Since the very beginning people have been traveling all over the world. Men like Columbus livingstone. Scott, Marcopolo, Ibn e Batuta and Sa'adi are well known for their wander thirst. Some went to the world in search of knowledge some for pleasure some for conquest with the passage of time traveling was transformed into Tourism. In the present age Tourism has developed into an industry because of the speedier and comfortable air travel and tourist bureau.
There are many beautiful spots in Pakistan. There are hill stations and there are many historical buildings there are various opportunities for tourists of all tastes. We have beauty spots like Swat valley Kaghan Kalam Neelam Agrore and Sunderbans. We have places of historical cultural and archaeological interest like 5000 years old Mohenjodoro Harappa and Taxila. We have hill stations like Quetta, Ziarat, Murree, Nathiagali, Abbottabad. We have Khyber pass with its high mountains deep green valleys. We have Gilgit a paradise for hikers.
In Pakistan there is everything a tourist dreams of such as bracing climate rich historical sites vast treasure of old mountains places of archaeological interest and spots of unique beauty. Certain other services and facilities are needed. Such as hotels transport recreation entertainment guidance, information and publicity. In 1960 the Govt. of Pakistan set up the Department of Tourism with many branch offices in the country. Six hundred additional rooms have been provided for tourists in Karachi.
Tourism and its development in the country has many advantages. First Pakistan is a developing country. She needs Foreign Exchange for planning and developing projects. Promotion of tourism can help us greatly in this matter . In 1966, 77842 tourists visited our country and our country earned 11 lac rupees as foreign exchange. This number has increased much more now. Secondly tourism will expand the hotel industry in the country. The national income will increase many people will get employment air lines and steam ships companies will have a flourishing business local manufacturers will be encouraged. So it will have favorable effects on our economy. Lastly tourist are the non official ambassadors of a country. They help to bring two countries together. The development of Tourism will mean the development of good relations with others. This industry of Tourism has brought all the world closer. Now it has become a global village. People all over the world know about other countries through tourism.