the opportunity when the opportunity comes. The pass has long been a gateway to South Asia (part of the ancient Silk Route), travelled by merchants, explorers and conquerors, the likes of Alexander the Great and Mughals, a channel that now connects Pakistan to the troubled Afghan territories via Torkham. Michni Checkpoint is as far as most visitors can count on getting.

The dazzlingly colourful Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the cultural and religious hub of George Town’s ‘Little India’ quarter, home to immigrants from the subcontinent for more than a century. Encrusted with garishly painted statues of deities, demons, and mythical creatures, the Sri Mahamariamman is the oldest of the city’s Hindu temples and is still in daily use. Inside stands a valuable statue of the Hindu deity Lord Subramanya, lavishly embellished with gold and precious stones.